What To Know
- If you plan to drive into the park, you’ll need to pay the entrance fee and obtain a timed-entry permit during peak season.
- The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is a 6-mile paved road that leads to popular attractions like Angels Landing and The Narrows.
- The Zion Canyon Shuttle System is a convenient alternative to driving into the park.
Zion National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder nestled in Utah’s southwest, beckons visitors with its towering sandstone cliffs, emerald pools, and lush vegetation. To fully experience the park’s grandeur, understanding how to enter is crucial. This comprehensive guide will provide all the essential information you need to plan your entry seamlessly.
Planning Your Visit
Before embarking on your Zion adventure, it’s essential to plan ahead. Consider the following factors:
- Peak Season: Zion experiences high visitation during spring and fall. If possible, visit during off-peak months or weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Reservations: During peak season, a timed-entry permit is required for driving into the park. Reservations can be made up to 3 months in advance.
- Shuttle System: A free shuttle system operates within the park, allowing visitors to access popular destinations without driving.
Entrance Fees
Zion National Park charges an entrance fee for all visitors. Fees vary depending on the method of entry:
- Vehicle: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
- Motorcycle: $30 per motorcycle (valid for 7 days)
- Walk-in/Bicycle: $20 per person (valid for 7 days)
- America the Beautiful Pass: $80 (annual pass that grants access to all national parks)
Entry Points
There are three primary entry points to Zion National Park:
- South Entrance (Springdale, UT): This is the most popular entrance, located near the town of Springdale.
- East Entrance (Mt. Carmel Junction, UT): This entrance is less crowded and offers access to the eastern portion of the park.
- Kolob Canyons Entrance (Virgin, UT): This remote entrance provides access to the Kolob Canyons section of the park.
Driving into the Park
If you plan to drive into the park, you’ll need to pay the entrance fee and obtain a timed-entry permit during peak season. Permits can be reserved online or at the park entrance stations.
- South Entrance: Enter via Highway 9. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is a 6-mile paved road that leads to popular attractions like Angels Landing and The Narrows.
- East Entrance: Enter via Highway 89. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is a 12-mile scenic drive that offers panoramic views of the park.
Using the Shuttle System
The Zion Canyon Shuttle System is a convenient alternative to driving into the park. The shuttle operates from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and stops at various points of interest along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
- Shuttle Hours: The shuttle runs from March through November, with varying schedules depending on the season.
- Shuttle Stops: Popular stops include The Grotto, Weeping Rock, and Temple of Sinawava.
- Shuttle Fares: The shuttle is free for all visitors.
Hiking and Biking
Zion National Park offers a wide range of hiking and biking trails. Permits are not required for most trails, but some popular trails, such as Angels Landing, require a permit during peak season.
- Hiking Permits: Permits for Angels Landing can be obtained online or at the park visitor center.
- Biking Regulations: Biking is permitted on designated roads and trails within the park.
Camping and Lodging
Zion National Park offers a variety of camping and lodging options. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
- Campgrounds: Three campgrounds are located within the park: South Campground, Watchman Campground, and Lava Point Campground.
- Lodging: The Zion Lodge is located inside the park and offers hotel rooms and cabins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the park hours?
A: The park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Q: Are pets allowed in the park?
A: No, pets are not allowed on trails or in the backcountry.
Q: Is there cell phone service in the park?
A: Cell phone service is limited in some areas of the park.
Q: Is food and water available in the park?
A: There are several restaurants and snack bars located within the park. Visitors should bring plenty of water, especially during summer months.
Q: What is the best time to visit Zion National Park?
A: Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather, but the park is beautiful year-round.
