Zion translates to “The Promised Land,” which also equates to some of the most spectacular hiking of your lifetime. Impossibly stunning landscapes you’ll likely never forget. Carved by water and time beyond the stretch of the imagination, the canyon of Zion National Park practically invites you to co-create the very forces that created it.
Zion National Park’s soaring towers and massive monoliths create a spectacular grandeur. More than 100 years old, Zion is Utah’s most visited of the Mighty Five. There are numerous easy, self-guided trails. More adventurous or strenuous hikes are certainly possible too. Even if you never get out of your car — which of course you will — views from and of the Scenic Byway are reason enough to visit.
Quail Creek Reservoir, 5300 West, Hurricane, UT, USA
Sand Hollow State Park, Hurricane, UT, USA
Kolob Canyons Visitor Center, East Kolob Canyon Road, New Harmony, UT, USA
Springdale, UT, USA
Emerald Pools, Zion National Park, Utah, USA
Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Zion National Park, Zion Park Boulevard, Springdale, UT, USA
The Narrows, Utah, USA
Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah, USA
The Watchman, Zion National Park, Utah, USA
Sol Foods Supermarket, Zion – Mount Carmel Highway, Springdale, UT, USA
Zion Canyon Brew Pub, Zion Park Boulevard, Springdale, UT, USA
Desert Pearl Inn, Zion Park Boulevard, Springdale, UT, USA
Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton, Zion Park Boulevard, Springdale, UT, USA
Before Breakfast in Zion National Park
Hike
Consider the Watchman Trail before the rest of the world wakes up. (The park is open 24/7.) This moderate trail is approximately 3.3 miles round trip and generally takes about 2 hours to complete. The trail starts near the Visitor Center and gradually ascends, offering hikers spectacular views of Zion Canyon, the Towers of the Virgin, lower Zion Canyon, and Springdale. This is especially beautiful in the morning hours as the sun illuminates the red rock formations. The trail is well-marked, but it does have some steep sections and drop-offs, so be careful. As always, bring plenty of water.
Best Places for Breakfast in Zion National Park
Deep Creek Coffee
Deep Creek Coffee, situated just outside Zion National Park in Springdale, is a delightful breakfast spot with a friendly staff. The locally-owned café prides itself on serving locally sourced ingredients. I always like their breakfast burritos and avocado toast, generously portioned and deliciously satisfying. Their house-roasted coffee will really perk up your senses.
Best Things To Do in the Morning in Zion National Park
Scenic Drive
The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is about 57 miles long and usually takes about 1.5 hours to drive one way without stops. But of course, you will stop — to drink in the beauty, snap pics for IG at scenic viewpoints, and dip into hiking trails. Give it a few hours one way. Photography is particularly great in the morning.
Personal vehicles are restricted in some sections of the park, so I suggest the Zion Shuttle whenever possible. (In fact, it’s required for part of the drive from spring through fall due to the high volume of visitors.) Luckily it’s an excellent option as it provides access to key points along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
First stop: the Court of the Patriarchs, a set of sandstone cliffs named after biblical figures offers spectacular views.
Continue with stops at the Great White Throne, Weeping Rock, and Big Bend. Don’t miss the iconic view of the Virgin River bending around the base of the Great White Throne.
Best Places for Lunch in Zion National Park
Really, I suggest packing a picnic from Sol Market and enjoying it along the way. (Deep Creek Coffee, see breakfast above) also has to-go sandwiches. If you find yourself in Springdale for lunch, these are my two current faves.
The Park House
The Park House Cafe specializes in wholesome food with a creative twist. Signature dishes like the Park House veggie sandwich and chipotle chicken wrap are packed with flavor and made from locally-sourced ingredients. The food is consistently good, the staff friendly, and the vibe relaxed, laid-back,
Best Things To Do in the Afternoon in Zion National Park
A Temple & A River
Drive or take the shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava, with towering cliffs and an awe-inspiring view. And meander along the Riverside Walk from the Temple of Sinawava. This easy, 2-mile-out-and-back paved trail is leisurely with stunning views of the Virgin River and hanging gardens. Soak in the scenery, sit by the Virgin River, or explore the area around the Temple of Sinawava. Remember: slow down, see more.
Best Places for Dinner in Zion National Park
King's Landing
King’s Landing Bistro focuses on contemporary American cuisine. Each dish, from the perfectly-seared scallops to the robustly-flavored steak, is meticulously prepared and presented. The wine selection complements the menu wonderfully. KLB’s modern decor, accentuated by warm lighting and local artwork, is comfortable yet refined. This is always a memorable experience.
Oscar's
Oscar’s Cafe, steps away from Zion National Park, offers signature baby back ribs and Mexican dishes, like their hearty burritos. It’s all quite flavorful and satisfying. Oscar’s stands out for its generous portions, wide variety, and consistently good food. The casual decor and the outdoor patio are key.
Best Places to Stay in Zion National Park
Desert Pearl Inn
Desert Pearl Inn, near the entrance to Zion National Park, is a splendid choice. The inn seamlessly blends with its surrounding environment, offering stunning views of the red rock formations and the Virgin River. Accommodations range from spacious rooms to suites, all tastefully decorated with a modern rustic style and equipped with kitchenettes. Many rooms feature private balconies or patios that overlook the river or the oasis-like pool. On-site amenities include laundry facilities.
Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton
Cliffrose Springdale is a premium option, beautifully landscaped and situated along the Virgin River, offering striking views of Zion’s cliffs. Guests choose from rooms, suites, and even private villas, all elegantly decorated. The heated outdoor pool and waterfall hot tub provide serious relaxation after a day of hiking. Its location? Just a short walk from the park entrance.
Bonus Pro Tips
Hiking:
- Emerald Pools Trail: Relatively easy three-mile, round-trip, signature hike; fun for the whole family
- Riverwalk at the gateway to the Narrows: Likewise, easy and fun for the whole family.
- The Subway section of the Narrows: Hire an experienced guide and grab a permit and hike deeper to access the magnificent Subway section; 7 miles in and out.
- Angel’s Landing Trail: A strenuous 5 miles that can take several hours. If have the time, this is a powerful hike you’ll never forget.
Getting There: There are two entrances to Zion on Highway 9. From Las Vegas, you’ll arrive at the western entrance, 33 miles east of I-15. The northern Kolob Canyons section is accessible off I-15, 18 miles south of Cedar City. Follow the Zion Park Scenic Byway (State Route 9) through the towns of Hurricane, LaVerkin, Virgin, Rockdale, and Springdale. Each town has a special story to share, as the byway carves through the red rock of the Virgin River corridor.
Stay tuned: When the weather cools off, I’ve already penciled in a few more itineraries to experience and then share. Please sign up for our email newsletter to learn when these Tucson itineraries drop. And please do share your interests with us; we’ll try to craft perfect days for you.
- The Narrows Full-Day Hike
- Kolob Canyons & Taylor Creek
- Horseback Riding & Zion Museum
Side Trips:
- Quail Creek Reservoir State Park boasts some of the warmest waters in the state.
- Sand Hollow State Park offers boating and fishing or riding the dunes of Sand Mountain on an off-highway vehicle and camping in one of two developed campgrounds.