If you’re planning your first trip to Zion National Park, you’re in for If you’re planning your first trip to Zion National Park, you’re in for something really special. Zion is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression, with its towering red cliffs, winding canyons and trails that feel like stepping into another world. But if you’re new to Zion, it can also feel a little overwhelming. There’s the shuttle system, the permits, the entrance fees and all the little things you might not realize until you’re there.
That’s where this guide comes in. In this post, we’ll walk through the basics. For example, where Zion National Park is in Utah, the best time to visit, how to navigate the shuttle and what you really need to know about hiking, camping and planning your visit. Think of this as your easy, no-stress introduction to Zion. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel way more confident and ready to enjoy all the amazing things to do in Zion Canyon.
Let’s get started!
Where Is Zion National Park in Utah?
Zion National Park is tucked into the southwest corner of Utah. If you’re looking at a map, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive northeast of Las Vegas and just under an hour from St. George, Utah. So if you’ve been wondering where Zion National Park is in Utah, that’s your answer. It’s remote enough to feel like an escape, but it is still easy to reach.
Zion is actually Utah’s first national park, and it’s part of what’s called the “Mighty Five.” This is a group of stunning parks that includes Bryce Canyon, Arches, Capitol Reef and Canyonlands. That makes Zion a great starting point if you’re planning a bigger Utah road trip. But even on its own, Zion is more than worth the visit.
The nearest airport to Zion National Park is St. George Regional Airport (SGU), which has daily flights from a few major hubs like Salt Lake City, Denver and Phoenix. If you want more flight options, Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is a bigger, more affordable choice and only a scenic drive away. Either way, you’ll want to rent a car once you land because Zion doesn’t have direct public transit from the airport, and you’ll need wheels to get around the area.
Zion National Park Entrance: What You Need to Know
Most visitors enter Zion through the main park entrance in Springdale, Utah. It’s easy to find. You just follow State Route 9 into town, and you’ll practically run into the Zion National Park entrance. There’s also the east entrance, which connects to Bryce Canyon and other parks if you’re doing a loop through southern Utah. Either way, you’ll stop at a ranger station or pay station before heading in.
As for national park entrance fees, Zion charges $35 per vehicle, which covers everyone in your car. If you’re walking or biking in, the fee is $20 per person. You can pay at the gate with a card or ahead of time online through the National Park Service website. If you plan to visit a few parks this year, the $80 America the Beautiful pass might be worth it—it gets you into every U.S. national park for a full year.
Zion National Park hours are simple: the park is open 24/7, every day of the year. That said, certain services, like visitor centers and shuttles, do follow seasonal schedules. For most people, the best time to visit Zion National Park is spring (March–May) or fall (September–November), when the weather is ideal for hiking and the crowds aren’t quite as heavy as in summer. You need to keep an eye on the weather, though!
Navigating Zion: The Shuttle System and Other Logistics
If it’s your first time here, one of the biggest surprises might be that you can’t just drive through Zion Canyon in your own car. From spring through late fall, the main scenic drive is only accessible by shuttle. It might seem inconvenient at first, but it’s actually a great system that keeps traffic down and protects the park. Plus, it’s easy to use.
The Zion shuttle schedule runs daily from March through late November. There are two loops: one through Springdale that picks up at local hotels and takes you to the park entrance, and one inside the park that stops at all the major trailheads like Angels Landing, The Grotto and Zion Lodge. Shuttles are free with your park admission, and you don’t need a reservation. So, just hop on and off as needed.
If you’re wondering how to visit Zion National Park without stress, the key is to plan ahead. Get to the park early, especially during busy months. Parking at the Visitor Center fills up fast. Bring a refillable water bottle, wear comfy shoes and check the day’s weather before hitting the trails. With a little prep, getting around Zion is actually pretty smooth.
Things to Do in Zion Canyon: Highlights for First-Timers
Zion Canyon is where most first-time visitors spend their time, and for good reason. It’s packed with iconic views, amazing hikes and spots that are totally doable even if you’re not an experienced adventurer. If you’re just getting your bearings, a great place to start is the Riverside Walk. It’s a flat, easy trail that follows the Virgin River and leads to the start of The Narrows (more on that in a sec). Lower Emerald Pools is another beginner-friendly hike with pretty waterfalls and a mellow pace.
If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, The Narrows is one of the most unforgettable things to do in Zion Canyon. You’ll literally hike through the river, surrounded by towering canyon walls. No permit is needed if you’re doing the out-and-back route from the bottom, but if you want to do the full top-down version, you will need one. Another famous hike that does require a permit is Angels Landing. It’s stunning, but also not for the faint of heart, with steep drop-offs and a narrow ridge. Permits are limited and issued by lottery, so plan ahead. Make sure you thoroughly research before doing either of these hikes, as you need to pay attention to the weather and be prepared for many situations.
Beyond hiking, don’t skip the scenic stops like Court of the Patriarchs or Weeping Rock (when it’s open). Whether you want to hit the trails or take it easy, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Zion Canyon. Just make sure to check the Zion National Park permits page if you’ve got specific hikes in mind.
Camping in Zion National Park: What First-Timers Should Know
If you’re thinking about camping in Zion National Park, you’ve got a few solid options. Just know that spots book up fast, especially in spring and fall. There are three main campgrounds inside the park:
- South Campground is closest to the Visitor Center and works well if you want quick access to the shuttle.
- Watchman is just next door and takes reservations up to six months in advance.
- Lava Point is smaller and more remote. So, it’s great if you’re okay with a bit of a drive and don’t need as many amenities.
You can book campsites online through Recreation.gov, and honestly, you’ll want to do it as early as possible. Like we mentioned, Zion’s campgrounds fill up fast, especially on weekends and holidays. Each site has the basics like picnic tables, but there are no showers inside the park, so plan for that if you’re staying more than a night or two.
What to Expect Weather-Wise: Temperature at Zion and More
The temperature at Zion can really swing depending on the time of year, so it’s good to know what to expect before you pack. Summers (June – August) are hot. Think 90s and even 100+ degrees hot. It’s dry heat, but still, you’ll want to hike early in the morning, drink a ton of water and find shade when you can. Spring and fall are much more comfortable, with daytime highs usually in the 60s to 80s and cooler mornings and evenings. That’s why a lot of people say spring and fall are the best times to visit.
Winter (December – February) is quiet and peaceful, but colder than you might expect. The highs are in the 40s or 50s and nights dip below freezing.
Whatever time of year you go, Zion’s weather plays a big role in your experience. Flash floods are a real thing, especially if you’re planning to hike The Narrows. Always check the forecast and current conditions before heading out. Pack layers no matter what. Mornings and evenings are cooler even in summer, and bring sun protection year-round. It’s all part of being prepared so you can enjoy the park safely and comfortably.
Zion is an incredible place, especially if it’s your first time. Knowing where to go, how to get around and what to expect with weather and permits can make your trip a whole lot smoother. A little planning really does go a long way.
If you’re looking for a great place to stay just minutes from the entrance, check out The Riv at Zion. It’s a perfect basecamp for exploring the park and unwinding after a day on the trails.
Enjoy your trip! Zion’s one of those places you’ll never forget.
