Ultimate Zion National Park Guide: Best Hikes, Lodging & Essential Travel Tips
Discover Zion National Park with this comprehensive hiking guide, featuring top trails, lodging options inside and outside the park, and proven trip-planning strategies from experienced travelers.
Our journey from Southern California through Nevada and Arizona revealed Zion's stunning canyons, where pink, red, and cream sandstone walls blend under vast skies. Just seven hours away, this Utah gem offers rugged beauty that dispels misconceptions about the region.
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
Camping in Zion National Park is highly recommended. Options exist both inside and outside the park.
When booking RV resorts or campgrounds, confirm your campsite assignment. Some RV parks allow tent camping but may feel less wild. Avoid urban spots like Willow Wind Resort in Hurricane if you prefer seclusion.
For a remote experience, consider Sand Hollow State Park in Hurricane (45 minutes from Zion). It offers primitive sites and full hookups with showers (check current rates, previously $13–$25/night). Note the 10:00 PM gate closure and reservoir warnings.
In St. George (Exit 8 off I-15), budget hotels start affordably (previously from $29/night; verify reviews and current prices). Springdale offers abundant lodging at Zion's entrance, though it books quickly and can be pricey.
Where to Stay in Zion National Park
Inside the park, Watchman Campground accepts reservations (book early for summer). South Campground is first-come, first-served—arrive early.
Zion National Park Travel Tips
Zion is accessible, with amenities in Springdale including restaurants and shops. Free shuttles from town reach the park entrance easily. Park parking fills quickly; arrive early or visit off-season.
The park shuttle (April–October, 6:30 AM–11:00 PM) covers Upper Zion Canyon—no private vehicles allowed. It provides history and hike info at eight stops. Prepare for summer heat on strenuous trails.
Best Hikes in Zion National Park
Emerald Pools Trail
This popular hike features lower, middle, and upper pools. The upper section is strenuous in summer heat—bring water shoes or swimwear to cool off.
Riverside Walk Trail
The park's top attraction (1.5 hours round-trip) follows the river to the Narrows gateway. Spot wildlife like squirrels, deer, or tarantulas. Extend into the Narrows (2 miles wading; water shoes recommended). Safest in June/September; heed flash flood warnings.
Angels Landing Trail
A thrilling, strenuous hike along a narrow fin with 1,000-foot drop-offs—not for beginners. Preview via YouTube videos.
Zion offers trails from easy to extreme, plus canyoneering. Allocate 2–3 days. Lodging ranges from campsites to hotels.
Plan Your Trip to Zion National Park
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Flights:
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