(This article may or may not contain affiliate links. What does that mean?)
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just someone who enjoys a leisurely stroll with a side of stargazing, Zion is ready to knock your hiking boots off!
A trip to Zion National Park is like entering a portal to another world. Its red rocks soar, the views send your breath packing, and the only thing steeper than the canyon walls is the hike up to Angel’s Landing (spoiler alert). Located in southern Utah, Zion is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States, and it offers a wealth of natural beauty and adventure that will leave families in awe and in need of a foot massage. Whether families are visiting for the first time or are seasoned travelers looking for new adventures there, we’ve put together a rundown of the best things to do in Zion National Park for families.
[lwptoc]
NO TIME TO READ THIS ARTICLE NOW? PIN IT OR BOOKMARK IT FOR LATER!
Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
Zion National Park is open year-round, which is a great way to say, “The beauty never leaves.” But really, if you’re hoping for pleasant temperatures and fewer people, it’s all about spring and fall. The summer months can feel like an oven, but not the kind of oven where you bake cookies—it’s a desert heat oven where you feel like the air is coming straight from a dragon’s mouth. But like any trip, the best time to visit really depends on what kind of experience you’re after. The summer months (June to August) are the most popular but also the busiest, with record numbers of visitors flocking to Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. If you’re planning to visit during this time, be prepared for crowded shuttle buses and packed parking areas, and by this, we mean no parking anywhere and high temperatures (upwards of 100°F).
For a quieter experience with spectacular views, consider visiting in the spring or fall. These seasons offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, especially if you’re willing to brave a short quarter-mile hike for the best vantage points. Winter also has its charm, with fewer visitors, crisp air, and snow-capped peaks atop bright orange rocks that create a serene, magical atmosphere.
Zion National Park is a fantastic family adventure with unique hikes, ranger programs, and a chance to connect with nature. Photo by Laura Kent.
Closest Towns to Zion National Park
Zion isn’t exactly in the middle of nowhere, but if you’re looking for civilization before diving into the wild, the town of Springdale is your first stop. This adorable town is basically Zion’s front porch. If you need to grab a coffee from a quirky and charming little shop, Springdale is there for you! Or, maybe you need a hearty breakfast (hello, free breakfast at your hotel), or perhaps you just want to breathe in the fresh air before your hiking begins. Springdale has you covered. Plus, it’s home to some delicious dining spots like the Red Rock Grill and the Castle Dome Café, perfect for fueling up before or after a long day of hiking.
For a more budget-friendly option, Cedar City is about an hour’s drive away and offers great places to stay as well. It’s also where you’ll find grocery stores and other supplies – that you forgot – but desperately need to make your trip even easier. If you’re coming from a nearby city like Salt Lake City or Las Vegas, Zion is a great stop on a road trip — it’s about a four-hour drive from Las Vegas and a three-hour drive from Salt Lake City.
The Free Shuttle System: Must-Use for Zion Canyon
Zion National Park’s blessed shuttle system is both a lifesaver and a great way to get a little break before you hit the next hike. Oh, also…not to be dramatic, there are no parking spaces in Zion Canyon during peak times. If you’re planning to visit in the summer, take the shuttle bus and skip the headache. The free shuttle stops at all the cool spots, like the Temple of Sinawava (try saying that three times fast), Canyon Junction, and the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, without having to deal with parking.
The Zion shuttle is your best bet for getting around the park. Save time and sanity and hitch a ride. Photo courtesy of National Park Service.
On the shuttle, you’ll hear about trail closures, current conditions, and other helpful tidbits that will probably save you from walking in the wrong direction for three hours (you’re welcome). But in all seriousness, it’s the best option for getting to the trailheads without losing your cool—or your temper—I mean, you came to Zion to find Zen, didn’t you? That being said, private vehicles are allowed in the park during the off-season (typically winter to early spring), so, you do you.
Best Hikes in Zion: The Must-Do Trails
Zion National Park is famous for its impressive hikes, many of which lead you through narrow canyons, past lush vegetation, and to jaw-dropping views of towering red rock formations. There are also tons of caves in Zion National Park to explore! Here are a few of the best trails.
Angel’s Landing Trail
If there’s one trail you’ve probably heard of, it’s Angel’s Landing. You know that trail that’s basically an Olympic sport? With a strenuous mile hike that involves steep drop-offs, and sheer cliffs on either side, this isn’t your average stroll through the park. So, check your fitness, balance, and acrophobia before landing on this one. You’ll climb rock steps, balance on narrow ridges, and even scream internally as you attempt to look down at where you’ve been (just me?). But at the top, the view will make you forget all of that and possibly consider coming back tomorrow.
Make the thrilling climb to Angels Landing using chains for support, the reward is breathtaking views of Zion Canyon. Photo by Jay Chung @pexels
Observation Point
If you’ve looked at Angel’s Landing and said, “Nope,” but you still want those insane views, head to Observation Point. This is one of the best hikes in Zion, with a 4-mile round-trip trail that leads you to one of the best panoramic views in the park. You’ll definitely work up a sweat, but I promise the views at the top are worth every bit of effort—and at least 100 selfie pics.
Emerald Pools Trail
For an easier, family-friendly option, try the Emerald Pools Trail. It’s an easy hike that takes you through a shaded canyon filled with lush vegetation and to three beautiful pools of water that literally look as if they have emeralds floating atop their surface. The Upper Emerald Pool is the most popular, offering a peaceful spot to relax and take in the views. You’ll feel like you’re in a secret garden.
Emerald Pools Trail is perfect for the whole family, with stops at three pools, it’s a “choose your own adventure” kind of hike. Photo by Laura Kent.
The Virgin River Narrows
Another great way to explore Zion is by walking through the Virgin River Narrows. This slot canyon is formed by the Virgin River cutting through the rock, creating towering walls that rise hundreds of feet above. The hike requires you to wade through the river, and water temps vary, so be prepared. Yes, you will get wet. And no, you won’t care. The towering rock formations on either side make it feel like you’ve stumbled into a hidden world—like a water park for adults, minus the long lines. But be warned: depending on water levels, this trail might be off-limits due to safety concerns. Always check current conditions before heading in, or you might end up wading through more than you bargained for (like, say, flash floods).
The Narrows takes you into the Virgin River while winding through epic slot canyons. Photo by Bhargava Marripati @pexels.
Visitors may not know if the Narrows Trail is closed or open, but there will be signs…big yellow signs. Photo by Laura Kent
The West Rim Trail
If you’re looking for a longer adventure or you’re a glutton for punishment, the West Rim Trail is a great place to experience Zion’s backcountry. It’s a 14-mile hike – that offers a variety of best views as you pass through forests, plateaus, and ridgelines. The trail provides a perfect chance to see a different side of Zion, away from the crowds of the canyon.
Best Views in Zion: Top Vantage Points
Zion has so many of the best views that you might find yourself holding your camera at weird angles to get it all into one frame. Whether you’re hiking up Observation Point or taking in the sweeping vistas from Canyon Overlook Trail, it offers countless opportunities to be awestruck. But if you’re into stargazing, don’t miss the chance to sit at Watchman Campground, named after the giant rock formations that look like, you guessed it, watchmen! And marvel at the Milky Way stretching across the sky. The sheer cliffs are impressive enough during the day, but at night, their shadows take on a whole new level of jaw-drop.
Guided Day Hikes and Ranger Programs
For those who want a deeper understanding of the park’s natural wonders, consider a guided day hike. You’ll have the chance to explore Zion with a park ranger, who can offer insight into the history, geology, and wildlife of the park. The park’s free shuttles make it easy to get to the trailheads, and the wealth of information from a ranger will enrich your experience.
In addition to guided hikes, there are also various ranger-led programs throughout the year, such as campfire talks and nature walks. These are great ways to learn more about the park’s species of birds and its unique ecosystem.
Turn your kiddos into Junior Rangers. Grab booklets and ranger pins for kids to fill out as they adventure through the park. Photo by Laura Kent.
Zion National Park: A Paradise for Nature Lovers
Zion is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone who appreciates the raw beauty of nature. Whether you’re visiting for a quick day hike or planning an epic road trip that includes stops at Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and beyond, Zion is a good reason to make time for a visit. There’s no shortage of day hikes, waterfalls, and rock formations that will leave you speechless. Just don’t forget to bring your water bottles, snacks, and a good attitude—because Zion is going to take you on an adventure you won’t forget! And, be sure to thank a park ranger along the way.
Don’t Miss: 7 National Parks near Las Vegas
When you Go
Getting to Zion National Park from Los Angeles
If you’re ready for a good ol’ fashioned road trip, pack up the car with travel bags, gear, Costco-sized snacks…and of course, all the kiddos. Count on about a 455-mile drive. This route is about six hours long and makes its way via I-15 through Las Vegas all the way to Springdale, Utah, to the main entrance of Zion National Park. There are also incredible destinations and opportunities for sightseeing along the way, including the Valley of Fire State Park.
On the flip side, book a flight from L.A. to St. George Regional Airport. It is the closest airport to Zion with limited commercial flights; from there, it’s a one-hour drive to the park. Las Vegas McCarren Airport is another option. McCarren is a bit farther, but flights are often cheaper and more available.
An excellent discount site for rental cars and flights is Booking! We’ve literally saved hundreds using it.
Where to Stay Near Zion NP
Springdale is so cute and charming and home to the cute and charming Desert Pearl Inn. This boutique hotel sits right outside the park entrance, so it’s very convenient for popping in and out of the park when you want; plus, it has incredible canyon views, a pool, and a soothing waterfall…and did we mention the views?
The city of St. George is a common stop before heading to Zion, with plenty of lodging options like TownPlace Suites. This hotel is excellent for families because all the rooms are suite-sized and can accommodate bigger groups. The pool area is beautiful and gives everyone a place to cool off and relax.
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, PLEASE CONSIDER PINNING OR SHARING IT
Laura Kent
. I am a master brand storyteller, creative ringleader and kick-a content creator, based in Park City, Utah, where I live with my three incredible kiddos, my guy, and three of the goofiest doodle doggies you’ll ever meet. My specialties include copywriting, content creation, word smithing, editing, proofreading, SEO marketing, brainstorming, and picking brains. I’m also very good at multitasking, single-tasking, and “I’ll just do it myself” tasking. Last, but certainly not least, I specialize in spontaneous bursts of sheer brilliance. I traded life near the Pacific Ocean for mountain town living in Park City, which actually feels like a chill beach town…so, it’s a pretty even trade, except for the snow – obvi!