Things to do in Zion National Park
A sandstone canyon park of towering red cliffs, narrow slot canyons, hanging gardens, desert mesas, and the Virgin River.
Best months: March, April, October, November
What is worth your time in Zion National Park
Angels LandingDo not miss
Zion's most famous hike climbs to an exposed fin with huge canyon views and a serious permit-controlled chain section.
Hike · 5 hr4.9
The NarrowsDo not miss
Walking through the Virgin River between soaring canyon walls is Zion's signature water-and-stone experience.
Hike · 5 hr4.9
Canyon Overlook TrailDo not miss
A short, high-payoff hike above the tunnel gives a classic view into lower Zion Canyon without using the shuttle.
Hike · 1.5 hr4.8
Emerald Pools TrailDo not miss
A flexible canyon hike links alcoves, seasonal waterfalls, and pools directly from the lodge area.
Hike · 2.3 hr4.4
Scout Lookout
The climb through Walter's Wiggles reaches the dramatic saddle below Angels Landing without requiring the final chain permit.
Hike · 4 hr4.9
Timber Creek Overlook Trail
A short ridge walk at the end of Kolob Canyons Road gives a huge view over finger canyons and distant plateaus.
Hike · 1.1 hr4.9
Observation Point
This high overlook looks down on Angels Landing and the canyon, making it one of Zion's grandest viewpoints when access is open.
Hike · 4 hr4.8
Zion Canyon
After the canyon quiets down, dark skies and cliff silhouettes make Zion a memorable place for night-sky viewing.
Stargazing · 1.4 hr4.8
Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
The switchbacks, tunnel, slickrock, and checkerboard formations make the east-side road one of Utah's great park drives.
Scenic Drive · 1.8 hr4.8
Court of the Patriarchs
A very short stop frames three named sandstone towers and gives an easy classic canyon photo.
Viewpoint · 30 min4.7
Checkerboard Mesa
The crosshatched sandstone dome is an easy roadside stop that shows Zion's east-side geology at a glance.
Viewpoint · 30 min4.6
Pa'rus Trail
The paved Virgin River path is Zion's easiest bike- and wheelchair-friendly walk with Watchman views.
Hike · 1.4 hr4.6
Watchman Trail
A convenient hike from the visitor center climbs to views over Springdale, the Watchman, and lower Zion Canyon.
Hike · 2.5 hr4.6
Riverside Walk
The paved riverside path is the accessible gateway to The Narrows, with hanging gardens and canyon walls closing in.
Hike · 1.5 hr4
And 2 more, which the planner picks between based on your dates, pace and what you are into.
Worth knowing
- Zion is famous for Angels Landing, The Narrows, shuttle-served Zion Canyon, and dramatic cream-pink-red sandstone walls rising above the river.