View It
Visit It
Zion National Park
Utah
Visit Zion National Park
Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a sanctuary of natural beauty and diverse landscapes that attract millions of visitors each year. Renowned for its soaring sandstone cliffs that range in color from cream to deep red, Zion offers a stunning backdrop that is both awe-inspiring and serene. The park's unique geography has been sculpted over millions of years by the Virgin River, whose path has carved out the dramatic canyon that defines the park today. Zion's beauty extends beyond its famous cliffs; it also boasts high plateaus, a maze of narrow, deep sandstone canyons, and a network of beautiful rivers and waterfalls.
Visitors to Zion National Park can explore a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous adventures. One of the most iconic hikes is The Narrows, where you wade through the Virgin River with towering walls on either side, sometimes only a few feet apart. Another must-see is the challenging hike to Angels Landing, which offers breathtaking views from its summit, though it is not for the faint of heart due to steep drop-offs and narrow paths. For those looking for less strenuous activities, the Emerald Pools trail offers a relatively easy walk to several beautiful waterfalls and tranquil pools. Throughout these journeys, hikers are likely to encounter diverse wildlife, including mule deer, golden eagles, and the occasional mountain lion.
Beyond hiking, Zion provides opportunities for other outdoor activities such as rock climbing, canyoneering, and bird watching. The park's high plateaus offer cooler temperatures in the summer months, making it a perfect spot for camping and stargazing. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is a great way to take in the park’s majestic vistas, with several pullouts offering panoramic views. For a deeper understanding of the park’s ecology and history, visitors can participate in ranger-led programs that explore topics from local geology to the cultural history of the park's ancient inhabitants.
Visiting Zion National Park is a truly memorable experience, offering both adventure and the chance to reconnect with nature. Whether you're seeking thrilling hikes or peaceful moments in a natural setting, Zion’s landscape provides a powerful and refreshing escape.
Zion National Park Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
22°F
52°F
6
February
30°F
52°F
5
March
31°F
58°F
8
April
43°F
67°F
4
May
42°F
79°F
5
June
56°F
91°F
5
July
57°F
97°F
2
August
63°F
89°F
3
September
50°F
84°F
5
October
42°F
79°F
5
November
27°F
57°F
5
December
27°F
45°F
5
Need to Know Before You Go To Zion National Park
Nickname:
Zion
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
America/Denver
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A and Type B
Annual Visitors:
4.5 million
Primary Export:
Tourism
Busiest Travel Months:
October, May, April
Quietest Travel Months:
January, December, February
Find your Next Adventure in Zion National Park
Explore Zion National Park
Iconic Landmarks
Angels Landing
- A renowned and strenuous hike that offers breathtaking views from a narrow rock fin with steep drop-offs on either side.
The Narrows
- This hike runs through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, featuring towering walls, river wading, and one of the park's most distinctive landscapes.
Emerald Pools
- A series of pools and waterfalls that provide a refreshing oasis set against a backdrop of lush vegetation and towering cliffs.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
- A picturesque drive that offers access to the majority of the park’s main attractions with stunning views of the towering cliffs.
Weeping Rock
- A short trail leads to a rock alcove with dripping springs, creating a unique, perpetually wet environment ideal for hanging gardens.
Observation Point
- Offering one of the highest vantage points in the park, this trail provides panoramic views of Zion Canyon’s wide array of rock formations.
Cultural Experiences
Native American Flute Performances
Experience the hauntingly beautiful sounds of Native American flutes, often performed at special events or gatherings within the park.
Paiute Tribal Presentations
Learn about the rich history and culture of the Paiute tribe through storytelling and demonstrations by tribal members.
Pioneer History Tours
Explore the early Mormon settlers' influence in the area with guided tours that highlight historic sites and pioneer craftsmanship.
Zion Human History Museum
Visit this museum to explore exhibits on the human history of Zion National Park, including Native American cultures and pioneer settlement.
Rock Art Tours
Take a guided tour to view ancient petroglyphs and learn about their significance from knowledgeable park rangers or local experts.
Cultural Festivals
Participate in annual cultural festivals held in or near the park, featuring local music, crafts, and traditional foods.
Outdoor Adventures
Angels Landing Hike
- This strenuous and iconic hike offers breathtaking views from a narrow rock fin with steep drop-offs on either side.
The Narrows
- Wade through the Virgin River into a deep gorge with towering walls, one of the park's most famous slot canyon hikes.
Canyoneering in the Subway
- A challenging semi-technical slot canyon that requires permits, featuring unique tunnel-like formations and emerald pools.
Observation Point
- A less crowded alternative to Angels Landing, this hike offers panoramic views of Zion Canyon from above.
Kolob Canyons
- Explore this less-visited section of the park, which boasts beautiful red rock landscapes and numerous trails.
Biking on Pa'rus Trail
- Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along this paved trail that follows the Virgin River, offering scenic vistas and access to several park attractions.
Off the Beaten Path
Kolob Terrace Road
- This less-traveled route offers stunning views of the park’s high plateaus and access to multiple secluded trails.
Kolob Arch via La Verkin Creek Trail
- Hike this trail to see one of the world's largest freestanding arches, set in a beautiful backcountry setting.
Subway Hike (Left Fork of North Creek)
- A challenging, permit-required route that rewards hikers with unique tunnel-like formations and emerald pools.
Hop Valley Trail
- Traverse through a peaceful valley with towering cliffs and a stream, ideal for experiencing solitude.
Kolob Canyons
- Explore this separate, less-visited section of the park that features deep red canyons and lush greenery.
Many Pools Trail
- An unofficial, less marked trail leading to a series of natural pools and slickrock formations, offering solitude and natural beauty.
Zion National Park Fun Facts
- Zion National Park was established on November 19, 1919, making it Utah's first national park.
- The park is named after the Hebrew word "Zion," which means a place of peace and refuge.
- Zion's most famous feature, the Narrows, is one of the narrowest canyons in the world, with some parts only 20 to 30 feet wide.
- The park is home to the Zion Canyon, which is 15 miles long and up to half a mile deep, carved by the Virgin River.
- Zion National Park has a unique feature called the Weeping Rock, where water seeps out of the rock face, creating a constant drizzle.
- The park's highest point is Horse Ranch Mountain, which stands at 8,726 feet above sea level.
- Zion is known for its high plateaus, a maze of deep sandstone canyons, and the towering Kolob Arch, one of the world's largest freestanding natural arches.
- The park supports a diverse range of life zones, from desert to riparian and woodland, hosting over 1,000 plant species.
- Zion National Park is a haven for bird watchers, with over 291 bird species recorded.
- The park's Checkerboard Mesa is a unique geological feature with a grid-like pattern that looks like a checkerboard, formed by the crossing of vertical and horizontal fissures.
Featured Picture Gallery
Zion National Park is Known for its Steep Red Cliffs
If You're Feeling Adventurous, Hiking is Common in Zion National Park
Explore the Native Wildlife of Zion National Park
Explore Similar Locations
Banff
Banff, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies within Banff National Park in Alberta, offers breathtaking mountain landscapes and pristine wilderness. Visitors can explore turquoise glacial lakes, such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, hike countless trails, or relax in the historic hot springs. This charming alpine town also provides a range of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences, making it a perfect destination for both adventure and leisure.
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon, one of the world's most stunning natural wonders, offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the horizon. Visitors can explore its vast network of hiking trails, participate in river rafting on the Colorado River, or simply enjoy the spectacular sunsets that paint the canyon walls. This iconic landmark is a testament to nature's power and beauty, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Sedona
Sedona, Arizona, is a stunning desert town renowned for its vibrant red rock formations and dynamic art scene. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails, state parks, and spiritual retreats that offer breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility. Sedona is also a hub for wellness, with plenty of spas, galleries, and gourmet eateries that cater to those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Vail
Vail, Colorado, is a premier mountain resort town renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding on Vail Mountain, featuring expansive back bowls and groomed trails. During the warmer months, the area transforms into a picturesque alpine paradise ideal for hiking, biking, and fishing. The charming village at the base of the mountain offers luxury accommodations, fine dining, and boutique shopping, making Vail a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.