Utah is home to five stunning national parks known as the Mighty 5. It would take multiple trips and tours to experience all that each of these parks has to offer, but if you only have a few days, Zion National Park is an excellent place to start.
A guided tour of Zion National Park is the best way to make the most of your time. You’ll not only get to hit the highlights of Zion, but you’ll learn all about the park’s history, geology, and ecology from your knowledgeable guide who’s experienced almost every inch of the park.
If a trip to Zion is on your summer bucket list or you’ve been thinking about adding it to your travel plans, here are all the highlights of the park, tips for the best experience possible, and what you can expect on a Zion National Park guided tour.
Most Popular Park Attractions
Zion National Park is huge—229 square miles to be exact. Some of Zion’s must-see attractions include:
The Narrows
The Narrows is one of Zion’s most popular hikes and for good reason. This slot canyon hike takes you right through the river, and the views are absolutely stunning. Keep in mind that hiking the entire Narrows is a very long hike, so if you’re not up for that, you can always hike part of it and turn around when you’re ready.
Angel’s Landing
Angel’s Landing is another Zion classic. This hike takes you to the top of a 1,488-foot cliff with sweeping views of the park—if you’re brave enough to make it to the top, that is. The last half-mile or so of the trail is very steep and narrow, with drop-offs on both sides, so it’s not for the faint of heart. These days, you need a permit to hike Angel’s Landing, so be sure to check with your tour group beforehand to see if you can get one.
The Subway
The Subway is an overnight backpacking route that requires permits, so it’s not usually one that’s included in tours. It’s a big draw for Zion’s backpacking crowd and has a long tunnel that goes through a cave. If you’re looking for an adventure to do on your own, add The Subway to your list.
Emerald Pools Trail
The Emerald Pools Trail is a great option if you’re looking for a shorter hike with stunning views. This trail has three different pools, each with its own waterfall.
Canyon Overlook Trail
The Canyon Overlook Trail is another short hike that’s perfect if you’re short on time. This trail takes you to the top of a cliff with incredible views of the park.
Weeping Rock
Weeping Rock is one of Zion’s most unique features. This rock formation gets its name from the fact that water drips down from it, even when it’s not raining.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is a must-do while you’re in the park. This 12-mile drive takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Zion.
Weather Watch
Keep in mind that the weather in Zion can be very unpredictable, especially in the summer. It’s not uncommon for there to be thunderstorms in the afternoon, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before you head out for the day. If you’re hiking in the Narrows or Angel’s Landing, make sure to get an early start so you can be off the trail before any storms roll in.
Another thing to be aware of is that Zion is subject to flash flooding. This can happen at any time, so it’s important to pay attention to the weather and be prepared to change your plans if necessary. If you’re on a tour, your guide will keep an eye on the weather and let you know if you need to head to higher ground.
Other Tips for Visiting Zion
Now that you know all the highlights of Zion National Park, here are a few other tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Getting There
The best way to get to Zion is by car. If you’re coming from Vegas, it’s about a 3.5-hour drive. If you’re coming from Salt Lake City, it’s about a 5-hour drive. There is also a shuttle that runs from Springdale to Zion, but it only runs from April to October.
When to Go
The best time to visit Zion is in the spring or fall. The temperatures are milder and the crowds are smaller. That being said, Zion is beautiful year-round, so if you can’t make it during those times, don’t worry. The park is open every day of the year, 24/7. At certain times throughout the year, the park has a free shuttle service that will take you to do locations throughout the park. When the shuttle service is available, much of the park is closed to private vehicles.
Where to Stay
There are a few different options for where to stay in Zion. If you’re looking for something close to the park, Springdale is your best bet. There are also a few campgrounds in the park, but they fill up quickly, so you’ll need to make reservations well in advance.
What to Bring
Be sure to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no services once you enter the park. You should also wear comfortable shoes and clothing that can get dirty, as some of the trails can be quite dusty. And last but not least, don’t forget your camera! Zion is one of the most photogenic places on earth.
What to Expect on Your Tour of Zion National Park
When you take a guided tour of Zion National Park, you can expect incredible views, an expert guide, and a hassle-free experience. Your guide will take care of all the logistics so you can just sit back and enjoy the ride.
At Utah Luxury Tours, we offer a variety of different tours to suit your needs, so whether you’re looking for a private custom tour designed around your mobility and zest for adventure or a small group tour that is ideal for front country, glamour spots, glamour shots and easy trails for all ages to enjoy
We know the best trails, lookout points, and photo ops in Zion, so you can be sure you’re getting the most out of your visit. We also keep an eye on the weather and always have a backup plan in case of storms.
Most importantly, we want you to have fun! Zion is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and we want to help you make the most of your time here.
Pack Your Bags—The Adventure of a Lifetime is Waiting!
We guarantee that you’ll be blown away by Zion’s stunning canyons, cliffs, and plateaus. If you’re ready to explore Zion National Park, book a tour with us today. We can’t wait to show you all that this incredible place has to offer.
