
Zion National Park
Things to Do
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Backpacking
Find your way out of the crowds into the park’s tranquil backcountry. Explore Zion’s backpacking camp areas, miles of hiking trails, and preparation resources.
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Camping
End your day under Zion’s internationally-certified dark skies at any of the campgrounds within or near the park. Dispersed, developed and RV campgrounds are all available, but make your reservation early; campgrounds fill quickly during peak travel months.
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Canyoneering
Looking to add some adrenaline to your vacation? Explore Zion’s most popular canyoneering routes. Be sure to get the details about permits and local guide services ahead of time.
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Hiking
Zion is famous for its remarkable hiking trails. Take an adventurous scramble up to Angels Landing or a family hike on the Emerald Pools Trails, among others. Learn more about hiking in Zion.
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Horseback Riding
Trot through pine forests and red rock views during a horseback riding tour through the park. Local guides offer rides for every experience level, and are available year-round in certain regions of the park.
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Winter Activities
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Zion National Park is a great place to enjoy sunny skies, fresh air and get a little extra Vitamin D in the winter months. Plan a winter visit to soak up the sunshine while enjoying moderate temperatures and a stunning sandstone kaleidoscope of reds, oranges and pinks. Winter visitors will find plenty to do, including hiking, photography and gazing up at the wonders of the night sky.
Travel Tips
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For the best experience, arrive early and take the Zion National Park shuttle.
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Always hike respectfully and carry extra water and sun protection.
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There are popular hikes at Angels Landing (permit required beginning April 1, 2022) and The Narrows, but serious hikers may consider Hidden Canyon, Observation Point, and guided canyoneering in lesser-known canyons.
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The distinctive red asphalt of the Zion–Mt. Carmel Highway leads through a narrow 1.1-mile tunnel to lesser-known hikes near the East Entrance. Fee for large RVs, with limits.
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Follow @zionnps on Twitter and Facebook and visit nps.gov/zion for park alerts.
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Read these resources to learn how to travel thoughtfully and experience Zion National Park most fully.
- View a downloadable map of Zion National Park
More travel tips for visiting Zion National Park
Weather
May–October visitors will encounter highs in Zion from 90–100+°F. Escape the heat by getting in the river or stopping in the visitor center or museum. Afternoon thunderstorms occasionally drench the canyon — which can lead to flash floods in the narrowest sections of the canyon. Expect somewhat cooler temperatures (sometimes up to 30 degrees difference) early in the morning and late in the evening, as well as in early spring and late fall. Though winter days can be cold, the park is open, serene and beautiful.