Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
The Basics
While Zion National Park spans 229-square-miles (590-square-kilometers), all of the main attractions—such as Angel's Landing, The Narrows, and Zion Lodge—are located along the 6.3-mile (10-kilometer) Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. When the shuttle is running, no personal cars are allowed on the scenic drive, so you can park at the visitor center or in the town of Springdale and catch the shuttle. From the shuttle, enjoy the views and hop off at any of the nine stops along the way. On-board narration offers details about the passing sites. If visiting in the winter, you can drive the route yourself.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The trails along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive are the park’s most popular and tend to be very crowded.
- Shuttles are typically crowded during the high season and parking can be hard to find, so be prepared to wait in line.
- You can stop in to enjoy a meal at the Zion Lodge but if you want to stay the night you must book in advance.
- The shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible and can accommodate bikes and folding strollers.
Trip ideas
How to Get There
The most common way to travel the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is on the free shuttle bus, but you can also make the trip on your bicycle or by car (if visiting in the off-season). Transportation is usually included on guided tours from nearby cities such as Las Vegas. The start of the scenic drive is 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) east of Springdale on Highway 9.
When to Get There
To take advantage of the park shuttle, visit March–November. If you would rather take your own car into the park, plan a winter trip. Either way, arrive early in the morning to minimize the crowds and maximize your time in the park.
Biking the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
If you are visiting during the busy season and want to avoid waiting in line for shuttles, try cycling the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Set off early in the morning before the shuttle buses start for the day. That way, you don’t have to worry about sharing the road with buses and can get into the park before the crowds.