Kyle Fisher

Jackson M

Andrew MacNeil

Angels Landing

The Narrows

Emerald Pools Trailhead

Open Sky Zion

Spotted Dog

Weekend Guide to Zion National Park

Spending a weekend in Zion National Park is an unforgettable experience. Even with just two days, you can explore some of the park's most iconic sights and trails. Here's a quick itinerary for a weekend trip to Zion:

1. Sunrise at Canyon Overlook Trail:
Start your day early by catching the sunrise at the Canyon Overlook Trail. It's a relatively short hike, roughly 1 mile round trip, and provides a panoramic view of the Zion Canyon.

2. Riverside Walk:
After breakfast, take a leisurely walk along the Riverside Walk, which is a 2-mile round-trip paved trail that offers beautiful views of the Virgin River and towering cliffs above.

3. Emerald Pools:
Hike to the Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools. This trail has varying degrees of difficulty, with the Lower Emerald Pool being the easiest. You'll see waterfalls, lush vegetation, and pools of water.

4. Weeping Rock:
It's a short but steep 0.5-mile round trip to see water seeping out of the rock face, creating a weeping effect.

5. Watchman Trail:
End your day with a moderate 3-mile round-trip hike to the Watchman Trail for a great view of the Watchman Spire and the park's entrance.

1. Angel's Landing:
Begin your day early again and embark on the challenging but iconic Angel's Landing hike. It's about a 5.4-mile round trip with steep switchbacks and a narrow ridge. This trail is not for those with a fear of heights, but the views at the top are unparalleled.

Note: Always consider your personal safety and comfort level. The last section of Angel's Landing is particularly steep with drop-offs on both sides.

2. The Narrows:
In the afternoon, cool off by wading in the Virgin River through The Narrows, one of the most popular and unique hikes in Zion. Depending on how far you want to go, this can be a short or long hike. You'll be walking in the river, so consider renting special water shoes and a walking stick from nearby outfitters.

3. Scenic Drive:
End your day with a relaxing drive through Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The road takes you through the heart of the main canyon and has multiple pullouts for photos. During peak times, private vehicles might be restricted, but the park offers a shuttle service that stops at various points of interest.

Shuttle Service: During peak seasons, Zion restricts private vehicles in many parts of the park, opting for a shuttle service. Make sure to check the park's website for current shuttle schedules and regulations.

Stay Hydrated: It can get very hot, especially during the summer months. Carry plenty of water and snacks.

Wildlife: Zion is home to diverse wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and numerous bird species. Always observe from a distance and do not feed or approach animals.

Accommodation: Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons. There are campgrounds inside the park, as well as hotels and lodges in the nearby town of Springdale.

Zion National Park offers unique experiences throughout the year, but the best months to visit largely depend on what kind of experience you're seeking. Here's a breakdown:

Weather: Mild temperatures and wildflowers make spring one of the most popular times to visit. Daytime temperatures range from 60°F to 90°F (16°C to 32°C).

Pros: Blossoming wildflowers, pleasant hiking weather, and rapidly flowing waterfalls due to snowmelt.

Cons: This is peak tourist season, so it can be crowded, especially during weekends and holidays.

Weather: It's the hottest season with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F (38°C) in the daytime.

Pros: The park's shuttle service operates extensively, allowing for easy access to many trailheads and viewpoints. Monsoon rains can bring dramatic waterfalls.

Cons: High temperatures can make mid-day hiking strenuous. There's also the potential for flash floods, especially in slot canyons like The Narrows. This is also a busy time due to school vacations.

Weather: Cooler than summer but warmer than winter, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C).

Pros: Beautiful fall foliage, especially in the higher elevations. The cooler temperatures are great for hiking, and the crowds start to thin out a bit.

Cons: Days are shorter, and weather can be unpredictable with occasional rain showers.

Weather: Cold with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 60°F (-1°C to 15°C). Snowfall can occur, especially in higher elevations.

Pros: The park is least crowded during this time. Snow-capped peaks offer a unique and stunning perspective of Zion. The park's scenic routes are also accessible by private vehicles since the shuttle service is limited.

Cons: Some trails may be closed or slippery due to snow and ice. The Narrows might be inaccessible if the water levels are too high or the water too cold.

Recommendation: If you're looking for pleasant weather and are okay with some crowds, spring and fall are widely considered the best times to visit Zion. If you prefer solitude and are prepared for colder weather, winter can offer a serene and picturesque experience. Summer is great for those who don't mind the heat, but it's essential to be cautious about the potential for flash floods and to avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day.

Hey everyone - I'm Andrew and I'm the Founder & CEO of Aventura. I started Aventura to make it easier for people to find their next trip, travel or adventure. We're off to the races, building the best place to discover, research, explore and share travel and recreation. Thank you again for coming and I hope you find some time to explore the site and contribute to the fastest-growing community of travelers. Feel free to shoot me a note with feedback or product ideas, that's how we get better. – andrew@getaventura.com

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