Take this list of 10 things with you! ===> Click here to get your FREE Zion checklist!
1. Emerald Pools Trail
Hike to this oasis tucked within the glorious red rock cliffs! Discover hidden alcoves, picturesque waterfalls, and quaint natural pools along this fun, family-friendly trail.
What You Need To Know
This hike is comprised of two parts, the Lower Pool and the Upper Pool Trail, but there are actually three pools. The combination of both trails is 2.2 miles round trip and gains about 300 feet. If you can, hike the whole thing….it’s worth it!
The Lower Pool Trail is paved although some of the pavement is a little rough. It travels to one pool with a waterfall that you get to walk behind!
The Upper Pool Trail requires some stair-stepping and is steeper than the Lower Pool Trail. At the top of the stairs, enjoy the middle pool. Then continue walking to the upper pool, which is surrounded by spectacular cliffs!
No swimming is permitted in these pools and pets are not allowed on this trail.
Getting Here
The trailhead is located along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, directly across the street from the Zion Lodge. If the Zion Shuttle is running, you will not be able to drive your own car to the trailhead and will need to exit the shuttle at the Zion Lodge.
2. Riverside Walk
Soak in gorgeous views of Zion Canyon with the sparkling Virgin River right by your side! This easy stroll is an excellent introduction to the stunning features of the park.
What You Need To Know
The Riverside Walk is a paved 2.2-mile roundtrip trail that is mostly flat. You can take a stroller or wheelchair on it (if you’re okay with a few small elevation changes).
This area is an ideal place to bring a picnic and spend an afternoon in the water on a hot summer day. In many places, the water is shallow enough for small children to have a place to play. Swim or wade in the water at your own risk.
Pets are not permitted on this trail.
Getting Here
The Riverside Walk begins at the end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. If the Zion Shuttle is running, you will not be able to drive your own car, and you will need to exit the shuttle at the Temple of Sinawava. The trailhead has bathrooms and drinking water.
3. Weeping Rock
Prepare to witness an intriguing phenomenon that occurs here in the desert — water that flows straight out of a rock! Stand under the “tears” and examine the lush hanging gardens that line this beautiful alcove.
What You Need To Know
This hike is a short 0.4 miles roundtrip, but it is quite steep with about 100 feet of elevation gain.
Be ready to get wet! Watch as water {that can no longer work its way through the sandstone} is forced out of the side of the rock, causing it to “weep.” It’s fun to stand under the dripping water, but you’ll want to have shoes with good traction on this one.
Pets are not permitted on this trail.
Getting Here
Weeping Rock is along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, so if the shuttle is running, you will not be able to drive your own car. Get off at the Weeping Rock Trailhead, near the end of the Canyon road.
4. Zion-Mount Carmel Highway Tunnel
Experience the excitement of driving right through a mountain! This long historical tunnel {with windows!} is something everyone will remember from your trip to Zion.
What You Need To Know
The crews that built the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel completed the project in 1930 and at the time was the longest tunnel of its type. Enjoy the carved out “viewing windows” throughout the 1.1 miles of the tunnel that allow you spectacular views of the canyon below and the Great Arch.
Be aware that there are large vehicle restrictions through this tunnel, so if you are driving an RV or towing anything like a boat, camper, trailer, etc. you will likely need to have traffic control which will result in an added fee. Learn more about the vehicle restrictions here.
Getting Here
The tunnel is located along Highway 9 that runs through the park. From the South Entrance {Springdale}, drive east for approximately 6 miles along Highway 9 to reach the tunnel.
5. Canyon Overlook Trail
Discover fabulous views of the park on this trail that provides just the right amount of adventure! Get ready to hug the cliffs of this dramatic canyon as you follow the ledge to a phenomenal overlook.
What You Need To Know
The Canyon Overlook Trail is 1-mile round trip and gains 163 feet of elevation.
Don’t worry too much! You will encounter several drop-offs along the trail, but most of them are fenced or have railings. This trail is suitable for kids as long as you keep a close eye on them.
The parking area for the Canyon Overlook Trail is tiny and the area can get extremely congested. For tips on snagging a parking spot at this stop, take a look at this itinerary.
Pets are not permitted on this trail.
Getting Here
The Canyon Overlook Trail is located along Highway 9 that runs through the park. From the South Entrance {Springdale}, drive east for approximately 6 miles along Highway 9 until you reach the tunnel entrance. Drive another 1.1 miles through the tunnel.
As you exit the tunnel, look for a small parking area on the right. Park here, cross the street and find the trailhead near the ranger kiosk. If needed, another parking area is just ahead on the left. If you park here, you will need to walk down toward the tunnel to get to the start of the trail.
WORRIED ABOUT MISSING OUT OR WASTING TIME?
Check out this detailed hour-by-hour Zion Itinerary!
Click NEXT to see stops 6-10 (including the most famous trails in the park)!
Steve Horne says
June 2, 2019 at 8:00 amYour very first recommendation is sadly incorrect. The upper pools trail is closed due to a landslide, and not likely to re-open for quite some time.
Dirt In My Shoes says
June 4, 2019 at 3:32 pmHey Steve,
I don’t change my recommendations based on temporary closures. When it opens back up, it’s definitely worth the hike up into the cliffs. Crossing my fingers they’re able to get the trails repaired soon!
Cindy Marlow says
March 5, 2019 at 3:19 pmWe are planning to go to Zion in 2020 and trying to decide which week would be better for doing the Narrows and also seeing Spring wildflowers – would the 1st or 2nd week of June 2020 be best? Thanks Cindy
Dirt In My Shoes says
March 6, 2019 at 9:08 pmThe Narrows is often closed due to high water levels from the Spring runoff during April and May, so I’d probably aim for the 2nd week of June if you want a better chance of it being open. Have fun!
Theresa Ganal says
May 18, 2018 at 7:47 amHi, reading your blog makes us more excited in our trip to Mt Zion this July. Its our 1st time to do hiking.. What’s your recommendation for 1st timer? we are family of 5 (3kids ages 11,13,15). Do you have other list to bring aside from water & sunscreen? Thank you in advance.
Dirt In My Shoes says
May 19, 2018 at 11:38 pmHi Theresa,
I have a full itinerary to help you plan your trip if it’s your first time. You can find it here: https://dirtinmyshoes.lpages.co/zion-itinerary/ Have a great time!!
Ash
Carol Rothe says
April 24, 2018 at 4:03 pmWe have 3 days to hike and would love to see Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon. Do we have enough time to visit both parks or should we limit this trip to Zion?
Dirt In My Shoes says
May 2, 2018 at 4:15 pmOh yeah, 3 days for both parks is doable for sure! I’d do 2 in Zion and 1 in Bryce Canyon. If you use my itineraries you’ll cover a lot of ground 🙂 https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/national-park-trip-itineraries/
Patty says
May 4, 2019 at 5:23 amWe’ll be in Utah Memorial Day weekend of 2019. Utah family thinks Zion will be too crowded to get in and out without hours of traffic. Thoughts?
Dirt In My Shoes says
May 9, 2019 at 3:17 pmIt will definitely be extremely busy that weekend! The only way I would go there over the holiday weekend is if you’re able to follow a solid plan, like this detailed itinerary: https://dirtinmyshoes.lpages.co/zion-itinerary/ Otherwise, you will be stuck in traffic for sure. Have fun!
Lauren says
March 4, 2018 at 1:22 pmMy boyfriend and I will be traveling to Utah in July and are looking to hiking the Virgin Narrows Top-Down overnight hike. We also plan on renting appropriate equipment for the hike! We are inexperienced hikers, but in good shape. Do you have any tips or feedback for us?? Thanks!!
Dirt In My Shoes says
March 5, 2018 at 11:17 amI really like Zion Guru for equipment/information. I’d call them and they’ll walk you through the things you need to know based on the current conditions! http://www.zionguru.com/
Julie says
February 22, 2018 at 8:03 pmI am planning this trip in June for me, my husband and 3 teenage boys. Love your itinerary and instructions. Thank you so much!!!!
Dirt In My Shoes says
February 23, 2018 at 3:13 pmThanks Julie! Have a great time!
Jenny says
February 21, 2018 at 7:48 pmMy husband and I are going in mid March for our first time. Do you have recommendations of where to stay? Also, any advice on what we MUST pack? Will there be snow in March?
Dirt In My Shoes says
February 23, 2018 at 3:17 pmAt this point, it’s really just wherever you can get reservations! I’d try to stay as close to the park as possible. There may be some snow, but that doesn’t usually affect the hiking trails too much. Occasionally a trail will be impassable that time of year…I’d just check at the Visitor Center before you head out for the day.
Have a fabulous time!
Ridley Fitzgerald says
December 5, 2017 at 12:03 pmI love your ideas for traveling to Zion’s National Park. It makes sense that we need to get an early start with a great plan for traveling. My wife and I want to go there next year, so we’ll start looking into hotels and attractions now!
Dirt In My Shoes says
December 13, 2017 at 8:34 amLet me know if I can answer any questions for you!
Chris Hillis says
December 27, 2017 at 6:25 pmMy husband and I are heading to Utah in early June. We have never been. We are fit and love hiking and nature. I’ve looked through your lists. Thank you for great information! My question is about what we should focus on. We only have eight days. Our travel agent has us going to Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon north rim, antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, Canyonlands, then fly out of Salt Lake. We feel like we will be spending too much time driving. We prefer hiking. Should we focus on the southern area and skip Canyonlands? How many days for Zion and Bryce? Should we skip Grand Canyon? Lots of questions. Thanks for any suggestions! We are from
Missouri.
Dirt In My Shoes says
December 28, 2017 at 8:09 amHey there Chris!
I’m happy to help answer all of those questions! Will you email your tentative schedule to me at ash{at}dirtinmyshoes{dot}com so that I can see what your travel agent has you doing….and whether or not I think it’s a good idea 🙂 Based on what you’ve said so far, I do think it might be a little too busy. Looking forward to hearing from you! — Ash
Jennie says
January 12, 2019 at 4:00 pmWe will be heading to Kanab the first week in April and planning on doing a day trip one to Zion one of the days with a group of 5 ages ranging from 15-65. We are all in relatively good shape though. What trails would you suggest as must do’s if we only have 1 day? Thanks for the help!!
Dirt In My Shoes says
January 19, 2019 at 8:30 pmHi Jennie,
I definitely recommend getting a Zion itinerary to make the most of your time in the park. It includes my tips/tricks/suggestions for a successful visit. You can find it here: https://www.dirtinmyshoes.com/zion-itinerary Have fun!
Diego says
October 19, 2017 at 11:18 amGuys.. congrats on your blog and thank you for the Zion material. I am going to be in the area around mid November for a short visit. Planning to arrive at Zion at noon and spend the afternoon there. Should I go for the Angel’s Landing or the Canyon Overlooking Trail. Thanks!
Dirt In My Shoes says
October 24, 2017 at 8:22 amAngels Landing if you are up to the challenge! It’s a difficult trail, but if you are a hiker that’s definitely one to check off the bucket list!
David Philio says
September 14, 2017 at 9:41 pmMy wife and I camped at Bryce canyon then drove to Zion. Did the Riverside walk. Great weather nice hike for old folks like us. That was in June it was busy but not overly crowded. The checker pattern and tunnel made the drive worth it.
Dirt In My Shoes says
October 10, 2017 at 5:14 amI’m glad you had a great time!
Amy O. says
July 31, 2017 at 1:32 pmI’ll be going to the area in early December. I’m a little worried about the temps. Will I still be able to hike comfortably? Are there places that may be closed at that time of year? What else do I need to know?
Dirt In My Shoes says
August 4, 2017 at 12:09 pmSometimes the temperatures are very nice that time of year, but sometimes you’ll get snow! Most everything in the park will still be open with the exception of the Narrows and possibly Angels Landing (depending on if it’s snowy/icy along the trail). It’s a nice time to be there though 🙂
Anna B. says
July 14, 2017 at 7:45 pmThanks for your great blog! I’m flying to Las Vegas on August 26. We plan to be at Bryce that afternoon and spend 2 days there then head to Grand Canyon (North Rim) and do a couple of hikes. 2 years ago I hiked from the North Rim down to Phantom Ranch and then out to the South Rim. I was 70 at the time – it was a tough hike but one of the best I’ve ever done. I’ve also hiked to Pulpit Rock out of Stavanger, Norway which was pretty scary so I think I can handle Angel’s Landing when we get to Zion. My question – Is the last half mile all on chains? Also you mention that there are a few spots where you are looking down on both sides – are you on the chains there as I am a little scared of heights. I just don’t look down but that will be hard if they are on both sides – if there are chains no problem. When I did Pulpit I just stayed close to the wall but I’m worried here with drop-offs on both sides? Thanks! Anna
Dirt In My Shoes says
July 22, 2017 at 1:51 pmHi Anna,
There are chains for most of that half-mile…and definitely along the more treacherous parts of the trail. You’ll have chains to hold on to when the trail drops off on both sides. Starting the trail nice and early in the morning will help you feel safer as well…then you won’t also have to worry about navigating around large groups of people. Have fun!
wes says
June 23, 2017 at 5:29 pmIs there anywhere to go swimming in Zion?
Dirt In My Shoes says
June 24, 2017 at 10:34 amTry the Riverside Walk or the beginning of the Narrows 🙂
Mike says
July 5, 2017 at 9:03 pmMy wife and I will be in Zion in early August with her 80 year old grandmother. What are some sights we can see with an elderly person that gets around pretty well?
Dirt In My Shoes says
July 12, 2017 at 1:22 pmIt really depends on how well she gets around, but the Riverside Walk, Lower Emerald Pool, the Pa’rus Trail, and the scenic drive through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel out to Checkerboard Mesa should all be great activities for her 🙂
Andrea says
April 21, 2017 at 3:06 pmHi Ash,
We are considering visiting the park for our first time next month. We would be able to explore the following days: Saturday after 12pm, Sunday all day, Monday until 12pm. Should we get the 2 day package or 3 day with the times mentioned above in mind- what do you suggest?
Thanks,
Andrea
Dirt In My Shoes says
April 21, 2017 at 3:20 pmHey Andrea! I would recommend the 2-day for your schedule. If you look over it and need help moving a few things around to fit your needs, let me know!
Karly says
April 16, 2017 at 3:39 pmwondering how many days to allow to get the best zion experience? can you see enough in two days?
Dirt In My Shoes says
April 17, 2017 at 8:00 pmI recommend 3 full days if you can, but you can still see most of this list in 2 days 🙂
rachael says
April 13, 2017 at 1:08 pmi have an ESA im taking with me, hes a lab! is there anywhere he can swim amd have his fun?
Dirt In My Shoes says
April 13, 2017 at 3:25 pmService dogs are allowed in many areas of the park, but if you’d like more information about it from the park you can read more here: https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/pets.htm
As for swimming in the park, you’ll want to ask a ranger when you get there. Otherwise, there are plenty of riverside areas/parks in the Springdale vicinity that you should definitely look into for that!
Rosemary David says
December 1, 2015 at 5:26 amThese is such a beautiful creation. I hope to be able to see all these in the near future.
Dirt In My Shoes says
December 4, 2015 at 12:44 pmI hope that you are able to take a trip to Southern Utah soon! Although, we have stayed in the Brighton Chalets and that is sure a beautiful area as well!
betty says
July 6, 2015 at 3:15 pmGreat blog! you’ve included such great information on all the places i want to visit with my family. For the Narrows day hike, would you recommend it for my 3 & 5 year old? i know they would love the river! also would you recommend starting at Riverside Walk to the Narrows or would that be too much of a hike? Thanks so much!
Dirt In My Shoes says
July 6, 2015 at 6:45 pmHey Betty! I’m glad you are finding helpful information. For a 3 and 5 year old, I would recommend just doing the Riverside Walk. If you don’t want to stay on the paved trail, there are numerous side trails that will take you right down to the river with some great spots to play. (The picture of me on my home page was taken next to a little waterfall near the beginning of the Riverside Walk). I could’ve spent a whole afternoon there just sitting by the river and wading my feet. Your kids will love it! The Narrows is much more intense, long, and cold because you have to walk in the water the whole way so that’s probably not the best option. I hope that you have a great trip 🙂
Kate says
February 1, 2016 at 11:52 amTo tag on to Betty’s question, I’m also thinking of bringing my 3 and 6 year old sons to Zion and Bryce. It would be all of our first time and while they have done a fair amount of hiking in Vermont and N Carolina, I know Utah is totally different. Do you think we can get a full Zion experience even with young kids? We were thinking of visiting in early April.
Dirt In My Shoes says
February 1, 2016 at 1:17 pmKate, you can DEFINITELY still have a great trip with young kids! The pace at which you see things will be a little slower, but Zion actually has some awesome hikes for families. I highly recommend the Canyon Overlook, Emerald Pools (even just to the first pool is really fun – there’s a little waterfall), and the Riverside Walk (they can even play in/near the water for a while). The Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel is fun too — that’s actually all that I remembered from my first trip to Zion when I was young. I personally wouldn’t take them on the Angels Landing Trail until they are a little older though, so you may have to skip out on that one (or just hike the part of the trail before the chains…the views are still AWESOME!).
Bryce Canyon is made up of a lot of viewpoints, so kids are no problem with that one either. Hiking down into the canyon may be a challenge because the trails are longer and more strenuous, but the Rim Trail is great. They would probably also enjoy the waterfall and dripping cave on the Mossy Cave Trail.
It’s extremely rewarding to see young kids enjoying the national parks — they will surprise you with how much they are willing to do 🙂
Sanjana @ Green Global Travel says
May 5, 2015 at 7:03 amZion looks like such a beautiful place! Thanks for sharing your pictures and experience!
Dirt In My Shoes says
May 5, 2015 at 8:23 pmIt is a gorgeous place with so many fun things to do and see. Thanks for stopping by!
Sheree Porter says
May 1, 2015 at 11:20 pmKolob Canyons was beautiful, I’m so glad we took the time to go there! I love Zion so much, it is one of my favorite places.
Dirt In My Shoes says
May 4, 2015 at 2:51 pmI love Zion too. Next time you guys come out here, we will all have to go together!
Esther JuLee says
April 10, 2015 at 4:51 pmwe’re absolutely in love with zion! we’re gonna miss living so close to it. we just recently did the narrows and it’s incredible.. and we’re hoping to do angel’s landing next week! 🙂
Dirt In My Shoes says
April 10, 2015 at 5:00 pmI hope you are able to do Angel’s Landing when you go next time…it is so incredible. Please let me know how your trip goes!