Towering red sandstone cliffs along the Virgin River, home to iconic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows.

1 to 2 days covers the main canyon and shuttle stops, while 3 to 4 lets you add Angels Landing or The Narrows.

Yes — Angels Landing requires a separate lottery permit, so apply ahead if that hike is on your list.

Springdale and St. George are the main gateway towns, with Springdale right at the park entrance.

The entrance fee is $35/vehicle (7-day) — a $100/person nonresident surcharge applies (2026) — or purchase a National Parks Yearly Pass.

Why Visit?:

Zion is home to towering red sandstone cliffs along the Virgin River, and two of the most famous hikes in the entire national park system — Angels Landing and The Narrows. It's one of the most popular parks in the country, and for good reason: the scenery here is dramatic even by short-shuttle-ride standards, with almost no effort required to see something spectacular.

Because of its popularity, both timing and permits matter more here than at most parks — Angels Landing requires a lottery permit, and the shuttle system (mandatory for most of the year) can mean real wait times in peak season.

Things to Do:

Angels Landing, with its famous chain-assisted final ascent, is Zion's marquee hike — genuinely thrilling, not for those afraid of heights, and requires a lottery permit secured in advance. The Narrows, hiking directly through the Virgin River between towering canyon walls, is equally iconic and doesn't require a permit, just water shoes and a willingness to get wet.

For a gentler pace, the Riverside Walk offers an easy, paved trail along the river to the start of The Narrows, a good option if you want the canyon scenery without the wading.

Get the Full Itinerary

Closest airports: St. George Regional Airport (SGU) is about 45 minutes away, the most practical option; Las Vegas (LAS), roughly 2.5 hours, offers far more flight choices if you're willing to drive further.

Nearby Attractions:

Bryce Canyon National Park is just over an hour away and commonly combined with Zion as part of Utah's Mighty 5, and the town of Springdale offers dining and lodging right at the park's south entrance.