Zion National Park — Complete Visitor Guide

Angels Landing, The Narrows, Emerald Pools, permits, best times — everything you need to plan an unforgettable Zion trip.

Why Zion?

Zion National Park is Utah’s crown jewel and one of the most visited national parks in the United States — for good reason. The park’s signature feature is the Zion Canyon, a 15-mile gorge carved by the Virgin River through Navajo sandstone, with canyon walls rising 2,000–3,000 feet in shades of red, orange, and cream.

Zion draws everyone from casual sightseers on the canyon shuttle to technical canyoneers rappelling through slot canyons. The diversity of experiences — from a 2-hour walk to a 16-mile backcountry overnight — makes it truly accessible at any fitness level.

Top Hikes in Zion

Best Time to Visit Zion

Spring (March–May): Best overall. Wildflowers, waterfalls from snowmelt, comfortable temps. Busiest season — book lodging months in advance.

Summer (June–August): Very hot in the canyon (100°F+) but The Narrows is perfect. Expect crowds and full parking by 7am. Start early or stay late.

Fall (September–November): Our pick. Crowds thin after Labor Day, cottonwoods turn gold in October, temps are ideal. September is the sweet spot.

Winter (December–February): Underrated. Snow-dusted red rock is spectacular. Many trails are ice-free; Angels Landing is often snowy. Far fewer crowds.

Angels Landing Permit — What You Need to Know

As of 2022, Angels Landing requires a permit obtained through a seasonal advance lottery and a day-before lottery at recreation.gov. The seasonal lottery opens 3–5 months before your trip window; the day-before lottery is your backup. Apply for both. Permits are non-transferable and checked at the trailhead.

If you don’t get the permit, Observation Point offers an even better view of Zion Canyon from above — and no permit required.