Zion National Park — Attraction in Four Corners States

Zion National Park truly lives up to its reputation as an adventure paradise. Even visiting in the off-season (we went in February) was an unforgettable experience. One huge benefit of traveling during this quieter time is getting to drive through the park at your own pace without the typical crowds or the mandatory shuttle system. The winter landscapes are every bit as stunning—red cliffs, dramatic canyons, and open vistas free of the summer throngs. That said, the off-season does come with a couple of drawbacks: some of the more challenging hikes and activities can be limited due to colder temperatures or trail conditions, and many local shops and restaurants in the nearby town are closed until the busier months. If you don’t mind those trade-offs, you’ll be rewarded with peaceful scenic drives and near-empty hiking trails.

For those looking to go during peak season, be aware that you’ll have to use the shuttle to get into many of the park’s most popular areas. However, this small inconvenience quickly fades once you see the sheer scale and beauty of Zion's iconic cliffs and canyons. From narrow slot canyons to awe-inspiring viewpoints, there’s something for every skill and thrill level. Zion That said, the off-season does come with a couple of drawbacks: some of the more challenging hikes and activities can be limited due to colder temperatures or trail conditions, and many local shops and restaurants in the nearby town are closed until the busier months. If you don’t mind those trade-offs, you’ll be rewarded with peaceful scenic drives and near-empty hiking trails.

For those looking to go during peak season, be aware that you’ll have to use the shuttle to get into many of the park’s most popular areas. However, this small inconvenience quickly fades once you see the sheer scale and beauty of Zion's iconic cliffs and canyons. From narrow slot canyons to awe-inspiring viewpoints, there’s something for every skill and thrill level. Zion offers a wide range of exhilarating adventures, including permit-only hikes for the more daring, and even wading through rivers and narrows—perfect for those seeking a true adrenaline rush.

Whether you visit in the off-season for a quieter, crowd-free experience or venture there in peak months to have a full menu of activities and open shops, Zion National Park stands out as one of the most stunning and adventure-laden destinations in the national park system. Highly recommended for anyone looking to be awed by nature and test...

Zion National Park is absolutely breathtaking—one of those places where every turn in the trail or bend in the road reveals another jaw-dropping view. Towering red cliffs, lush canyon floors, and the Virgin River carving its way through it all make for a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're hiking, driving, or just soaking in the scenery, Zion delivers.

One thing visitors should know up front: most of the park is only accessible via the shuttle system for much of the year (typically March through late November). The shuttle runs frequently and makes stops at all the major trailheads along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. It’s free with your park admission, and while it can get crowded during peak times, it’s efficient and well-run. Just be sure to check the schedule in advance and plan your day accordingly—the last shuttle leaves the canyon in the evening, and you don’t want to miss it.

That said, one of the best decisions we made was to also take the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway through the east side of the park in our own vehicle. This stretch is not part of the shuttle route and is open to private cars year-round. It’s a winding, scenic drive that offers a completely different perspective of the park—with slickrock formations, natural arches, and views you won’t get from the shuttle-accessible areas. The Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel alone is worth the trip. You can pull off at multiple spots and explore quieter trails or just take in the scenery away from the crowds.

We spent a few days hiking some of Zion’s iconic trails like Riverside Walk and the start of Angels Landing, and they lived up to the hype. Even our kids enjoyed it—there are plenty of family-friendly options and places to cool off by the river.

Pro tips: Get to the shuttle early to avoid long lines.

Bring plenty of water—the canyon can get hot and dry, especially midday.

Don’t skip the east side drive—it’s one of the most underrated parts of the park.

Zion is everything a national park should be: awe-inspiring, humbling, and full of adventure. Whether you're hiking deep into the canyons or just enjoying the view from a scenic pullout, it’s a place you’ll never forget. Five stars,...

Located just north of Springdale, Utah, Zion National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. The park's unique landscape, with its red rock canyons and towering cliffs, is a result of millions of years of erosion and geological activity. As you hike through the park's trails, you'll feel like you're walking through a surreal painting, with the Virgin River flowing gently through the valley below. What makes this national park stand out above the rest, is the ability for you to observe and experience this wonder of nature from above and below. For example, unless you are in great shape and willing to pay an additional cost at Grand Canyon National Park, most people will only be able to experience the canyon from the top down. However, at Zion National Park, almost anyone, regardless of age, physical capabilities, or level of adventure, will be able to see this magnificent park from many angles of view. Zion has something to offer to everyone. Whether it is a drive through the park, which allows you to see the landscape from above and below, or a hike along the many trails. And when it comes to hiking in Zion, well the park can virtually meet anyone’s expectations. One of the park's most iconic landmarks is Angels Landing, a 1,400-foot rock formation that offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the park but is not for the faint of heart and you will need a Wilderness Permit to hike the last 0.5 miles. And if you're not feeling quite so bold, there are plenty of other trails to explore, from the gentle Riverside Walk or Canyon Overlook Trail, to the more challenging West Rim Trail or Emerald Pools Trail. Within the park there is a Visitor’s Center, Zion Lodge, and numerous parking areas along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (Route 9) and Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The park is open 24 hours and there is an entrance fee to enter the park unless you have an annual pass, but it is free to all military members, active, retired or veteran. This is a must-see visit for anyone who truly wishes to experience all that Mother Nature...