One Day in Zion National Park Itinerary for Adventurers
Looking to make the most of your day trip to Zion National Park?
I’ve crafted a jam-packed one day in Zion National Park itinerary for the most adventurous of us, retracing the steps of my sweeping months-long expedition across the American West.
I actually came here twice. Once to summit Angel’s Landing and once balled up in a drysuit wading through the Narrows in the dead of winter when it was snowing. Zion’s sheer size and abundance of attractions mean that you, unfortunately, have to pick and choose what you want to do in a single day.
So, let’s optimize your brief visit with a fully loaded day, starting with one of the climactic biggies and ending with a scenic drive down the main canyon. I’ve also sprinkled in suggestions for other locations to visit with more time and a brief travel guide chock-full of useful details at the end.
Quick Facts to Visiting Zion
Spanning 229 square miles of the Southern Utah desert, Zion National Park is a wonderland of soaring monoliths, deep slot canyons, mesas, and rushing rivers. Home to the famous Angel’s Landing, the Narrows, and one of the world’s largest freestanding arches, this park is one of America’s most popular National Parks.
| Quick Facts | Information |
| Entrance Fee | $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days) or $80 for the America the Beautiful Annual National Park Pass |
| Operating Hours | Open 24 hours a day |
| Visitor Centers | Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Kolob Canyons Visitor Center |
| Park Entrances | South Entrance, East Entrance, Kolob Canyons Entrance |
| Main Activities | Hiking, Camping, Wildlife Viewing, Rock Climbing |
| Number of Campgrounds | 3 (Watchman Campground, South Campground, Lava Point Campground) |
| Hotels | Zion Lodge within the park, many options in nearby Springdale |
| Best Time to Visit | April to October |
| Nearest Cities | Springdale (1 mile), St. George (41 miles) UseĀ DiscoverCarsĀ to find rental car deals |
| Nearest Airports | St. George Regional Airport (49 miles), Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas (170 miles) UseĀ ExpediaĀ to find the best flight prices. |
Two Important Things to Know Before You Go!
Permits: Certain activities like Angel’s Landing, canyoneering routes, and overnight backpacking require permits!
Shuttle Service: Private vehicles are prohibited on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive from March to November. Instead, visitors must use the park’s shuttle service, which is time waiting you should factor into your schedule.
Adventurous One Day in Zion National Park Itinerary
There are four sections of Zion: the main canyon, East Zion, Kolob Terrace, and Kolob Canyon. In this itinerary, we will focus most of the day on the most popular section, the main canyon. Then the scenic drives take you to East Zion.
Itinerary Summary
So you have everything in one scroll, hereās a sample suggested itinerary that goes much more in detail below.
Morning:
- Start your day as early as the park opens. If you haven’t gotten your permit for Angel’s Landing yet here, try your luck on the day before the lottery.
- Take the shuttle bus to the Grotto trailhead and begin your hike up to Angel’s Landing (if you have a permit).
Alternative Morning Plan: If you don’t get a permit for Angel’s Landing, take the shuttle bus to the Temple of Sinawava to start your day with the Riverside Walk trail leading to The Narrows.
Mid-Day:
- Pack some food. Both trails will likely take you until past lunch.
If you still have energy for another hike:
- If you hiked Angel’s Landing in the morning, wade through just the beginning parts of the Narrows. Save time for the scenic drive.
- If you hiked the Narrows, try the Emerald Pools Trail to waterfalls and reservoirs.
Afternoon:
- Drive the scenic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, stopping at sights like Checkerboard Mesa and Canyon Overlook Trail.
Recommended lodging options for the Night: Springdale, Zion
- Luxury: Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites
- Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express Springdale
- Budget: Novel House Inn at Zion
Morning: Angel’s Landing or The Narrows
Hike the Epic Angel’s Landing
- Trail Length: 5.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1488 feet (453 meters)
- Difficulty: Strenuous. Not recommended for those with a fear of heights
- Trailhead Location: Grotto shuttle stop.
- Estimated Time: 4 to 5 hours.
- Best Time to Hike: Start as early as possible, preferably as soon as the park opens.
- Permit: Required. Secure in advance here or the day-before lottery
Angel’s Landing is one of the most exhilarating and iconic hikes in Zion National Park and probably all of America. It was snowing the first time we went, so we decided against it, opting for a freezing experience in the Narrows instead. However, unless the weather is truly terrible, this is the hike that I would absolutely recommend securing.
To get there, follow the shuttle bus to The Grotto trailhead. From here, start the hike to Angel’s Landing. The trail takes you through a series of strenuous switchbacks, known as Walter’s Wiggles, leading up to Scout Lookout.
However, the last half-mile is where things get exciting and dangerous. The path becomes much narrower, with steep drop-offs on both sides as you approach the final ascent to Angel’s Landing. Chains are bolted into the rock in certain sections for safety.
But once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most stunning views in all of Zion. Hopefully, you packed some snacks to enjoy up there.
How to Get the Angel’s Landing Permit
Starting in 2022, the park service started capping daily visitors. This means you’ll need to win in the seasonal or day-before lottery system to snag a permit.
- Securing a Permit: To hike Angels Landing, you need a permit available through online lotteries on Recreation.gov. The permit is valid for a single day.
- Seasonal: Can apply for up to seven dates or date ranges
- Day Before: Opens every day at 12:01 am MST for hikes in Spring (March 1 – May 31) and Fall (September 1 ā November 30)
- Lottery Application: You can list up to six people on your application.
- Confirmation Email: A confirmation email will be sent to the permit holder if successful. This email is the permit and must be carried (electronically or paper copy) during the hike.
- Fees: There is a $6 non-refundable application fee for the lottery and a $3 per person fee if a permit is issued.
Alternative to Angel’s Landing
Wade through Slot Canyon “The Narrows”
- Trail Length: Round trip lengths vary. The first 5 miles (8 km) to Big Spring is the most popular.
- Elevation Gain: Minimal; most of your hike is through water
- Difficulty: Moderate. Walking in the river can be challenging, depending on the water level.
- Trailhead Location: Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop
- Estimated Time: 4 to 6 hours round trip to Big Spring
- Best Time to Hike: Spring to Fall months
The Narrows hike is a classic Zion experience. The Virgin River has carved an incredible slot canyon through the sandstone, creating one of the most unique hikes in America. For most people, 5 miles into the Narrows is enough as it gets deeper and harder to walk beyond that point.
To get there, take the shuttle bus to the Temple of Sinawava. From there, walk through the paved Riverside Walk for a mile until you reach the end and get into the water.
The Narrows is a hike upriver in knee-deep to waist-deep water. The scenery continuously changes with every bend and turn as light bounces off the canyon walls.
Important: Check for Flash Flood Warnings before starting your hike! Do not go if it is raining.
Winter Tip! The water is too cold in the winter to just go willy-nilly in your bathing suit. In Springdale, go to an outfitter who will set you up with a dry suit.
Mid-Day: The Riverside Walk or The Emerald Pools
The Riverside Walk
- Trail Length: 2.2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: Minimal; the trail is paved and relatively flat
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead Location: Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop
- Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours
- Best Time to Walk: Year-round
The Riverside Walk is the gateway to the Narrows and is often overlooked. It is an easy, paved walk along the Virgin River with beautiful views of Zion Canyon.
If you hiked Angel’s Landing and still want a taste of the Narrows, I would recommend walking down the Riverside Walk and maybe dip your legs in to get a taste of the Narrows. Chances are, you’re probably already pretty beat.
But don’t worry, you can come back another time and do the full hike!
The Emerald Pools
- Trail Length: Lower Pool: 1.2 miles round trip; Middle Pool: additional 0.6 miles one way; Upper Pool: extra 0.8 miles one way
- Elevation Gain: Lower Pool: 69 feet (21 meters)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Trailhead Location: Zion Lodge shuttle stop
- Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours for Lower Pool, additional time for Middle and Upper Pools
- Best Time to Hike: Year-round
If you’ve still got energy for another hike, the Emerald Pools is great if you’re looking for a shorter, less strenuous hike. The trail takes you to three different reservoirs: the Lower Pool is the easiest and most popular, while the Middle and Upper Pools are longer and more challenging.
The pools are fed by waterfalls from above, creating a refreshing oasis in the desert landscape.
Afternoon: Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
After a full morning (and afternoon) of hiking, take a scenic drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. This 12 mile long road takes you up the monoliths, past slickrock formations and colorful canyons.
This stretch begins at the East Entrance of Zion National Park and continues to the Canyon Junction. Below are some notable places to stop, but you can pause anywhere and walk up any of the formations.
Checkerboard Mesa
This uniquely patterned mesa is near mile marker 12. It got its name from the crisscrossing lines etched into the sandstone, resembling a checkerboard. There are pullouts along the highway for a good view of this wonder.
Canyon Overlook Trail
This 1 mile hike takes you to a viewpoint overlooking Pine Creek, the lower Zion Canyon, and the Beehives rock formations. The trailhead is located at mile marker 9.
Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel
This 1.1 mile long tunnel was a feat of engineering when it was built in the 1920s, allowing vehicle access through the mountains. As you pass through, windows carved into the rock give glimpses of the canyon below.
Where to Stay
Lodging options within the park, like Zion Lodge, offer immediate access to trails but may lack modern amenities and book up quickly. Nearby, Springdale has many accommodations and easy access to restaurants and shops. Zion also has three campgrounds.
Best Hotels in Springdale, Zion
| Hotel | Budget | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites | High-End | – Excellent location close to the park – Lovely rooms with a view – Free breakfast, close to the shuttle stop |
| Holiday Inn Express Springdale | Mid-Range | – Incredible views, outdoor fireplace – Accommodating and friendly staff – Near the entrance to Zion National Park |
| Novel House Inn at Zion | Budget | – Fabulous views outside – Cheap food nearby – Close to shuttle bus going to Zion National Park |
Campgrounds in Zion National Park
| Campground | Description |
|---|---|
| Watchman Campground | Located next to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Ā¼ mile away from the South Entrance in Springdale, Utah. |
| South Campground | Near the park’s south entrance, it is also close to the main visitor center and the Zion Canyon Shuttle System. |
| Lava Point Campground | A more remote campground within Zion National Park. |
Other Places to Visit with More Time
Other Attractions within Zion
If you have more time to explore Zion National Park, there are a number of other attractions and activities you might consider:
- Kolob Canyons: A lesser-visited park area with several hiking trails and beautiful scenic drives.
- Observation Point: This is a challenging hike to spectacular views of the entire park.
- Kolob Arch: One of the largest freestanding natural arches in the world, located in the Kolob Canyons section.
- Canyoneering: Zion National Park offers some of the best canyoneering routes in the world. Be sure to get the required permits.
- Zion Human History Museum: Learn about the park’s Native American roots to its establishment as a national park.
Popular Places Near Zion
Here are some of the best day trips you can take from Zion National Park:
- Bryce Canyon National Park: Known for its geology and hoodoos, or tall, thin spires of rock.
- Kodachrome Basin State Park: Known for its multi-colored rock formations and numerous hiking trails.
- Capitol Reef National Park: Famous for its Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline extending almost 100 miles, and its beautiful orchards.
- Cedar Breaks National Monument: Home to a natural amphitheater stretching over three miles and over 2000 feet deep.
- Page, Arizona: Home to the famous Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell
- Sand Hollow State Park: Popular for its warm, blue waters and red sandstone landscape.
Is 1 Day Enough for Zion
Zion National Park in one day is not enough. Ideally, you should plan for at least two days to conquer Angel’s Landing and the Narrows fully. With more time, go to other sections of the part, like Kolob Canyon or East Zion.
Best Time To Visit
Spring and fall are excellent times to visit Zion as the park has generally mild daytime temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The popular hiking trails, like Angel’s Landing and the Narrows, are open and less crowded than in the summer. Spring brings wildflower blooms, and I can attest that the fall foliage in autumn brings a different type of color to the park.
Although summer is the busiest season in Zion due to school holidays, it can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so early morning or evening hikes are recommended.
Winter in Zion is quiet and peaceful, potentially with a blanket of snow covering the trails. Some hikes may be closed due to ice. And if you are going to hike the narrows, you’re going to want to get a drysuit. The water is actually freezing, you would get hypothermia.
How to Get Here
Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah, near Springdale.
Flying to Las Vegas
If you’re coming from afar, flying into the Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas is a popular choice. From there, you can easily rent a car and go on a scenic 2.5 hour drive to Zion National Park.
Driving from Las Vegas to Zion
If you prefer to drive to Zion, you can start your journey directly from Las Vegas. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, with plenty of beautiful stops along the journey.
Flying to Salt Lake City or Saint George
Alternatively, you can fly into Salt Lake City or Saint George and then drive to Zion National Park. The drive from Salt Lake City takes approximately 3.5 hours, while the drive from Saint George is only around 50 minutes.Ā
| Travel Option | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Flying to Las Vegas | Approximately 2.5 hours drive |
| Driving from Las Vegas to Zion | Approximately 2.5 hours |
| Flying to Salt Lake City | Approximately 4.5 hours drive |
| Flying to Saint George | Approximately 50 minutes drive |
Getting Around Zion National Park
Shuttle in Zion
The Zion shuttle system is the primary mode of transportation within the main canyon. The shuttle runs from early March through November to popular trailheads and attractions. Private vehicles are not allowed in Zion Canyon during the shuttle season, so the shuttle is your only option.
Driving in Zion
You can access other sections of Zion National Park by car. The main road through the park, Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, connects the east side of the park to Zion Canyon. Parking spaces fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts: Day Trip to Zion
Having gone twice to Zion National Park, I still have not had enough of this place. It’s a gem among National Parks and a haven for those passionate about adventure. With just one day, you’ve only begun to uncover the gems of Zion National Park. And if you’re continuing your journey to other places in Utah, check out my other destination itineraries below.
Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in Utah?
Utah may very well be one of the most underrated, beautiful places in the world. I’ve traveled all through this great state, snowboarding down some of the best resorts and hiking through godly monoliths. If you’re heading elsewhere in Utah, check out these posts.
- One Day in Zion National Park Itinerary for Adventurers
- One Day in Arches National Park Itinerary for First-Timers
- Perfect One Day in Canyonlands Itinerary for First-Timers
- Perfect One Day In Salt Lake City Itinerary For First TimersĀ
- Perfect One Day In Bryce Canyon Itinerary For First-Timers
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