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Zion National Park: A Sanctuary of Stone and Sky

Discover Zion National Park: Awe-inspiring canyons, diverse trails, and a rich history await in Utah's stunning natural sanctuary.

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Zion National Park, Utah's oldest and most visited national park, is a breathtaking preserve of towering sandstone cliffs, deep canyons carved by the Virgin River, and diverse plant and animal life. Established in 1919, Zion offers a range of activities from hiking and canyoneering to scenic drives and exploring the rich cultural history of the area.

A brief summary to Zion National Park

  • 932 Zion – Mount Carmel Hwy, Springdale, Utah, 84767, US

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and secure parking.
  • Utilize the free shuttle system to access Zion Canyon Scenic Drive from March through November.
  • Stay hydrated by carrying at least one gallon of water per person per day, especially when hiking.
  • Check the park's website or visitor centers for current conditions, advisories, and shuttle schedules.
  • Obtain necessary permits for specific hikes like Angels Landing and overnight backpacking trips.
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Getting There

  • Shuttle

    From March through November, access to Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is primarily via the free Zion Canyon Shuttle. Upon entering Zion National Park, proceed to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Park here if space is available, noting that lots often fill by mid-morning. If parking is full, park in the town of Springdale and take the free Springdale Shuttle to the park's pedestrian entrance at Zion Canyon Village. From the Visitor Center, board the Zion Canyon Shuttle, which runs every few minutes and stops at nine locations along the scenic drive, including popular trailheads like Angels Landing (permit required), Emerald Pools, and The Narrows. The shuttle is free, with park admission. Park entrance fees are $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass or $20 per person. There is no fee for the shuttle itself.

  • Walking

    Upon arrival at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, the entrance to many of the park's trails and attractions is accessible by foot. From the visitor center, follow the Pa'rus Trail, a paved, accessible path that runs along the Virgin River. This trail connects to the Zion Human History Museum and provides access to other trails. Walking is a great way to experience the park's scenery and avoid shuttle lines. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, bring water, and be aware of the weather conditions. There are no additional costs for accessing the park on foot beyond the standard entrance fee of $35 per vehicle or $20 per person.

  • Driving (Off-Season)

    During the off-season (typically late November to February), private vehicles are allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Upon entering Zion National Park, proceed along State Route 9 towards the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Limited parking is available at the visitor center, Zion Human History Museum, and near the Zion Nature Center. Parking is free but fills quickly. Once parking inside the park is full, consider parking in Springdale and walking or biking into the park. Note that the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel has size restrictions, and vehicles exceeding 11 feet, 4 inches in height or 7 feet, 10 inches in width may require an escort for a $15 fee. Park entrance fees are $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass or $20 per person.

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Discover more about Zion National Park

Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a sanctuary of natural beauty and a testament to the power of time and the Virgin River. The park's centerpiece, Zion Canyon, is a 15-mile-long gorge, up to 3,000 feet deep, carved through multicolored Navajo sandstone by the relentless flow of water. Human history in Zion dates back 7,000 years, with nomadic groups and later the Virgin Branch Puebloan and Fremont Indians inhabiting the region. The Southern Paiute people called it Mukuntuweap, meaning "straight canyon". Mormon pioneers arrived in the late 1800s, settling the area and naming it Zion, a reference to a place of refuge and worship. President William Howard Taft established Mukuntuweap National Monument in 1909 to protect the canyon's unique features. It was later renamed Zion National Monument in 1918 and finally achieved national park status in 1919. In 1937, Kolob Canyons, another area of significant geological interest, was designated as a separate Zion National Monument before being incorporated into the park in 1956. Today, Zion National Park encompasses 229 square miles and attracts millions of visitors each year. The park's diverse landscape supports a wide array of plant and animal life, including mule deer, golden eagles, mountain lions, and the endemic Zion snail. Visitors can explore the park through various activities, including hiking iconic trails like Angels Landing (permit required) and The Narrows, scenic drives along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, and guided canyoneering adventures. To manage traffic and protect the park's resources, a free shuttle system operates in Zion Canyon from March through November, providing access to popular trailheads and scenic viewpoints. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike, a peaceful retreat, or a glimpse into the past, Zion National Park offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

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