How to Enjoy Zion National Park

Originally named Mukuntuweap National Monument, Zion was expanded and designated a national park in 1919. The world's largest natural arch (Kolob Arch) is within the park's 229 square miles, and the park itself is spectacular - a mix of unique geological features, plant diversity and animal life, including several rare or endangered species.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Cameras
• Binoculars
• Reservations
• Hiking Boots
• Sunscreen
• Bicycles
• Trail guides
• Walking Shoes
• Maps

1. Decide when to go. Summer is the high season, with attendance much lower during the winter months, when visitor center hours are shorter and some roads may be closed due to icy weather.
2. Choose your transportation. The closest airport is at St. George, Utah, 46 miles from the park. You can drive in via I-15 or US-89, and take connecting roads to the park entrance.
3. Decide where to stay. There are two main campgrounds within the park, but only one can be reserved (see the National Park Reservation Service at reservations.nps.gov to reserve online). Zion Lodge is located within the park, or you can stay in nearby towns.
4. Ride the shuttle. In order to reduce increasing traffic congestion within the park, you can leave your car in Springdale and ride into the park on the free shuttle. The shuttle stops often and goes by most trailheads, and you can get on and off to explore as much as you wish.
5. Go biking. Bicyclists are welcome on the Pa'rus Trail, which is also shared with pedestrians - but not with cars. The paved trail goes through lower Zion Canyon. Bikes are also allowed on established roads, but not in the Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel or on trails.
6. Ride a horse. Guided trips are available in the park from March through early fall. Check at Zion Lodge for information on prices. Reservations are advised.
7. Participate in ranger-led activities designed to educate you about the features and creatures of the park. Guided walks, talks and campground programs are offered. Check the visitor center for a schedule.
8. Visit other nearby parks such as Bryce Canyon National Park, Arches National Park, Capitol Reef National Park or Canyonlands National Park.

Tips & Warnings

• To contact the park directly, write to Superintendent, Zion National Park, Springdale, UT 84767. For recorded information available 24 hours a day, call [phone].
• Permits are required for backcountry camping. They cost $10 and can be picked up at any visitor center.
• The best time to view foliage is in spring, when the wildflowers are in bloom, and in fall, when the leaves turn.
• You can use your private vehicle to drive the main road, but to get to trailheads or other areas of the upper canyon, riding the shuttle is recommended. Check in at the visitor center for complete information on the shuttle system.
• Large vehicles may be restricted from driving through the tunnel on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway. The tunnel is just over 11 feet high and is very narrow. Consider taking the shuttle instead if you have an oversized vehicle.
• When hiking - especially in the backcountry - be aware of the weather at all times. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, and can produce flash flooding.