🏞️ Zion National Park: A Hiker’s Paradise near Vegas

First stop on the West Coast road trip! Just a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, Zion is a compact but stunning park nestled in a canyon. Most areas require shuttle access (see Fig. 2 for stops). Due to its popularity, arrive early to park and avoid crowds—especially on holidays like Independence Day! 🏘️ Springdale Town Shuttle buses run from this gateway town to the park. Plenty of dining and lodging options here! 🥾 Top Trails 1️⃣ Angels Landing Iconic but permit-only beyond Scout Lookout (Stop ). No permit? Enjoy the views from below! 2️⃣ The Narrows Water hike paradise Stop ! Crowded but fun—like "dumplings in a pot" 🥟, but cooling and unique. Rent waterproof gear + hiking poles at park entrances to avoid slips! 3️⃣ Canyon Overlook Drive to the east entrance—windy roads, tunnels, and panoramic views of the canyon. Distinct sharp ridges and fewer crowds! 4️⃣ Weeping Rock (Stop) Short 30-min trail to a "weeping" cliff wall and distant mountain views. ⚠️ Tips Avoid peak hours—shuttles and trails get packed. Summer essentials: Water, sunscreen, and early starts! Zion’s diverse trails make it a must-visit—but plan wisely! #ZionNationalPark #VegasRoadTrip #Hiking #TheNarrows #TravelTips