Zion National Park
National Park · Utah

Zion National Park

Photo: Diliff · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Zion is a deep sandstone canyon carved by the Virgin River in southern Utah, with cliffs of cream, pink and red. Highlights include the Narrows, Angels Landing, Emerald Pools, the Riverside Walk and the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. For most of the year cars are not allowed on the main Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, so use the free park shuttle.

Good to know

Tickets
The park charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates. Non-US residents pay an extra per-person fee here.
Time needed
2 to 3 days to hike the Narrows, ride the shuttle and see Kolob Canyons.
Best time
April to May and September to October. Summer is hot and crowded; the Narrows can close for high water in spring.
Getting there
Springdale is at the south entrance. Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport is about 2.5 hours away by car.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Springdale, UtahSt. George, UtahCedar City, Utah
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Zion National Park questions

Do I need a permit for Angels Landing?

Yes. A permit is required every day, through a seasonal lottery or a day-before lottery on Recreation.gov.

Do I need a reservation to enter Zion?

No timed-entry reservation is needed, and the shuttle is free with no ticket. Arrive early, as parking fills by mid-morning.

Where should I stay near Zion?

Springdale sits right outside the entrance and is the easiest base. Zion Lodge is the only hotel inside the park.

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