We finally got to explore Zion National Park and man, we were blown away! The views just driving through were like nothing we’d ever seen before. Keep reading to learn all about how to spend a day in Zion National Park with Kids!
Zion National Park Information
- Address: 1 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale, UT 84767
- Phone: 435-772-3256
- Fees: $35 per vehicle
- Hours: Open year round, 24 hours a day
- Shuttle Service: Website (shuttle service is mandatory for certain areas of the Park)
Hiking
Full disclosure, it was pretty crowded during our visit over spring break. Because of the crowds, it was hard to find parking and the shuttle lines were insane. We opted to hike two trails in East Zion that did not require the shuttle, and we highly recommend both!
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail – Distance: 0.9 miles | Time: 30-45 minutes | Level: Easy
If you only have a day in the Park, you don’t want to miss this easy hike. The overlook is truly impressive and the entire trail has views for day, just check out the photos below!
Lower Pine Creek Waterfall Trail – Distance: 0.7 miles | Time: 1 hour | Level: Moderate
The second trail we hiked was by happenstance when a spot opened up in the parking lot as we were driving by. I’m so glad we decided to stop here, we ended up having the entire trail to ourselves! And the best part, this hike ended at a gorgeous waterfall!
We really enjoyed the rock scramble to get to the falls! If you have kiddos, they will really love the adventure that this trail provides!
Driving
If you’re unable to hike, you can still see many impressive views just driving through! Just be mindful that from March through November, it is mandatory to take the free shuttle on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive!
When to Visit
April through November is considered the best time to visit Zion National Park. The fall months provide the best weather for hiking and the crowds begin to thin. Summer is usually the most popular time to visit, so expect crowds and longer wait times for parking and shuttle lines. We visited in March and the weather was very pleasant, but it was already very crowded!
Things to Know
- Arrive early to ensure you find parking and have enough time for your adventures!
- Be aware of the permits and mandatory shuttle services for certain areas of the Park.
- Bring plenty of food, snacks, and water if you’re hiking.
- Be cautious of the ledges and steep drop offs on some of the trails.
- Each season has something to offer visitors.
- Cell service was pretty limited during our visit.
- Follow Leave No Trace Principles!
Overall, we had a wonderful day in Zion National Park! In fact, this was my husband’s favorite experience of our entire Utah trip. My only regret is not planning more time in this Park! Whether you go the day or for a week, I’m sure you’ll have a memorable visit!
Every Kid Outdoors Pass
The teacher in me is so excited to share about this amazing opportunity for elementary students in fourth grade! Did you know that with an Every Kid Outdoors Pass, fourth grade students can get into any National Park in the United State for FREE? And really, every person in the whole entire passenger vehicle gets in free, too!
My fourth grader was so eager to get his pass! We completed the information online and printed the confirmation page. Once we visited our first National Park with the printout, my fourth grader was given his very own National Park Pass! These passes are good from September 1st – August 31st! So, be sure to share this information with anyone that has an elementary student! Using my son’s pass we were able to visit Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park for free during our spring break trip!
Helpful National Park Websites
- National Park Website
- List of US National Parks
- Every Kid Outdoors Pass
- National Park Passes
- Jr. Ranger Programs
More Utah Adventures!
If you are planning a trip in Southern Utah, then check out my complete 7-Day Itinerary that includes stops in Kanab, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park!
