🏔️ Iconic Trails & Adventures
From heart-pounding cliff walks to serene river hikes, Zion offers adventures for every skill level
📅 Perfect Timing for Your Visit
Zion is beautiful year-round, but timing can make or break your adventure. Here's your seasonal guide.
🌸
Spring
Mar - May • 60-80°F
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✅ Pros:
- Perfect hiking weather
- Wildflowers blooming
- Waterfalls at peak
- Moderate crowds
⚠️ Cons:
- Some trails may be muddy
- Weather can be unpredictable
☀️
Summer
Jun - Aug • 85-105°F
⭐⭐⭐
✅ Pros:
- All trails accessible
- Long daylight hours
- Perfect for water activities
- Vibrant desert colors
⚠️ Cons:
- Very hot temperatures
- Crowded trails
- Early starts essential
🍂
Fall
Sep - Nov • 65-85°F
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✅ Pros:
- Ideal hiking conditions
- Beautiful fall colors
- Fewer crowds
- Comfortable camping
⚠️ Cons:
- Popular season
- Book accommodations early
❄️
Winter
Dec - Feb • 35-60°F
⭐⭐⭐
✅ Pros:
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Snow-capped peaks
- Lower accommodation rates
- Unique photography
⚠️ Cons:
- Some trails closed
- Unpredictable weather
- Shorter days
📸 Epic Photography Spots
Capture Zion's breathtaking beauty with these photographer-approved locations and pro tips
📷
Canyon Overlook Trail
⏰ Golden Hour🥾 Easy
Capture the entire Zion Canyon bathed in golden light
💡 Pro Tips:
- Arrive 1 hour before sunset
- Bring a tripod
- Wide-angle lens recommended
📷
The Narrows
⏰ Midday🥾 Moderate
Dramatic slot canyon walls with flowing water reflections
💡 Pro Tips:
- Waterproof camera gear
- Polarizing filter essential
- Look for light beams
📷
Angel's Landing
⏰ Sunrise🥾 Challenging
360-degree panoramic views of the entire park
💡 Pro Tips:
- Start hiking at 4 AM
- Telephoto for distant peaks
- Safety first on chains
📷
Emerald Pools
⏰ Morning🥾 Easy
Serene waterfalls and crystal-clear reflecting pools
💡 Pro Tips:
- Macro lens for details
- Capture water movement
- Multiple exposures
💡 Essential Planning Guide
Everything you need to know for an unforgettable Zion adventure
🏨 Where to Stay
- ▸Zion Lodge (inside park) - book 6+ months ahead
- ▸Springdale - walking distance to park entrance
- ▸St. George - budget option, 1 hour drive
- ▸Camping - Watchman & South Campgrounds
🚌 Getting Around
- ▸Free shuttle system operates Mar-Oct
- ▸Private vehicles restricted in main canyon
- ▸Shuttle runs every 6-10 minutes
- ▸Walk or bike when shuttles aren't running
🎒 What to Pack
- ▸Sturdy hiking boots with good grip
- ▸Plenty of water (1 gallon per person/day)
- ▸Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- ▸Layers for temperature changes
⚠️ Safety Tips
- ▸Check weather before hiking Narrows
- ▸Start early to avoid afternoon heat
- ▸Tell someone your hiking plans
- ▸Know your limits on challenging trails
💰 Budget Planning
- ▸Park entrance: $35 per vehicle (7 days)
- ▸Annual pass: $70 (great value for multiple visits)
- ▸Gear rental in Springdale: $40-60/day
- ▸Dining: $15-40 per meal depending on location
📋 Permits & Reservations
- ▸Angel's Landing: Timed entry permits required
- ▸Narrows top-down: Wilderness permit needed
- ▸Camping: Reserve at recreation.gov
- ▸Zion Lodge: Book well in advance