Zion National Park, United States

What to do in Zion National Park, United States

Hiking the Narrows

Hiking the Narrows is an iconic experience in Zion National Park. This adventure involves trekking through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, where the Virgin River winds through towering walls. Hikers wade through the river, surrounded by breathtaking rock formations that rise up to 1,000 feet above. The narrowest part, known as Wall Street, is a highlight, offering a mesmerizing display of light and shadow. It’s a truly unique and unforgettable experience for hikers of all levels.

Angels Landing Summit

Angels Landing offers a thrilling and challenging hike, culminating in an awe-inspiring summit experience. The trail winds its way up a series of switchbacks alongside steep drop-offs, leading to the famous spine of Angels Landing. The final stretch involves clinging to chains and navigating narrow pathways, rewarding hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of Zion Canyon. This exhilarating adventure is not for the faint of heart, but the sense of accomplishment and the incredible vistas make it an unmissable experience for many visitors.

Scenic Drive and Canyon Overlook Trail

For a more leisurely exploration, visitors can embark on the scenic drive through Zion Canyon. The 6.5-mile route offers stunning viewpoints, allowing travelers to witness the grandeur of the park from the comfort of their vehicles. Additionally, the Canyon Overlook Trail is a short but rewarding hike that provides sweeping views of the canyon, including unique perspectives of the famous Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. The trail is suitable for all ages and is an excellent introduction to Zion’s natural beauty.

Emerald Pools Trail

The Emerald Pools Trail is a family-friendly trek that leads to a series of picturesque pools and waterfalls nestled in Zion’s lush landscapes. The trail offers a variety of experiences, from the lower pool with its gentle cascades to the middle and upper pools, each presenting a progressively more challenging and scenic hike. This trail is particularly popular during the spring, when snowmelt contributes to the abundant flow of water, creating a refreshing and enchanting oasis in the desert.

Wildlife Spotting and Bird Watching

Zion National Park is teeming with diverse wildlife, offering ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts and photographers to observe the natural inhabitants of the region. Bighorn sheep, mule deer, and a variety of bird species, including the majestic California condor, can often be spotted throughout the park. Whether on a guided tour or exploring independently, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich biodiversity of Zion, capturing memorable encounters with the park’s fascinating wildlife.

Example Two-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning: Start your day early and head to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Get oriented with the park’s layout, pick up any necessary permits, and talk to park rangers about current trail conditions.

Mid-morning: Take the park shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava and hike the Riverside Walk, a relatively flat and paved trail that follows the Virgin River. This peaceful walk provides stunning canyon views and is suitable for all ages and abilities.

Afternoon: After returning to the visitor center, take the park shuttle to the Zion Lodge area. Explore the grounds and take a leisurely stroll along the Emerald Pools Trail. This trail offers stunning views of waterfalls and lush vegetation and is a great introduction to the park’s unique landscape.

Evening: Head back to the visitor center and take the shuttle to the Watchman Trail. This easy but rewarding hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding canyon and is particularly beautiful at sunset. Be sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp for the descent.

Day 2:

Morning: Rise early and take the park shuttle to the Grotto area. This is the starting point for the renowned Angel’s Landing hike. This challenging trek is not for the faint of heart but offers unparalleled views of the canyon. Note that this hike involves steep drop-offs and narrow sections, so it’s important to be prepared and cautious.

Mid-day: After completing the hike, reward yourself with a relaxing picnic at the Grotto Picnic Area. Take some time to rest and refuel while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.

Afternoon: In the afternoon, take the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive by car or shuttle. Stop at various viewpoints such as Court of the Patriarchs and the Great White Throne to marvel at the stunning rock formations and sweeping vistas.

Evening: Before leaving the park, take a short walk on the Pa’rus Trail, an easy trail that follows the Virgin River as it winds through the valley floor. This provides a peaceful and reflective way to conclude your visit to Zion National Park.