Explore Zion National Park.

Looking for the best resources to help plan your Zion National Park vacation?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

Hi, I’m Natalie, and I am a national parks-obsessed mom who has compiled all of the details, itineraries, dining guides, and hiking information for the perfect trip to the incredible Arches National Park.

Whether you need to know how to easily get around the park or which trail is best for your kids, you’ll find it here.

I only write about places and experiences that I’ve personally had, so you’re getting up-to-date advice from a parent who has been there.

Zion at a glance

  • Located in southwestern Utah outside of Springdale

  • Has beautiful Navajo sandstone cliffs and canyons

  • Best known for unique trails like The Narrows and Angel’s Landing

  • Has the scenic Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway connecting Zion Canyon to East Zion

  • Has third section, Kolob Canyon, accessible via a separate entrance

Start here.

If you only read one of my Zion National Park guides, make it this one.

This Zion with kids guide shares everything you could possibly think about when planning a vacation here from the best time to visit to where to pick up your Junior Ranger booklets.

Complete Itineraries

All you’ll need to do is book the plane tickets and hotel rooms. These complete itineraries take care of the day to day planning for you with suggestions on hotels, dining, and activities for the entire family.

Hiking + Biking in Zion National Park

  • Kayenta Trail: A Hiking Guide

    A beautiful trail to the Emerald Pools with Zion Canyon views

    Click Here

  • Hiking the Narrows with Kids

    Carry the entire family on this famous hike in the Virgin River.

    Click Here

  • Biking through Zion: A Guide

    Explore the park without having to wait on this shuttle. Here’s what you need to know.

    Read more

Where to Camp

While there’s camping inside Zion, we recommend staying just outside of the entrance at Zion Canyon.

This campground is right on the Virgin River, has incredible amenities, and has a stop on the free Springdale shuttle.

The author's truck and camper parked at the Zion Canyon Campground and RV Park
The exterior of the Zion Canyon Campground office and convenience store
The author relaxing at the Virgin River at the Zion Canyon Campground

Zion Must Haves

  • GuideAlong Audio Tour

    We LOVE these inexpensive but excellent tours for our national parks visits. Purchase the Zion and Bryce Canyon GuideAlong audio tour bundle to learn about the park’s history, geology, wildlife, and important figures as you drive.

    It doesn’t need wifi after you’ve downloaded the tour, and it starts and stops automatically as you approach areas of interest!

  • Hiking Shoes

    Zion National Park has some incredible hiking, so you’ll want to make sure that everyone in your family has the proper footwear.

    I swear by my Altra Timp Trail Runners, which are lightweight and sturdy.

    I also love my Keen Newport H2 hiking sandals, which are great for hiking in the Narrows.

  • AllTrails + National Park Pass

    Do not go to Arches National Park without this incredible deal!

    For just a few dollars more than the cost of a regular NPS annual pass, you can get an annual AllTrail subscription and your national parks pass bundle.

    Now, you’re ready to hit the trail and explore the parks!

  • Garmin InReach Mini

    I never go hiking without this tiny GPS attached to my pack.

    Since I’m often hiking alone with my kids, the Garmin InReach gives me peace of mind that we could get help quickly if one of them (or me!) got hurt or sick on the trail.

    In case I can’t get cell reception, this unit will always be able to get us help.

  • Rental Car

    While there is a shuttle for the Zion Canyon part of the park, you’re still going to want the flexibility of your own vehicle while exploring the entire park and surrounding areas.

    Check for the best rates at RentalCars.com with convenient pick-up options at area airports.

  • E-Bike Rental

    The BEST way to explore the scenic drive and Pa’rus Trail in Zion National Park is with an e-bike.

    We highly recommend Greater Zion E-Bikes for your e-bike rentals, thanks to their wide selection of bikes and accessories and competitive prices.

Other Helpful Resources

  • Visiting Zion in Summer: Packing List, Activities, and Tips

    Read more

  • 11 Things to Do at Zion National Park Besides Hiking

    Read more

  • Utah Mighty Five National Park with Kids: Itinerary and Tips

    Read more

  • Zion vs. Bryce Canyon: Which Should You Visit?

    Read more

  • Best RV Camping at the Utah National Parks: A Guide

    Read more

  • The Ultimate Utah to Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

    Read more

  • Visiting Grafton Ghost Town in Utah

    Read more