Things to do in  Zion National Park

The best month to visit Zion National Park depends on what kind of experience you prefer. The shuttles run April–Octorber, with the busiest months being June–August. If you can, take a shoulder season visit in fall for pleasant weather and more manageable crowds.

One of the country’s most popular national parks, Zion National Park offers lots to do. Some visitors come for the famous hiking trails, like Angel’s Landing or the Narrows. Others simply take the reliable Zion shuttle and get easy-access views. Others prefer to rock climb, picnic, and scout for wildlife.

The Zion-Mt Carmel Highway Scenic Drive takes you over bridges and past colorful hoodoos, cutting through 10 miles (16 kilometers) of the park and connecting the south and east entrances. Take the short hike along the Narrows or to Canyon Overlook—the latter is 0.5 miles (1 kilometer) to canyon views.

It’s not hard to fill a week at Zion National Park, but plan for at least two full days to see the park’s highlights—and get mornings and evenings away from the crowds. You can also fit in a longer hike, like down the Narrows or up to Angel’s Landing.

Zion—referencing the “kingdom of Heaven” in Hebrew—is famous for its red-rock canyon views, sheer cliffs, and canyoneering opportunities. Its 2,000-foot (610-meter) towers of sandstone make for great climbing and hiking experiences. The Virgin River with its green oasis at the bottom of the canyon flows in stark contrast.

Beyond hiking, most visitors will take a scenic drive down the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway—it runs 10 miles through the park and connects the south and east entrances. You could also hop on and off the park’s shuttle, nabbing easy-access views as you please; dine at Zion National Park Lodge; or leave the crowds behind and stargaze come nightfall.