St. George to Springdale
Springdale is the charming gateway town to Zion National Park, offering art galleries, excellent restaurants, adventure outfitters, and scenic lodging steps from one of America's most visited national parks. A destination in its own right, not just a pit stop.
I-15 N to UT-9 E through Hurricane
40 miles
Distance
45 min
Drive Time
northeast
Direction
March-May, September-November
Best Time
3,900 feet elevation
Driving from St. George to Springdale
Route: I-15 N to UT-9 E through Hurricane
Head north on I-15 to Exit 16, then take UT-9 East through Hurricane and La Verkin. Continue east through Virgin and Rockville, following the scenic Virgin River corridor. Springdale is at the end of UT-9, right at the south entrance of Zion National Park. The last stretch from Rockville to Springdale offers stunning views of Zion's towering canyon walls.
About Springdale
Springdale is a small town with an outsized personality, wedged between towering red rock canyon walls at the south entrance of Zion National Park. With a year-round population of just over 500, this half-mile stretch of UT-9 transforms into one of Utah's most vibrant tourism corridors, welcoming over four million Zion visitors annually. What sets Springdale apart from typical gateway towns is its genuine character — locally owned restaurants with creative menus, art galleries featuring regional artists, outfitters run by lifelong outdoor enthusiasts, and lodging properties that embrace their spectacular natural setting rather than competing with it.
The drive from St. George takes about 45 minutes through the communities of Hurricane, La Verkin, and Virgin before arriving in Springdale. The final approach along the Virgin River is increasingly dramatic as Zion's massive sandstone cliffs rise on both sides. The town serves as the primary gateway to Zion's Scenic Drive, which is accessible only by the free park shuttle from March through November. Springdale has its own free shuttle system running the length of town, connecting hotels, restaurants, and shops to the park entrance — you can leave your car parked and explore everything on foot or by shuttle.
Beyond its role as a Zion gateway, Springdale has cultivated a legitimate dining scene that rivals towns many times its size. From the acclaimed Whiptail Grill and King's Landing Bistro to the beloved Oscar's Cafe, the food quality reflects the high expectations of an international tourist audience. Art galleries showcase Southwestern painting, sculpture, and photography. Gear shops and outfitters can equip you for any Zion adventure, from Angels Landing to canyoneering the Narrows. Several spa and wellness offerings cater to visitors looking to unwind after a day on the trails. Whether you visit for the park, the food, the art, or simply the stunning setting, Springdale delivers.
Gas Stops Along the Way
- Hurricane — 20 miles / 20 min (full services, cheapest gas on the route)
- La Verkin/Virgin — 25-30 miles / 25-30 min (limited services)
- Springdale has a gas station but prices are higher than Hurricane — fill up before arriving
Weather & Climate
Springdale sits at 3,900 feet in the Virgin River canyon with a semi-arid climate. Summer highs reach 100-110°F (similar to St. George) with cool evenings in the 60s-70s. Winter days are mild at 45-55°F with cold nights that can dip below freezing. Spring and fall are ideal at 55-85°F. The canyon setting provides afternoon shade but can also trap heat in summer. Flash flood risk exists during monsoon season (July-September) and spring snowmelt.
Best Time to Visit
March-May, September-November
Spring and fall offer ideal weather for Zion hiking with temperatures of 55-80°F and the most pleasant conditions for dining and walking around Springdale. Summer is peak tourist season with temperatures exceeding 100°F in the canyon and maximum crowds. Winter (December-February) is the quietest time with cool temperatures (30-55°F), no shuttle requirement, and you can drive yourself into Zion Canyon. Holiday weekends and school breaks are always the busiest.
Things to Do in Springdale
From outdoor adventures to dining, here is everything worth experiencing when you visit Springdale, Utah.
Dining & Restaurants
Oscar's Cafe
$$A Springdale institution since 1998, Oscar's serves generous portions of Southwestern-influenced breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The patio seating with canyon views is unbeatable. Famous for their huevos rancheros, burgers, and hearty salads. Expect a wait during peak hours — it's worth it.
Whiptail Grill
$$Elevated Southwestern cuisine in a converted gas station with shaded patio dining. Creative dishes like the chipotle sweet potato tamales and grilled salmon tacos showcase fresh, locally influenced flavors. Great craft beer and cocktail selection. A local favorite.
King's Landing Bistro
$$$Springdale's premier fine dining experience inside the Driftwood Lodge. Seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients, creative presentations, and an extensive wine list. The patio overlooks the Virgin River with views of the Watchman. Reservations recommended.
Spotted Dog Cafe
$$$Located in the Flanigan's Inn, the Spotted Dog serves upscale American fare with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Known for quality steaks, fresh fish, and a curated wine list. The historic building adds character. A solid choice for a special dinner.
MeMe's Cafe
$A charming breakfast and brunch spot with fresh-baked pastries, creative egg dishes, and strong coffee. The small cafe fills up quickly but has a relaxed, friendly vibe. Perfect fuel before a day in Zion.
Shopping & Galleries
Worthington Gallery
Free to browseOne of Springdale's premier art galleries featuring contemporary Southwestern art, sculpture, glass, and jewelry by regional and national artists. The gallery space itself is beautiful with high ceilings and excellent natural light. Worth visiting even if you are not buying.
David J. West Gallery
Free to browseStunning landscape photography showcasing Zion, the Southwest, and beyond. David West's large-format prints capture the drama and light of the canyon country. A must-stop for photography enthusiasts and those seeking unique wall art.
Zion Outfitter
Rentals $25-$50The go-to gear shop for Zion adventures, located right at the park entrance. Rent canyoneering gear, buy waterproof equipment for the Narrows, or pick up last-minute essentials. Knowledgeable staff can advise on trail conditions and gear needs.
Rent Narrows gear here — waterproof boots, neoprene socks, and trekking poles
Bumbleberry Gift Shop
Free to browseA Springdale landmark known for its bumbleberry pies and jams. The gift shop carries local crafts, souvenirs, books about Zion, and the famous bumbleberry products. A quintessential Springdale stop.
Lodging
Cliffrose Springdale
$250-$450/nightA Curio Collection by Hilton property with five acres of gardens along the Virgin River. Updated rooms with balconies facing Zion's canyon walls. The waterfront setting with mature trees and direct river access is arguably the best hotel location in Springdale. Pool and hot tub on-site.
Cable Mountain Lodge
$200-$350/nightModern suites with full kitchens and private balconies overlooking Zion's iconic peaks. Located at the quiet end of town near the park entrance. The lodge offers spacious accommodations ideal for families or longer stays. Pool, hot tub, and complimentary breakfast.
Desert Pearl Inn
$250-$400/nightA boutique riverside hotel with large, well-appointed rooms featuring private balconies or patios along the Virgin River. The contemporary design blends with the natural surroundings. Pool, hot tub, and riverside seating areas. Consistently top-rated on travel review sites.
Flanigan's Inn
$180-$350/nightA character-filled boutique inn with an on-site restaurant (Spotted Dog Cafe), spa, and art gallery. Rooms range from standard to luxury villas. The property has a warm, personal feel that large hotels lack. Walking distance to everything in town.
Getting to Zion
Zion Canyon Shuttle
Free with park entry ($35/vehicle)From March through November, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles. The free park shuttle runs from the visitor center up the canyon with nine stops including Court of the Patriarchs, Zion Lodge, The Grotto (Angels Landing trailhead), and Temple of Sinawava (Narrows trailhead). Shuttles run every 7-10 minutes during peak hours.
Springdale Town Shuttle
FreeA free shuttle system running the length of Springdale with nine stops connecting hotels, restaurants, and shops to the Zion pedestrian entrance. Operates during shuttle season (March-November). Park your car at your hotel and ride the shuttle everywhere — it eliminates parking stress entirely.
Parking Tips
$20-$30 for Springdale lotsDuring peak season (March-November), Zion visitor center parking fills by 8-9 AM. Your best strategy is to park at your Springdale hotel and take the town shuttle to the park entrance. If day-tripping, arrive before 7 AM for visitor center parking. Paid parking lots in Springdale cost $20-$30/day and are a reliable alternative.
The town shuttle runs until late — you do not need to rush back for your car
Entrance Fees & Passes
$35/vehicle or $80 annual passZion National Park entry is $35/vehicle (valid 7 days), $20/person for walk-ins. The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers all national parks. Purchase passes online at recreation.gov to speed up entry. During shuttle season, you can enter on foot from Springdale without driving through the entrance station.
Travel Tips for the St. George to Springdale Drive
During shuttle season (March-November), park your car at your hotel and use Springdale's free town shuttle and the park shuttle — it's easier and less stressful than fighting for parking
Book Springdale restaurants for dinner early, especially King's Landing and Spotted Dog — they fill up fast during peak season
Zion Outfitter near the park entrance rents Narrows gear (waterproof boots, socks, poles) — rent the afternoon before for an early morning start
Springdale lodging books up months in advance for spring and fall weekends — reserve early for the best properties
The Springdale Farmer's Market runs on summer weekends — check local listings for dates
Walk the Pa'rus Trail from Springdale into Zion — it's paved, flat, and connects to the park without needing a shuttle or car
Frequently Asked Questions: St. George to Springdale
How far is Springdale from St. George?
Springdale is approximately 40 miles (45 minutes) from St. George via I-15 North and UT-9 East through Hurricane. The drive follows the scenic Virgin River corridor and offers increasingly dramatic canyon views as you approach Zion National Park.
Do I need to stay in Springdale to visit Zion?
You do not need to stay in Springdale, but it is the most convenient base for visiting Zion. Springdale sits directly at the south entrance, and the free town shuttle connects to the park shuttle system. Staying here eliminates early-morning drives and parking stress. Day-trippers from St. George should arrive before 7 AM during peak season to find parking.
Is the Springdale shuttle free?
Yes, both the Springdale town shuttle and the Zion Canyon park shuttle are completely free. The town shuttle connects hotels, restaurants, and shops along UT-9 to the park entrance. The park shuttle runs up Zion Canyon Scenic Drive with nine stops. Both operate during shuttle season (approximately March through November).
What are the best restaurants in Springdale?
Springdale punches well above its weight for dining. Oscar's Cafe is the beloved casual spot for breakfast and lunch. Whiptail Grill serves creative Southwestern cuisine. King's Landing Bistro and Spotted Dog Cafe are the top fine dining options. MeMe's Cafe is perfect for morning pastries and coffee. Reservations are recommended for dinner during peak season.
Nearby Destinations from Springdale
Zion National Park
The crown jewel of Southern Utah and one of America's most visited national parks is just 45 minutes from St. George. Towering 2,000-foot sandstone cliffs, world-famous hikes, and the emerald Virgin River make Zion an absolute must-visit.
Kanab
Known as "Little Hollywood" for its Western film history, Kanab is a charming gateway town to The Wave, Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes
Stunning coral-pink sand dunes created from eroding Navajo sandstone. Perfect for ATV riding, sandboarding, photography, stargazing, and family camping in one of Southern Utah's most unique landscapes.
Snow Canyon State Park
St. George's backyard national park-quality gem. Just 15 minutes from downtown, Snow Canyon features dramatic red and white sandstone cliffs, ancient lava flows, slot canyons, sand dunes, and world-class hiking — rivaling Zion without the crowds.
Complete Guide: Driving from St. George to Springdale
St. George to Springdale — 40 miles, 45 min Drive
Springdale is a small town with an outsized personality, wedged between towering red rock canyon walls at the south entrance of Zion National Park. With a year-round population of just over 500, this half-mile stretch of UT-9 transforms into one of Utah's most vibrant tourism corridors, welcoming over four million Zion visitors annually. What sets Springdale apart from typical gateway towns is its genuine character — locally owned restaurants with creative menus, art galleries featuring regional artists, outfitters run by lifelong outdoor enthusiasts, and lodging properties that embrace their spectacular natural setting rather than competing with it.
The route from St. George, Utah to Springdale, Utah covers 40 miles and takes approximately 45 min via I-15 N to UT-9 E through Hurricane. Head north on I-15 to Exit 16, then take UT-9 East through Hurricane and La Verkin. Continue east through Virgin and Rockville, following the scenic Virgin River corridor. Springdale is at the end of UT-9, right at the south entrance of Zion National Park. The last stretch from Rockville to Springdale offers stunning views of Zion's towering canyon walls.
Things to Do in Springdale
Dining & Restaurants: Oscar's Cafe, Whiptail Grill, King's Landing Bistro. Shopping & Galleries: Worthington Gallery, David J. West Gallery, Zion Outfitter. Lodging: Cliffrose Springdale, Cable Mountain Lodge, Desert Pearl Inn. Getting to Zion: Zion Canyon Shuttle, Springdale Town Shuttle, Parking Tips.
Best Time to Visit Springdale
Spring and fall offer ideal weather for Zion hiking with temperatures of 55-80°F and the most pleasant conditions for dining and walking around Springdale. Summer is peak tourist season with temperatures exceeding 100°F in the canyon and maximum crowds. Winter (December-February) is the quietest time with cool temperatures (30-55°F), no shuttle requirement, and you can drive yourself into Zion Canyon. Holiday weekends and school breaks are always the busiest.
Travel Tips
During shuttle season (March-November), park your car at your hotel and use Springdale's free town shuttle and the park shuttle — it's easier and less stressful than fighting for parking. Book Springdale restaurants for dinner early, especially King's Landing and Spotted Dog — they fill up fast during peak season. Zion Outfitter near the park entrance rents Narrows gear (waterproof boots, socks, poles) — rent the afternoon before for an early morning start. Springdale lodging books up months in advance for spring and fall weekends — reserve early for the best properties.
For more things to do near St. George, explore our Things to Do guide, browse the Events Calendar, or discover local businesses in the St. George Business Directory. Check out all road trip destinations from St. George including Zion National Park, Kanab, Coral Pink Sand Dunes.
