Zion National Park

Home to Zion Canyon, this vast national park offers trails, climbing, camping & more.
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Zion National Park Trip Planner

Zion National Park Trip Planner

Ready to plan your trip to Zion National Park? Organize and map your itinerary with our free trip planner.

Top attractions in Zion National Park

The Narrows
1. The Narrows
4.9
(674)
Mountain pass
Nature & Parks
This scenic, narrow section of Zion Canyon is popular with hikers & leads to the Temple of Sinawava.
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Probably the coolest hike I've ever done! The epic views, sloshing through the water. The canyon walls get closer together the farther you go. There's a 20 foot section where you go waist deep in water so you have to lift up your backpack if you don't want it to get soaked. Most of the time the water is about up to your knees or less. You occasionally hike on land but make no mistake you will be walking through water most of the time. I did see rock jumpers about halfway into the hike jumping off into the river on a deep spot they found. The farther you go the less people you'll see going that deep in. Once you get past a certain point about 3 mile's in it's absolutely magical. We went in July in the summer. Make sure you arrive super early so you have time to make it back before the last shuttle leaves. Bring water & snacks and take lots of epic pictures because not everybody gets to experience this beautiful creation!
The Narrows felt like a scene after a typhoon, went the weekend before Labor Day and it was packed! The water wasn’t clear at all, but it was still super fun and thrilling. Definitely rent shoes and walking sticks—it’s slippery. Bring some snacks and water. If you’re visiting Zion, this is a must-do!
Amazing and fun hike for the family!!! One of the best hikes I have done! The hike can be as long or as short as you like, as the real beauty is the path. Some people recommend special socks, water shoes, and hiking sticks. I do recommend a hiking stick, but I used an actual stick I found in the desert that worked great and wore quality water shoes. There was one place towards the beginning that we were in water chest deep, so do keep in mind that you can get really wet depending on how high the water currently is. We were there at the very end of June and the water was pretty cold, but our feet got used to it fast! There is also a little water fall towards the beginning of the river and fun side trails later on down the path. The shade covered us the whole hike, but we were on the trail by 8:00am and stayed for about 4 hours total. A must do if you are in Zion!!!
It was quite an adventure. Bring water and snacks. A stick is a must it really helps walking over rocks. We got there by 8am. Took the shuttle to stop 9. We walked about 1 mile to the start. We walked for about 4 miles in the narrows and turned around. We had couple young kids they were tired couldn't go any more. It took about 3 hours to go up and about 1 hour to come back down. Its a real adventure. $30 water shoes from Amazon worked really well. The water was very cold at first especially when it went up to your belly. But once that sun comes out and into the canyon it feels really good to rest and let the sun hit you and warm you up.
Our Zion National Park visit centered on The Narrows, an unforgettable water hike. By 8:10 a.m., the Visitor Center parking was full, so we parked at Stop 2 and took the shuttle to Stop 9. Thanks to my wife’s planning, we rented water shoes and hiking sticks, making the four-hour trek more enjoyable. The towering canyon views were stunning, and the kids had a blast! At one deep section, the water reached my waist, and I helped them across—an exciting challenge. You need to experience The Narrows at least once in your life.
The Narrows is the most unforgettable hike of my life. Imagine wading directly into the Virgin River, surrounded by thousand-foot canyon walls that rise dramatically on both sides. It’s not just a hike; it’s an adventure. Hot tip: bring hiking poles or at least a walking stick and shoes/boots and clothes you don’t mind getting soaked. First, getting there…you must either take the park shuttle or bike in, no private vehicles are allowed. It sounds like a pain, it isn’t, trust me. Ample parking is available near the visitors center near the shuttle stop. Then you’re on your way. Take it to the last stop, Temple of Sinawava then hike an easy paved trail to the “entry” aka the water. The river is your trail, and every step is both exhilarating and humbling. Sometimes the water is ankle-deep, other times it reaches your waist/chest and with every bend you discover new perspectives on this awe-inspiring canyon. The cool water, the echo of footsteps and laughter, the sheer scale of the rock walls, it’s a sensory experience unlike anything else. The beauty also is, you can go as far or as little as you want! My wife and I took this on and were absolutely blown away. It challenged us, yes, but it also rewarded us with memories we’ll never forget. Standing there, looking up at the towering cliffs and realizing how small you are; it’s a perspective shift you can’t get anywhere else. If you do one hike in Zion, make it The Narrows. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that leaves you both exhausted and exhilarated, and it will stay with you forever.
What a hike, water is cold and deep in many areas. This place can get very packed especially in the beginning. Highly recommend a walking stick and good water shoes as the rocks will destroy your feet and ankles.
I don't think words or photos can truly convey this experience. You just have to go and do it yourself. I will say that you don't really need the boots and neoprene socks that the outfitters outside the park have to rent. I think the only thing are either hiking poles or a sturdy hiking stick.
Angels Landing
2. Angels Landing
4.9
(973)
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Rock formation in Zion National Park with a steep, very narrow trail for advanced hikers.
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Billed as the most dangerous hike in USA , this is Zion’s iconic hike and also the most difficult to obtain a permit to access. It’s early Oct 2025 during the US Federal Govt shutdown and YES- NPS Rangers are still checking permits and don’t forget to bring photo ids as some who did. not bring ids had a difficult time with the rangers! The 8.7km hike is strenuous and requires climbing of 460m. The last km iwhich requires a permit checked at the entry point at Scouts Landing involves climbing narrow ridges while holding onto a chain. Please be patient and let oncoming traffic through! The views during the hike are spectacular. The bonus for the trip was the opportunity to see two California Condors soaring overhead. This is the largest bird in USA and was almost extinct with only 20 in the 1980s! They are now on the critically endangered having recovered to around 600 today. Bring water as it can be quite hot and enjoy the walk.
Great October hike at sunrise! We got our permit for the first time slot of the day, which was great. We took the first park shuttle of the day and were within the first few hikers of the day on the trail, so we didn't run into anyone on the way up Angels Landing. This hike was super fun to do. It is definitely impressive which gives a sense of pride when you complete it. I did not think it was too hard physically. It can definitely be scary in some areas though. I witnessed people turning back because it was too scary for them. I now get what the hype is all about. Get your permit and do the hike, you won't regret it.
Visiting Angels Landing was absolutely unforgettable! The views from the top were breathtaking, with incredible scenery in every direction. The hike itself was challenging but totally worth it once you reach the summit. The trail was well-maintained, and there were plenty of spots to stop and take photos. I’d recommend going early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s one of those places that truly reminds you how beautiful nature can be!
The hike is challenging but so worth it. I came down backwards which made it so mush easier. View is gorgeous along the way. It’s not as scary as shown in the online videos when you actually get on the trail.
Beautiful and Breathtaking hike! Be sure you are up for a challenge! There is a lot of high drop offs and your walking along edges. But it’s worth it! I am glad we went in October and not during peak season, it’s a small walking path for people in both directions and you have to wait for people to pass by before you can go.
Angel’s Landing is a stunning trail with some seriously out-of-this-world views. It’s not an easy hike, especially if you’re a beginner but totally worth it for the scenery. I went at the end of October, and even then it was hot and sunny, so I highly recommend starting early to beat the heat and the crowds. Bring lots of water. I didn’t go all the way to the peak with the chains (it gets pretty intense), but even stopping before that, the views were incredible. You don’t have to do the final stretch to enjoy the experience.
This hike is not for the faint of heart or anyone with a terrible fear of heights, but also the best hike I have ever done. The views are gorgeous, the chains area gets your adrenaline going, and finishing the hike feels so rewarding. Definitely dangerous, so must be physically able! I wouldn’t ever recommend this to children or elderly. To do the chains you must have a permit. But anyone can do the hike before that and get an incredible view at Scout Lookout before that if they don’t mind switchbacks! We went in June and on the trail at 7:30 am to beat the heat and the crowd, which worked great for us as it started getting much more crowded at the end. I recommend starting as early as possible. Keep in mind you will have to take their bus shuttle to the hike entrance and parking at the entrance of the park is near impossible to find if you arrive theater in the day.
This trail was one of the toughest I've tackled in my 15 years of hiking. I'd still recommend it 100% to those who can handle the challenge. Just be sure to bring plenty of water - more than you think you'll need. And if you're afraid of heights, this trail might not be for you.
Zion Canyon Scenic Dr
3. Zion Canyon Scenic Dr
Sights & Landmarks
Scenic Drives
Scenic park road for drives, bike rides & seasonal shuttles with views of red-rock canyons & cliffs.
Pa'rus Trail Zion National Park
4. Pa'rus Trail Zion National Park
4.6
(201)
Hiking area
Nature & Parks
Paved 3.5-mi. trail for walking and cycling that follows alongside the Virgin River.
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This is the ONLY dog-friendly trail inside Zion. It’s a fairly short out-and-back, that ends at a shuttle stop. Pleasant, but little shade. Expect to step aside for cyclists at moments. The views of the park are stunning to the right and left throughout the walk. Not as majestic as the canyon interior, or the most iconic Zion views. However, we had our dog with us and were only stopping by for the morning, and as such were overjoyed by the presence of this trail.
One of our favorite trails in one of our favorite national parks! We visited Pa’rus Trail during our USA trip, and it was a highlight of our time in Zion. The trail is easy and very accessible—perfect for a relaxed walk that still offers stunning views. It took us around 45 minutes at a comfortable pace, and we were surrounded by Zion’s breathtaking landscape the whole way. Great for families, casual hikers, or anyone wanting to soak in the beauty without a strenuous climb.
This is another amazing hiking / running / biking trail near the entrance of Zion National Park. The views are stunning as you stroll down this 3 mile path. We saw tons of dogs, people on bikes, and wildlife along the way. This is one of the top trails to visit at Zion, and it's right next to the Watchman Trail as well, which is an amazing but very different hike too.
Pa’rus Trail is a great, easy way to take in Zion Canyon without a strenuous climb. The paved path runs about 3.5 miles round trip between the Visitor Center and Canyon Junction, following the Virgin River with big views of The Watchman, West Temple, and other canyon walls. There’s very little shade, and i went in the middle of the day in august when it was over 100 degrees fahrenheit out. But that’s my own fault lol. I knew i could handle it because it’s an easy hike but be careful in the summertime.
The Pa’rus Trail was an easy walk with absolutely stunning views! It’s perfect for all levels — flat, peaceful, and surrounded by incredible scenery in every direction. I highly recommend going before sunset and catching the sunset from the top — it’s truly magical. Such an awesome and memorable experience!
This trail leads you on a paved path to the canyon entrance to the park. For the hardcore, you can take this trail into the canyon and beat the bus line on the busy days. On busy days the bus line can take 2 hours. Hiking this trail into the park and getting the bus at stop 4 is only an hour thirty. Just add 3 mils of hiking your day and get some amazing photo opportunities that are missed by most as the bus does not stop in these sections.
May be the most disappointing walk in Zion National park. Very short, the view around the trail is not as gorgeous as the other Ute trail. And if you are there walking you will need to avoid bikes most of the time, we found the fact that bike and people are on the same path quite annoying!
Nice pathway to get into Zion. Has a tendency to get pretty busy at certain times.
Zion Shuttle Stop 7 : Driftwood
5. Zion Shuttle Stop 7 : Driftwood
Transportation service
Sights & Landmarks
Emerald Pools Trailhead
6. Emerald Pools Trailhead
4.6
(366)
Hiking area
Nature & Parks
Popular hiking route in Zion National Park leading to waterfalls & emerald-colored rock pools.
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The trail is closed due to construction of the foot bridge across the street from the lodge, so most people are using the Kayenta Trail to get to Emerald Pools, Upper, Middle and Lower. However, some brave souls have crossed the river near the bridge since this trail is much easier to hike than the Kayenta Trail and is shorter. If you choose this route be advised you might not be able to across under the waterfall at the lower pool due to ice, it was closed two weeks ago when we were there. Only an issue during the winter months due to weather. Once you start the decent into the pool areas, the temperature drops due to all the shade. There are no park facilities along the trailhead and the trail is open 24 hours, but would not recommend after dark.
Emerald Pools Trail was one of the highlights of our Zion trip, I really enjoyed it and had a great time. We started from the Grotto (shuttle stop #6) and hiked up to the Upper Emerald Pool, passing waterfalls along the way. Walking behind the falls as water splashed over was such a fun and refreshing experience. The bridge near shuttle stop #5 was closed due to construction, but it worked out, we wanted to hike back the same way anyway. A scenic and memorable trail that’s absolutely worth doing.
I wouldn't recommend this trail right now - the water levels are super low and the trail is packed. None of the pools (puddles) we're emerald in color, either. So you put in the work to get to the three pools, but they're more like puddles. If you decide to do this trail, take the middle emerald pool trail back if you want to avoid lots of people. We took that trail back and saw only 2 ppl - the other (main) trail was absolutely packed.
The Emerald Pools Trail in Zion National Park features three pools (Lower, Middle, and Upper) and is a popular hike accessible from the Zion Lodge, offering varying trail lengths and difficulty levels, with the Upper Pool being the most strenuous. The Emerald Pools trailhead is located across from the Zion Lodge, but the bridge acrossing the Virgin River is closed. So to access the Emerald Pools trailhead, one needs to use the bridge across from the Grotto # 6 stop, and use the Kayenta Trail to reach the Emerald pools. Lower Pool: Located at the base of a cliff, with two small streams trickling into the pools. Middle Pool: Occupies a large, open area surrounded by slickrock, with pools of water collected from trickles above. Upper Pool: Surrounded by sheer cliffs and a boulder foothill, with maple trees shading this natural amphitheater. No swimming in any of the three pools.
Visited on 9.21.2025. Fabulous hiking in this area of Zion National Park.
great walk, be sure to take water with you, there are no toilets along the way, the path to the first waterfall is easy, to the second and third there is already a path up and narrow, difficult, there are stone steps.
Conditions vary throughout the years, and the pools weren't so 'emerald' the day we visited, but is was right after a hard storm. Still, our first hike on the trip, and well worth it!
This was our second time at Zion and we finally got to do this trail. After hiking this trail it became my second favorite trail in the whole park. The only drawback for me is that there are a couple of spots on the trail that have stairs. Which are not that bad unless you have a bad knee and you've been hiking all day. Over all this trail is a must as the scenery and views are beautiful.
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Other notable attractions

Zion National Park
National park
Nature & Parks
Home to Zion Canyon, this vast national park offers trails, climbing, camping & more.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Nature & Parks
National Parks
Rocky, mile-long route leading to a picturesque view of Zion Canyon & the Towers of the Virgin.
Zion – Mount Carmel Hwy
Sights & Landmarks
Scenic Drives
25-mile long highway in Washington & southern Utah & on the National Register of Historic Places.
Weeping Rock Trail
Nature & Parks
Hiking Trails
Half-mile round-trip hike in Zion National Park, leading to a verdant alcove with hanging gardens.
Observation Point Trail
Sights & Landmarks
National Parks
Steep, 8-mi. round-trip trek in Zion National Park, with 2,100 ft. of elevation gain & views.
The Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel
Tunnel
Sights & Landmarks
Long landmark tunnel cut through red sandstone cliffs, the gateway to Zion National Park.
Kolob Canyons
Scenic spot
Nature & Parks
Parallel red-rock box canyons in Zion National Park, viewable from hikes or a 5-mi. scenic drive.
Temple of Sinawava
Scenic spot
Nature & Parks
Tall sandstone amphitheater & trailhead for the popular Riverside Walk & Narrows hiking trails.
Riverside Walk
Nature & Parks
Hiking Trails
Popular paved hiking trail in Zion National Park that offers views of the Narrows.
Checkerboard Mesa
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Park-based mesa with an unusual cross-cross pattern on the rock, popular for hiking & canyon views.

Top searches in Zion National Park

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Q&A about Zion National Park

Arizona. Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Meteor Crater, Sedona, Jerome, Montezumas Castle
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Sasha Zboncak
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It’s the busiest time of year in Zion- expect terrible crowds so my main suggestion is get the shuttle pass in advance and get there as early as possible in the morning for hiking. The desert temps vary from cold in the morning to hot in May so bring lots of layers of clothing. Also high UV index don’t forget sunscreen and a hat! Lots of water it blows my mind people don’t carry water when hiking out here. Please look into leave no trace principles for the desert to help protect this overrun park!! Good luck have fun 🙂
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Karina Wilkinson
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Weather in Zion National Park

Here's the historical average temperature in Zion National Park over a full year based on data compiled by NASA: for more details by month, see the weather in Zion National Park in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December
Monthly temperature highs and lows in Zion National Park
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