Zion National Park offers endless adventure. There is simply an astounding array of activities in Zion. Any adrenaline junkie will tell you, Zion is legit!
Below are some of Park Junkie’s favorite activities in Zion…
Guide to Zion
Backcountry Permits in Zion
All overnight trips in Zion National Park require a backcountry permit. This can be reserved online, or attained at one of the park’s two visitor centers. Day hikes do not need a permit, nor do single day rock climbing trips that do not require a bivouac. All technical slot canyons require a permit, as do overnight climbs. All boating activity in the park is regulated and permits are needed. The same is true for equestrian activity. See the park service backcountry page for more information or to reserve a permit for your chosen activity.
Hiking in Zion
Hiking in Zion is hard to beat. Most trails increase in elevation quite quickly here, providing stellar views without much time on the trail. Difficulty levels vary widely, as some routes are short and sweet, and others lead into the unforgiving backcountry where stamina and resolve will be tested. This is a vertical park, and wrong moves can prove costly on some of the more exposed trails. That said, Zion is a wonderland, and there are a number of trails that will lead you to places you’ll never forget.
Backpacking in Zion
There are numerous routes in Zion’s backcountry that offer opportunities to camp in otherworldly settings. From trails that lead across Zion’s high country, to camps nestled deep in cool, dark canyons, this park provides access to a variety of backcountry camping options. Nights spent out under the clear, starry skies of this desert oasis will remind you of just why you came here in the first place.
Canyoneering in Zion
This is a canyoneer’s paradise. Zion’s narrow slot canyons can provide endless adventure for those who desire a bit more adventure. From quick canyons that can be ran in an hour or two, to multi-day descents with massive rappels, this park has canyons that will challenge even the most seasoned canyoneers. For beginners, try a course at any one of the guide services in Springdale before heading out on your own. A wise purchase may be the Zion Canyoneering Guidebook, by Tom Jones. His website is also a useful tool and has great information on Zion’s canyons. Check out the link below.
Climbing in Zion
Zion features some of the tallest sandstone cliffs on the planet, and yes, they can be climbed. These walls invite some of the world’s best climbers to test their skills on vertical walls that can exceed 2,000 feet in vertical rise. This place is real, and so is gravity. You won’t get far if you don’t know what you’re doing here. Check out Bryan Bird’s Climbing Zion Free & Clean. It is the Bible for climbing in Zion. Also, link on over to the supertopo website, they can give you some beta on what you need to know in Zion.
Boating in Zion
The Zion Narrows is not just for hiking. During spring runoff, water levels in the Narrows often exceed 150cfs (cubic feet per second). When this happens, the Narrows will be closed to hiking, but is then opened to whitewater kayakers. This is a unique way to get your Zion on…
Equestrian Trails in Zion
Horses have long been used to explore this area and Zion National Park allows horses, mules and burros. Unfortunately, goats, llamas and camels are not allowed…. Numerous backcountry trails in the park allow stock use, although this method of travel can be restricted during spring melt-off due to unavoidable trail damage. See the Wilderness Map to find trails that accommodate stock usage.
Birding in Zion
Zion is home to nearly 300 species of birds. Many are not local and arrive and depart with the seasons. The cliffs of Zion are home to some incredible creatures, such as the Peregrine Falcon, Bald Eagle and the California Condor. Check out the NPS site to learn more. Also check out the Audubon Society’s page on Zion.
Auto Tour
Driving through Zion is a fabulous way to see the park. The roads are fun and provide access to amazing vistas and the route through the Mount Carmel Tunnel is a park classic. Other drives will be worth the effort too, and these can take motorists away from the hectic crowds of Zion Canyon, which does not allow private vehicles in the busy season. Check out the AllZion site to learn more about your scenic drive options available in Zion.
Star Gazing
Most of ya’ll will probably be amazed by the night skies that are offered here in Zion. The park’s relative isolation from bright city lights is a blessing for which locals are thankful in these parts. Most nights provide an incredible view of the Milky Way and numerous constellations that will have you consulting your night sky app throughout the evening. Visit the NPS page below to learn more.
Ranger-Led Tours
Park rangers at Zion offer nightly amphitheater programs May through September. A variety of walks, talks and shuttle tours are also offered. These often enhance the visitor understanding of this magnificent park. Visit the NPS site below to see current programs.
Guide to Zion
Relevant Links
National Park Guides
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YOU CAN DIE. Activities pursued within National Park boundaries hold inherent dangers. You are solely responsible for your safety in the outdoors. Park Junkie accepts no responsibility for actions that result in inconveniences, injury or death.
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