Places to Visit: Zion National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park
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Zion NP

Zion National Park is in southwest Utah. It is 117 miles southwest of Bryce Canyon, east of I-15 between Cedar City and St George.

  • Zion National Park is in southwest Utah, 117 miles southwest of Bryce Canyon
  • Zion National Park is open every day of the year
  • Entrance $12 per person on foot or bicycle, $25 per vehicle, valid for 7 days
  • Known as the “Land of the Rainbow Canyons” Zion National Park is a naturalist’s paradise
  • The incredible canyons known as the Narrows draw canyoneers from all over the world

Overview

Designated national park status in 1919, Zion National Park Utah is the oldest and most visited park in the state. Once covered by the sea, Zion NP has some amazing geological formations including red and orange canyons which offer a host of outdoor pursuits. Known as the “Land of the Rainbow Canyons” it is a naturalist’s paradise with 800 native species of plants and 285 species of birds. Rocks hold fossils of sea creatures, bones, trees and animal tracks.

Hours/Seasons

Zion National Park is open every day of the year.

  • Zion Visitor Center:
    Open daily except Christmas Day
    Located at the south entrance of the park near Springdale.
    Spring: 8am to 5pm
    Summer: 8am to 8pm
    Fall: 8am to 6pm
    Winter: 8am to 5pm
  • Kolob Canyon Visitor Center:
    Open daily except Christmas Day
    Located at the west entrance of the park off I-15, exit 40.
    Spring: 8am to 5pm
    Summer: 8am to 5pm
    Fall: 8am to 4.30pm
    Winter: 8am to 4.30pm
    Call: 435-772-3256

Fees/Cost

  • $12 per person on foot or bicycle, valid for 7 days
  • $25 per vehicle, valid for 7 days

Contact

Call: 1-888-518-7070

Highlights

  • Ranger-led programs include free talks, shuttle tours and guided hikes – details at the Visitor Centers.
  • The Narrows
    The incredible canyons known as the Narrows draw canyoneers from all over the world. They are reached along a strenuous 16 mile trail, often wading through waist-high water.
  • Angels Landing
    Hike to the top of Angel’s Landing for stunning views of the sandstone cliffs and Virgin River. The shear cliffs drop 2000 feet off both sides of the narrow trail, requiring a cool nerve!
  • Crawford Arch
    This amazing arch formation in the red rock cliffs clings to the side of Bridge Mountain 1000 feet above the canyon floor.
  • Court of the Patriarchs
    A short hike leads to the base of these three sandstone monuments named Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
  • Emerald Pools
    Hike to the Emerald Pools which reflect the surrounding cliffs in the still waters.

Getting Here

From Bryce Canyon National Park, take scenic Hwy 12 to US-89. Travel south on US 89/UT 9 to Kolob Road and follow the signs. Total journey 117 miles.