Zion National Park nestled in Utah’s wild landscapes is one of the world’s best and most interesting places. It has the chance to see nature at its most beautiful in the form of amazing views and hiking routes. There is something to enjoy for everyone in the park due to the features of lots of unique scenery.
If you only have one day in Zion, here are the best things to do in Zion National Park:
Planning for Visit Zion National Park
Driving & Parking: During shuttle season (March 11 – November 26), personal vehicles aren’t allowed in Zion. You’ll be required to park in Springdale and carry the free shuttle to the Visitor Center, where you can move to the canyon shuttle.
Entrance Fees: A 7-day personal vehicle pass is $35, or you can step in for $20 per person. The $80 America the Beautiful Pass is a wonderful value if you plan to see multiple national parks.
Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
Autumn in Zion is the perfect time for hikers and for those who appreciate cooler temps with a bit of greenery.
In mid-September, the hot Summer temperatures start to fall, the Cottonwoods turn a bright yellow, and visitation starts to decrease slowly.
Where to Stay
- In the Park: Visit Zion National Park Lodge or camp.
- In Springdale: View The Cliffrose, Red Rock Inn, or Flanigan’s Inn.
- In St. George: A more budget-friendly choice, almost an hour from Zion, is the Staybridge Inn & Suites.
What to Do in Zion National Park (When You Only Have One Day!)
1. The Narrows
2. Angels Landing
3. Riverside Walk
4. Drive Through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.
5. Kolob Canyon
1. The Narrows
The Narrows, the narrowest area of Zion Canyon, is one of the park’s most famous hikes, beginning with the one-mile, wheelchair-accessible Riverside Walk. After that, hikers will wade or swim upstream through the Virgin River.
Key Points:
- Best Time for Hike: The best time for a hike is when water levels are low and air temperatures are warm in summer and late fall. Spring’s snowmelt can make the hike a little enjoyable.
- Safety Concerns: Inform a park ranger regarding the weather and water flow rates when you hike. The Narrows can fill with flash floods fast, which makes it dangerous.
- Gear: When you go here take water-proof footwear, a hiking stick, and a waterproof bag to keep your belongings. Review about renting equipment from a Springdale outfitter, like dry pants.
- Access: To help to the last facilities and drinking water, take the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the No. 9/Temple of Sinawava stop. There’s no need for approval for the 10-mile upstream journey from the Temple of Sinawava to Big Stream. During the 16-mile hike downstream, an NPS wilderness allow exists at Chamberlain’s Ranch.
- Fees and Hours: With spending $35 for a seven-day park entry, visitors are free to explore The Narrows. If you come after hours, you can walk the last 7.7 miles back to the visitor center. The Zion Canyon Shuttle is punctual.
For more information and current conditions, you can visit the Zion National Park website.
2. Angels Landing
Gave its name by Methodist clergyman Frederick Vining Fisher in 1916, Angels Landing is now one of the most popular walks in Zion, providing stunning views and a difficult climb. Hiking 5.4 miles round-trip, the climb includes steep switchbacks, a 1,488-foot elevation grow, and the final effort to the top using a chain guide rope.
Key Points:
- Permit Required: Angels Landing hiking needs a timed-entry special permit, which went into effect in 2022. By Recreation.gov, allows will be received through a lottery for $6 per application and $3 per person if selected.
- Scout Lookout Alternative: If you have a fear of heights or don’t have a permit to do so, you can walk the West Rim Trail to Scout Lookout, which requires no one. The difficult 3.6-mile out-and-back track has a steep elevation rise that is more than 1,000 feet.
- Safety Tips: If the weather is bad, stay off the trail; if it’s during the week, avoid hiking to prevent crowds. Consider that traffic travels in both directions on the narrow hill.
- Access: Take the Zion Canyon shuttle to the Grotto Stop (number 6), then go to Scout Lookout through the West Rim Trail. Water to drink and restrooms can be found at the trailhead. Put some snacks and water in a bag so your hands are free of the chains.
3. Riverside Walk
The Riverside Walk is a simpler choice if hiking The Narrows is not something you enjoy. One of Zion’s most beautiful routes, this 2-mile round-trip paved pathway has plenty of shade and green canyon walls. It is available from the Temple of Sinawava shuttle route.
Key Points:
- Suitable for All: Wheelchairs and strollers are allowed to utilize the first 0.4 miles of the paved, smooth trail. Families and everyone with difficulties walking will love it, but be aware that the trail can get busy, especially as it is near The Narrows.
- Access: Ride the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava, Stop No. 9. There are restrooms and drinking water near the shuttle stop. Pets are not allowed here. The cost of visiting Zion Park includes access.
For more information or to get tickets, you can visit the Zion National Park website or Recreation.gov
4. Drive Through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.
All roads in Zion National Park are restricted to cars, except the beautiful Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, which has a 1.1-mile tunnel constructed in 1930. Since there’s no ventilation system in the tunnel, windows called “galleries” provide exits for vehicle exhaust and provide temporary views of the cliffs and canyon.
Key Points:
- No Stopping: In the tunnel, you cannot stop here and not even for photographs.
- Vehicle Restrictions: Vehicles taller than 13.5 feet or longer than 40 feet are not allowed because of the tunnel’s sharp turns with small paths,
- Traffic Control: One-way traffic is allowed through the tunnel when using a traffic control system, and also when vehicles go through in shifts.
- Oversized Vehicles: You may need an additional permit from the National Park Service if your car is bigger.Â
- No Bicycles or Pedestrians: Pedestrians and cyclists must use an alternative route through the park.
The tunnel is part of Highway 9’s beautiful journey, and it’s worth going an extra five miles to see the Checkerboard Mesa, which is near the park’s east entrance.
5. Kolob Canyon
Forty miles north of Zion Canyon, Kolob Canyons offers a peaceful haven with less foot traffic. Stunning 2,000-foot rock walls, desert canyons, and Navajo sandstone peaks may be seen on the 5-mile Kolob Canyons Road. Three 1 to 14-mile out-and-back hiking trails are open to visitors. Recent tourists complimented the Timber Creek Overlook Trail’s stunning vistas and the area’s access to Interstate 15.
Key Points:
- Stunning Scenery: The area has 2,000-foot cliff walls, with lush desert canyons, and Navajo sandstone peaks.
- Scenic Drive: The 5-mile Kolob Canyons Road has beautiful views.
- Hiking Trails: Three out-and-back trails range from 1 to 14 miles.
- Easy Access: Conveniently reachable from Interstate 15.
- Visitor Favorites: The mile-long Timber Creek Overlook Trail is a favorite because of its panoramic views.
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Conclusion:
Most people only have memories of Angels Landing but The Narrows, Zion National Park has a lot more to explore here. The Canyon Overlook Trail, or the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive if you’re short on time. These places have a beautiful view of Zion’s with amazing beauty.