If this is your first time exploring Zion National Park, then you may be finding planning your trip there a little overwhelming. It’s not uncommon for first-time visitors.
Which is why I’ve compiled my top Zion National Park tips and tricks.
I’m James Ian and I’m a national park expert. After several trips there, I’m happy to share these Zion tips with you.
Watch these these tips for visiting Zion National Park on video:
🔔 You can also watch this video on YouTube directly (opens in new tab).
🎙️ Or listen as a podcast:
1. Check the water levels and flashflood warning before starting The Narrows
Doing on the iconic hike through The Narrows (read my full guide to The Narrows hike here) means wading through the Virgin River, a journey that is both thrilling and subject to the river’s whims. The National Park Service closely monitors the water levels and potential flash flood risks to ensure hiker safety.
Typically, if the flow rate is above 150 cubic feet per second (CFS), The Narrows will be closed to visitors. This can often happen in the spring due to snowmelt or after heavy rainfall events. It’s not uncommon for The Narrows to be closed for several days in April and May, and sometimes closures can extend beyond these months in years with significant snowfall or prolonged rainy periods.
For the most current conditions, check the Zion National Park website or inquire at the Visitor Center before you plan to hike The Narrows.
2. Be aware of the toxic cyanobacteria in the Virgin River
The Virgin River is home to toxic cyanobacteria. I’ve had several people over the years express concern to me about this.
You don’t need to freak out about this, but it is helpful to be aware of it and take basic precautions. Keep the following in mind:
Don’t Drink the Water or Get It in Your Mouth: Always carry sufficient drinking water, and never rely on the river as a source. And if you’re hiking The Narrows, be careful not to dunk your head under water or splash water into your mouth.
If You Have Any Cuts or Sores, Avoid Contact With the Water: Open wounds can increase the risk of infection. Cover any cuts with waterproof bandages as a precaution.
If you may have been exposed to toxin-producing cyanobacteria and have any unexplained symptoms, seek immediate medical attention and contact the Utah Poison Control Center by calling (800) 222-1222. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
3. Go early to beat the heat (in summer) and the crowds and get a parking spot
An early start is not just a tip—it’s a necessity. Arriving at dawn allows you to enjoy cooler temperatures (summer is a popular time to visit, but temperatures are regularly well above 100 degrees in July and August) and less crowded trails.
To beat the heat, it’s best to start your day as the sun rises. Not only will this give you more comfortable temperatures, but you’ll also sidestep the larger crowds that tend to gather as the day progresses.
Parking is another reason to rise with the birds. During the summer, parking lots in Zion, especially the main lot at the Visitor Center, are typically full by 8:00 AM or earlier. Arriving before this time greatly increases your chances of finding a spot. The sweet spot that I’ve found is to arrive around 7:00 – 7:30 AM after the first rush and before the late risers.
Once the lots are full, you’ll need to find parking in the town of Springdale and use the town shuttle to reach the park entrance, which adds time and complexity to your day.
I read many people complain about congestion in Zion in summer, but I’ve visited in August several times and have always got a super early start and have never noticed crazy congestion.
Arriving after around 3:30 PM is also a good strategy to get a parking spot at the Visitor Center and beat the crowds.
4. Get a permit if you’re planning to hike Angels Landing (but still hike it if you don’t get a permit)
Angels Landing is one of Zion’s most famous hikes, known for its stunning views and narrow path with sheer drop offs on both sides. A permit system is in place to manage the crowds, so make sure to get one in advance.
➡️ Read my Guide to Angels Landing Permits for more details.
However, if you’re not able to get a permit, don’t stress too much. You can actually do most of the hike (to Scout’s Lookout) without a permit – it’s just the last 0.5 mile on the section with a chain and steep drop offs that you need a permit for. I love this hike to Scout’s Lookout and recommend it.
➡️ Plus, there are plenty of other awesome hikes in Zion to do.
5. Book a place to stay well in advance
Accommodations in and around Zion National Park can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. To avoid disappointment, reserve your hotel, campground, or vacation rental months ahead of your visit.
The main gateway town is Springdale, just outside the park’s main entrance.
➡️ Check for availability on Expedia.
6. Know the shuttle schedule for when you’ll visit
The only way you can get around the main part of Zion Canyon for much of the year is the free shuttle. The shuttle buses run from early morning to late evening, but times can vary depending on the season. During the summer, shuttles start as early as 6:00 AM and run until after nightfall.
Knowing the shuttle schedule is essential, especially if you’re planning to catch the first or last bus of the day to maximize your time in the park. Check the Zion National Park website or the Visitor Center for the most up-to-date shuttle timetable during your visit.
There is also a free shuttle bus that runs through Springdale and connects to the ones in the park.
The shuttle system has been a game changer in reducing traffic congestion. However, not everyone loves them. If you just don’t want to deal with the shuttle, here are options for visiting Zion without using the shuttle.
7. Check trail conditions and closures before your visit
Zion’s dynamic landscape means that trail conditions can change rapidly due to weather, rockfalls, or other natural events.
Before setting out, make sure to check for any trail closures or conditions that may affect your planned hikes. This information can be found on the park’s official website or by inquiring at the Visitor Center upon arrival.
Have a Plan B and be prepared to be flexible just in case.
8. Spend some time under the enormous cottonwood tree at the Zion Lodge
For a moment of tranquility, seek out the shade of the giant cottonwood tree at Zion Lodge. This natural landmark is a perfect spot to rest, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak in the views of the surrounding canyon walls. It’s also a great place to watch for wildlife early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
9. Visit the other areas of the park
While Zion Canyon is the most visited area of the park, there’s much more to explore:
🔹East Mesa: This area offers a different perspective of the park with its high plateaus and less crowded trails.
🔹Kolob Canyons: Located in the northwest corner of the park, this section boasts stunning crimson canyons and quiet trails.
🔹Kolob Terrace Road: This scenic byway takes you through diverse landscapes, from desert scrub to wooded highlands. I’ve been here at the height of summer and seen only a handful of other cars.
Exploring these less-traveled areas can provide a break from the busier main canyon.
10. Consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass if planning to visit multiple national parks
If Zion is just one of the many national parks you plan to visit over the year, the America the Beautiful Pass can be a cost-effective investment.
This annual pass covers entrance fees to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, including all national parks. It’s a convenient way to streamline your park visits and can also encourage you to explore more of America’s natural heritage.
➡️ Get an America The Beautiful pass here
11. Take advantage of ranger-led programs
Zion National Park offers a variety of ranger-led programs that can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the park. These programs include guided walks, talks, and evening programs that delve into the park’s geology, wildlife, and history.
Check the current schedule at the visitor center or online to see what’s on offer during your visit.
12. Get one of my itineraries
Planning a trip to Zion can be overwhelming with so much to see and do. To help you make the most of your visit, consider purchasing one of my detailed itineraries. I offer 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day itineraries tailored to different activity levels and interests.
These itineraries come packed with hour-by-hour plans, including tips for visiting, important information, hike descriptions, driving directions, and shuttle stop details. They are designed to alleviate the stress of planning and ensure you don’t miss out on any of Zion’s wonders.
With one of my itineraries in hand, you can relax and enjoy your adventure in this incredible park, knowing that all the details have been taken care of.
➡️ Buy a Zion National Park itinerary here.
Enjoy your trip to Zion vacation!
More Planning Resources for Zion National Park
Do you have any other travel tips for Zion National Park? I’d love to hear about them. Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
If you liked these Zion National Park travel tips, Pin It to your Zion National Park board!
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for many of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, and other resources will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Newsweek, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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