Zion National Park is the most popular of the “Mighty 5” National Parks in Utah. Although you could easily spend three days, it only takes one day in Zion National Park to see the main sites. Located in Southwestern Utah near the town of Springdale, Zion National Park has a variety of hikes and sites to offer. The park contains unique geography due to its location at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and the Mojave Desert.
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History of Zion National Park
The area was originally inhabited by Native Americans until they moved away in the 1300s. In 1858, Mormons came to the area and settled there for a while. The area was declared a National Monument in 1909 by President Taft. Finally, in 1919, Zion was declared a National Park. Present-day Zion consists of 146,597 acres to explore.
Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
The best time to spend one day in Zion National Park depends on what you want to do. Although the park may be less busy in April and May, the Narrows may not be open. The water for the Narrows is warmer June-September, but the park can be more crowded. Visiting during the wintertime offers a unique experience as the park is covered in snow. Not the most opportune time for hiking, but it does offer gorgeous views.
How to Get to Zion National Park
The closest town to Zion is Springdale, Utah. Zion National Park is located 163 miles from Las Vegas and 300 miles from Salt Lake City. You can also get to Zion from Page, Arizona which is 118 miles away.
From Las Vegas, take the I-15 north and get off on the UT-9 east. The 9 will take you the rest of the way into Springdale.
If coming from Salt Lake City, take the I-15 south and get off on UT-17 and go south. From there, take the UT-9 east until you get to Springdale.
From Page, Arizona, take the 89 north until you get to the UT-9 and take that west to Zion National Park.
Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel
The eastern end of Zion contains the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. This tunnel was created in the 1920s to provide direct access between Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. It is cut into the side of the mountain and provides some views of the eastern part of Zion.
In order to enter from the east gate of Zion or visit the eastern side of the park, you will have to go through this tunnel. It costs $15 to go through the tunnel but the fee allows you to go through twice (make a round trip). Also, make sure you pay attention to the hours of the tunnel as they do change. Once the tunnel is closed for the day, you will have to drive all the way around the park to get back to Springdale.
Where to Stay near Zion National Park
The best area to stay near Zion National Park is the small town of Springdale. This town is located right outside the entrance of the park and has a plethora of hotels to choose from. We opted to stay at the Hampton Inn and it was a great experience. The staff was friendly and the rooms were nice. There is also a lodge inside the park, but it is quite pricey. If you prefer more space and your own area, check out some of the local AirBnbs. This might be a better option if you have a larger group. New to Airbnb? Sign up here to get $55 off your first stay.
Transportation Around Zion National Park
During the peak summer season, Zion has two shuttles that run. The first shuttle runs on a loop around town and stops at several different hotels. This shuttle will take you to the Visitor’s Center inside the park. The second shuttle runs throughout the Scenic Drive within the park, beginning at the Visitor’s Center and ending at the Temple of Sinawava.
Normally during the summertime, access by cars is limited within the park. No matter what, I recommend getting to the park very early as it gets very busy in the summer season. Expect a long wait for the shuttle.
Hours and Admission
Zion National Park is open 24 hours. However, the Visitor’s Center is only open from 8am to 5pm. The Scenic Drive opens to cars at 6am. It costs $35 per car to get into the park and it is good for 7 days. If you are planning on visiting several National Parks throughout the year, buying the “America the Beautiful” National Parks pass may be a good investment. This past cost $80 and it gets you into any National Park in the country. If you are currently in the military, or a 4th-grade student, you can get this pass for free. Seniors over the age of 62 can get a lifetime pass for $80.
What to See in One Day in Zion National Park
Zion offers a variety of trails that range from mild to strenuous hiking levels. Only do what you are comfortable with and make sure to plan in advance to ensure you have any supplies you may need. During one day in Zion, you can hit several of the main sites.
Day 1
The Narrows (Bottom Up)
Shuttle Stop: #8 Temple of Sinawava
Distance (Roundtrip): 9.4 miles
Start your morning of your one day in Zion by driving to the end of the Scenic Drive to the Temple of Sinawava. This is the start of your hike to the Narrows, one of Zion’s most popular hikes. This portion of the Narrows hike, known as Bottom Up, does not require a permit. If you would like to do the longer version, Top Down (16 miles), you will need to get a permit online prior to visiting. To get to the entrance of the Narrows, you first must walk the 1-mile paved Riverside Walk. This portion of the hike is very flat and good for all fitness levels.
At the end of the Riverside Walk is the entrance to the Narrows and your first encounter with entering the Virgin River. Note that at least 60% of the Narrows will be walking through water and over rocks. Sometimes the water level may be to your ankles, and other times you may need to swim through some areas. I never encountered an area that went higher than my waist. The Narrows was seriously one of the best hikes I have ever been on. The cool and refreshing water made it so I never got too hot.
Teacher Tip: Get there as soon as the park opens for the Narrows Hike as there will be a lot fewer people.
Advice for Hiking the Narrows
If planning on doing the full 9.4-mile Narrows hike, make sure you have the right equipment. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes that are good for hiking in water. In town, many stores rent out waterproof boots to wear. Since I knew I was not going to do the full hike, I opted to wear old tennis shoes that were comfortable and broken in. In my backpack, I carried an extra pair of shoes and socks to change into after the hike.
Wear clothes that are comfortable and quick-drying as they will get wet. I opted to wear a swimsuit underneath my clothes. Also, keep in mind that many of the parts are shady and in cold water, so layers are key.
I would not do the Narrows Hike without a walking stick. The rocks can be very slippery and hard to walk on. I almost fell several times walking WITH the walking stick. Make sure to bring plenty of water and food with you as well. I stopped for snacks several times along the way.
Teacher Tip: Prior to embarking on the Narrows Hike, check flash flood warnings and the weather to ensure it will be safe to go on this hike. When I went, they had signs at the entrance telling you the chance of a flash flood occurring.
Grab Some Lunch
I always recommend packing a picnic lunch when spending one day in Zion National Park. Although there are some food options at the Zion Lodge, many of the choices are expensive and not that great. Packing lunch provides more flexibility in your day.
Hike the Emeralds Pools
Shuttle Stop: #6 The Grotto
Distance (Roundtrip): 3 miles
After lunch, spend the rest of your one day in Zion National Park on a much milder hike then the Narrows to the Emerald Pools. Right now, only the Upper Emerald Pools are accessible as the Lower Pools are closed due to construction. To access this trail, visitors will hike the Kayenta Trail which then connects to the Upper Emerald Pools trail. This 3-mile round trip out-and-back hike will take around 2 hours to complete and ends at a gorgeous pool. It is the perfect easy hike to end the day.
More Than One Day in Zion National Park?
Zion seriously has so much to offer that you can easily spend several days hiking the trails and taking in the sites. Make sure not to miss the following hikes and sites if you have more than one day in Zion National Park.
Day 2
Angels Landing
Shuttle Stop: #6 The Grotto
Distance (Roundtrip): 5.4 miles
Although Angeles Landing is one of the best hikes to do during one day in Zion. This hike is very steep and has long drop-offs, so it is not good for anyone afraid of heights or for small children. Right now, visitors can hike up to the Scout’s Lookout portion of Angels Landing.
To get to Angels Landing, take the West Rim Trail. Along the way, you will encounter “Walters Wiggles” a section with over 20 switchbacks. About 2 miles in, you will encounter Scout Lookout where you get gorgeous views of the valley. The final stretch is the Angels Landing Chain Section. From there, hikers will climb a steep and narrow ridge to the summit. There are chains for hikers to hold onto, but besides that, you pretty much climb over rocks. Once at the summit, hikers are rewarded with 360-degree views of the park.
**Note that you now must make a reservation in order to hike Angel’s Landing.
The Subway Hike
Shuttle Stop: None, must have a car
Distance (Roundtrip): 9 miles
The Subway hike is a popular backcountry hike in Zion. In order to complete the subway hike, you must have a permit. You can get it online here. There are two routes hikers can take: bottom-up or top-down. Neither has a paved trail. Instead, hikers will climb boulders, cross creeks, swim through pools, etc. It is recommended to complete this hike with someone who has hiked it before or find a very detailed guide and route map.
East Rim Trail
Shuttle Stop: None, must have a car
Distance (Roundtrip): 10.8 miles
This trail begins at the east entrance of Zion. It goes along the rim and offers views of Echo Canyon until it ends at Weeping Rock. Note that Weeping Rock is currently closed because of a rockslide.
Kolob Canyon Area
Shuttle Stop: None, must have a car
You could spend an entire day just exploring the Kolob Canyon area. The Kolob Canyon area is north of the main area of the park. This area contains the Kolob Canyon visitors center, the Kolob Canyon viewpoints, and three trails ranging from 1 mile to 15 miles in length. Note that it takes about 45 minutes to drive from Springdale to the Kolob Canyon visitors center.
Hikes Near the Visitor’s Center
Shuttle Stop: #1 Visitor’s Center
Distance (Roundtrip): 3.3-3.5 miles
Along the Scenic Road are several other easy to moderate hikes. Near the visitor’s center is the 3.3-mile Watchman Trail, which ends with viewpoints of the lower Zion Canyon and Springdale. Also by the visitor’s center is the 3.5-mile Pa’rus Trail. This is a very flat and paved trail, so it is good for people of all fitness levels.
Sand Bench Trail
Shuttle Stop: #4 Court of the Patriarchs
Distance (Roundtrip): 4.5 miles
The Court of the Patriarchs, a set of three sandstone formations, is an iconic stop in the park. Here, visitors can opt to hike the Sand Bench Trail. This trail takes hikers through massive landslides. Note that this trail is also shared with horses March-October.
Grotto Trail
Shuttle Stop: #5 Zion Lodge
Distance (Roundtrip): 4.5 miles
Near the Zion Lodge is the 1 mile Grotto Trail. This one is also paved and wheelchair accessible. It follows the Virgin River. This trail connects to the Kayenta Trail and the West Rim Trail.
Supplies to Bring for One Day in Zion National Park
If planning on hiking the narrows, bring an extra pair of shoes and socks. Also, make sure to have a walking stick as it is very tough to do the hike without one.
Bring lots of water! It gets HOT on some of these trails and you cannot hike without water. There are some refill stations within the park, but it is always a good idea to have plenty. Bring at least one gallon per person.
Wear comfortable clothes good for hiking and closed-toed shoes. It can get pretty hot, so I recommend breathable clothes. The trails are very dusty, so closed-toed shoes are a must. If you have some that protect your ankles for going downhill, that is even better.
Snacks and/or a picnic lunch are a must! There are limited options to buy food within Zion. The options are also not that great and expensive, so I always like to pack my own lunch. I love to grab stuff for sandwiches and pack it in an ice chest that I leave in the car. Things like nuts, beef jerky, and protein bars are also great options for snacks. Again, make sure to bring plenty to fuel so you do not go hungry!
Bring a camera. There are a ton of places to take awesome pictures within Zion. You will want your camera to capture the scenery.
A small backpack is a hiking essential for me. I like being able to toss whatever I need and have it accessible in a bag so I can have my hands free.
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are also recommended.
Final Tips for One Day in Zion National Park
One Day in Zion National Park will be enough to let you see the main sites, but it will leave you wanting more. If you have more time, I encourage you to spend several days exploring all areas of the park. There are so many Southern Utah’s Hidden Gems you can definitely spend at least a week exploring the area.
Bryce Canyon National Park is also an easy day trip from Zion. Nearby is also the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, with tons of pink sand and dunes to explore. Grafton Ghost Town, a historic Mormon settlement is only a 15-minute drive from Springdale if looking for something else to explore. If you have even more time, add on a few days in Page, Arizona to see the marvelous Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon.
Shaka Guide
Shaka Guide is a GPS self-guided audio tour that you can download to your phone. Currently, they have one for several of the Utah Parks. They provide great background information about the area. The best part is you do not need the internet to use them.
If you have time, make sure to visit the other Utah National Parks: Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands.
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I never considered visiting Utah until a few years ago. I had no idea beautiful parks like Zion were there! These photos are so beautiful.
Right!? It’s amazing how each state has unique things.
Wow Zion National Park looks awesome! Hiking through the water of the Narrows looks pretty fun! I could really do with a good hike like this (looks pretty quiet out there too). I’m always surprised how beautiful the NP’s are in the US!
The Narrows was seriously the coolest experience. The US actually has a ton of super awesome national parks!
I hear a lot about Zion National Park but haven’t been yet. I’ll definitely have to go soon.
I feel like the SW USA is totally underrated. I’ve been to Sedona and Monument Valley but haven’t made it to Zion yet….thank you so much for the tips!
It really is a gorgeous place! I hope you make it Zion soon.
Great memories by reading this post … :). We went there 2 years ago to celebrate as we were both turning 30. We only had half a day on the park – so of course it was too short. Like you we walked at the Emerald pool. But unfortunately we didn’t have the time and the right equipment to hike the Narrows – more than 3/4 of the hikers were wearing waterproof equipment !
Wow, Zion is absolutely gorgeous! This is must see national park. We definitely want to take our kids there! Thanks for sharing such a detailed guide on what to do in Zion
Beautiful photos and a great guide for how to maximize your time at Zion! I haven’t been there yet so this post makes me so excited for when I am able to visit 🙂 Pinned for later!
Oh I hope you get to visit Zion soon!
Love this! Zion was on my travel bucket list until I got to go there last year! It’s such a beautiful park! <3
Nice! I hope you enjoyed your time.
Great guide!! Zion is beautiful! We weren’t able to hike The Narrows when we visited, but your pictures make it look gorgeous!
Hopefully you can hike the narrows next time!
I visited Zion last spring and did the Angels Landing and Subway hikes. Super awesome. One day is never enough for me. Thanks for this detailed post.
I’ve heard the Subway is awesome!
I would love to make my way out here some day. Zion seems like an absolute beauty! Thanks for the detailed guide, will have to refer to this in the future when I can finally visit!
Southern Utah is amazing!
Zion is such an amazing place!
I loved it!
I LOVE Zion!! This makes me wanna go back. Angel’s Landing is one of the best hikes I’ve ever done. And I agree – I only went for a day (well, a day & a bit) and it definitely left me wanting more!
I haven’t gotten to do Angels Lansing yet! I’m too scared. Definitely need to go back.
Great tips! We’re headed there soon and this was super helpful.