When it comes to national parks in the United States, it seems like everyone wants to go to Zion National Park. It’s easy to understand why—the red sandstone cliffs, abundant wildlife, and deep canyons make it a special place to explore. If you’re wondering how to plan a trip to this Jurassic-Park-like place, then here’s your guide to visiting one of Utah’s most popular parks.

Know Before You Go

If you’re planning to visit Zion National Park, then you must obtain a park entrance pass either at the gate or prior to your trip online. During the warmer months, the park gets extremely busy, meaning parking may be limited. Be sure to get there early so you can avoid the heat and crowds, as well as get a parking spot by the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. To get to most of the popular spots in Zion, the Zion Canyon Shuttle System is free and available to all visitors.

Things To Do

Hiking may be a popular way to explore Zion National Park, but there are so many activities for non-hikers to do as well. From easily exploring the park by horse or car to going on a technical canyoneering adventure, here are the best things to do while in the park.

Hiking

While at Zion National Park, hike through The Narrows, the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, where you’ll be moving through the Virgin River and be surrounded by canyon walls. One of the most iconic hikes in the park, Angels Landing, is rated one of the most dangerous hikes in America, yet is an epic adventure that requires a permit due to its popularity. If you want something a little easier, then check out the family-friendly, 3.1-mile Emerald Pools Trail to see waterfalls and stunning pools.

Horseback Riding

If moving on your feet isn’t your preferred way to explore, then consider booking a horseback riding tour through Zion Canyon. There’s nothing like gliding though canyon walls and alongside beautiful rivers. Choose between a one-hour tour from the Virgin River to Court of the Patriarchs or take it up a notch on a three-hour ride to Sand Bench Trail, which offers views of Zion National Park from the south. Horseback riding tours can be booked March through October.

Jeep Adventure Tours

Going on an off-road excursion is a must-do activity while in Utah. If you’re looking for a unique way to see all the best sights in Zion, then book a Zion Jeep Adventure Tour and drive through sandstone cliffs and valleys of canyons. While exploring on wheels, you may spot various wildlife, such as mule deer and gray foxes. In addition, you’ll get to explore the Zion Cliffside Point, Canaan Mountain Wilderness, Virgin River Valley, and much more.

Canyoneering

For those who want to experience an epic adventure, canyoneering in Zion is a must. In fact, it is one of the best places to do it in the U.S. Whether you are a beginner or experienced canyon climber, there are dozens of canyons in the park you can explore. Take a quick trip to the lower end of The Narrows above the Temple of Sinawava, which doesn’t require any ropes or equipment, or check out The Subway and Orderville Canyon, which is a more technical adventure that requires a Wilderness Permit. Depending on which part of The Subway you choose to explore, you may be hiking in knee-deep water, scrambling over large boulders, and swimming through deep pools.

Where to Stay

Inside of the Park 

• Watchman Campground – hookups available 
• South Campground – no hookups available 
• Lava Point Campground – no hookups available 

Outside of the Park

• Zion River Resort RV Park & Campground – hookups available 
• WillowWind RV Park – hookups available 
• St George / Hurricane KOA Journey – hookups available 

Zion National Park is quite a special place that is worth venturing to in 2024. Whether you want to climb through canyon walls, ride on wheels along the Virgin River, or hike through flowing water, there are so many ways to adventure in Zion. While visiting Utah, be sure to make time to visit all of Utah’s national parks in your RV: Canyonlands, Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Capitol Reef.

See you on the road!