Zion National Park
Welcome to Zion National Park – a realm where towering cliffs, winding canyons, and emerald pools converge to create a symphony of natural wonder. Nestled in the heart of southwestern Utah, Zion beckons travelers to embark on an unforgettable odyssey through its breathtaking landscapes. Join me on a journey through this awe-inspiring sanctuary as we navigate Utah’s oldest national park.
Zion National Park offers a myriad of experiences that cater to every adventurer's soul. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking solace amidst nature's embrace, Zion has something to offer. While Zion National Park is well known for its stunning hikes, there are many other adventures within the park. Zion offers whitewater kayaking along the Virgin River (requires a wilderness permit). Bicycling is permitted on all roadways and the Pa’rus Trail. There are several trails for backpacking excursions. For the daring, rock climbing and canyoneering (permit required) experiences are available.
Exploring Zion's Treasures: Best Things to Do
Hiking: hiking in Zion is a must. There is a trail for every level within the park. There is so much incredible hiking, I encourage you to plan for a couple of days in the park to fit it all in. We will get into more details on the hiking below.
Scenic Drive: the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is where you will find most of the attractions and hikes. It is closed to vehicles most of the year while the shuttle service is in operation. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is absolutely stunning and you won’t want to miss the epic views from this scenic drive. This is also where you can drive through the 1.1-mile Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.
Kolob Canyons: enjoy a scenic 5-mile drive through towering 2,000-foot cliffs. The stunning landscape offers canyon streams, cascading falls, and 20 miles of hiking trails.
Zion Lodge: offering a few different overnight accommodations, the lodge also offers two dining options and a gift shop.
Camping: with several campgrounds situated within the park and a multitude of options just outside the park, there are camping opportunities to suit everyone.
Stargazing: As an awesome bonus to your camping experience, Zion National Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park.
Camping in Zion: Embracing the Great Outdoors
For those seeking to immerse themselves fully in Zion's embrace, camping offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level. The park features three campgrounds – South Campground, Watchman Campground, and Lava Point Campground – each offering its own distinct charms.
South Campground: Situated near the park's south entrance, South Campground offers convenient access to popular trails and attractions. With 127 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis, it's the perfect choice for spontaneous adventurers seeking a rustic retreat. (As of this writing in March 2024 the South Campground is closed for a long-term rehabilitation project.)
Watchman Campground: Nestled beneath the towering Watchman Peak, Watchman Campground provides a picturesque setting for your Zion adventure. Reservations are recommended for its 176 sites, which offer amenities such as flush toilets, drinking water, and RV hookups.
Lava Point Campground: For those seeking solitude amidst Zion's remote wilderness, Lava Point Campground offers a secluded escape atop the towering Kolob Terrace. With only six primitive sites available on a first-come, first-served basis, it's a haven for intrepid campers seeking solitude and serenity.
In addition to camping within the park, visitors can explore camping options in the surrounding areas, including nearby national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. From rustic backcountry sites to full-service RV parks, there's something for every camping enthusiast near Zion National Park.
We chose dispersed camping just outside of Zion, which was epic! The sites do fill up fast, but if you can snag one you won’t be disappointed. Our 360-degree view of breathtaking beauty was about 15 miles outside of the park and offered views of the park.
Hiking Amidst Majesty:
Angel's Landing: Embark on the iconic Angel's Landing hike, where thrilling heights and panoramic vistas await. This exhilarating trek ascends 1,488 feet along a narrow spine, offering unparalleled views of Zion Canyon. Prepare for steep drop-offs and vertigo-inducing moments as you conquer this legendary trail. This 5.4 mile trail is not for anyone afraid of heights. Being one of the most famous (or infamous) hikes in the country, this popular trail now requires a permit.
The Narrows: Immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of the Narrows, a mesmerizing slot canyon carved by the Virgin River. Wade and sometimes swim, through the cool waters as towering walls envelop you in their embrace, creating an otherworldly ambiance unlike any other. It is imperative you check the weather ahead of time for the potential of flash flooding.
Emerald Pools Trail: Delight in the tranquil beauty of the Emerald Pools Trail, where shimmering pools and cascading waterfalls beckon weary travelers. This family-friendly hike offers a serene respite amidst verdant foliage and towering cliffs, making it a must-visit for nature lovers of all ages.
Watchman Trail: Hikers on this 3.3 mile trail are rewarded with a captivating journey through desert landscapes and sweeping vistas. This moderately strenuous trail begins near the South Campground and winds its way up to a viewpoint overlooking the majestic Watchman Peak and the picturesque Virgin River. Along the way, hikers are treated to panoramic views of Zion Canyon, with its towering sandstone cliffs glowing in the warm hues of sunrise or sunset. With its accessibility and stunning scenery, the Watchman Trail is a must-do for visitors seeking a memorable hiking experience in Zion.
Weeping Rock Trail: A short but enchanting journey to a unique geological formation. As hikers ascend the paved trail, they are greeted by the sight of water cascading from the sandstone overhang above, creating a serene oasis of dripping moisture and lush hanging gardens. This brief hike offers a refreshing escape into the tranquility of nature, making it an ideal stop for those seeking a peaceful interlude amidst Zion's wonders.
Pa’rus Trail: A 3.5-mile paved trail that is the only dog-friendly trail within the park. The trail meanders along the scenic Virgin River, offering visitors a leisurely stroll through picturesque landscapes. A gorgeous place for a sunrise or sunset, the trail transforms into a serene pathway bathed in golden light, providing a tranquil setting beneath the towering cliffs.
Embark on Your Zion Adventure Today
As the sun sets over Zion's towering cliffs, casting a golden hue upon the rugged landscape, I'm reminded of the timeless allure of this majestic sanctuary. From exhilarating hikes to tranquil moments of reflection, Zion National Park offers an endless array of experiences waiting to be discovered. So lace up your hiking boots, pack your sense of adventure, and embark on a journey through one of America's most iconic national parks. The wonders of Zion await – are you ready to answer the call of the wild?
Relive your best travel adventures to one of America’s most epic destinations with a meaningful souvenir. Capture the essence of Zion National Park with our unique collection of t-shirts featuring stunning, authentic photographs of this natural wonder. Each tee serves as a tangible memento of your adventures amidst Zion's towering cliffs along the Virgin River, making it the perfect keepsake to cherish for years to come. Wear your love for Zion proudly and let our shirts inspire you to embark on your next outdoor escapade with style and flair.
✨Vacations Worth Remembering✨
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