Overview

Zion Canyon is one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Over 4 million people come each year to bask in its wonders, but unfortunately they’re all crammed together along one stretch of road.

Crowd Factor: 10/10

If you don’t plan around Peak Hours, Zion can be a nightmare that will feel more like trying to park at the Super Bowl than visiting one of nature’s Crown Jewels.

Photo Credit: NPS

Peak Hours: 8a-5p

Enter the Park No Later Than 830a

Springdale's immediate proximity ensures an early start to full parking lots and long shuttle lines. The fact of the matter is this: 830am is absolute latest you should attempt to drive into the park  and earlier is better.

Springdale: Beautifully Annoying

Development from the city runs for about three miles right up to the park gate, which can be disappointing for car campers expecting to feel like they’re “getting away from it all.”

The Shuttle System: Learn it, Love it, and Bike or Hike if You Can

For much of the year, the only vehicles allowed in Zion Canyon are the park's shuttles. Spring and summer crowds, however, can overwhelm the system. Bring a bike if you have one or just hike along the Virgin River for a less-stressful experience.

Most Popular: Emerald Pools, Angel’s Landing, & The Narrows/Riverside Walk

Our Take: Everything in Zion Canyon is popular (and rightly so). The only way to avoid the problems that come with the immense crowds is to wake up early and beat them out onto the trails.

Underutilized during the day and even more forgotten in the evening, hike the Watchman Trail for an unforgettable evening in Zion National Park.

Sunset Hike: Watchman Trail

Mather's Favorites

Peak Alternative: River Trails Between Court of the Patriarch & The Grotto

For those of you who want some serenity in Zion, there is no better opportunity than the trails that follow the river in the center of the canyon.

Best Day Hike: Observation Point (8 mi)

The views are better and the trail substantially less crowded than Angel's Landing. If you only have one day in Zion, do this hike.

The East Side: A Seussian Wonderland

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’ve stepped into a Doctor Seuss book, the East Side of Zion's mind-bending rockscapes will transport you from Earth to a twisted fantasy land you may not believe is real.

South Campground Reserves 2 Weeks Before Arrival

While Watchman Campground reserves up-to the typical 6-month timeframe. You can only reserve sites at the South Campground two weeks before your arrival date.

What if it Rains? 

Zion is dangerous during any sort of rain because of the way slot canyons are used as natural drainage. Be prepared to hole up at the Zion Lodge or back in Springdale.