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Exploring Zion National Park

Nestled in the heart of southern Utah, Zion National Park is a true outdoor lover's paradise. With its towering sandstone cliffs, winding rivers, and diverse landscapes, Zion offers something for everyone — from adrenaline-pumping adventures to peaceful walks through serene canyon floors. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a family looking for an outdoor escape, or someone just starting to explore the wonders of national parks, Zion has it all. Let's dive into some of the park's best hikes, the lowdown on permits, family-friendly trails, and tips for camping to make the most of your trip!

The Must-Do Hikes of Zion National Park

1. Angel's Landing

Difficulty: Challenging
Distance: 5.4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,488 feet

For those who are up for a challenge, Angel's Landing is Zion’s most iconic hike. This thrilling, steep trail leads you up a narrow ridge with breathtaking views of Zion Canyon below. The final stretch is a heart-racing scramble along a knife-edge ridge with chains to hold onto, making this hike not for the faint of heart. But if you make it to the top, the panoramic views are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Permits: In 2022, Zion introduced a permit system for Angel’s Landing to help manage crowds. These permits are issued through a lottery system, and you can apply online months in advance or try your luck with last-minute permits. The lottery is competitive, so plan ahead!

2. The Narrows

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: Varies (up to 10 miles one-way)
Elevation Gain: Varies

The Narrows is one of the most unique hikes you’ll ever experience. This hike takes you through the Virgin River, where you wade and sometimes even swim through the water as you make your way through towering canyon walls. The hike can be customized depending on how far you want to go — some do a short out-and-back, while others complete the full 10-mile journey, depending on water levels and conditions.

Permits: No permit is required for the lower portion of the Narrows (up to Big Springs), but if you want to venture into the upper reaches of the river, you’ll need a permit. Always check for water conditions and flash flood warnings before heading out, as this hike can be dangerous when conditions change.

3. The Watchman Trail

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 3.3 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 368 feet

For those who want a relatively easy yet rewarding hike, The Watchman Trail offers stunning views of Zion Canyon and the famous Watchman Peak. The hike starts near the South Entrance and provides an excellent introduction to Zion’s dramatic scenery, without the intense challenge of some of the other trails.

Permits: No permits are required for this trail, making it a great option for spontaneous hikes.

Observation Point (via the East Mesa Trail)

Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 650 feet

A fantastic alternative to the strenuous Angel's Landing hike, Observation Point provides jaw-dropping views of Zion Canyon and is a bit less intense. It’s a slightly longer trail, but the elevation gain is more manageable, and the vistas are absolutely worth the effort. This trail starts from the East Mesa Trailhead, which is accessed via a scenic drive to the trailhead.

Permits: No permits required for this hike.

The Emerald Pools Trail

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: 1.2 to 3 miles round-trip (depending on the route)
Elevation Gain: 200-400 feet

The Emerald Pools are a family favorite. The trail is well-maintained and takes you through lush landscapes, offering beautiful views of waterfalls and pools of water at the base of towering cliffs. The trail is broken into three sections: Lower, Middle, and Upper Pools. You can choose to do the whole trail or just a portion of it, making it perfect for families with kids or those who want a shorter adventure.

Permits: No permits are required for this trail.

Family-Friendly Hikes in Zion

If you’re traveling with younger kids or want a more relaxed experience, Zion has several family-friendly hikes that still allow you to enjoy the park’s stunning landscapes.

1. The Riverside Walk

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.2 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 57 feet

This is one of the easiest hikes in Zion, making it perfect for families, beginners, or anyone who wants a scenic walk without too much effort. The Riverside Walk follows the Virgin River and is a great introduction to Zion’s ecosystems. It’s paved, so strollers are welcome, and the shade from the canyon walls makes it a cool option even during hot days.

2. The Pa’rus Trail

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.5 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 140 feet

The Pa’rus Trail is another easy and family-friendly option. This mostly paved trail follows the Virgin River and gives you sweeping views of Zion Canyon. It’s a great way to enjoy the park’s beauty at a relaxed pace, and it’s also accessible to people with disabilities. You can even bring your dog along on a leash, making it a fun option for your furry friends.

Where to Camp in Zion

Zion National Park offers several campgrounds, but they can fill up fast, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall). Here are a few options:

1. Zion Canyon Campground

This is the main campground located just a short distance from the visitor center, making it convenient for those who want to explore the park. It has both tent and RV sites, but reservations are highly recommended, as it fills up quickly during the busy months.

2. Watchman Campground

Located near the South Entrance, this campground has 176 sites, including some that are reserved for tents and others for RVs. It’s a fantastic location for families as it’s close to the shuttle stop and offers incredible views of the surrounding canyon walls. Reservations are a must!

3. Kolob Canyons Campground

If you're looking for a quieter, less crowded spot, Kolob Canyons Campground is a peaceful alternative. It's located in the more remote Kolob Canyons area of Zion, which has its own stunning landscape and trails. This campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

4. Backcountry Camping

For those seeking a more rugged, back-to-nature experience, Zion offers backcountry camping. Sites like the The Kolob Arch and The West Rim offer a more secluded experience. However, you’ll need a permit, and campsites must be reserved in advance.

Zion Entrance Fees and Hours

Zion National Park is open year-round, though the best times to visit are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are manageable.

Entrance Fees (as of 2023):

Private Vehicle: $35 (valid for 7 days)
Motorcycle: $30 (valid for 7 days)
Individual (on foot or bike): $20 (valid for 7 days)
Annual Pass: $70 (valid for 12 months from purchase)

Zion is part of the America the Beautiful National Park Pass, which costs $80 for an annual pass that grants access to all national parks and federal recreational lands.

Final Tips for Visiting Zion

Shuttle System: Zion operates a shuttle system to reduce traffic in the park, especially during busy seasons. If you’re visiting between March and late November, you’ll likely need to use the shuttle to access many of the park’s popular trailheads, including Angels Landing, The Narrows, and the Emerald Pools. Be sure to plan ahead and check shuttle schedules.
Packing: Be prepared for variable weather. Zion can be extremely hot in the summer, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. In the winter months, temperatures can drop significantly, so pack layers.
Safety: Always check the weather before hiking, especially for flash floods, which can occur quickly in Zion’s canyons. Be mindful of trail conditions and never underestimate the difficulty of a hike.

Whether you’re hiking through the Narrows, gazing at the views from Observation Point, or simply strolling along the Pa’rus Trail, Zion National Park offers unforgettable experiences for all types of adventurers. So pack your gear, gather the family, and get ready for one of the most stunning outdoor experiences in the American Southwest!

Zion National Park