The Grotto Picnic Area: A Serene Oasis in Zion National Park
Discover the tranquility of The Grotto Picnic Area in Zion National Park, where stunning landscapes meet serene outdoor dining experiences.
Nestled within the breathtaking Zion National Park, The Grotto Picnic Area offers a serene retreat for nature lovers and families alike. With stunning views, ample picnic spots, and convenient amenities, it's the perfect place to unwind amidst the beauty of Utah's red rock formations.
A brief summary to The Grotto Picnic Area
- Springdale, Utah, 84767, US
- +1435-772-3256
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a prime picnic spot, especially during peak seasons.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited.
- Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions in the park.
- Take a short hike to nearby trails for breathtaking views of the canyon.
- Remember to leave no trace; clean up after your picnic to preserve the area's natural beauty.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Mt. Carmel, head south on State Route 9 (also known as Zion Park Blvd) towards Springdale. Continue walking for approximately 4 miles. You will pass through scenic landscapes and might catch glimpses of the majestic Zion National Park mountains. Once you reach the intersection with the Virgin River, look for signs directing you to The Grotto Picnic Area, which is located within Zion National Park. The picnic area is situated near the Grotto shuttle stop. If you plan to visit during peak season, be aware that shuttle services may be operating, and check the schedule to optimize your timing.
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Biking
If you have access to a bicycle, start at the Mt. Carmel Town Hall and take the same route as you would on foot. Biking along State Route 9 is a great way to enjoy the scenery and cover the distance more quickly. Stay on the designated bike paths where available, and be cautious of traffic. After about 4 miles, you'll arrive at the Virgin River area. Look for signage for The Grotto Picnic Area as you approach; it is easily accessible from the road.
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Public Transport (Shuttle)
Although Mt. Carmel does not have direct public transport, you can use the shuttle service from nearby Springdale to reach The Grotto Picnic Area. First, walk or bike to Springdale, which is about 4 miles south. Once in Springdale, locate the shuttle stop for Zion National Park. The shuttles are frequent during the park's busy season. Board the shuttle heading towards The Grotto, and it will take you directly to the picnic area. Make sure to check the shuttle schedule for the latest times.
Discover more about The Grotto Picnic Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Zion Lodge Historic District
0.9 km
Experience the historical charm and stunning landscapes of Zion Lodge Historic District in the heart of Zion National Park, a true natural wonder.
Canyon Overlook Trailhead Parking Lot
5.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views at Canyon Overlook Trailhead Parking Lot, your starting point for an unforgettable Utah hiking adventure.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
6.8 km
Discover adventure and tranquility at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, your gateway to the majestic landscapes of Zion National Park.
East Zion Adventures
6.9 km
Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures and breathtaking landscapes at East Zion Adventures, your gateway to Zion National Park's stunning beauty.
Pa'rus Trail Zion National Park
7.1 km
Discover the breathtaking views and accessible pathways of Pa'rus Trail in Zion National Park, perfect for all nature lovers and adventure seekers.
East Rim Trailhead
7.1 km
Discover stunning views and diverse wildlife at East Rim Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Zion National Park, Utah.
Checkerboard Mesa View Area
7.2 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning geological formations of Checkerboard Mesa, a must-visit landmark in Utah's Zion National Park.
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
7.2 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Zion National Park from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, your essential guide to adventure and nature's beauty.
Zion National Park
8.0 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Zion National Park, a top destination for outdoor adventure and natural beauty in Utah.
Zion Guide Hub
8.8 km
Discover Zion National Park's breathtaking beauty with personalized tours and thrilling adventures at Zion Guide Hub.
Zion Pizza & Noodle Co
8.8 km
Experience the taste of Italy in the heart of Springdale at Zion Pizza & Noodle Co, where delicious flavors meet breathtaking views.
Hi-Road Basecamp
8.8 km
Experience the natural beauty of Utah at Hi-Road Basecamp, your gateway to adventure in the serene Mount Carmel region.
Co-op Cafe
8.8 km
Experience local flavors at Co-op Cafe in Mount Carmel, Utah, where delicious cuisine meets the stunning landscapes of Zion National Park.
Cordwood
13.1 km
Discover Cordwood, a charming restaurant in Mount Carmel, offering locally sourced cuisine and a warm atmosphere perfect for food lovers.
Zion Mountain Ranch
13.2 km
Discover the rustic charm of Zion Mountain Ranch; a perfect blend of cozy cabins and cowboy culture near Zion National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kayenta Trailhead
0.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kayenta Trailhead in Springdale, Utah, where stunning hikes and picturesque landscapes await every adventurer.
W Rim Trail
0.2 km
Explore the breathtaking W Rim Trail in Utah, a premier destination for hiking, wildlife observation, and stunning natural landscapes.
Kayenta Trl
0.4 km
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Zion National Park Lodge
1.0 km
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Emerald Pools Trailhead
1.1 km
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Big Bend Viewpoint
1.6 km
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Scout Lookout
1.8 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Scout Lookout in Zion National Park, a must-visit hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Weeping Rock Trail
1.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Weeping Rock Trail in Utah, where stunning rock formations and tranquil waters await your discovery.
Touchstone Wall
1.9 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Touchstone Wall in Zion National Park, where nature's beauty and adventure await every traveler.
Walter's Wiggles
1.9 km
Explore the exhilarating switchbacks of Walter's Wiggles in Zion National Park, where breathtaking vistas and adventure await every hiker.
Castle Dome
1.9 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Castle Dome in Utah, a magnificent mountain peak perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
Zion Canyon Scenic Dr
2.1 km
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Observation Point
2.4 km
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Court of the Patriarchs Viewpoint
2.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Court of the Patriarchs Viewpoint, a scenic gem in Zion National Park, where nature meets serenity.
Observation Point Trail
2.7 km
Explore the stunning Observation Point Trail in Utah, where breathtaking views and vibrant landscapes await every adventurous traveler.
Essential places to dine
Castle Dome Café
0.9 km
Experience delightful dining at Castle Dome Café in Zion National Park - where local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
Red Rock Grill
0.9 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine surrounded by breathtaking views at Red Rock Grill in Zion National Park.
Ponderosa Eats
6.8 km
Experience delightful dining at Ponderosa Eats in Orderville, Utah - where every meal tells a story of flavor and hospitality.
Zion Canyon Brew Pub
7.4 km
Discover local craft beer and delicious cuisine at Zion Canyon Brew Pub near Zion National Park.
Subway
7.6 km
Enjoy fresh sandwiches at Subway in Springdale—your quick stop before exploring the wonders of Zion National Park.
Thai Sapa
7.6 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors at Thai Sapa in Springdale, where culinary tradition meets modern Asian fusion amidst stunning landscapes.
Cafe Soleil
7.6 km
Discover the flavors of Springdale at Cafe Soleil - where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Anthera
7.7 km
Discover culinary excellence at Anthera – where fresh local ingredients meet innovative flavors amidst breathtaking Utah landscapes.
Hangry Goat
7.8 km
Experience delicious fast food with a local twist at Hangry Goat in Springdale, Utah – the perfect stop for hungry adventurers exploring Zion National Park.
Spotted Dog
8.0 km
Discover Spotted Dog: A delightful American restaurant offering great food and drinks in Springdale, close to Zion National Park's stunning beauty.
Whiptail Grill
8.0 km
Experience vibrant Mexican flavors at Whiptail Grill near Zion National Park—where delicious food meets breathtaking scenery.
Flanigan's Resort and Spa Springdale UT - Hotel Zion National Park
8.0 km
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Camp Outpost
8.6 km
Discover culinary delights at Camp Outpost near Zion National Park – where local flavors meet breathtaking scenery.
Bamboo Chinese Restaurant
8.7 km
Savor authentic Chinese flavors amidst the stunning backdrop of Zion National Park at Bamboo Chinese Restaurant in Springdale.
Porter's
8.8 km
Experience the heart of traditional American cuisine at Porter's in Springdale – where flavor meets adventure near Zion National Park.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Zion National Park Forever Project Store @ Zion
7.2 km
Explore the Zion National Park Forever Project Store for unique books and merchandise that celebrate the park's stunning beauty and rich biodiversity.
Zion Outfitter
7.3 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-notch rentals, expert advice, and quality gear at Zion Outfitter in beautiful Springdale, Utah.
Happy Camper Market
7.4 km
Discover the perfect grocery stop near Zion National Park at Happy Camper Market, where convenience meets local flavor.
Trailhead Gifts and Gear
7.4 km
Discover unique gifts and outdoor gear at Trailhead Gifts and Gear in Springdale, the perfect stop for every Zion National Park visitor.
Zion Canyon Village
7.5 km
Discover the ultimate gateway to Zion National Park at Zion Canyon Village, where shopping, dining, and adventure converge amidst stunning landscapes.
Tribal Arts Zion
7.8 km
Explore the vibrant world of Native American artistry at Tribal Arts Zion, where authentic culture meets exquisite craftsmanship.
Hoodoos General Store, Deli, Ice Cream Parlor, and Gift Shop
8.2 km
Experience the best of Springdale at Hoodoos General Store, where adventure meets local charm and delicious treats await every visitor.
Zion Prospector
8.5 km
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Lil Gift Shop
8.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Lil Gift Shop in Springdale, the perfect stop for Zion National Park visitors.
David J. West Gallery
8.7 km
Explore local artistry and unique gifts at David J. West Gallery in Springdale, Utah, a must-visit destination for art lovers.
Zion Outdoor
8.8 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-notch gear and expert advice from Zion Outdoor in Springdale, Utah, just steps from Zion National Park.
Mountain Huggers
8.8 km
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The Get Outpost
8.8 km
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Canyon Outfitters
8.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at Canyon Outfitters, the perfect stop for visitors to Zion National Park.
Springdale Candy Company
8.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cowboys & Angels Speakeasy Cocktail Parlor
9.2 km
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FeelLove Coffee & Cafe Zion
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Dulivia Ristorante Italiano
9.4 km
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Jack's Sports Grill
9.5 km
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Wild Thyme Cafe at Trees Ranch
12.2 km
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Thunderbird Golf Course
24.2 km
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Trail Stop
38.6 km
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Aunt Sue's Chalet
38.7 km
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Hot Mama's Pizza & Brew
38.8 km
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DC Pub & Grill
38.9 km
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Pinewoods Grille
39.1 km
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Tacos Sinaloa Kanab
44.5 km
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Wild Thyme Cafe
44.5 km
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Vermillion 45
44.5 km
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Havana Cabana the Taste of Cuba
44.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Cuba at Havana Cabana, a culinary gem in Kanab offering authentic dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
