Zion National Park Guide from St. George
Complete guide to Angels Landing, The Narrows, Emerald Pools, entry fees, permits, directions, and seasonal tips. Just 45 minutes from St. George.
Road update (Oct 2026): SR-9 and the tunnel reopened October 9 with a temporary gravel section. Reopening details. The shuttle runs through November 28; winter shuttle schedule. U.S. residents get in free October 27 and November 11; free entrance days.
Quick Facts
What is the best Zion day trip from a St. George hotel?
Leave your St. George hotel by 7 a.m. From the Clarion Suites and the other hotels around South Main Street, St. George Boulevard and Bluff Street, Springdale is about 46 miles and 45 minutes via I-15 and SR-9. Park at the visitor center before 9 a.m., ride the free shuttle, and hike Riverside Walk, Emerald Pools and the Pa'rus Trail.
A first-timer's day from St. George
- 7:00 a.m. Leave the hotel. Take I-15 north to Exit 16, then SR-9 east through Hurricane, La Verkin and Virgin to Springdale. Pick up water and breakfast in St. George or Hurricane; Springdale prices are higher.
- 8:00 a.m. Pay the $35 vehicle entry at the South Entrance and park at the visitor center. If the lot is full, park in Springdale and ride the free town shuttle to the entrance.
- 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Ride the park shuttle (private cars are not allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive while it runs, March through November) to the Temple of Sinawava for the flat Riverside Walk, then back to Zion Lodge for the Lower Emerald Pool trail.
- Afternoon. Lunch in Springdale, then the paved Pa'rus Trail from the visitor center for Watchman views before the drive back. Angels Landing needs a permit won in advance; save it for a return trip.
Routes, entrances and the Las Vegas option are on our Zion directions page; where to stay in town is in the St. George visitor guide. Check the road alert above before you go: with SR-9 closed east of Canyon Junction, Canyon Overlook and the tunnel are off the itinerary for now.
What Makes Zion Special
Iconic Hikes
Angels Landing ranks among America's most famous hikes with chains on a narrow ridge. The Narrows offers a unique bottom-up slot canyon experience. Emerald Pools and Canyon Overlook provide stunning views with moderate effort.
Dramatic Geology
Towering cream and red-colored sandstone cliffs define Zion's landscape. The Virgin River carved Zion Canyon over millennia, creating 1,000-foot-high walls. Each layer of rock tells a geological story spanning hundreds of millions of years.
Accessible Beauty
The scenic drive and Pa'rus Trail offer incredible views for all fitness levels. Shuttle system provides easy access without driving. Springdale gateway town provides restaurants, gear rentals, and lodging right outside the park.
Biodiversity
Zion protects diverse ecosystems from desert scrub to subalpine forest. Visitors spot bighorn sheep, mule deer, golden eagles, and California condors. The park's elevation range creates multiple habitat zones in a compact area.
Zion National Park stands as one of the most visited parks in America for good reason. The combination of accessible scenic drives, hiking of varying difficulty, and dramatic geology makes it unforgettable. Whether you spend a day on the scenic drive or commit to challenging hikes like Angels Landing, Zion delivers on the promise of American wilderness at its finest. The park's close proximity to St. George makes it a perfect destination for a day trip or multi-day adventure.
Planning Your Visit
Entry Fees & Passes
Vehicle pass: $35 (7 days). Person on foot/bike: $20. America the Beautiful Annual Pass: $80 (all national parks 1 year). Senior Annual Pass: $20. Free entry for children under 16, military, federal pass holders.
Getting There
46 miles northeast of St. George, 45 minutes via UT-9. Springdale is the main gateway town with hotels, restaurants, and gear shops. Drive up the scenic Zion Canyon Drive inside the park (11 miles, 15 stops). Park entrance is open year-round, 24 hours daily.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (Mar–May): 60–75°F, wildflowers, moderate crowds. Fall (Sep–Nov): 65–85°F, fewer crowds, stunning light. Summer: 95–110°F, open shuttle, long daylight. Winter: mild, solitude, occasional snow at high elevations.
Parking & Transportation
Limited parking, fills by 9 AM peak season. Mandatory shuttle system Mar–Nov (free with entry fee). Springdale town shuttle available. Arrive early or use shuttle from St. George tour companies. Pa'rus Trail is best for non-drivers.
Top Things to Do
Angels Landing
StrenuousAmerica's most famous hike with chains on a narrow ridge. Iconic switchbacks and 1,488 ft elevation gain. Requires permit. Sunrise views are spectacular.
The Narrows
Moderate–HardHike up a slot canyon in the Virgin River. Neoprene boots and gear required. Water is cold year-round. Flash flood risk during storms.
Emerald Pools Trail
Easy–ModerateThree interconnected pools with stunning views. Family-friendly lower and middle pools. Upper pool viewpoint more strenuous.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Easy–ModerateShort hike with incredible valley views. Perfect sunrise/sunset hike. Less crowded than major trails. Great for photography.
Pa'rus Trail
EasyPaved, wheelchair and bike accessible. Runs along Virgin River. Perfect for families and all fitness levels. Open year-round.
Scenic Drive & Shuttle
EasyZion Canyon scenic drive with 11 stops. Mandatory shuttle Mar–Nov. Big Bend, The Watchman, Temple of Sinawava are highlights.
Observation Point Trail
StrenuousPanoramic views of entire Zion Canyon. Technical switchbacks carved into cliff. Best for experienced hikers.
Kolob Canyons
Easy–ModerateLess crowded northern section, 45 min from main canyon. Taylor Creek Trail, scenic drive, fewer people but equally stunning.
Nearby State Parks & Natural Areas
Snow Canyon State Park
Red & white sand, slot canyons, camping, rock climbing
Sand Hollow State Park
Reservoir, water sports, RV park, scenic off-road trails
Quail Creek State Park
Fishing, boating, camping, picnicking, scenic views
Gunlock State Park
Reservoir camping, scenic drives, petroglyphs, wildlife
Springdale Gateway Town
Springdale sits immediately outside Zion's south entrance and offers everything you need for a perfect park visit. The town features numerous restaurants from casual cafes to upscale dining, hotels ranging from budget to luxury, gear rental shops for Narrows hikes and canyoneering, and outfitters for guided tours. Local businesses provide shuttle services between Springdale and the park, making it unnecessary to drive in the busy canyon.
Explore Springdale
Restaurants, hotels, gear shops, and services
Brew pub in Zion
Zion Canyon Brew Pub at the park entrance: menu, hours, shuttle tips
More National Parks
Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon & Capitol Reef
Red Bull Rampage in Virgin, Utah
Oct 8-10, 2026 results on Kolob Terrace Road, and the 2027 outlook
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Zion day trip from a St. George hotel?
Leave your St. George hotel by 7 a.m. From the Clarion Suites and the other hotels around South Main Street, St. George Boulevard and Bluff Street, Springdale is about 46 miles and 45 minutes via I-15 and SR-9. Park at the visitor center before 9 a.m., ride the free shuttle, and hike Riverside Walk, Emerald Pools and the Pa'rus Trail.
What is Zion National Park known for?
Zion National Park is famous for its towering red and cream-colored sandstone cliffs, deep canyons, and narrow slot canyons. The park is best known for iconic hikes like Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Emerald Pools. Zion Valley offers spectacular scenic drives, and visitors come for hiking, photography, and natural beauty. The park showcases some of the most dramatic geology in the American Southwest.
Is Zion National Park free to enter?
No, Zion National Park requires an entrance fee. A 7-day vehicle pass costs $35, while individual person passes are $20. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass covers all national parks for $80 and is valid for one year. Senior passes (age 62+) cost $20 annually. Children under 16 and certain federal pass holders may enter free.
How far is Zion National Park from St. George, Utah?
Zion National Park is approximately 46 miles northeast of St. George, Utah. The drive takes about 45 minutes to one hour via UT-9 (Zion Park Boulevard), depending on traffic and starting point. Springdale, the main gateway town to Zion, is just outside the park entrance and is about 50 miles from downtown St. George.
Does Zion National Park charge a parking fee?
There is no separate parking fee at Zion, but you must pay the park entrance fee to enter ($35 for a 7-day vehicle pass). Parking in Zion Valley is limited and often full during peak season. The park operates a mandatory shuttle system from March through November. Some pullouts and scenic areas have limited free parking, while the main Visitor Center parking area charges the park entrance fee.
What is the best time to visit Zion National Park?
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best conditions with mild temperatures between 60-75°F and fewer crowds than summer. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat exceeding 100°F but longer daylight and open facilities. Winter (December-February) is cool and quiet with occasional snow at higher elevations. The Narrows is best in spring and summer with appropriate water levels for hiking.
What do I need to bring to hike at Zion National Park?
Bring at least 3 liters of water per person, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy hiking boots, and layers for temperature changes. For The Narrows hike, you need neoprene boots, canyoneering gear, and water sandals. Angels Landing requires permits obtained through a lottery. Always bring a map, snacks, first aid supplies, and start hikes early. Check weather for flash flood warnings, especially during monsoon season (July-September).
Do I need a permit to hike Angels Landing at Zion?
Yes, Angels Landing requires a permit starting in 2023. The National Park Service conducts a lottery system for daily permits. Permits are limited to 75 people per day for day-use and can be reserved in advance through recreation.gov. The hike is 5.4 miles roundtrip with 1,488 feet of elevation gain and includes chains on the final ridge. Permits fill quickly during peak season.
Can you do The Narrows hike in Zion without special gear?
No, you cannot safely hike The Narrows without water gear. You must have neoprene boots or canyoneering shoes, and canyoneering equipment for the slot canyon sections. Many visitors rent gear locally in Springdale or take guided tours that include equipment. The water is cold year-round, and flash flood danger is serious during monsoon season. Never enter the canyon without proper preparation and weather awareness.
Explore More Zion & Southern Utah
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Complete Zion National Park Guide from St. George, Utah
Planning Your Zion Adventure
Zion National Park represents the crown jewel of Southern Utah's natural wonders and sits remarkably close to St. George—just 45 minutes northeast via scenic Highway 9. The park's soaring sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and diverse hiking opportunities make it a must-visit destination for anyone in the region. Whether you're a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor experiencing the area for the first time, understanding Zion's logistics, seasons, and most rewarding trails ensures a memorable experience that respects both the park's fragility and its popularity.
Entry Fees, Permits & Reservations
Zion requires an entrance fee of $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass, with individual non-vehicle passes at $20. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass, valid at all 423 national parks for one year, costs $80 and is an excellent value for those planning multiple park visits in Utah's Mighty Five. Beginning in 2023, Angels Landing, Zion's most iconic hike, requires a permit obtained through a competitive lottery system administered on recreation.gov. The park operates a mandatory shuttle system from March through November within Zion Canyon, designed to manage traffic and protect the fragile riparian ecosystem. The Narrows bottom-up day hike requires no permit, but overnight stays need wilderness permits available through the park's website. Parking within the park is limited and fills quickly during peak season, so arriving by 8 AM or using the Springdale shuttle is recommended.
Seasonal Considerations & Weather
Zion experiences dramatic seasonal variations. Spring (March–May) brings temperatures of 60–75°F, wildflower blooms, and manageable crowds before peak summer season. Fall (September–November) offers ideal hiking conditions with cooler temperatures of 65–85°F and stunning light for photography. Summer (June–August) can be brutally hot, with temperatures exceeding 100°F in the canyon, but the shuttle system runs, facilities operate fully, and longer daylight extends hiking opportunities. Winter (December–February) brings mild daytime temperatures but occasional snow at higher elevations. The Narrows hike can be dangerous during heavy rains due to flash flood risk, particularly during monsoon season (July–September). Always check weather forecasts and park alerts before starting any hike.
Essential Hiking Preparation
Successful Zion hiking requires preparation and the right gear. Carry a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day, more in summer heat. Wear sturdy hiking boots with ankle support for rocky terrain. Bring layers even in summer, as elevation changes create temperature swings of 20+ degrees between the canyon floor and rim. Sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and a wide-brimmed hat are non-negotiable in this high-altitude desert environment. For The Narrows, rent specialized neoprene boots, canyoneering shoes, and gear from Springdale outfitters—cold water and slippery rocks make improvised footwear dangerous. Angels Landing requires no special gear beyond standard hiking equipment but demands respect for the exposed chains and narrow ridge. Always tell someone your planned route and expected return time, and start hikes at sunrise to maximize daylight and escape crowds.
Springdale Gateway Services
The charming town of Springdale, immediately outside Zion's south entrance, serves as the primary gateway and offers every service needed for a successful park visit. Numerous restaurants range from casual breakfast cafes to upscale fine dining, many featuring local ingredients and cuisine inspired by the landscape. Hotels and vacation rentals accommodate all budgets, from budget motels to luxury resorts. Gear rental shops specialize in Narrows equipment, canyoneering hardware, and hiking supplies. Tour operators offer everything from guided day hikes and photography tours to multi-day canyoneering expeditions. The Springdale shuttle service connects town lodging with the park entrance, eliminating the need to drive and park within the congested canyon. Shopping, galleries, and breweries provide entertainment on evening downtime.
Beyond Zion: Nearby Parks & Attractions
While Zion deserves a full day or more, St. George's location near multiple parks makes extended trips worthwhile. Snow Canyon State Park (25 minutes away) offers red and white sand dunes, dramatic slot canyons, and rock climbing. Sand Hollow State Park (30 minutes) provides water sports and scenic trails. Bryce Canyon National Park (2.5 hours) showcases hoodoo formations and stargazing programs. Kolob Canyons, Zion's less-visited northern section (45 minutes from the main canyon), offers quieter trails and equally stunning geology. By using St. George as a base camp, visitors can experience multiple parks in a single extended trip, making Southern Utah one of the world's most concentrated collections of spectacular natural landscapes.
Ready to Explore Zion?
Start planning your visit with permit information, trail recommendations, and local services from St. George Word of Mouth.