Explore More in Zion National Park
Facts
Facts about Zion National Park
- The Main Canyon is 15 miles long.
- The original name of the park was Mukuntuweap which means "straight canyon".
- The name: Zion in ancient Hebrew means sanctuary.
- The canyon was carved over millions of years by the elements.
- Zion is a home to the California Condor which is an endangered species.
- Home to Kolob Arch, one of the largest freestanding natural arches.
Where is Zion National Park - How to Get There
Zion National Park is located in the southwest corner of Utah.
Remember that various states in the west are in different time-zones, so adjust your anticipated arrival times accordingly.
Remember that various states in the west are in different time-zones, so adjust your anticipated arrival times accordingly.
Directions to Zion National Park from various locations.
Las Vegas, Nevada:
Distance: Approximately 160 miles (257 kilometers)
Route: Take I-15 north from Las Vegas.
Driving Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours.
Specifics: Follow I-15 north, passing through the towns of Mesquite and St. George. Take exit 16 for State Route 9 east, and follow the signs to Zion National Park.
Salt Lake City, Utah:
Distance: Approximately 308 miles (495 kilometers)
Route: Take I-15 south from Salt Lake City.
Driving Time: About 4.5 to 5 hours.
Specifics: Drive south on I-15, passing through towns such as Provo and Cedar City. Take exit 27 for State Route 17, and follow the signs to Zion National Park.
Denver, Colorado:
Distance: Approximately 600 miles (965 kilometers)
Route: Take I-70 west from Denver, then I-15 south.
Driving Time: About 9 to 10 hours.
Specifics: Drive west on I-70, passing through Grand Junction, Colorado. Merge onto I-15 south in Utah and continue until you reach exit 27 for State Route 17. Follow the signs to Zion National Park.
Phoenix, Arizona:
Distance: Approximately 390 miles (627 kilometers)
Route: Take I-17 north, then I-40 east, and finally I-15 north.
Driving Time: About 6 to 7 hours.
Specifics: Drive north on I-17 from Phoenix until you reach I-40. Head east on I-40, and then merge onto I-15 north. Continue on I-15 until you reach exit 16 for State Route 9, following the signs to Zion National Park.
Always check for real-time traffic updates and road conditions, as they may affect travel times. Additionally, it's advisable to have a reliable GPS system or map to navigate the specific roads leading to Zion National Park from these locations.
Zion National Park Q&A
Top 10 most asked questions about Utah's Zion National Park.
The best times to visit Zion National Park are spring, from March to May, and fall, from September to early November: the weather is very comfortable, and there are usually fewer people. Summer is the peak season; temperatures can get quite hot in the main canyon. A good place to visit in peak season is the Kolob section of the park, where it is less crowded. On the upper east side of the park where the elevation is 6,000+ feet, it usually is cooler. Resorts like Zion Ponderosa, which borders the upper east side of the park, may be the best place to stay during hot summer month visits. The park is open all year and each season offers something different to enjoy.
Yes, Zion National Park has a free in-canyon shuttle system. During peak season (essentially 10 months of the year) the shuttles are the only vehicular way to get through the main canyon. There are 8 stops that offer access to most of the most iconic Zion landmarks. The park also runs a Springdale town shuttle to move people between the park and area lodging.
Some of the more famous hiking trails in Zion include Angels Landing, The Narrows, Observation Point, Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock, and Canyon Overlook. Each trail offers different views of the park's beautiful scenery.
Some hikes require a permit, such as Angels Landing, The full length of The Narrows, The Subway, and overnight backpacking trips. Details of permits and availability can be found on the official website or at the visitor center.
Yes, there are three campgrounds in Zion: South Campground, Watchman Campground, and Lava Point Campground on the Kolob Terrace. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
Common wildlife in Zion includes mule deer, bighorn sheep, rock squirrels, various bird species including California condors, ravens, hawks, turkey vultures, eagles.
Zion is famous for its climbing opportunities. Climbing within the park requires permits, and only experienced climbers should attempt those climbs as the height and nature of the routes are quite technical.
The Narrows is a famous hike in Zion that involves wading through the Virgin River within a wide slot canyon. Probably one of the most unique and popular trails in the park, the Narrows hike has towering walls. The water is warm enough to walk through in summer without any warm gear, but wear protective thermal shoes and pants during colder months. This waterway trail is pretty much inaccessible during spring snowmelt runoff.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is the primary road of the park. For much of the year the main canyon scenic drive can only be experienced by bike or shuttle. Highway 9 (a beautiful scenic route itself) runs from the east entrance to the south entrance of the park. Those who wish to see the main canyon of Zion during peak season will need to drive on Highway 9, park at the visitor center and take a shuttle into the main canyon. If you happen to be there while the shuttle takes its short seasonal break, private vehicles are permitted in the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
Very few areas of Zion National Park are opened to pets. Dogs are allowed in developed campgrounds and specific areas of paved walking trails. The only official trail that dogs are permitted on inside the park is the Pa’rus trail. There are lodging and daycare options close by the park for those who have their animals with them but wish to see more of the park.
