You can also drive along the breathtaking Zion Canyon Scenic Road, or pick up a shuttle ride in the summer months. If you're following the Winter Route, keep in mind that this route is longer as you'll have to get to the East Entrance of Zion National Park first. Are you planning on visiting Zion National Park? Total Detour: 1h 15m, 50 miles. Expect big crowds at sunset. You can also see more travel itineraries on our Travel Itineraries page and our National Park Itineraries. Kolob Canyons are right in the northwest corner of Zion National Park, and you can't drive through the park from here to see the scenic drive which is the main attraction for most visitors. The website allows you to book 6 months ahead. Starting at Zion Canyon Visitor Center, the shuttle then stops at Zion Human History Museum, Canyon Junction, Court of the Patriarchs, Zion Lodge, The Grotto, Weeping Rock and Big Bend before finishing up at the Temple of Sinawava. Before you hit the town, youll detour to Snow Canyon State Park, a natural wonder that exists at the intersection of three different geologic zones the Mojave desert, Great Basin and the Colorado Plateau. Highway 9 is the major road providing access to Zion National Park. The towering red rocks with the virgin river running through them paint an incredible backdrop to some of Utahs most well-known trails and scenic overlooks. Zion National Park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. South Campground is also a great place to pitch your tent, but access is currently limited due to drainage work so Watchman Campground is a better option. Combining Zion National Park with other nearby national parks makes an excellent road trip idea. This hike is 1.5 to 3 miles, depending on how far you hike and where you start. PRO TRAVEL TIP: Check for trail closures, road closures, and get important updates before your visit on the official National Park Service website. Leave the desert behind and climb up to over 8,000 feet in elevation up the Kolob Plateau. Many tourists drive this route every year to experience the marvel of the Mt. From November to March you can drive the scenic drive by car and take your time to see the sights. Taking a Scenic Drive Through Zion National Park -Soil Sleuth: Protecting Utah's Living Landscapes. There are two sections to Zion National Park: the "main section" of the park, which is located along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, and Kolob Canyons. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. On this drive, you will encounter numerous stunning rock formations, hoodoos, arches, hilltops and various strata of rock laid over a vast amount of time. If you didnt stop at the last place, this is another chance to get out for a moment and see a scenic overlook. Observation Point:For jaw-dropping views over Zion National Park, its hard to beat Observation Point. Tim and I both have Garmin Fenix watches and these come with maps, so we can follow the trails right from our watch, which is very handy. Powered by Wasatch Websites. Driving through Zion National Park is scenic enough in itself, but there are other worthwhile scenic drives in the area. Tips for Prepared Travelers Or choose to jump on the shuttle in Springdale to avoid parking inside the park. -Hiking Southern Utah with Younger Children: Tips for Family-Friendly Adventure. If you plan to hike the Narrows, you will need some time in Springdale to get your gear, if you do not have your own. Angels Landing | Zion National Park Itinerary. If you choose to do this over two days, you will also need to apply for a campsite. Kolob Canyons can close in the winter due to snow, so be sure to check conditions before visiting. In this video I am simply Driving through Zion National Park. They run only on weekends throughout most of November, February & March, and during the Holiday season in December. It's a 10-minute drive from the East Entrance of Zion National Park. Stop 1: Visitors Center When visiting any national park, my advice is to go to the visitors center first. Tips for Prepared Travelers If you choose to hike the Narrows from the top-down, you will need to apply for a permit. 9. Youll immediately notice the change of pace as you drive south against the flow of traffic heading into the park. The remainder of these properties are in Springdale. Drive another hour to UT-63 south, which leads right to the park entrance. There are some pit toilets located along this road, however. The map below shows where the shuttle stops in Springdale, and you can park and get on at any of these Springdale locations. Zion National Park sits in the Southwest of Utah. Here, you can pay a $30 entry fee per car or if you have you National Park Pass, which is $80 per year, you can show this and enter. We want to help you have a great vacation on your next trip to the Rockies. With 5 million visitors just last year, parking can become an issue at Zion National Park. Heres what you need to know to travel safely, protect Utahs rural communities, and help preserve sensitive desert landscapes. Emerald Pool Trail: This short, popular trail connects two pools of water, Lower Emerald Pool and Upper Emerald Pool. Prepare for your trip with thesehow-to visit Zion tips. Park at the Visitor Center or take the Springdale Shuttle to the main entrance. Can you drive through Zion National Park? They can only drive through the tunnel during hours when rangers are present. Follow this Guide To Driving Through and Around Zion National Park, and experience the park in a convenient and comfortable way. What if you enjoy the scenery just as much as anyone else, but hiking isnt your thing? In the spring, the first shuttle leaves the Visitor Center at 7 am. Hidden Canyon, Observation Point, and Weeping Rock have a long-term closure due to a rockfall. But before you set off to drive through Zion National Park there are a few things to keep in mind, so carry on reading to get started with planning your trip. Its time to hit the road to nearby St. George, a city experiencing remarkable growth. However, during high visitation there can be long lines at entrance gates and limited parking inside the park. Ideally, you need at least two to three days to visit Zion National Park. Zion National Park consists primarily of a massive, beautiful, sandstone canyon carved by the Virgin River. Located at stop 5 on the Zion Scenic Drive is the Zion Lodge. It is possible to drive through, however, if you get a tunnel permit for your vehicle that's over 7'10" wide and 11'4" tall. Driving Through Zion National Park Taking a personal vehicle through the open areas of Zion National Park is a great way to see the scenery and get to trails and scenic viewpoints that are outside of the Main Canyon. Combine this with the meandering drive in along UT-9 from Mount Carmel Junction and you'll have the ultimate drive-through canyon experience. An oversized vehicle is any vehicle that is 11 feet 4 inches or higher and 7 feet 10 inches wide or wider. Utahs most unlikely adventure family shows America that you dont have to fit into the outdoors stereotypes to find your place on the trail. If you plan to hike to Angels Landing on or after April 1, 2022, you must have a permit. If you dont mind cold temperatures, winter is a very nice time to visit Zion. With one day in Zion National Park, getting an early start is critical for the best experience. This includes the top hikes, the best viewpoints, how to get around, where to stay, and where to eat. THE 5 BEST Zion National Park Scenic Drives When the shuttle is not in operation (December, January, and February) you are permitted drive along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This is also the point where you can begin the Sand Bench Loop Trail, which is a 3.5 mile trail that takes you to some good canyon views below. If you are heading into the park to go hiking, make sure you know the correct shuttle stop for your hike. Check out. Every year snowy conditions close Kolob Canyons and Kolob Terrace Road in the winter months. REMINDER: Numerous trails are closed in Zion National Park. The permit costs $15 (on top of the park entrance fee of $35) and Park Rangers will control the traffic to allow only one-way larger vehicles to pass through. Rock climbers of all skill levels have learned to call these canyons home, with bolted routes scattered about, and cyclists that prefer tarmac to singletrack will find plenty to enjoy on the parks scenic drive. This makes it a particularly handy place to stay if you're visiting in the summer. People come from all over to conquer The Narrows and Angels Landing for the challenge and unique experiences they give. Caf Soleil. Now for something completely unexpected: a lush, green high alpine forest in the middle of red rock country. The Narrows: Zion National Park Private Guided Hike (From C$487.30) Zion National Park Small Group Tour with 6 Hours Explore Time (From C$172.70) Zion National Park: Private Guided Hike & Picnic (From C$400.28) Full-Day Private Tour & Hike in Zion National Park; See all Zion Canyon Scenic Drive experiences on Tripadvisor Keep an eye out on the Zion National Park website for any road closures due to rock slides prior to your visit. With so many ski and snowboard resorts easily accessible in and around Utah, using the state as your gateway can maximize the value of any multi-pass. In this post, get all of the information you need to plan your Zion National Park itinerary. For the full list, read our Best Hikes in Zion guide. The Zion Scenic Drive takes you through the most famous spots in Zion National Park with stops for Angels Landing, The Narrows, Emerald Pools, and more. Copyright 2023 Utah Office of Tourism. Top ways to experience Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and nearby attractions Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Self-Driving Bundle Tour 8 Full-day Tours from $16.99 per group (up to 4) Full-Day Private Tour & Hike in Zion National Park 11 Recommended Bus Tours from $832.83 per adult (price varies by group size) AMERICAN SOUTHWEST ITINERARY: If you have 10 days, learn how to road trip through the American Southwest, visiting several national parks, state parks, and scenic spots in Arizona, Utah, and Nevada. Kolob Canyons features towering sandstone peaks, streams, and incredible waterfalls. Try Echo Canyon, a slot canyon in which you will see experts rappelling and rock climbing. I know cell coverage is poor to none depending on where we are in the park, but I think some apps work with GPS coordinates ? Oscars Caf. Current Conditions Find out about weather, road conditions, and facilities. This section of the park can close due to snow and ice, but through most of the year this road is open and you can freely drive it. You also won't reach the Temple of Sinawava from here. A. It winds past the park's visitor center and museum and past many famous Zion landmarks. If you want a spectacular view of Zion National Park, here are our top 5 viewpoints: The view from Canyon Overlook Trail | Zion National Park Itinerary, View from the West Rim Trail | Zion National Park Itinerary. From November until early spring, Zion Canyon is usually open to vehicles. Camping under the crystal clear Milky Way in Cedar Breaks National Monument. Here you can book overnight stays, as well as enjoy meals in between hiking through the park. Just past the temple, you can pick up the Riverside Walk Trailhead towards the Narrows. Can You Drive Through Zion National Park? If you are on the trail, make sure to pack out ALL your garbage and bathroom waste. All rights reserved Earth Trekkers. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. State Route 9 (SR-9) is a 57.075-mile-long (91.853 km) state highway in southern Utah, serving Zion National Park.It starts at the western terminus at exit 16 on Interstate 15 (I-15), passing through Zion National Park, and ending at the eastern junction with U.S. Route 89 (US-89). No matter your choice of morning activity, save plenty of time to explore the Red Cliffs Recreation area for the remainder of the day. It's also close to the South Entrance and has flush toilets, drinking water and picnic tables. If you've never been to southern Utah before, this scenic drive through Zion NP will probably e. Next Group. If you have any questions about planning your Zion National Park itinerary, let us know in the comment section below. Carmel tunnel heading towards Zion Scenic Drive. It's a mostly straightforward drive along the Winter Route, starting on UT-9 at Mount Carmel Junction then heading west towards Zion. Average temperatures range from 50 degrees in March to 60 degrees in April, and with vibrant greenery and wildflowers blooming, it's a beautiful time of year in Zion National Park. Now all that's left is to lace up your hiking boots, fill up your pack, and decide which of the amazing sights of Zion National Park you'll head to first. Construction causes road closures in Zion National Park on occasion. Where to Stay After enjoying breakfast in Kanab, join up with a tour operator to get the most out of the nearby slot canyons such as the family-friendly Peekaboo Canyon or a multi-day trek through Buckskin Gulch, the longest navigated slot canyon in the state. Carmel Highway (SR-9 or HWY 9), the road in and through Zion National Park is one of the most scenic highways one can drive or (even better) rid. If your vehicle is taller than 13 feet 1 inch you cannot pass through the tunnel. Experiencing the peace of canyon country in the winter is an attraction of its own. We are talking an hour wait or longer. Take a midday break. But for the past seven years she has traveled by RV to many National Parks, monuments and everywhere in between. Exploring The Zion Region Tucked into the southwest corner of Utah, Zion National Park is the centerpiece for a 6-day red-rock vacation that includes a little bit of everything that makes the state such a marvel to experience. Near the Nevada border, the Springdale entrance is just 160 miles from Las Vegas. From the red sands of the Mojave desert to the west, to the high alpine forests to the north, to the narrow slot canyons to the south, no matter where you turn, the classic red rock vacation you may have in mind will end up being more diverse than youd ever expect. ALL OTHER sections of the park, including Kolob Canyons, Kolob Terrace Road, and Highway 9 are open to vehicles year-round. It's a 17-and-a-half-mile round trip to follow Zion Canyon Road from the South Entrance to its northern end at the Temple of Sinawava. The West Rim Trail can be hiked as a long day hike or as a two-day backpacking trip. @media(min-width:0px){#div-gpt-ad-groundedlifetravel_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0-asloaded{max-width:250px!important;max-height:250px!important;}}if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'groundedlifetravel_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_17',113,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-groundedlifetravel_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');After visiting both of these stops, you will arrive at the entrance to Zion National Park. Erosion and other feats of nature have created the gorgeous scenery you will see on this drive. Sections of this hike are similar to Angels Landing, with vertigo-inducing trails that come with chains to help you keep your balance. Shuttles run throughout the day through the Zion Canyon Drive, giving visitors front-door access to all the must-see spots. Overview The park established a seasonal shuttle system to reduce traffic and parking problems. From the awe-inspiring hike up Angels Landing to the bucket list-worthy Zion Narrows to the family friendly Riverside Walk, there is something here for everyone. This relatively small park is packed with some of the most thrilling hikes in the United States. The shuttle will be in operation between 21st May and 26th November, however if Zion National Park gets busy the shuttle will start to operate on weekends as early as February. The Narrows closes during flash floods, so consider this before setting out on the hike. Or sit down to a steak dinner at Red Rock Grill, open year-round, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Where To Stay This takes away all the hassle of finding a parking space within the national park. One question that comes up often is, Can you drive in Zion National Park?. Currently, you can get here on the East Mesa Trail, a 7 mile hike that starts outside of the park. View from Angels Landing | Zion National Park Itinerary. During peak season and holiday weekends, plan to get in line 30 minutes before the first shuttle. If you get to Zion and find that lines to board the shuttle are ridiculously long, there is still plenty to do in Zion without riding the shuttle. What Every Traveler Needs to Know. Keep reading because I will break down everything you need to know about driving through Zion National Park and all the must-stops along the way! Your email address will not be published. Can I bicycle into Zion Canyon? Check out Checkerboard Mesa, which features a unique mound of rock where the erosion has left a checkerboard pattern over time. This is where the Zion Scenic Drive really starts. If you are planning your Zion National Park itinerary, this is a great place to start. You are able to drive this route freely throughout the year. They happen quite often in this ever-changing park. Get off at the Temple of Sinawava and walk the Riverside Walk to the Virgin River. The centerpiece of the days activities is Cedar Breaks National Monument, another hidden gem that is often overlooked. In 2021, Zion recorded more than 5 million visits. Utah State Route 9 - Wikipedia Although there are no trails from this stop, the main attraction is a chance to gaze at the Virgin River as it sharply turns through the canyon. With amazing views, very few hikers on the trail, and a chance to walk the length of Zion National Park, this hike rewards your efforts. If you are planning a visit to Zion, make sure you read our post 5 Things to Know Before Visiting Zion to avoid any unfortunate surprises. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is an 8 mile drive that will take you through some of the major interests of the park. Midday, have a picnic lunch in the park or grab a bite to eat at the Zion Lodge or at the Visitor Center. She and her family of five, a furry canine friend and a bearded dragon have crossed the United States thirty one times. If you stay a night or two at Zion National Park you'll be able to really immerse yourself in this stunning landscape, as well as having the chance to relax in a pool with a view at the end of the day. Located near the Visitor Center, this highly-rated hotel offers some rooms that can accommodate up to 8 people. Take this turn-off to access this section of Zion National Park. If you are visiting other parts of the park other than Zion Scenic Drive, you can park along pullouts and parking lots available throughout the park. This is what we do and it works great because we avoid the hot temperatures and high crowd levels midday. Be on the first shuttle of the day. I am Rebecca Hrabar, a mom of three kids who travels around Utah and the US in search of beautiful places and incredible views! While Zion National Park is open year-round, it can experience road closures for various reasons. You can drive through Zion National Park along a fabulous scenic drive, which follows Zion Canyon Road. Two of the most unique and beautiful national parks sit within two hours of one another, but make sure not to race from one straight to the other. Tips for Prepared Travelers For an extraordinary adventure, plan winter hikes in Utahs Zion National Park. This restaurant has a fine dining feel to it with an amazing menu. Stop here and learn more about why and what has drawn people of all walks of life to this area and how they have effected and changed this part of the world. This is our go-to hotel in Springdale and highly recommend it. The tunnel is very narrow and barely big enough to fit two lanes of traffic, so drive slowly and use caution. You are permitted to drive from the Visitor Center to the east entrance all year. Las Vegas To Zion: 7 Amazing Stops Along Interstate 15 Whether youre bringing your own bike or renting from one of the local outfitters, there are trails suited for any experience level. This road is open year-round, but most of the year is only accessible through shuttles. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you dont have the gear, you can just watch, which is just as fun and a whole lot safer. How to Road-Trip Through Arches, Bryce and Zion National Park These oversized vehicles need to pay a $15 tunnel permit in advance and show the permit to the ranger stationed at the tunnel. Q. However, you should be alert when driving through Zion. Here are sample daily Zion National Park itineraries. Without a doubt, hiking is the #1 thing to do in Zion National Park. Continue with Recommended Cookies. You do not need a permit to hike the West Rim Trail. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is the main road that runs through Zion National Park. Because this area doesnt fit with the classic national park vacation many visitors have in mind, it doesnt get the attention it deserves. You are able to drive this road throughout the year, when not closed due to snow. However, once you're inside the national park you won't have to pay to park or to take the shuttle through Zion Canyon Road, *Prices calculated at the time of writing for a one-week pass. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is the main road that runs through Zion National Park. After your two-wheeled adventures, return to Springdale for your last night in the shadow of the canyon walls. To see some of the other amazing sights that Zion National Park has to offer, you could hop off the shuttle at Zion Lodge to find the Emerald Pools Trailhead, exit at the Grotto shuttle stop to visit Angels Landing, or hike up to The Narrows from the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop. Sleep within an interior that gives you a southwestern vibe and is comfortable, with access to a multitude of trails. During this time rams can be seen battling each other by clashing their horns together. Exploring The Zion Region After a relaxing night of culture, its time to get dirty! First-time visitors will inevitably want to check out the Emerald Pools or the vertigo-inducing Angels Landing trails, but we suggest you stay flexible, hopping off the shuttle wherever others choose to stay on to find a trail or experience that offers a degree of solitude. Current Conditions - Zion National Park (U.S. National Park Service) Our website uses cookies. Zion National Park Itinerary: How to Spend 1 to 6 Days in Zion Instead, there's a free shuttle that travels from the South Entrance of Zion National Park up to the Temple of Sinawava. The same goes for the Kolob Terrace Road Entrance. Zion National Park Lodge. You can hop on the shuttle at the Visitor Center and ride it to the Temple of Sinawava. This is our favorite restaurant in Springdale. The most direct route from Zion to Bryce Canyon NP is to stay on the highway until it connects to Scenic Byway 12. Just be aware that parking is limited so it still helps to get an early start. Here you will see a Visitors Center and entrance to Kolob Canyons. Carmel Scenic Drive is a forty mile scenic drive that runs from the South entrance of Zion National Park to the Mt. Because of this regions close proximity to I-15, youre never too far away from a city or town full of knowledgeable locals happy to help you get the most out of your vacation. West Rim Trail: The West Rim Trail is a long-distance hike through Zion National Park. Whenever you feel like it, get out, stretch your legs and hike a bit, or dont. You can drive through most of Zion and still walk away with a satisfying day of sightseeing accomplishedeven if you don't get out of your car once. The entire length of the highway has been designated the Zion Park Scenic Byway. For amazingly scenic views and a chance for a picnic on a nice day, this stop is also a great photo opportunity. Near the Nevada border, the Springdale entrance is just 160 miles from Las Vegas. Carmel Tunnel, the Kolob Terrace Road, and Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive. The main trailhead is currently closed due to a rockfall. Greetings Allie and Rob First and foremost I have to, Hello, the trains that go long distances are almost always, Navajo sandstone formations along the scenic Zion Mount Carmel Highway, Zion National Park. Watchman Trail: This short trail starts near the Visitor Center and offers nice views over the southern part of Zion National Park. So pick your times carefully avoiding holidays, weekends and arrive as early as possible. The opportunity to catch a fantastic photo is yours for the taking. When the shuttle is running, you cannot use your own vehicle on this road. After a day spent ripping around Sand Hollow State Park, reserve a room in Cedar City for some well-deserved pampering (Read: 24 Hours in Cedar City). Riverside Walk: This paved path is a beautiful walk that is perfect for all ages and ability levels. During the winter months, you can drive Zion Canyon Scenic Road in your own vehicle most of the time. Winter rewards hikers with stunning sights of stalactites and snow covered mountains. Like the Narrows from the top-down, this can be done as a two-day backpacking trip or as a massive day hike. In preparation for your trip to Utah, heres what you need to know about Utah's liquor laws, especially how and where to buy a drink in the city or in the rural parts of the state. The driving and parking situation in and around Zion National Park is extremely busy. The main road through Arches spans 18 miles in each direction, in addition to several potential side roads you can take through the park. During this time, private vehicles are not permitted to drive on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is an 8 mile drive that will take you through some of the major interests of the park. The East Rim is also accessible from this route and you can choose to hike the entire 10 miles or just a portion as you check out the stunning topography around you. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Visit the other side of the park along the Kolob Canyons Road or head into St. George for a beautiful tour Snow Canyon State Park. Lambs can be spotted from mid-January through April, and mating season takes place from July to October. For a fee, you can get offline access to their maps, so this is one of your best options. Learn more about how to use the Zion shuttle system and what to expect at the shuttle stops in Zion Canyon. Visit our Guide to the Narrows for full details on how to do this. While it may be just 5-miles long, Kolob Canyon Road winds through crimson canyons, cascading waterfalls, and stunning views. Julie Last updated: May 19, 2023 United States 71 Comments. We did the drive during a week in the winter when traffic wasn't bad at all. You can either combine Zion with one or more of the other parks in Utah (Utahs Mighty 5) or do a loop from Las Vegas where you add on the Grand Canyon. There is a second shuttle system, the Springdale Shuttle, that connects the hotels in Springdale with the main entrance of Zion. Where to Stay Must stops along Highway 9 inside Zion National Park include: To see what this spectacular drive is like, watch our video about it! Hike the Narrows as far as you like, or until you reach Big Springs. When deciding how much time you should spend in Zion, pick out the hikes you want to do. We hired a local guide company and they were so helpful: https://allwaysadventure.com, Your email address will not be published. Our family has spent many hours hiking and driving through Zion National Park and it has quickly become one of our favorite National Parks. The visitors center will orient you and pique your interest about the history, geology and topography of the park as you drive through. However, allow time to queue for the shuttle if you arrive between 8 AM and noon. The Zion National Park Scenic Drive is open all year long, but if you are visiting between March and November, it will be closed to private vehicles.