Zion National Park Overview
Zion National Park, located in the southwestern part of Utah, is a magnificent expanse of unique geological formations, diverse ecosystems, and rich history. Established as a national park on November 19, 1919, Zion spans across 229 square miles (593 square km) and is distinguished by Zion Canyon, which stretches 15 miles long and up to half a mile deep. The park's history dates back to approximately 8,000 years ago, with Native American groups such as the Ancestral Puebloans and the Paiute tribe inhabiting the region. The name "Zion," meaning a place of peace and refuge, was given by the early Mormon settlers in the 1860s. The area was initially designated as Mukuntuweap National Monument by President William Howard Taft in 1909 and later became Zion National Park. The park's elevation ranges from 3,666 feet (1,117 m) at Coalpits Wash to 8,726 feet (2,660 m) at Horse Ranch Mountain, contributing to its diverse habitats. The park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, with visitation numbers often exceeding 4.5 million annually.
The park is home to a rich array of wildlife, including 68 species of mammals, 291 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 8 species of fish. Notable species include the Mexican spotted owl, the California condor, the Mojave Desert tortoise, and the Southwestern willow flycatcher, all of which are protected due to their vulnerable status.
The Narrows and Angels Landing are two of the most famous features in the park. The Narrows is a gorge carved by the Virgin River, offering a unique hiking experience where visitors can wade through the riverbed. Angels Landing is a challenging hike that rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the park's canyons and rock formations.
For more information see the park's Wikipedia page.
Zion National Park Hiking Trails
Zion National Park has over 90 miles of trails. Most of the hikes are short but with some elevation gain. For a full list of hikes, visit the NPS website.
Top Day Hikes
Angels Landing is one of Zion's best-known and most exposed hikes. The hike is known for its incredible view of the canyon and the challenge it presents to hikers. A permit is required for the hike. The trail takes you through a series of switchbacks known as Walter's Wiggles, up to Scout Lookout, and then along a narrow ridge with chain-assisted rock scrambling sections. The hike is strenuous and not recommended for those with a fear of heights. The trailhead for Angel's Landing is located at The Grotto (stop #6 on the Zion Shuttle), where hikers cross a bridge over the Virgin River to begin their ascent. The round-trip distance of the trail is approximately 5.4 miles (8.7 km), with an elevation gain of around 1,500 feet (457 m).
The Narrows has stunning views as you wade/swim through the slot canyon carved by the Virgin River. The walls of the canyon, in places, reach up to 1,000 feet (304 m). The vast number of hikers leave from the Temple of Sinawava, at the final stop of the Zion Shuttle and go up the canyon. However, you can start at Chamberlain's Ranch and descend 16 miles (26 km). Water shoes or boots are commonly used, and seasonal outfitters in Springdale rent river gear.
The East Mesa Trail to Observation Point is a less strenuous alternative to the traditional route from Weeping Rock. It takes you through a high plateau, offering a relatively flat walk through pine forests before reaching the grand overlook of Zion Canyon. The East Mesa Trailhead is accessed via a dirt road off of North Fork County Road, outside the main canyon of Zion National Park. It's recommended to have a high-clearance vehicle to navigate the road leading to the trailhead. The main attraction is the Observation Point itself, which provides a spectacular view of Zion Canyon, including landmarks like Angels Landing and the Great White Throne. The hike about 7 miles (11.3 m) round trip with only 230 feet (70 m) to reach the point.
Zion National Park Backpacking
Backpacking in Zion is a rewarding experience. Some trails give you a high-level view of the canyon, Angels Landing, and the Temple of Sinawava. Other trails offer a unique perspective of the high desert surrounding the park. Permits are required for overnight camping through recreation.gov and for the Narrows. Below are two well-known backpacking routes to research with current NPS conditions and permit information. The NPS has a list of backpacking trips on its website. Water is scarce in the park, except in the Narrows, where you will need a filter. Plan accordingly. Regulations and more backpacking information can be found on the NPS Backpacking website.
West Rim Trail is a high-elevation path that provides sweeping vistas of Wildcat Canyon and the surrounding areas. It begins near Lava Point and descends into the main canyon, passing through diverse landscapes including alpine forests and red rock canyons. The trail starts at the West Rim Trailhead, located near Lava Point. To reach the trailhead, you'll need to drive on Kolob Terrace Road, which runs along the western boundary of the park. The road to Lava Point can be closed due to snow in the winter and spring months, so check current conditions before your trip. Along the trail, you'll encounter breathtaking features like Phantom Valley, the expansive views from the rim, and the deep canyons below. The West Rim Trail is approximately 14.5 miles (23.3 km) long when hiked from Lava Point to The Grotto. Most of the trail is downhill. Starting elevation is 7,900 feet (2,408 m), and it ends at 4,474 feet (1,364 m) at The Grotto bus stop. Go to the NPS site for a list of campsites and photos of the trail.
The Southwest Desert trail, also known as the Chinle Trail, offers a unique desert hiking experience. It traverses open terrain, providing sweeping views of the West Temple and Mount Kinesava. The trail begins at the Anasazi Way subdivision, off Highway 9 between Rockville and Springdale. The trailhead and parking are on the right as you turn onto Anasazi Way. The trail's attractions include vast desert landscapes, the petrified wood forest, and the biological soil crusts. It's a hot trail in the summer but pleasant in the spring and fall. The one-way distance from the Chinle Trailhead to Coalpits Wash Trailhead is approximately 11.7 miles (18.8 km), or 8.2 miles (13.2 km) from the Chinle Trailhead to Coalpits Spring. The elevation change along the trail is about 600 feet (180 meters), making it a relatively flat hike compared to other trails in Zion. The NPS provides a trail map with campsites.
Transportation
Zion Canyon shuttle operations, bike access, and private-vehicle restrictions vary by season and park operations. Check the official NPS shuttle and current-conditions pages before choosing how to travel through the canyon.
Zion National Park Camping
Zion has developed campgrounds inside the park, but openings, reservations, and available services can change by season and project work. Use the official NPS camping pages and Recreation.gov links before planning an overnight stay.
South Campground status can change with construction, drainage work, and seasonal operations; check the official NPS campground page for current availability.
Watchman Campground is located next to the Zion Canyon Visitor center. Microbreweries and restaurants are close by. There are a total of 176 campsites. There are 69 tent only sites, 65 RV only sites and 95 sites with electricity. There are flush toilets, potable water and cell service in the campground.
Lava Point Campground is located an hour drive from Zion Canyon. The campground is usually open from May through September. The campground sits at 7,890 feet (2,404 m) of elevation and is cooler than the canyon. There are only 6 campsites at the campground. There is no cell reception or water but there are vaulted toilets. Reservations are available on a 2-week rolling window.