25 Iconic Things To Do In Zion National Park (Best Hikes, Scenic Drives, & More) 

Located in southern Utah is the highly popular Zion National Park. Distinguished by steep red sandstone cliffs, emerald pools, and hanging gardens, this park tops many bucket lists.

There are so many fun and exciting things to do in Zion National Park, from some of the best hikes in the United States, scenic drives to unforgettable adventures and everything in between.

I’ve visited Zion a dozen times and am always finding new things to do.

Read on for some of the best things to do in Zion National Park!

As an added bonus, there’s hardly anyone out at this hour, allowing you to enjoy the quite magic of Zion National Park all to yourself.

Below are some of the most popular spots to catch the sunrise in Zion:

• Canyon Overlook Trail – Quick hike to a gorgeous Zion Canyon overlook.
• Zion Human History Museum back patio – The easiest option with beautiful views of the surrounding canyon walls.
• Upper East Canyon (locations off Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway) – This requires some exploring to find a spot you like but there’s lots of pull offs and will be few cars at this hour.
• Pa’rus Trail -Good for a quite walk along a paved trail as the sun rises.

Note: If you hate early mornings don’t worry, I have tips for best sunset spots towards the bottom of this post.

Zion Canyon Visitor Center 

The Visitor Center is located in Zion Canyon Village, which is where the Zion Canyon Shuttle begins, so you’ll most likely be starting your day here! Remember a shuttle is required to access Zion Canyon most of the year. Even outside of shuttle hours no private vehicles are allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

This large Visitor Center has lots of goodies for purchase — souvenirs, books, kids stuff — and park rangers available to answer questions you may have. 

There are also bathrooms on site, which are some of the largest and nicest you’ll find in the park. 

Go For A Scenic Drive

Zion is really cool because so much beauty can be seen from the comfort of your car (or the shuttle!). Zion Canyon Shuttle follows Zion Canyon Scenic Drive which showcases the park’s most well-known attractions and offers lots of stops with incredible views.

If visiting in winter, you may be able to drive Zion Canyon Scenic Drive without the park shuttle! This is a really special experience so be sure to take advantage if the opportunity presents itself.

Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway and Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel are some of my favorite places to explore in Zion! This section of the park is drivable in any vehicle and has many pull offs to get out and snap a few photos. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, there are a number of them east of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel.

Another beautiful route is Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive! This is a five mile scenic drive along Kolob Canyons Road. The drive has lots of beautiful red rocks and scenery but with a fraction of the crowds. 

GPS Guided Tour

If you plan to drive the park I highly recommend a GPS based audio guide. Guide Along is an audio tour downloaded to your phone which will guide you through Zion National Park. Not only does it supply tons of information about the park but it also provides tips about where to pull over for the best viewpoints and easy, accessible trails worth stopping for.

The guided audio follows your GPS, therefore provides information and tips in real time and allows you to set the pace of the tour!

Be sure to download the tour before heading to the park, it’ll then work even when you no longer have cell service.

The audio tour includes nearby Bryce Canyon National Park and it’s only a few dollars. You can purchase it through this link: Guide Along Zion National Park.

Explore The Upper East Canyon

If you decide to drive the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway be sure to get out and explore! East of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel has lots of pull offs where you’re free to roam the other-worldly landscape.

The rock formations in this area feature unusual, cracked patterns engraved in sandstone hills. It’s really beautiful and a unique site even by Zion’s standards!

Checkerboard Mesa is one of the most popular spots to check out, it’s located right by the East Entrance.

Go For A Hike

Going for a hike is one of the best ways to experience this park any time of year! Below are a few of the most loved hikes in and around Zion Canyon. 

Angels Landing 

One of the most popular hikes in Zion is Angels Landing. This is arguably the crown jewel of the park and helped secure Zion’s position as one of the most visited national parks in the United States.

The 5.3 mile hike features a 1,640 foot elevation change and 21 grueling switchbacks but is infamous for the last .5 mile stretch. 

This is where hikers traverse a knee-shaking exposed ridge with 1,000 foot sheer drops on either side — and no guard rails. This is not for the faint of heart — or those afraid of heights — but if this is the type of adventure you crave you’ll be rewarded with near 360-degree views of marvelous Zion Canyon. 

This hike requires a permit, which is available by lottery only. Find permit details at Angel’s Landing Permits.

The Narrows 

Another much-loved hike is the Narrows! This slot canyon hike is one of the most unique in the United States! 

The unorthodox hiking trail is literally in the Virgin River, following a section flowing through a narrow slot canyon comprised of 2,000 foot vertical walls.

Hiking the Narrows requires sturdy shoes and hiking poles for stability, as well as some patience… you won’t be alone on this hike, especially during summer months.

Before hiking the Narrows, check with park rangers at the Visitor Center for information regarding river temperature, flow rate, water levels, etc. They will also inform you if there is any danger of flash flood. This hike can be deadly, and therefore will close if there’s any known danger.  

If hiking in the cooler months, you’ll need dry pants which can be rented from Zion Outfitter or Zion Adventures located just outside the park. The snow melt-fed water dips into the 40° and 50°’s (F) outside of summer.

Riverside Walk

In order to access the Narrows you’ll follow the paved Riverside Walk for just over a mile before entering the river. 

Many park-goers rush through the Riverside Walk to reach the famous Narrows, but I encourage you to take your time here. This section has so much beauty, including some of the best hanging gardens in Zion!

In a hostile desert environment such as this one it is extremely rare to find such lush greenery, let alone growing out of the side of a rock. Zion Canyon is made up of highly-porous sedimentary rock which holds small pools of mineral rich water allowing ferns, wildflowers, grasses and mosses to make a home here.

If you’re looking for easy (and beautiful!) hikes in Zion the Riverside Walk is the perfect place to start!

The Subway

The Subway is one of the park’s more illusive hikes. With famous landscapes only accessible to experienced (and determined) hikers with permits.

The Subway is a curved, hollowed-out canyon similar to the famous Narrows but with a shape reminiscent of a subway tunnel. Inside the “subway” you’ll find cascading pools framed by colorful, red rock walls.

The top-down route is the prettiest way to go but requires rappelling and canyoneering. Unfortunately guides aren’t allowed here so this leaves the top-down route for the few with proper knowledge and gear as well as their lucky friends.

The bottom-up route requires no technical skill but is a gruesome 9 miles out-and-back trail along, around, and through a riverbed. Route finding is required and the combination of elevation change, sun exposure, and relentless rocky terrain makes this quite a challenging hike. Although there’s no doubt your efforts are rewarded at the end.

Both the top-down and bottom-up route require permits, information on which can be found on Zion’s website.

Observation Point Trail

The Observation Point hike is 7 miles with a 700 foot gradual elevation change. The trail is above the Zion Canyon so don’t expect typical Zion views until the end of the hike. 

If the thought of hiking Angels Landing makes you queasy but you seek epic canyon views, this is for you! In my opinions these are some of the best views in the park.

The trail is a bit boring at the start but concludes with incredible sweeping views of Zion Canyon — you’ll even look down on Angels Landing from here! 

Currently Observation Point is only accessible via East Mesa Trail which requires driving out of the park and hiking back in. The dirt road to the trailhead is not passable if there’s been recent rain, be respectful of private property.

Upper, Middle, & Lower Emerald Pools Trails

The Emerald Pool Trails are a series of paths leading to glistening waterfalls and quiet pools surrounded by top-notch views of Zion’s sheer, red walls.  

There’s a few different routes you can follow here and really no “wrong” way to go. My favorite is to begin at Zion Lodge and take Lower Emerald Pool Trail to Lower Emerald Pool, then detour to Upper Emerald Pool, and head back down to Zion Lodge via Middle Emerald Pool Trail. 

You can also do this as an out-and-back or utilize Kayenta Trail and Grotto Trail as an alternate loop option, etc.

If you’re looking for the easiest route just follow Lower Emerald Pool as an out-and-back. Best of all, Lower Emerald Pool is one of the prettiest attractions in the park! Here you can walk behind a waterfall and view lots of beautiful hanging gardens.

In terms of effort to reward these are some of the best hikes in Zion National Park! 

The Watchman Trail 

This is one of Zion’s easier trails and is perfect for visitors relatively new to hiking.

The 3.1 mile hike begins at the Visitor Center and features a gradual 636 foot elevation change and scenic views of the surrounding valley and Watchman Spire. The trail is exposed to sun so this is great if visiting in cooler months and best done in the morning if visiting in summer.

Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

The Canyon Overlook trail is a short hike with beautiful views of the canyon. The sandstone is slippery in spots and there a few steep drop offs here and there, but aside from that this 1 mile hike is relatively easy.  

Once you’ve arrived at the trail’s end there’s lots of room to spread out and enjoy the views of Zion Canyon.

Tip: This trailhead is located on the east side of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. There’s a very small lot for compact vehicles only or you can park alongside the road.

West Rim Trail

For experienced hikers looking for a challenging hike (mostly) away from crowds consider the West Rim Trail. This 15 mile hike is popular for backpackers or can be shortened for a day hike.

This hike begins as a familiar one, up Walter’s Wiggles and to Scout Lookout, but instead of finishing at Angels Landing you’ll head away from the crowds and continue north.

This lesser-traversed section of the trail provides spectacular views of Zion Canyon before passing through White Cliffs and onto the forested upper plateau which offers sweeping views of Great West Canyon.

Those wishing to do this as a day hike plan to turn around at or before Cabin Spring. For hikers interested in completing the full hike, backpacking information (including permits) can be found on  Zion’s website.

Weeping Rock

Weeping Rock is a natural sandstone alcove or overhang carved into the Navajo Sandstone formation.

The name comes from the fact that water seeps out of the sandstone and creates a dripping effect, resembling tears falling from the rock ceiling.

It also results in some pretty incredible hanging gardens.

Weeping Rock is an easy .3 mile hike that most will be able to do.

For more easy hikes, check out my guide to the Easiest Hikes In Zion.

Zion National Park Lodge

Even if you’re not staying at Zion Lodge it’s still a popular stopping point for park visitors. At the lodge you’ll find a few dining options, a gift shop, and a huge grassy lawn perfect for picnics.

Tip: The nearby Grotto Picnic Area is also a popular spot for lunch if the area surrounding Zion Lodge is too crowded.

You will not believe the amazing views here, making it a favorable spot to enjoy lunch or rest while exploring Zion National Park.

Looking for more non-hiking ideas? Check out The Best Things To Do In Zion National Park Besides Hiking.

Watch The Wildlife

While in Zion Canyon watch out for California Condors! This heavily endangered vulture-like bird is the largest flying bird in North America with wings that stretch nearly 10 feet from tip to tip. 

Zion is proud to host a mating pair and their baby who nest just below Angels Landing.

With some luck you can see the condors from the Big Bend shuttle stop. There’s often park rangers here observing the birds and providing information for park-goers. Don’t forget your binoculars, their nest is waaay up there! 

Zion National Park is also home to a surprising number of mammals considering its desert location. Keep an eye out for mule deer, fox, and bighorn sheep, which are commonly spotted taking advantage of the lush vegetation found in and around Zion Canyon.

Remember to never approach or feed any animals in Zion National Park, even the squirrels, which can be quite tenacious in their quest for your lunch. 

Join A Ranger-Led Program

Zion National Park offers a number of guided hikes, ranger talks, and a wide assortment of Jr. Ranger Programs like Animals & Adventures and Riverside Rangers.

One of the most popular activities for all ages is the shuttle ride along, Ride With A Ranger. The shuttle follows Zion Canyon Scenic Drive while a park ranger explains anything and everything from the geology of the park to human history here. It’s a great way to learn about the park and wonderful option for those who would rather not or are unable to hike.

These programs are seasonal and programs regularly change, so it’s worth checking the schedule ahead of time at NPS website or at the visitor center once you arrive as some require in-person-only reservations.

You can check the full list of ranger-led activities here: Zion Calendar.

Go For A Bike Ride

Biking Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is one of the most popular non-hiking things to do in Zion National Park! The scenic roadway is 8 miles from beginning to end. Most visitors start in Springdale, which will add about a mile or two to your journey, and end at Temple of Sinawava. 

Be aware the road can be narrow and you’ll have to keep an eye out for the shuttle buses (there’s no bike lane, however drivers are well adept to navigating bikers safely), but you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of this dramatic canyon. 

This is a great way to explore the many excellent viewpoints along Zion Scenic Drive at your own pace.

If needed you can rent bikes from Zion Outfitters located just outside the park.

Kolob Canyons 

Known for bright orange cliffs and peaceful solitude, Kolob Canyon is the underrated and lesser known side of Zion National Park.

Kolob Canyon is about an hour drive from from Zion Canyon’s South Entrance. It features its own Visitor Center, Kolob Canyon Scenic Drive, and beautiful hiking trails.  

This is an excellent spot to visit during Zion’s hot summers. It’s about 1,000 feet higher in elevation than Zion Canyon and therefore about 10 degrees cooler.

Most Popular Hikes In Kolob Canyon

Most visitors enjoy a hike or two when visiting Kolob Canyon, some of the most popular options are:

• Timber Creek Overlook
• Camp Creek 
• Hop Valley
• Taylor Creek Trail
• Kolob Arch

Zion Human History Museum

The Zion Human History Museum is the first shuttle stop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle. The small museum displays artifacts and exhibits of geology, plants, animals, and human survival here over the years.

It tells the story of how water has shaped this canyon, both in a literal sense and in the way it has drawn in humans for thousands of years.  

The museum is free to all visitors, keep an eye on opening hours as they can change. 

Tip: The museum’s back patio has excellent views which are especially popular at sunrise and sunset.

Watch The Sunset

Sunset in Zion National Park sets the canyon on fire with glowing vivid orange in the final minutes of day light.

Catching a sunset here is one of the most popular things to do in Zion National Park and there are lots of great spots to watch the show. Below are a few popular options:

• Lava Point in Kolob Canyon
• Canyon Junction Bridge at the end of Pa’rus Trail – this is the most popular spot so arrive plenty early.
• The Watchman Trail
• Zion Human History Museum back patio
• Timber Creek Overlook in Kolob Canyon
• Upper East Canyon (locations off Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway), this requires some exploring to find a spot you like but there’s lots of pull offs along the highway.

Tip: Be aware that since you’re in a canyon the sun does set quickly and a bit earlier than outside the canyon. Additionally, it gets dark here fast, so if you’re hiking don’t forget a headlamp.

There are also sunset jeep tours for those looking to get off the beaten path. Check out this jeep and sand sledding tour with Razors Edge Tours. For more of a relaxed experience, this sunset jeep tour: Sunset Jeep Tour.

This is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Zion National Park at night!

Stargazing 

Looking for more things to do at night in Zion? While Zion National Park is well-known for sunrise and sunset, it’s often overlooked for overnight activities like stargazing!

Thanks to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Zion is regularly regarded as one of the best national parks for stargazing. This makes for a phenomenal nighttime activity while you are visiting the park!

Did You Know? Zion became an official International Dark Sky Park in 2021.

You can easily stargaze on your own, but if you’re interested in learning more about the night sky with astronomy guides and telescopes, check out this popular stargazing tour.

As you can see there are tons of great things to do in Zion National Park no matter your interests! 

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Zion and Utah park guides or head on over to Zion National Park Service.

More Information For Your Zion National Park Visit:

• Zion National Park 2-Day Guide
• Where To Stay Near Zion National Park
• The Best Things To Do In Zion National Park Besides Hiking
• The Best Time To Visit Zion National Park: What To Know About Each Season
• Easiest Hikes In Zion National Park

Additional Utah Guides:

• Arches National Park Guides
• Bryce National Park Canyon Guides
• Canyonlands National Park Guides
• Moab, Utah Guides