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Accessibility
National parks are set aside for the enjoyment of all. Because of the rugged nature of many of the nation's treasures, it has been difficult to provide access for everyone who might have special needs. The National Park Service has been making strides to furnish facilities that allow everyone the opportunity to enjoy the beauties of the great outdoors.
Visitors will find that this is true at Zion as well. Some of the steps to insure accessibility include:
Both Visitor centers and Zion Lodge are fully accessible to people with special needs. Several campsites are reserved for people with disabilities and three trails are accessible. More detailed info is available at the Visitor Center.
Backcountry Camping
Zion's backcountry is a primitive area and managed according to regulations that protect its wilderness values. Backcountry camping is allowed on a limited basis and a backcountry permit is required. See the Camping Page for more information.
Basic Recommendations
I recommend that you pick an area of the park and then go to that area and make a day of it. Go and see all that is in the area and enjoy it. You spend more quality time and learn and see more than you could ever imagine.
Biking
Bicycles are permitted only on established roads and the Pa'rus Trail. The Pa'rus Trail leads from the campgrounds to the Scenic Drive Junction. Riding on hiking trails or crosscountry is Prohibited! Bicyclists should always ride defensively; vehicle traffic is often heavy and drivers may be distracted by the scenery. Riding bicycles through the Zion - Mt Carmel tunnel is Prohibited! Bicycles must be transported through the tunnel by a motor vehicle. Contact the Zion Canyon visitor center or either entrance station for more information.
Camping and Fires
Camping is allowed only in campgrounds and designated back country sites with a fee permit. Building wood or ground fires are prohibited in the back country. See the Camping Page for details.
Climbing
Many of Zion's sandstone cliffs are comprised of loose or "rotten" rock. Climbing hardware and techniques used for granite are often less effective on sandstone. Info on climbing is available at the Visitor Center. A permit is required for an overnight climb.
Drinking Water
Water is available at both Visitor Centers, campgrounds, Zion Lodge, Grotto Picnic Area, and Temple of Sinawava. DO NOT drink untreated water from streams or springs.
| Private Non-commercial Vehicle | $ 25.00 (7 day pass) |
| Individual Entry | $ 12.00 (7 Day Pass - not to exceed $25.00 per family) |
| Zion Pass | $ 50.00 |
| Tunnel Escort | $15.00 fee per vehicle in addition to the entrance fee.* Pay this fee at park entrance before proceeding to the tunnel. Required for all vehicles and trailers 7'10" (2.4 m) in width and/or 11'4" (3.4 m) in height or larger. Fee is good for 2 trips through the tunnel for the same vehicle within 7-day period. |
| National Park Pass | $ 50.00 - Good for 1 year from date of purchase |
| Golden Eagle Pass (good 1 year from date of purchase) | $ 15.00 (good in all federal fee areas) |
| Commercial Tours | $ 35.00 - $ 190.00 (7 Day Pass *Fee is based on vehicle capacity. Rates for car to full size bus.) |
| Gold Access Pass (Blind or permanently disabled individuals) | Free (Lifetime - good in all natl parks) |
| Golden Age Pass (1 time fee - for those 62+ years young) | $ 10.00 (Lifetime - good in all natl parks) |
| Private Non-commercial Vehicle | $ 25.00 (7 Day Pass) |
National Parks Pass
The National Parks Pass is an annual pass that provides admission to any national park charging an entrance fee. The Pass costs $ 50.00 and is valid for 12 months (ending the last day of the purchase month, one year later). More than 80% of the proceeds from the sales of National Park Passes go directly into supporting priority projects in national parks.
Where a "Per Vehicle" entrance fee is charged, the Pass admits the Pass signee and accompanying passengers in a single, private*, non-commercial vehicle. Where a "Per Person" entrance fee is charged, the Pass admits the Pass signee, spouse, children and parents. The Pass is nontransferable and does not cover or reduce use fees such as charges for camping, parking, tours and concessions.
Golden Eagle Pass
For an additional $ 15.00, a Golden Eagle hologram may be purchased and affixed to a National Parks Pass to cover entrance fees at not only national parks, but also at sites managed by the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U. S. Forest Service, and the Bureau of Land Management. The Golden Eagle holograms are available at National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management fee stations. The Golden Eagle admits the pass signee and any accompanying passengers in a private* vehicle if a park has a per vehicle entrance fee. Where a per person entrance fee is charged, the Golden Eagle admits the pass signee, spouse, children and parents. The Golden Eagle is nontransferable and does NOT cover or reduce use fees such as charges for camping, parking, tours, and concessions. It is valid for entrance fees only. The Golden Eagle hologram is valid until the expiration of the National Parks Pass to which it is affixed.
Golden Age Pass
If you are age 62 or older, you qualify for a Golden Age Passport. The Golden Age Pass is available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are age 62 or older. The Golden Age Pass is a lifetime entrance pass to national parks, monuments, historic sites, recreation areas, and national wildlife refuges that charge an entrance fee. The Golden Age Pass admits the pass signee and any accompanying passengers in a private* vehicle if a park has a per vehicle entrance fee. Where a per person entrance fee is charged, the Golden Age Pass admits the pass signee, spouse, and children.
The Golden Age Pass also provides a 50% discount on federal use fees charged for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, parking, boat launching, and tours. In some cases where use fees are charged, only the pass signee will be given the 50% price reduction. The Pass is nontransferable and does NOT cover or reduce special recreation permit fees or fees charged by concessioners. A Golden Age Pass must be obtained in person at a federal area where an entrance fee is charged. There is a one-time $ 10.00 processing charge to obtain the Golden Age Pass. It is available only to citizens or permanent residents of the United States who are 62 years of age or older. You must show proof of age, such as a state driver's license, birth certificate, or similar document.
Golden Access Pass
If you have a permanent disability, you may qualify for a Golden Access Passport. The Golden Access Pass is a lifetime entrance pass to national parks, monuments, historic sites, recreation areas, and national wildlife refuges that charge an entrance fee. The Golden Access Pass admits the pass signee and any accompanying passengers in a private* vehicle if a park has a per vehicle entrance fee. Where a per person entrance fee is charged, the Golden Access Pass admits the pass signee, spouse, and children.
The Golden Access Pass also provides a 50% discount on federal use fees charged for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, parking, boat launching, and tours. In some cases where use fees are charged, only the pass signee will be given the 50% price reduction. The Pass is nontransferable and does NOT cover or reduce special recreation permit fees or fees charged by concessioners. A Golden Access Pass must be obtained in person at a federal area where an entrance fee is charged. It is available only to citizens or permanent residents of the United States who are medically determined to be blind or permanently disabled. You may obtain a Golden Access Pass by showing proof of medically determined permanent disability, or eligibility for receiving benefits under federal law.
* A private vehicle is defined as any noncommercial vehicle that is being used for private recreational purposes.
The National Parks Pass may be purchased at any National Park office or entry station.
To purchase a pass Online, click on this Link, or to purchase via phone, call: 1-888-467-2757.
Special Use Permits
Backcountry Permit - $ 5.00 - One Time Fee
For Subway reservations call: 435-772-0170, one Month ahead of your visit.
Tunnel Escort Fee - $ 10.00 for 7 Days
Required for all vehicles and trailers 7 foot 10 inches / 2.4 meters wide and/or 11 foot 4 inches / 3.4 meters tall. Good for 2 trips through tunnel with same vehicle within 7 days.
Fishing
A Utah fishing license is required in the park. Angling success is poor.
Food & Services
Zion Lodge has an upstairs dining room, dinner reservations are advised. Other food services; restaurants, cafes, deli and pizza are located in Springdale and other nearby communities.
Hiking
Watch out for falling ice and slippery conditions. Most trails have drop-offs where you must be extra careful to watch your footing. Always stay back away from the edges. People uncertain about heights should turn around if they come to drop-offs that bother them. See the Hiking Page for details. Click here for Winter Hiking Information.
Horseback Rides
Guided horseback rides are available from late March to early November. Reservations and information are available at the lodge or by writing:
Bryce Zion Trail Rides
PO Box 58
Tropic, UT 84776
or by calling: 435-772-3967 or 679-8665
Lodging
Zion Lodge is opened year-round. Reservations are advised. Motel rooms, cabins and suites are available. Zion Lodge also has a gift shop and post office. There is other lodging available in Springdale and other nearby communities. See the Lodging Page and Camping Page for details.
Pet Information
Pets must be leashed (6-foot maximum) at all times. They are not allowed in the back country, in public buildings, and on all but one trail - the Pa'rus Trail. Never leave your pet in a closed vehicle. Temperatures can soar above 120° F (49° C) in minutes. Boarding kennels are available in surrounding cities.
Picnic Areas
Grotto Picnic Area - is located in Zion Canyon. It has fire grates, picnic tables, water and restrooms.
Kolob Picnic Area - is located at the end of Kolob Canyon Road. This site has fire grates, picnic tables and pit toilets.
Lava Point Picnic Area - has tables and pit toilets are one mile away.
Roads
Zion National Park roads introduce you to the park's spectacular cliff-and-canyon landscape. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the Zion - Mt Carmel Highway, and the Kolob Canyons Road are open year round. The Kolob Terrace Road is usually closed by snow from late November to May. All buses and many recreational vehicles are too large to pass through the long tunnel in two-way traffic. A fee is charged for the escort required for large vehicles to use the tunnel. Bicycles must be carried through the long tunnel in a vehicle.
Zion is part of the Southwest's "Grand Circle" of national parks, monuments, historical areas, and recreational areas - one of the world's great concentrations of outstanding natural and cultural features. Driving distances from Zion Canyon Visitor Center to many of these sites and to area towns are listed here:
Vehicle Restrictions
The Zion - Mt Carmel Tunnel is located on the park road between the East Entrance and Zion Canyon. Vehicles sized 7 feet 10 inches in width or 11 feet 4 inches in height, or larger must have an "escort" (traffic control) through this tunnel because they are too large to stay in their lane while traveling through the tunnel. Nearly all RVs, buses, trailers, 5th wheels, and some camper shells will require an escort. Visitors requiring an escort must pay a $10.00 fee per vehicle in addition to an entrance fee. This fee is good for two trips through the tunnel for the same vehicle during a 7-day period. Pay this fee at either park entrance before proceeding to the tunnel. Rangers will be stopping traffic at each end of the tunnel to stop oncoming traffic to allow you to travel through the tunnel. From March through October, rangers are stationed at the tunnel from 8:00 am until 8:00 pm daily. During the winter season, escorts must be arranged at the entrance stations, Visitor Center, Lodging desk or by calling: 435-772-0178.
Prohibited Vehicles
Vehicles over 13 feet 1 inch
Semi trucks
Vehicles over 50,000 lbs.
Single vehicles over 40 feet long or combined vehicles over 50 feet long
No Parking for vehicles over 21 feet long at Weeping Rock (all hours) or Temple Sinawava (9:00 am to 5:00 pm) from March through October. These restrictions are necessary because Weeping Rock Parking Area has a small turnaround space and the Temple of Sinawava has heavy traffic congestion. If you would like to see these areas, it is best to use the tram service at Zion Lodge.
Visitor Centers
Zion Canyon Visitor Center offers a wide variety of information and services year-round except Christmas Day. The following services are offered: backcountry permits, books, information, introductory video, maps and a museum. Phone: 435-772-3256.
Kolob Canyons Visitor Center offers books, information, maps and permits. Phone: 435-586-9548.
Weather
From May to October, temperatures range from 70° to 105° F in the day and from 45° to 75° F at night. Brief afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. Winters are mild in Zion Canyon with temperatures often reaching above 40° F. Little snow falls in Zion Canyon, but snow accumulates on the plateaus. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit the park. During these seasons temperatures range from 45° at night to 80° F in the day. See the Weather Page for current weather conditions.
Spring weather is very unpredictable. Stormy wet days are common, but warm, sunny weather may occur as well. Precipitation peaks in Mar. Spring wildflowers bloom from Apr through Jun, peaking in May.
Sharp changes in weather occur within the park due to the rugged topography and range of elevations. Seasonal snowfall averages 13 feet but much heavier snows accumulate in high mountain areas. Summer days are hot, but mountain breezes keep evenings cool especially in lower elevation areas.
Visitors should be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. Temperatures vary with changes in elevation, and day/night temperatures may differ by over 30° F.
Fall days are usually clear and mild; nights are often cool. Autumn color displays begin in September in the high country (Cedar Breaks, Lava Point). Colors in Zion Canyon usually peak in late October.
Winters in Zion Canyon are fairly mild. Winter storms often bring rain or light snow to Zion Canyon, but heavier snow to the higher elevations. Clear days may become quite warm reaching 60° F or higher; nights are often in the mid 20's and 30's. Winter storms often last several days and cause roads to be icy. Zion roads are plowed, except Kolob Terrace road (to Lava Point), which closes in winter. Travelers should be prepared for winter driving conditions from Nov through Mar.
Winter
Winters in Zion Canyon are fairly mild. Winter storms often bring rain or light snow to Zion Canyon, but heavier snow to the higher elevations. Clear days may become quite warm reaching 60° F or higher; nights are often in the mid 20's and 30's. Winter storms often last several days and cause roads to be icy. Zion roads are plowed, except Kolob Terrace road (to Lava Point), which closes in winter. Travelers should be prepared for winter driving conditions from Nov through Mar.
Winter Driving
The Zion - Mt Carmel Highway and Zion Canyon Scenic Drive are open in winter, but travelers should be prepared for hazardous driving conditions during and immediately following storms. The Kolob Canyons Road (off I-15 south of Cedar City) is plowed but may be temporally closed during storms or snow plowing. The Kolob Terrace (to Lava Point and Kolob Reservoir) is generally closed by snow about 20 miles north of Virgin, Utah.
Winter Hiking
Frozen waterfalls, sparkling ice crystals and white frosting on rusty peaks are some of the treasures awaiting hardy winter hikers. However, conditions change rapidly and constantly; hikers should be flexible and plan to turn back if trail conditions are unsafe or falling ice is a hazard.
The Zion Canyon trails usually have patchy snow, ice, or mud from winter through spring. Portions of Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock and the Riverside Walk are hazardous when icy and may be closed to hikers. The Sand Bench and Watchman Trails are usually snow free during the winter, but are often muddy in spots. Longer trails such as Observation Point, Hidden Canyon and Angle's Landing are often hazardous due to ice.
Canyon hikes such as the Narrows are not recommended in winter and early spring due to cold water, high runoff and snow/mud covered access roads.
High country trails including West Rim, Wildcat Canyon and East Rim are covered with up to three feet of snow in winter and are muddy and or icy in the spring.
Kolob Canyons trail are often quite snowy. Snow depths can vary from 1 to several feet of snow, requiring snowshoes for easier travel. Avalanches often pour down the steep canyon walls during and shortly after snowstorms. Falling ice and snow when rising temperatures cause melting, are also hazards back country hikers and skiers may encounter.
The lower desert trails, including Chinle Trail and Coalpits and Huber Washes are good for winter hiking during dry weather. This is the most accessible area for winter hiking and backpacking.
Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling opportunities exist in the higher elevations of Zion and nearby Cedar Breaks National Monument. For more information check at the Visitor Centers.
Please see the Hiking Page for additional information.
Zion Shuttle Service
From April through October, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (a park road off Rt. 9) is accessible by shuttle bus only. Rt. 9, which traverses the park from east to west, is open year-round to private vehicles.
In 1997 visitation was 2.4 million and increasing. The shuttle system was established to eliminate traffic and parking problems, protect vegetation, and restore tranquility to Zion Canyon.
The Springdale Shuttle stops at six locations in Springdale. The Zion Canyon Shuttle loop stops at eight locations in the park. The transfer between loops is made at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. You may get on and off as often as you like. Riding the shuttle is free.
The shuttle system will begin operations April 1 and runs through October 29.
How to use the shuttle
Avoid parking hassles. Parking is limited inside Zion. One may park in the town of Springdale and ride the town shuttle to the park. Look for the ''Shuttle Parking'' signs throughout town. If you are staying at a lodge or motel, simply leave your car there and ride the town shuttle to the park. The parking lot at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center commonly fills by mid morning. Tune your radio to 1610 AM for additional information.
Take Your Time - Buses run frequently throughout the day, as often as every seven minutes. You do not need to rush to catch one. Take your time to plan your visit. Use the exhibits outdoors and the information inside at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to make the most of your time. Ranger presentations at the Zion Human History Museum are a great way to learn more about the park before you ride the shuttle up canyon. The bookstore has maps and publications that can augment your visit.
What To Bring
For a day-trip on the shuttle, you should take:
Some rules to be aware of
Free buses run from early morning to late evening as often as every seven minutes. Buses are fully accessible.
Times and intervals change with the seasons. Current schedules are posted at each shuttle stop, the Visitor Centers, and in your park guide.
