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Utah

Zion National Park

Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park, Utah
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Zion National Park, Utah

Why Visit Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a land of towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons and emerald riverbanks, a dramatic showcase of nature’s artistry in Utah’s southwest. Its appeal lies in the sheer variety of landscapes, from soaring red walls to lush hanging gardens and hidden oases.

For hikers, it’s nothing short of world-class. The Narrows invites you to wade upriver through a cathedral-like gorge, while Angels Landing offers an adrenaline-fuelled climb with vertigo-inducing views (now permit-only to limit numbers). For something gentler, the Emerald Pools and Riverside Walk provide accessible beauty without the climb.

What sets Zion apart is how immersive it feels. The main canyon is relatively compact, meaning you’re surrounded by towering cliffs on all sides, particularly stunning in the golden light of early morning or late afternoon. Wildlife is abundant too, from bighorn sheep and mule deer to soaring condors.

Spring and autumn are ideal, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds, though winter brings its own quiet magic, with snow occasionally dusting the high plateaus.

We recommend pairing Zion with Bryce Canyon or the Grand Canyon for a classic, road-trip-style journey through the American Southwest’s most cinematic landscapes – all within easy reach of Las Vegas.

Travelling Sand

The beaches of the Pacific Islands may seem worlds apart from Zion, but they are quietly connected. Over millennia, as water carved Zion’s deep valleys, grains of sand were swept into rivers, carried downstream, and washed out to sea. Travelling vast distances, they eventually settled on distant shores – including the beaches of the Pacific.

Human History

In Zion, each inch of sandstone can represent up to 2 million years of geological time. By comparison, all of human history, around 10,000 years, would take up less than 1/200th of an inch. That’s thinner than a sheet of paper. Standing beneath the towering cliffs, it’s a powerful reminder of how brief our time is in the grand story of the Earth.

Petroglyphs in Zion National Park, Utah

Highlights of Zion National Park

  • Angels Landing – A thrilling, permit-only hike with chain-assisted sections and panoramic views from the summit – not for the faint-hearted but utterly unforgettable.

  • The Narrows – Hike through the Virgin River as it carves between towering sandstone walls – best done in summer when the water is warmer and levels are safe.

  • Zion Canyon Scenic Drive – A car-free route (shuttle-operated most of the year) offering easy access to many of the park’s trailheads and viewpoints – best enjoyed slowly, with stops en route.

  • Emerald Pools – A trio of shimmering pools reached via a network of gentle trails – ideal for a short walk with rewarding views and cooling mist from hidden waterfalls.

  • Kolob Canyons – A quieter, lesser-known section of the park with crimson cliffs and dramatic solitude – perfect for those wanting to escape the crowds and enjoy unspoiled wilderness.

  • Canyon Overlook Trail – A short but dramatic trail with one of the best views for minimal effort – especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.

Good to know

Getting to Zion National Park

Zion is surprisingly accessible despite its dramatic setting. The closest major hub is Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), around 165 miles (265km) south-west – roughly a 2.5–3 hour drive. This is the most popular starting point, particularly for those combining Zion with Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon or other parks on a classic Southwest road journey.

Alternatively, Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) lies about 300 miles (480km) north – a scenic 5-hour drive that works well if you’re also exploring Utah’s other national parks.

For a shorter final leg, St. George Regional Airport (SGU) is just 50 miles (80km) away and connects with several domestic US cities. From here, it’s just over an hour’s drive to Zion’s South Entrance.

The most convenient access point is the town of Springdale, which sits directly on the park’s edge. A free shuttle runs from Springdale into the park during peak months, and private vehicles are restricted within the main canyon from spring to autumn.

When to go

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OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

The autumnal colours in October are so spectacular here with the colours of the rocks and trees blending to create an astounding landscape.

INSPIRATION

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Caroline Maber
Wilder 230 CTA
Wilder McNutt
Rhian Williams