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Find an oasis amid the desert sandstone on the hike to Emerald Pools in Zion National Park. This trail to three beautiful pools is always spectacular, and if you can catch it during a rainstorm, the waterfalls are simply incredible. Hiking Emerald Pools Trail Zion is definitely one of the must-do experiences in the park.  Info for Hiking Emerald Pools Trail Zion You don’t need a permit to hike to Emerald Pools, but you will need to pay the Zion National Park entrance fee ($35/vehicle) or use an annual National Parks pass to get into the park to access the trail. LOCATION The Emerald Pools trail is located in the main canyon of Zion National Park. It is closest to the Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop #5), but the trail bridge  from The Lodge is currently closed , so you will need to access the Emerald Pools via the Kayenta Trail at The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6). LENGTH The full Emerald Pools hike is 3 miles round trip all the way to the Upper Pool and back. You can also just go to the Middle Pool (2 miles round trip) or the Lower Pool (1.2 miles round trip). CLICK HERE TO GET MORE DETAILS ABOUT BOOKING A PHOTOSHOOT DIFFICULTY Hiking Emerald Pools Trail Zion is generally easy, especially if you only go to the Lower Pool which can be reached along a wide, paved path. The trail to the Middle Pool is also paved, but it heads up a ridge, so it’s a little steeper. The path to the Upper Pool is sandy and rocky, so it’s a little more difficult. Also check out this blog post for more easy hikes in Zion! WHEN TO HIKE EMERALD POOLS Spring features the most dramatic waterfalls, but fall is also a good time of year to hike Emerald Pools Trail Zion. You can really do this hike year-round, but summers will be very hot (so you should hike in the morning). In winter, ice can make parts of the trail slippery and certain sections will often be closed because of this (you’ll want traction like Yaktrax for your shoes in the winter). Trail Details for Hiking Emerald Pools Trail Zion You can choose your own adventure when hiking Emerald Pools Trail Zion, and either complete the whole 3-mile hike to all three pools or do a shorter hike and only go as far as the Lower Pool or Middle Pool before heading back. The Lower Pool is an accessible hike on a wide, paved path that provides great views of Zion’s rock formations from a green oasis. To get to the Middle Pool, you’ll continue on a paved path up a steeper ridge. The views from here over the dropoff into the canyon are really cool. Getting to the Upper Pool is the trickiest section of the trail along a sandy, rocky path, but believe me, it is absolutely worth the extra effort! Sheer cliffs surround the pool, and the waterfalls are truly epic when they’re running, especially after a big rainstorm. Find more awesome waterfall hikes in southern Utah in my blog post here ! Tips for Hiking Emerald Pools Trail Zion Before or after your hike spend some time at the Zion Lodge. This is such a great place to grab and ice cream cone at the little cafe, sit on the law and enjoy some shade under the massive cottonwood tree. Also a great people watching spot! :-) Wear good hiking shoes if you plan to hike to all three pools. While you might be able to get away with other footwear on the paved path, you’ll want hiking-specific shoes for the rocky path to the Upper Pool. The Emerald Pool trail splits off depending on which pool you are going to, but the trails are well-marked with good signage, so it’s easy to navigate where you want to go. I always recommend bringing water and snacks when hiking in Zion, even on shorter trails. If you’re hiking the Emerald Pools in summer, be sure to bring plenty of water since it gets very hot, even though the trail does have some shady sections. You will have to take the free Zion shuttle  to access the Emerald Pools most of the year. You can only drive the main canyon in Zion in the winter when the shuttles aren’t running. Hope this guide helps you enjoy exploring the gorgeous Emerald Pools when you visit Zion National Park! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

POV: You’re headed to Zion National Park in Utah for the first time and are ready to drive through its spectacular red rock canyon with all your windows rolled down. But wait, what is that you say? You just found out that you CAN’T drive your car through Zion Canyon?! That’s right. While beautiful, the Virgin River-carved canyon is not so friendly to many guests driving and parking. From February to November each year (and sometimes the holiday season in December), you will take the Zion Shuttle into Zion Canyon. A free shuttle runs from the Zion National Park Visitor Center to nine shuttle stops. Private cars are not allowed on the route during this time. Outside those times, you can drive your car into the Main Canyon, but parking can be tough. The other portions of the park are open to exploring in your own vehicle, but Zion Canyon has limited parking and resources, making a shuttle necessary. Unfortunately, the Zion Canyon shuttle system can be confusing for first-timers. I’m here to help you plan your ride through the canyon BEFORE you step foot in the park. Here are the basics of what you need to know to ride the Zion National Park shuttle: Zion National Park Shuttle Pricing and Availability The Zion National Park Shuttle is FREE for all park guests, but you must pay admission to the park or show your national park at the entrance station. No reservations are required; you can hop on any shuttle that isn’t full. That said, shuttles are typically full in the mornings, quieter in the early afternoon, and practically empty by early evening. If you want to hack the system, see destinations beyond the shuttle route in your private vehicle during the morning and ride the shuttle up the canyon in the afternoon or evening. You’ll get the beautiful trails and views all to yourself. SHUTTLE SCHEDULE Shuttles run seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in summer (May until September 17). The last shuttle of the day leaves the Temple of Sinawava at 8:15 p.m. and arrives at the visitor center at 9:00 p.m. From September 18-November 4, the start time shifts to 7 a.m., and the final shuttle out of the canyon leaves at 7:15 p.m. In November and December, hours are shortened. Check Zion National Park’s official shuttle schedule for more information. Good to know Zion Shuttle information You’ll board the shuttle at the visitor’s center at Zion’s Springdale entrance. It typically comes every 10-15 minutes, but you may have to wait longer if it’s crowded. There are nine stops on the route, and it will take approximately 40 minutes to travel the 7.7-mile route from the visitor’s center up the canyon to the final stop. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ABOUT BOOKING A PHOTOSHOOT IN ZION On the way up, the shuttle does not stop at stops 2, 3, and 8. So, if you were looking to skip the visitor’s center by walking to another stop to board, you’re out of luck. You cannot ride the shuttle up and down as one scenic route. You’ll need to exit the shuttle at the final stop (Temple of Sinawava) and get in line to take the shuttle back down the canyon. To get from the visitor center to the last shuttle stop, #9 Temple of Sinawava it takes about 40 minutes. Local Insider Info I recently boarded the shuttle with my kiddos on a weekday in August at 10:00 am. The line looked long and I was nervous, but it only ended up taking us 18 minutes to get on the shuttle. I was pleasantly surprised by how fast it went. If you are visiting on a holiday weekend the line will be much longer and it will take significantly more time to board the shuttle. Shuttle Stops in Zion Canyon and What to See At Each One Shuttle Stop #1 - Zion Canyon Visitor Center This is the hub of the park. Here, you can go through the walk-in entrance station, visit the park gift shop, learn from exhibits in the Visitor Center, stamp your national park passport, get a junior ranger handbook for your kiddos, and buy a national park annual pass. There are two trails beginning at the visitor center: the popular 3.5-mile paved Pa’rus Trail, which you can walk or bike, and the Watchman Trail. The Pa’Rus trail is 3.5 miles long, and leashed dogs are welcome to walk on it. Great for anyone with mobility issues or disabilities who’d like to see views of the park. It’s also great for a casual stroll or for taking one of the many side trails down to the Virgin River for a little bit of solitude. The Watchman Trail in Zion National Park is often overlooked for more popular trails like Angels Landing or The Narrows, but it shouldn't be. This trail is absolutely stunning with epic Zion views and a prime view of the iconic Watchman Mountain. It’s a 3.3-mile roundtrip with about a 456-foot elevation gain, making it a fun and challenging family-friendly trail that is a must for Zion enthusiasts and new visitors alike. Shuttle Stop #2 - Zion Human History Museum This stop is a mile from the visitor center, but don’t try to bypass the crowds at the visitor center by hitting up this stop. This stop only goes down the canyon to the visitor center. You can not get on a shuttle going up canyon from this stop. Jump off here to visit this fascinating museum and gift shop. Watch the Zion Forever Project Movie, “We Are The Keepers”. It is a beautiful film about the history of the park and how we can all do our part to take care of the park. Don’t miss the viewing deck at the back of the museum where you can sit and watch the light change on the cliffs known as Temple of the Virgins. From this stop you can also access Pa’Rus Trail by taking a short path west of the museum. Shuttle Stop #3 - Canyon Junction This stop is 1.7 miles from the visitor center and ONLY goes down the canyon. You can not get on a shuttle going up the canyon from this shuttle stop. This stop provides access to the Pa’rus Trail. This is also a very popular spot to watch sunrise or sunset from the bridge. The views from the bridge are iconic with an incredible vantage point of the Watchman Mountain and the Virgin River below. Shuttle Stop #4 - Court of the Patriarchs This stop is 3.2 miles from the visitor center and provides access to the Court of Patriarchs Trail and the Sand Bench loop trail. From this stop you can follow a short, steep path for views of the three patriarchs (mountains) across the canyon: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This stop is excellent for some off-the-beaten-path exploring along the Virgin River. Make your way towards the Court Of the Patriarch mountains, and you will come to a stunning bridge and cascading waterfall. This is a beautiful spot to watch sunrise or sunset. If you walk across the bridge you can connect to 1.25-mile Sand Bench Loop . It’s a great option to get away from the crowds. Shuttle Stop #5 - Zion Lodge This popular stop is 4.3 miles from the visitor’s center and is the starting place for the Emerald Pools Trails and the Grotto Trail. Take some time at the lodge and get a bite to eat at the Castle Dome Cafe or The Grill at The Lodge. The Loge has a big grassy area to rest and enjoy some shade under a giant cottonwood tree. The Emerald Pools Trail is a can’t-miss favorite that leads to beautiful pools and waterfalls in the heart of Zion Canyon. It’s great for families and kids. It is 3 miles roundtrip to the Upper Pool, 2 miles roundtrip to the Middle Pool, and 1.2 miles roundtrip to the Lower Pool. You can connect the trails to see all the pools. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ABOUT HIKING EMERALD POOLS TRAIL ***DUE TO CONSTRUCTION ON THE BRIDGE, EMERALD POOLS IS CLOSED AT THIS STOP. GO UP TO #6 AND ACCESS EMERALD POOLS FROM THE KAYENTA TRAIL The Grotto trail is a flat and easy 0.5-mile trail that will take you to The Grotto shuttle stop. Shuttle Stop #6 - The Grotto This stop is 4.9 miles from the visitor center and is the starting point for Kayenta Trail, Angels Landing, and West Rim Trail. The Kayenta Trail is 2.2 miles and leads you to the Lower Emerald Pools Trail—if you’re looking to make it a longer walk. The most popular hike on this stop is Angel’s Landing. This 5.4-mile trail has 1488 feet of elevation gain and is one of the most popular hikes in the park. If you don’t have a permit to hike the chain section, hike to Scouts Lookout and then take the West Rim Trail to continue your hike. Note: A permit is required to hike Angel’s Landing from the chain section. Do not begin your hike without one if you plan to climb the chains at the top of the trail. CHECK OUT OUR BLOG POST - Hiking Angels Landing - Zion National Park Shuttle Stop #7 - Weeping Rock (CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO ROCK SLIDE) This stop is 6.4 miles from the visitor center and features the Weeping Rock Trail. This 0.4-mile roundtrip hike is short, but it packs a punch with a beautiful stream, hanging gardens, and an alcove with stunning views and an endless stream of rain weeping from the rock wall overhead. This stop was once the starting point for East Rim Trail, Hidden Canyon, and Observation Point but a massive rockslide damaged the trails and it is uncertain if the trails will ever be accessible again. NOTE: You can still get to Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail on the east side of the park. No shuttle needed. Shuttle Stop #8 - Big Bend (CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO CONSTRUCTION) This stop is 6.6 miles from the visitor center and is a down-canyon stop only. Do not try to exit on the way up-canyon. Note that this stop does not have services like restrooms, water fountains, or hiking trails. It’s a popular rock-climbing destination and a great spot to see the park’s wildlife. Shuttle Stop #9 - Temple of Sinawava The final shuttle stop is 7.7 miles from the visitor center. It is the most popular stop, leading to the family-friendly Riverside Walk Trail, and the popular but more challenging slot canyon water hike, The Narrows. Riverside Walk trail is 2.2 miles roundtrip and is paved the whole way. You can get a preview of the Narrows by walking along it, and it is excellent for people with disabilities, children, or anyone with mobility issues. You’ll follow this paved trail to reach The Narrows. The Narrows is one of the most famous adventure hikes in Zion National Park. This hike is 4.5 miles one-way. You can hike beyond that point with a permit, but most people hike just a portion to experience being surrounded by 1,000 foot cliffs and then turn around. In the summer, this hike is the perfect reprieve from the intense summer heat. In winter, specific gear is required from outfitters to safely walk in the cold water, but you won’t find any crowds in that quieter season. CHECK OUT OUR BLOG POST - HIKING THE NARROW IN ZION NATIONAL PARK or if you are hiking with kids 10 TIPS FOR HIKING THE NARROWS WITH KIDS The Springdale Line for Lodging Guests Staying in Springdale? There’s a free shuttle that will take you from many town hotels to the park. The Springdale Line, or town shuttle, stops at nine locations in town and picks up and drops off riders at the walking or biking entrance at Zion Canyon Village. Reservations are not required for this shuttle either. Hours vary depending on the season. E-Bike the canyon and skip the shuttle all together E-biking the canyon is one of my favorite ways to experience the Zion Canyon. Renting an e-bike allows you to spend the morning or afternoon going at your own pace through the Zion canyon. You will feel so alive zooming through the canyon with the wind in your hair, smells of the lush desert vegetation around you, and feeling the pockets of cool and warm air on your skin. You are welcome to pull over and park your bike at any of the shuttle stop parking areas, and the shuttles are not allowed to pass you on your bike until you’re fully pulled over—making this a safe way to explore, too. CHECK OUR OUR BLOG POST - E-BIKING THE ZION CANYON Zion National Park Shuttle Rules You may want to snack on a sandwich while riding, but this is prohibited. No food or drink is allowed on the shuttle besides water, so plan ahead. It’s also best to not wait for the last shuttle of the day. If you miss the last shuttle, you may have to walk the nine miles back to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center! Pets are not allowed on shuttle buses. That's about it! Once you figure it out, the Zion Shuttle system is super easy to navigate. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip next time you visit Zion National Park. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

Sometimes you have to work hard for the most memorable views by hiking a steep trail to a summit or navigating difficult terrain. But an amazing thing about Zion National Park is that many of the easy hikes in Zion offer jaw-dropping views of amazing landscapes without too much effort. The 12 Best Easy Hikes in Zion Zion National Park is truly an incredible place, and you can see so much of it on short, easy trails. Here are my favorite easy hikes in Zion. These hikes are in order from easiest to a little less easy Pa'Rus Trail Riverside Walk Sand Bench Loop Lambs Knoll Clear Creek Timber Creek Overlook Canyon Overlook Emerald Pools Lower Pine Creek Falls The Watchman Trail The Narrows Taylor Creek Whether you have a limited amount of time or are wrangling a few kiddos, these easy hikes in Zion are great for just about anybody! 1. Pa’Rus Trail The Pa’Rus Trail is a classic easy Zion hike that is accessible for anyone and is stroller friendly. It runs right along the Virgin River, so it’s a beautiful walk, and you can take  little side paths down to splash around in the river if you want to cool off plus find solitude. LOCATION The trail starts right at the Zion Visitor Center and traces the Virgin River to the South Campground. It ends at Canyon Junction, where you can board the shuttle to go back to the visitor center. You can not go up the canyon from this shuttle stop. LENGTH The Pa’Rus Trail is about 3.5 miles out and back, and it’s   paved and fairly flat, so it’s a perfect intro to easy hikes in Zion. You can even bike it if you want! CLICK FOR MORE INFO TO BOOK A PHOTOSHOOT IN ZION TRAIL DETAILS I love the Pa’Rus Trail for a relaxing river stroll, and it offers amazing views of The Watchman rock formation, too. The paved path goes over a number of lovely bridges that cross the Virgin River, and there are plenty of spots to stop and take a break along the river and even dip your toes in. Learn more about biking the Pa'Rus Trail here ! 2. Riverside Walk Trail The Riverside Walk Trail is one of my favorite easy hikes in Zion because it takes you on a lovely stroll along the banks of the Virgin River. It’s a paved path with minimal elevation gain, so it’s fairly easy for strollers and wheelchairs to navigate this trail. LOCATION The trailhead for the Riverside Walk Trail is at the last shuttle stop in the canyon, Temple of Sinawava. LENGTH The Riverside Walk Trail is a 2 mile round trip hike from the parking lot to the start of The Narrows and back. TRAIL DETAILS Hike along the Virgin River with sheer red rock walls rising above you on the Riverside Walk Trail. Once you reach the start of The Narrows hike, you can turn around if you don’t want to get in the water. Instead of taking the same paved path back, you have the option to take a dirt trail that parallels the river which offers a change of scenery (and fewer crowds).  Check out my Riverside Walk Trail blog post here  for more details about this hike! 3. Sand Bench Loop Looking for an easy hike in Zion that is both beautiful and not crowded? The Sand Bench Loop is perfect for you! This trail features a lovely bridge, a horse corral, access to the virgin river, and views of gorgeous mountains. LOCATION The Sand Bench Loop is located at the Court of the Patriarchs (Stop #3) on the Zion shuttle. Cross the street to the river, walk past a horse stable and a watershed, then head to right across a beautiful bridge. LENGTH The Sand Bench Loop is 1.25 miles with very little elevation gain, but for the majority of the hike you are walking in fine, deep sand so that does make things a little harder. TRAIL DETAILS This short loop trail gives you beautiful up-close views of the Court of the Patriarch rock formations, and the little stream near the end of the hike is filled with tadpoles and frogs in the spring and summer. I highly recommend bringing a packed lunch and hanging out by the river for a bit in the afternoon or evening. The trail is also great for kiddos, with plenty of space for them to run and play in the sand.  Get all my advice for  hiking the Sand Bench Trail here ! 4. Lambs Knoll Lambs Knoll is a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path hike featuring a cluster of breathtaking rock formations and wide-open views. LOCATION Lambs Knoll is located about 10 miles up Kolob Terrace road (starting in Virgin), and half an hour west of Springdale. It sits on the edge of Zion National Park, but isn't technically in the park.  LENGTH It’s only about a .4-mile hike to the base of Lambs Knoll (0.8 miles round trip). The trail is mostly flat and sandy, so it’s an easy hike for most visitors. It’s a great spot to explore some of the cool rock formations in this desert landscape of southern Utah, and it’s a popular spot for rock climbing and canyoneering. TRAIL DETAILS You’ll start walking along a dirt path towards the jagged mountains. After reaching some thick brush, you will come to a fork in the path. You can head left on a short detour to an alcove of tall red rock cliffs, or keep going straight to another big rock wall that marks the end of the trail. If you want to explore a little more, you can head to the right at the wall and squeeze through a small, tight slot canyon. After you've had some fun in the canyon, turn around and go back the way you came. Get all the details about the Lambs Knoll hike here ! 5. Clear Creek Clear Creek is the main dry streambed which runs along Route 9 on the east side of Zion. You won’t find this hike on park maps, so it is excellent for some off the beaten path exploring.  The hike is full of  cave-like tunnels, easy slot canyons, and sandstone cliffs. LOCATION Clear Creek does not have a true start or end. When you drive along Route 9 on the northeast side of the park, you can spot the dry creek bed down below. Look for pull-offs all along the drive to pick a spot and go exploring.  I think the best spots to pull over are about a quarter mile east of the Canyon Overlook parking lot or at the Many Pools trailhead. LENGTH Once you make your way down into the dry stream bed, you can hike for as long – or short – as you like. The sand can be deep, and the path is pretty rocky, but it’s not too difficult since you can choose your own adventure. TRAIL DETAILS No matter where you start hiking, you will find surprises around every corner along Clear Creek. You’ll be hiking along a sandy, pebble-filled dry stream bed, and it will lead you to some short slot canyons and gorgeous red and black cliffs. You might also encounter a few tunnels that take you under Route 9. If you start from the Many Pools trail head, hike down to the dry streambed and you will reach a slot canyon if you go right and reach a slot canyon if you go left…..so fun and easy to explore! Find out more about exploring Clear Creek in my post here! 6. Timber Creek Overlook The views from the Timber Creek Overlook trail are absolutely stunning. This is the perfect easy Zion hike to experience the beautiful sandstone cliffs of Kolob Canyon.  LOCATION You’ll find the Timber Creek Overlook trail at the end of Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive, and it’s the cherry on top of the beautiful drive. LENGTH The Timber Creek Overlook hike is just 1 mile round trip on a mostly flat, sandy  trail with a few short rocky hills. TRAIL DETAILS This trail offers stunning views the whole way, but the panoramic perspective at the end of the Timber Creek Overlook  trail is absolutely jaw-dropping! The views of the rich red mountains and wild desert go on for miles and miles. If you make it there at sunset, it is especially spectacular. For more insider info about where to catch sunrises & sunsets in Zion, check out this post! 7. Canyon Overlook Canyon Overlook is a fantastic easy hike in Zion with lots of cool features along the way, but the main attraction is the overlook at the end, where you’ll be treated to one of the most epic views in Zion! Honestly, it kind of feels like cheating to get views like this on such an easy hike. The only downside is that the trail can get super busy, and parking can be extremely hard to find. LOCATION The trailhead is located just east of the Mt. Carmel Tunnel on the north side of the road, and there is a parking area across the road. LENGTH The Canyon Overlook hike is 1.25 mile round trip with just a bit of elevation gain. The trail is somewhat rocky with a few spots of deep sand. Although it’s overall considered an easy trail, if you are nervous about heights and drop offs, this might not be the hike for you. TRAIL DETAILS The is a really fun and short hike with lots of cool features like a half cave, a catwalk bridge, and even bighorn sheep sightings. It really packs a punch at the end with one of the most breathtaking views in the park. Definitely bring your camera for this hike! Canyon Overlook is a great spot to see the sunrise, and that also tends to be the best time to go to avoid the crowds. Check out my blog post here for even more about hiking Canyon Overlook! 8. Emerald Pools The hike to Emerald Pools is one of the classic and popular easy hikes in Zion. The trail takes you to a spectacular waterfall, especially if you catch it during a rainstorm when the falls are truly epic! LOCATION The Emerald Pools trail is  located in the main canyon, at the Zion Lodge (Stop #5 on the Zion shuttle) ***The trail is currently closed from The Lodge so you will start at the Kayenta trail on shuttle stop #6 The Grotto LENGTH The hike is 3 miles round trip all the way to the Upper Pool. You can also just go to the Middle Pool (2 miles round trip) or the Lower Pool (1.2 miles round trip). TRAIL DETAILS The easiest hike is to the Lower Pool which you reach via an accessible trail on a wide, paved path. It provides amazing views of Zion’s signature rock formations from within a green oasis. While the trail to the Middle Pool is also paved,  it heads up a ridge, so it is somewhat steeper. The views from up there over the dropoff into the canyon are excellent. The path to the Upper Pool is sandy and rocky, so it’s a little more difficult, but it is totally worth it! When the waterfalls are running, they will take your breath away, and the pool is surrounded by stunning cliffs. Get all the details about Emerald Pools here! 9. Lower Pine Creek Falls I’ve added this hike to the list because it is short and incredible. This is easy for most hikers but if you are looking for paved paths or you don’t like rock scrambling and walking along exposed ledges then this isn’t the hike for you. I think Lower Pine Creek Falls is one of the funnest easy hikes in Zion. It’s  not actually advertised on park maps which  means it tends to be less crowded, so it’s an awesome trail to find some rare seclusion in the heart of Zion. LOCATION The trailhead for Lower Pine Creek Falls is about 1.5 miles north from the Zion Visitor Center along Route 9 on the way to the Mt. Carmel Tunnel. Look for a small paved parking area on your left just before the series of switchbacks that head up to the tunnel. You’ve gone too far if you go over a bridge. LENGTH This super short trail is only .7 miles round trip, but it’s a lot of fun even in that short distance. T o reach the pool and waterfall at the end, you need to do some stream hopping and boulder scrambling.. TRAIL DETAILS The trail to Lower Pine Creek Falls does start out easy to follow, but it becomes less defined the farther you get into the canyon, and  you’ll have to cross the stream a few times. After the first small pool you get to, you’ll have to start climbing up and over some rocks and boulders. But it’s totally worth the effort to get to the cool final pool, where you can rest and enjoy the waterfall from a lovely sandy beach. Find all my top tips for hiking Lower Pine Creek Falls here ! 10. The Narrows The Narrows is one of the most famous hikes in Zion, and it’s actually not too difficult as long as you don’t mind getting wet + walking slowly and carefully while navigating the rocks on the river bottom. This hike can be as short as you want it to be. Just walk up the river a little ways and then turn around. Note: The Narrows closes when water conditions get especially dangerous, so make sure to check the current conditions on the Zion NPS site . LOCATION For most of the year, you can only get to The Narrows via the Zion shuttle . After a scenic ride to the last stop on the shuttle, Temple Of Sinawava, you’ll need to hike about a mile on the Riverside Walk trail to reach the start of The Narrows. LENGTH The great thing about The Narrows is that you can turn around whenever you want. Big Springs is as far as  you can go without a permit, and it’s about 4.5 miles one way. Many people choose a shorter hike, and only to go to what’s known as Wall Street, which is 2.5 miles one way.  TRAIL DETAILS The Narrows is a unique hike, and, believe me, the views around every turn will take your breath away! You’ll be wading through the knee-deep water of the Virgin River for most of The Narrows hike, so it’s an excellent hike to beat the heat during summer in Zion .  After 2.5 miles of hiking,, you’ll enter the tightest section of the slot canyon, called Wall Street, which is a common turn around point. If you want to keep going, you can continue another couple miles to an area called Big Springs where waterfalls spout right out of the walls. You have to head back here unless you have a permit. Read my full guide to The Narrows  for more details on this easy hike in Zion! 11. The Watchman Trail I have Watchman Trail as one of the last on the list because it has the most elevation gain. If you are looking for something relatively flat, then this isn’t the trail for you. The Watchman Trail is often overshadowed by the iconic trails in Zion like Angels Landing  or The Narrows, and that’s a mistake. This trail is absolutely stunning with epic Zion views and an up-close perspective of the famous Watchman Mountain. LOCATION The hike begins right near the Springdale entrance to the park  at the Zion Visitor Center. Walk on the road toward Route 9 until you see the trailhead signage which is on the north side, on the Virgin River’s east bank. LENGTH The Watchman Trail is 3.3 miles round trip, and it does have some elevation gain of about 450 feet. The incline is gradual though, and the trail is easy to follow. TRAIL DETAILS The beginning of the trail hugs the river before you start hiking up into the hills. For a mile or so, the trail is moderately strenuous as you head uphill. Eventually, you’ll reach a beautiful view of the canyon with the Visitor Center below, Springdale off in the distance, and Watchman Peak in the south. You can then take a short loop trail for even more views off to the south before you head back down to the start. Check out this blog post for more info about the Watchman Trail! 12. Taylor Creek Taylor Creek is last on the list because it is the longest hike on the list and it does have some steep elevation change at the very end/start of the hike. The Taylor Creek hike gives you a chance to explore the Kolob Canyons area of Zion. The trail follows a creek lined with Navajo sandstone walls and lots of lush vegetation along the way and offers a little shade on a hot summer day. (Make sure to bring lots of water if you are doing this one in the summer) LOCATION Taylor Creek is located in the Kolob Canyons district, which is on the north side of Zion National Park. The entrance to this area of the park is off of  I-15 (exit 40).  Taylor Creek starts from the first trailhead you come across along the scenic drive into Kolob Canyons. LENGTH The Taylor Creek trail is 5.5  miles round trip. The hike starts with a short but steep descent (which you also have to go back up at the end), but the rest of the trail is flat and fairly easy to navigate.. TRAIL DETAILS The Taylor Creek trail takes you past two historic homestead cabins from the 1930s.  You can peek in the windows to get a sense of what life was like for the settlers who lived out here a long time ago. The trail continues past the cabins along the creek until you reach the massive Double Arch Alcove. The double arches are not the typical open arches you find in the desert, but more like an arched cave set in the sandstone wall with seeping water and lovely green ferns. The Double Arch marks the end of the trail, so it’s a great place to have a little picnic lunch or snack before heading back. Find out more about this hike in my Taylor Creek post here ! Enjoy your visit to Zion National Park and southwestern Utah with one (or several!) of these incredible easy hikes in Zion! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

Zion National Park has tons of great hiking for the whole family. Hiking with kids forces you to slow down, smell the flowers, check out allllllll the things, climb, play and most importantly have fun. When visiting Zion you need to have funnnnnn! While hiking with kids can be so much fun it can also be a challenge. That is why I have put together this guide. As a local mama with 3 kids, I know that when planning to go hiking with kids it's super important to know how long the hike is, how hard the hike is, and how interactive the hike is. This quick guide is exactly what you need to help you plan your Zion adventure with kids in tow. Whether you are planing to spend a day or a week exploring Zion, this guide will help you figure out what hikes to put at the top of your list. UNDERSTANDING THE PARK There are 4 sections of Zion and all 4 sections have great hikes for kids. I will give you ideas for drive time if you are staying in Springdale. Springdale is the little town located right next to Zion. This is the most convenient place to stay when visiting the main canyon and East Zion. If you stay in a different location the driving times will be a little different. THE MAIN CANYON This section of Zion is 5 minutes from Springdale, it is only accessible via shuttle the majority of the year and is the busiest of all the areas of the park. Best Hikes with kids Riverside Walk The Narrows Emerald Pools Sand Bench Loop KOLOB CANYONS 45 minutes north/west of Springdale. Has a small visitor center/entrance station. It’s a small section of the park but packs a punch with amazing towering red rock cliffs. Best Hikes with kids Taylor Creek Timber Creek Overlook KOLOB TERRACE This area is 30-45 minutes west of Springdale and your best option for getting away from the crowds. Best Hikes with kids Northgate Peaks Trail Lambs Knoll EAST ZION Located just above the main canyon and 20 minutes from Springdale. You get a totally different look than the main canyon with lots of options for off the beaten path hiking. Best Hikes with kids Canyon Overlook Many Pools Clear Creek BONUS HIKES These are a few great hikes that are located just outside the main canyon, close the the Visitor Center and Springdale. No shuttle needed. Pa'Rus Trail The Watchman Trail Lower Pine Creek Falls Trails in the Main Canyon Only accessible via shuttle the majority of the year RIVERSIDE WALK Distance - 2.5 miles round trip Difficulty - Easy with no elevation gain Fun Factor - Lots of opportunities for water play, climbing and exploring along the trail & river. This is a great hike to do first on your list and first thing in the morning. You will take the shuttle all the way through the park (35 mins) and get a wonderful scenic view of the canyon. There is a sand trail that runs parallel to the paved trail and is usually less crowded. The end of this hike is the start of The Narrows. This trail tends to get very crowded in the summer so plan to do this one first thing in the morning to beat some of those crowds. RELATED: Hiking the Riverside Walk Trail in Zion National Park THE NARROWS Distance - 2.5 miles RT on Riverside Walk and then hike the river into The Narrows as long as you want. Turn around and come back the way you came. Difficulty - Walking over the slippery wet rocks can be hard for kids. Fun Factor - such a fun hike for kids in the summer. The Narrows starts once you step off the paved trail of Riverside Walk. Bring walking sticks for added support. Plan to go slow. Take lots of snacks and plan plenty of time for the kids to play in the water. CHECK OUT OR BLOG POST: 10 TIPS FOR HIKING THE NARROWS WITH KIDS EMERALD POOLS Distance - 1 mile round trip for the lower pool. 1.25 miles for the middle pool and 2.5 miles round trip for the upper pool. Difficulty - There is a decent amount of elevation gain on this trail. Fun factor - The waterfalls and stream make this hike super fun for kids. One of the most popular hikes in the park. It is located right across from the Zion Lodge (this entrance is currently closed....access via Kayenta trail). I recommend doing the Kayenta trail on your way back out for different views. This will take you to The Grotto stop that is just one stop up from The Lodge. BTW you can't swim in any of the pools so no need to plan for swimming suites. RELATED: Hiking Emerald Pools Trail in Zion National Park NOT SURE TO WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING ZION WITH KIDS? CHECK OUT THIS BLOG POST WITH 17 AMAZING OPTIONS! SAND BENCH LOOP TRAIL Distance - 1 mile loop Difficulty - There is deep sand which can be hard to walk through. This trail can be hard to find in some spots Fun factor - You might run into horses on the trail. Even if you don't do this short hike plan to spend time along the Virgin River in this area. This is a great hike to get away from the crowds! It is a short loop trail that takes you along a little stream and a horse corral. There are plenty of area for kids to run and play in the sand. I highly recommend taking a lunch and hanging out by the river for the afternoon or evening. RELATED: Hiking the Sand Bench Loop Trail in Zion National Park Trails on the East side of Zion These are all trails that you will drive to. The east side of Zion tends to be a little less crowded and also a little cooler. CANYON OVERLOOK Distance - 1.25 miles round trip Difficulty - Some elevation gain but pretty easy. The trail is rocky with deep sand in some spots. If you are nervous of heights and drop offs, this might not be the hike for you. Fun factor - This hike has some cool features like a 1/2 cave, catwalk bridge, and lots of areas for climbing the sandstone rocks. The is a fun and short hike with kids and packs a major punch at the end with the most epic views. At the overlook area, you have to make sure to keep your kiddos close because there are lots of sheer drop-offs. The hike can get very busy and parking can be very hard to find so plan accordingly. This is a great sunrise hike. Sunrise tends to be the best time to go to avoid the crowds. RELATED: Hiking Canyon Overlook Trail - Zion National Park CLEAR CREEK Distance - You can hike as little or as much as you want. Difficulty - You will take some short and steep paths down to the dry stream bed. The sand can be deep and the path rocky. Fun Factor - Lots of areas to run, play and explore. Clear Creek does not have an actual starting point or end point. As you drive along Route 9 on the upper east side of Zion, you will see the dry creek bed down below. There are pull-offs all along the drive. Pick a spot to pull off and go exploring. The best spots to pull over and explore is at the Many Pools trailhead. PLEASE DO NOT LET YOUR KIDS DRAW ON CANYON WALLS EVER!!!! RELATED: Exploring Clear Creek - Zion National Park MANY POOLS Distance - You can make this hike as long or as short as you want Difficulty - You will be walking up the sandstone for the first part of the hike and down the sandstone for coming back. Fun factor - This is all about running and getting out some energy on the endless sandstone. Many Pools is not an official trail, so it is a great option for getting away from crowds. The start of this trail is .9 miles east of the smaller tunnel.Follow the wash all the way up the canyon for beautiful sandstone and interesting pothole formations. You can make this hike as long or as short as you would like. Hiking shoes with good traction are needed. There is very little shade along this trail so do not attempt in the heat of the day. TRAILS IN KOLOB CANYONS Kolob Canyons is smaller section of Zion that is 45 minutes from Springdale. There is a small ranger station and the short drive to the top of the canyon is stunning. Taylor Creek Distance - 5.5 miles round trip Difficulty - The trail does have some elevation gain. The path is dirt and rocky in some areas. It's not an easy trail but also not a difficult trail. Fun Factor - You are walking along a small stream the majority of the hike which makes it super fun for kids in the summer. The trail is beautiful and the double arch alcove at the end is a great spot for lunch and snacks. This hike is the longest one on the list but it is a beautiful and fun hike in the summer. There are two historic cabins along the trail that are intresting. The double arch alcove at the end is a great spot for lunch and snacks. Even if the kiddos don't make it all the way to the end it is worth it to hike along the stream for a ways and enjoy the scenery. Timber Creek Overlook Distance - 1 mile round trip Difficulty - A sandy and flat trail with a few short rocky hills Fun Factor - The hike is short and keeps the kids engaged. The views on this hike are stunning. This is the perfect quick hike with kids to experience the beautiful sandstone cliffs of Kolob Canyon. TRAILS ALONG KOLOB TERRACE A smaller section of Zion that is 45 minutes from Springdale. Northgate Peaks Trail Distance - 4.5 miles round trip Difficulty - This is a flat and easy trail Fun Factor - This trail is all about the hiking with some beautiful sandstone peaks and back country views of Zion and the surrounding area. The hike is along a flat ponderosa forest for 2 miles so it can be a little boring for the kiddos. The trail rewards you with beautiful and unique views of Zion peaks and back country canyons. This is the area of Zion that most people don't see. It's worth it to get off the beaten path. Lambs Knoll Distance - 1/2 mile round trip Difficulty - There is deep sand but this is a short and easy hike Fun Factor - This hike is prime for lots or running and exploring. The little slot canyon is a favorite for kids. Lambs Knoll is an area along Kolob Terrace road that is popular for rock climbing and canyoneering. With kids it is a super fun area to explore and play. The hike is short and leads you to a small and tight slot canyon. There are picnic tables so take a lunch or dinner and make it a fun afternoon adventure. BONUS TRAILS These trails in the main section of Zion, but they are accessible without needing to use the Shuttle. LOWER PINE CREEK FALLS Distance - 3/4 miles round trip Difficulty - Some tricky rock scrambling, walking on ledges, climbing through tight spaces, and stream hoping. Fun factor - Such a fun hike in the summer. Hiking along the creek is fun for kids and the pool/waterfall area at the end is perfect for swimming and water play. This hike isn't advertised by the park, so chances of having some solitude are good if you go first thing in the morning or later in the day. The parking area for this hike is right before the bridge that takes you up to the Carmel Tunnel. The trail starts right by the parking area. You will take it all the way back until you reach a beautiful waterfall. RELATED: Lower Pine Creek Falls - Secret Waterfall Hike in Zion National Park THE PA'RUS TRAIL Distance - Walk as long as you want and then turn around and walk back. Difficulty - This trail is more of a stroll than a hike. It is a paved trail with no elevation gain and a few paths down to the river. Fun Factor - The kids will appreciate taking paths down to the river to play along the river. Starts at the visitor center, goes past the south campground and along the Virgin River. It is a great trail for a leisurely evening stroll with the kiddos. We love making frequent stops and playing along in the river. Also a fun trail to rent bikes and and ride. RELATED: Biking the Pa'Rus trail in Zion National Park THE WATCHMAN TRAIL Distance - 3 miles round trip Difficulty - There is a lot of uphill on this trail. Fun factor - It's all about hiking with this trail. Lots of area to run and explore at the top. This trail has very little shade, and a decent elevation gain so don't try it in the middle of the day in the summer heat. Has beautiful views of the Watchman mountain at the top. To get there, you will start at the visitor center and head towards the south campground. Walk along the east side of the Virgin River. The trail will veer away from the river and past some employee housing. The trailhead will be just past the housing. RELATED: Hiking the Watchman Trail - Zion National Park Remember, fun is the top priority when hiking Zion with kids. Happy hiking, Arika ADDITIONAL RELATED POSTS TO CHECK OUT

Zion National Park is simply stunning, and while I highly recommend exploring the many hiking trails in the park, sometimes you just want a breathtaking view without a lot of effort. As an adventure photographer in Zion, trust me, I know all the best views in Zion National Park…including the most incredible views that don’t require any hiking! The 9 Best Views in Zion You Don’t Need to Hike To Here are the 9 best views in Zion National Park that you can see without hiking: Towers of the Virgin Viewing Deck Pa’Rus Trail Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive Kolob Terrace Meadow Lambs Knoll Guacamole Trailhead Canyon Junction Bridge Zion Canyon Shuttle East Zion Pull Outs These viewpoints are located in different areas of the park, so you can get amazing views of all the various sections of Zion…no hiking needed! 1. Towers of the Virgin Viewing Deck For a stunning view of the Towers of the Virgin, head to the viewing deck right behind the Zion Human History Museum. These incredible sandstone monoliths are some of the most iconic features of Zion, and you can see them in full glory from here with no need to hike. The covered deck has benches so you can sit and stay awhile to soak in one of the best views in Zion National Park. It’s a perfect spot to catch the sunrise or sunset in Zion , especially if you don’t want to worry about hiking in the dark. CLICK HER FOR MORE INFORMATION LOCATION The viewing deck is situated behind the Zion Human History Museum, which is located just about a mile inside the Springdale entrance to Zion National Park. There is plenty of parking at the museum. 2. Pa’Rus Trail The Pa’Rus Trail provides an amazing view of Watchman Mountain, another one of the famous rock formations in Zion. Walk along the short path from the Human History Museum to connect to the paved Pa’Rus Trail and gaze in awe at some of the best views in Zion National Park with the Watchman rising above. Okay, yes, you do have to walk just a little, but believe me, this is a short stroll, not an actual hike. LOCATION The Pa’Rus Trail  runs along the Virgin River from the Zion Visitor Center to Canyon Junction, but for the best view of The Watchman, I recommend the section of the trail right by the Human History Museum. 3. Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive One great way to get the best views in Zion National Park without hiking is by driving! While you can’t drive through the main canyon of Zion during peak season, you can head to the Kolob Canyons section of the park and take the scenic drive. This separate area of Zion is full of beautiful box canyons and sandstone cliffs, and Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive  runs for 5 miles from the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center along a ridge up to Kolob Canyons Viewpoint at the other end. Along the way you can stop at many overlooks to take in the views, and, of course, the Kolob Canyons Viewpoint showcases a fantastic perspective of the area. Note: Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive occasionally closes in the winter due to snow and ice. LOCATION The entrance to Kolob Canyons is off of I-15 at exit 40, approximately 45 mins north of the main Springdale entrance to Zion. 4. Kolob Terrace Meadow Kolob Terrace Road is a hidden gem that sits just outside the Zion National Park boundaries, so you can catch the views from here without the crowds. As you drive down the road, you’ll encounter many wide open meadows along Kolob Terrace with stunning views and beautiful red rocks in the distance. You can simply step out of your car and appreciate the views here. LOCATION Kolob Terrace Road runs from just outside the town of Virgin, UT around 25 miles up to Kolob Reservoir. 5. Lambs Knoll One of my favorite spots along Kolob Terrace Road is Lambs Knoll . It’s a popular spot for rock climbing, and you can take a short hike to the base of the rock if you like. But if you’re not interested in hiking, don’t worry! Right from the parking area, you can see the towering peaks in the distance and take in the panoramic views of Tabernacle Dome, West Temple, and the Guardian Angels and other landmark features. Near the dirt parking lot is a small covered picnic area that’s a perfect spot to have lunch with absolutely stellar views. LOCATION Starting from the town of Virgin, Lambs Knoll is located about 10 miles up Kolob Terrace Road. 6. Guacamole Trailhead While mountain bikers know this area as the start of the famous Guacamole Trail, I discovered this incredible view during a stay at Open Sky Zion  with my kiddos. As a photographer, believe me, I have seen a LOT of views of Zion but the view from the Guacamole Trailhead seriously blew me away. It is truly the most amazing view I have ever seen of Zion's West Temple mountain…and there is no hiking involved! LOCATION The Guacamole Trailhead is Just a short drive (less than 1/4 mile) above Open Sky Zion, near the town of Virgin. It’s about a half an hour drive from Springdale and the west entrance of ZIon. 7. Canyon Junction Bridge From the Canyon Junction Bridge, you’ll find one of the best views in Zion National Park of the Virgin River and The Watchman formation. Honestly, this view is truly iconic, and you shouldn’t miss it while visiting Zion! This spot is particularly stunning at sunset when The Watchman glows red while the curving Virgin River reflects the colors of the sky. This is a very popular place, but you can walk down to the river just below the bridge to get away from the crowds on the bridge and get another great perspective. LOCATION The Canyon Junction Bridge sits at the junction of Highway 9 and the road that goes into the main canyon of Zion. Just be aware that parking is quite limited here. 8. Zion Canyon Shuttle For a sightseeing tour of Zion National Park without having to walk at all, hop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle! This free shuttle runs through the main canyon of Zion, and is the only way to access the canyon during the busy season (typically from March to November) when private cars are not allowed on the road. It’s about a 45 minute ride from one end of the canyon to the other (an hour and a half round trip), so you can sit back and relax and enjoy the views along the way or hop out at any of the stops to take photos then hop back on the next shuttle. Be sure to check out my guide to the Zion Canyon Shuttle here  for everything you need to know! LOCATION The Zion Canyon Shuttle runs through the main canyon of Zion National Park, with the first stop at the Visitor Center and the final stop at the Temple of Sinawava. 9. East Zion Pull Offs Escape the crowds of the main canyon and head to East Zion for a different view! Drive along Route 9 on the east side of Zion National Park and simply stop at one of the many pull offs whenever you want to check out the beautiful views in this section of the park. I think some of the best spots to pull over start just east of the Canyon Overlook parking lot. The Many Pools Trailhead is also a good spot to stop. LOCATION East Zion is the area of the park on the east side of the Mt. Carmel Tunnel along Route 9. Hope this guide helps you explore all the best views in Zion National Park without hiking! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

When is the best time to visit Zion National Park? That is a question that I get asked a lot and I must say, it's a hard one to answer. In truth, I think any time is a great time to visit Zion but with any outdoor destination, there are things you need to think about and prepare for so that you can have the best time possible. To figure out the best time to visit Zion National Park, you need to think about the weather during each season, the crowds you might encounter, the Zion shuttle logistics, and what restaurants and shops in Springdale might be open or closed at certain times of year. Average Temperatures in Zion National Park The typical weather at different times of year is an important thing to keep in mind when choosing the best time to visit Zion National Park. Here’s a quick overview of the average temps for each month in Zion: MONTH AVERAGE HIGH (°F) AVERAGE LOW (°F) ​January 54 30 February 59 34 March 66 39 April 75 45 ​May 86 54 June 95 63 July 100 70 August 99 68 September 91 61 October 79 48 November 64 37 December 53 30 * Temperature info from Zion NPS Of course, weather isn’t the only factor in deciding the best time to visit Zion National Park. Here is the lowdown – including my best insider tips – on visiting Zion in each season. Visiting Zion in The Summer (May-September) Visiting Zion in the Summer is when you are going to have to work around the most crowds and also when the heat is going to be the most intense but I would never tell anyone not to visit in the summer. In my opinion, summer is when Zion is at her most beautiful. Everything is so green and lush in the canyon and if you like water, well this is the best time to visit Zion National Park and play in the Virgin River. To avoid the crowds make sure to get out first thing in the morning. Never, never, never try to get on the shuttles anytime after 8:00 am if you want to avoid crowds and lines to get on the shuttles. The early start time is so worth it you guys! Having that little bit of solitude in the mornings is priceless. If you are hiking one of the more popular trails like Angels Landing or The Narrows I suggest you line up for the shuttles at 6:00 am. View the Zion shuttle schedule here , and be sure to check out my guide to everything you need to know about riding the Zion National Park shuttle here ! A few of my favorite hikes to beat the crowds in Zion are Lower Pine Creek trail , Sand Bench Loop trail , East Mesa trail , or Clear Creek . Clear Creek isn't an actual hiking trail but you can turn it into one pretty easily by walking along the dry stream bed for miles. ely cater to families, with some tents having adjacent tents specifically designed for kids. Another way to beat the crowds in the summer is by entering the park in the later part of the day. By 3:00 pm the lines for the shuttle have usually died down and visitors have started heading back to their hotels and campsites for the day. Stay in the park until sunset or even after with a headlamp. Evenings in Zion are magical. The shuttles usually go as late as 9 pm and if you are on the east side of Zion you can explore in the dark as long as you like. Heading out first thing in the morning or later in the day is also a great way to beat the heat. Bring more than enough water and wear light breathable clothing. Hiking along a stream or river is my favorite way to hike in the summer. Riverside Walk / The Narrows is by far the best hike in Zion to beat the summer heat. It's crowded though so getting out first thing in the morning is a must. Also, be aware that July-September is monsoon season in Zion, and the torrential rain can quickly lead to dangerous flash floods. Always check the NOAA flash flood forecas t when visiting Zion during monsoon season, and don’t attempt to hike The Narrows or other slot canyons if rain is threatening. RELATED BLOG POST: DON'T VISIT ZION IN THE SUMMER UNTIL YOU READ THIS Visiting Zion in Spring/Fall (Oct-Nov & March-April) The great thing about visiting Zion in the spring or fall is that you won't have to deal with the intense heat or cold and the crowds won't be quite as bad. I still suggest getting out first thing in the morning but it will be harder to stay in the park later in the day since the days aren't quite as long as in the summer. Fall colors in Zion are absolutely gorgeous against the soaring sandstone cliffs, and if you catch the changing leaves at their peak, fall can seriously be the best time to visit Zion National Park. In early October the park is filled with tiny yellow flowers everywhere. It is stunning! The fall foliage starts earlier at higher elevations, around the end of October, and the colors typically hit Zion Canyon and the lower elevation areas of the park at the end of October and can even last into late November. Dressing in layers is a must in the spring and fall. Mornings and evenings can get pretty chilly but the days usually warm up nicely so having layers to peel off when it starts to warm up is nice. Be aware of the shuttle schedule when you are visiting. In the offseason, the shuttles shut down or run on a reduced schedule. I'm hoping this year that the shuttles go longer and start earlier. It may seem like a luxury to be able to drive your car into the canyon but in reality, it isn't. Parking in the canyon is extremely limited and it turns into a mess really fast. When parking reaches capacity the canyon gets shut down and traffic turns into a disaster. If you are visiting on a weekend or holiday and the shuttles have limited service either avoid the canyon altogether or go in and get parking at the crack of dawn. CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THIS ITINERARY THAT WOULD BE GREAT FOR FALL OR SPRING | A FALL FAMILY ADVENTURE - ITINERARY Visiting Zion in the Winter (December-February) Visiting Zion in the winter is when you will have to deal with the least amount of crowds (Except for over Thanksgiving break and Christmas/New Years see below), but the temps can get pretty cold, and you may have to deal with snowy or icy conditions. The trails can also get pretty muddy. During this time it is essential to have the proper gear and warm clothing. Some great winter hikes include Watchman Trail , Riverside Walk , and Pa'Rus Trail. LOCAL TIP If Angels Landing is on your must-do list, winter might not be the best time to visit Zion National Park. Walter’s Wiggles can become a sheet of ice after it snows, since it stays mostly in the shade and doesn’t fully melt out. The chains section also can get icy, which makes the steep drop offs potentially dangerous. If you come prepared with YakTrax or microspikes, you might still be able to complete the hike to the top of Angels Landing, but the potential for ice definitely makes it a more sketchy hike than in other seasons. The Narrows is another iconic Zion hike that takes extra planning in winter. It will be absolutely freezing in the water and require a dry suit to navigate safely. For sightseeing, photography, and cold weather hiking visiting Zion in the winter is quite spectacular. Be aware that during the winter season the shuttles are typically not running and many of the restaurants and shops in Springdale tend to close down. Also, the road through the Kolob Canyons section of the park often closes in winter during big storms. Related: Don't Visit Zion In The Winter Until You Read This When To Not Visit Zion I don't usually tell people not to visit Zion but there are certain times of the year that Zion can get pretty crowded. Labor Day weekend, Memorial Day weekend, Thanksgiving holiday (if the weather is nice) and Christmas holiday (if the weather is nice) are times when Zion reaches max capacity and you are really going to have to work around the crowds.. If you are going to be in Southern Utah during these times try visiting more off the beaten path spots like Snow Canyon State Park , Kanab , and Red Cliffs Reserve . Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CHECK OUT THESE OTHER RELATED BLOG POSTS

There is something about a desert sunset that just hits different. It is always such a thrill to watch the light dance and the colors bounce off the red canyon walls. In Zion National Park the sun rises and lights up the sandstone cliffs in vibrant orange and when the sun sets the pinks and oranges come out and light up the desert sky. It's a magical show that you get to watch twice a day.......if you're lucky! Being a photographer in Zion, sunrises and sunsets are my life. The beautiful glow that happens in the early morning and later in the evening make for beautiful photos and so I have spent a fair amount of time figuring out the best places in Zion to capture that sunrise/sunset magic. It does take a little work to find the perfect spot to watch the show because many times the massive cliffs are blocking the view......rude! ;-) The trick to Zion is making sure you get higher than the sandstone cliffs or head to a spot that is a bit more open. ARE DESERT SUNSETS REALLY MORE BEAUTIFUL? It is actually true that sunsets are more beautiful in the desert. Because Zion is dry and there is generally less people and air pollution the sunsets and sunrises are more colorful because you can see them better. There is some solid science behind it but since it all goes totally over my head, I will send you to this article to explain it better. There are plenty of spots to enjoy a breathtaking sunrise or sunset in Zion. I have put together a list of my favorite places to watch the sunrise or sunset in Zion National Park to help you figure out where to go and how to time it so that you will be there to watch the magic unfold. Timber Creek Overlook Canyon Overlook Watchman Trail Observation Point Kolob Terrace Angels Landing East Zion Towers Of the Virgin Canyon Junction Bridge Court Of the Patriarchs There are some spots that are super easy to get to and there are some spots that require a little more work but they are all stunning and you can't go wrong with any of them. ***Sunset at Timber Creek Overlook 1 - TIMBER CREEK OVERLOOK LOCATION Located in the Kolob Canyons section of Zion, Timber Creek Overlook is the last stop on the 5 mile scenic drive. LENGTH 1.1 miles round trip TRAIL DETAILS Timber Creek Overlook is a well marked trail and shorter distance to get to some epic views. The trail has stunning views along the entire trail but the end it where you get the 360 degree views with a vast view of rich red mountains and miles upon miles of wild desert. If you hike around times when it has rained or snowed the trail can be very muddy Sunrise/Sunset Details The overlook at sunset will light up the walls of the soaring cliffs to the east. Watching them turn a vivid orange is spectacular. At the overlook the contrasting red mountains with the greenery below create beautiful & vivid colors early in the morning and just after the sun sets in the West. My favorite time to hike this trail is at sunset! ***Sunrise at Canyon Overlook 2 - CANYON OVERLOOK LOCATION Just east of the Zion Mount Carmel Tunnel, above Zion Canyon LENGTH 1.25 miles round trip TRAIL DETAILS The is a fun and short hike that packs a major punch at the end with the most epic views. The hike can get very busy and parking can be very hard to find so plan accordingly. RELATED: Details for Hiking Canyon Overlook Trail - Zion National Park Sunrise/Sunset Details I have hiked Canyon Overlook many many times for sunrise and sunset in Zion. It is one of our most popular photography locations. Sunrise at Canyon Overlook means watching the sun light up the sandstone cliffs. The view faces to the west so you don't actually watch the sunrise. You will see the tips of the cliffs slowly start to glow and get brighter and more vibrant. During the summer months the sun will go down before your eyes and you will have a chance of getting the sunset colors about 20-30 minutes after it dips below the cliffs. During the winter months the sun goes behind the cliffs a good 1-2 hours before sunset. ***Sunset at the top of Watchman Trail 3 - WATCHMAN TRAIL LOCATION This trail starts at the Zion Visitor Center next to the west entrance station. LENGTH 3 miles round trip TRAIL DETAILS The hike start at the visitor center and heads towards the south campground. Walk along the east side of the Virgin River and then climb your way to the top. This hike has some steady and steep elevation gain and can get pretty muddy if it has rained or snowed recently. At the top don't miss the loop trail you can follow to get views of Springdale, Watchman Mountain, and up the canyon. RELATED: Hiking Details for Watchman Trail - Zion National Park Sunrise/Sunset Details This hike is in the entrance to Zion Canyon so the views are a little closed in. For sunrise the sun is blocked by towering cliffs but you will see the mountains to the west slowly light up. There are views of Springdale, The Watchman Mountain, and up the canyon so if the clouds decide to light up this is a fun place to watch it. I like the light on this trail a little more for sunset because it isn't quite as blocked. ***Sunset at Observation Point 4 - Observation Point LOCATION You could once hike this trail from the canyon floor but a massive rock slide closed it 4 years ago. To get to Observation Point these days you will take East Mesa trail from the north/east side of Zion. LENGTH 6.5 miles round trip TRAIL DETAILS You'll be hiking in the dark one way regardless if you want to watch sunrise or sunset. The trail has some elevation gain. The temperatures are a bit cooler because of the elevation, so be sure to dress appropriately. Sunrise/Sunset Details Observation Point is one of the grandest views in Zion National Park. Angels Landing is dwarfed by the magnitude of Zion Canyon from this vantage point. The Virgin River is 2500 feet directly below you and Zion Canyon extends to the horizon. Sunset and sunrise are both great here. You will be looking down the canyon to the south. ***Sunset in the meadow along Kolob Terrace Road 5 - KOLOB TERRACE MEADOW LOCATION 14 miles drive up the Kolob Terrace Road starting in Virgin. LENGTH You can watch the sunset from your car or take a little trail deeper into the meadow. TRAIL DETAILS To get a little closer to the view of the Zion Canyon in the distance you will walk a little trail about .25 miles round trip. The trail is a little rocky in spots and in the winter months the trail might be completely covered by snow. Sunrise/Sunset Details The view of the meadow faces south so the sun comes up and goes down to the sides of you. Because the views are so wide this is a great spot the watch the clouds move through the sky. Sunset glows on the sandstone cliffs In the distance and totally lights them up. It is stunning to watch. ***Sunset at Angels Landing 6 - Angels Landing LOCATION This trail starts at The Grotto, shuttle stop #5. Cross the road, go over the bridge, go to the right and you are on your way. If you go to the left you will be on the Kayenta Trail. In the winter when shuttles are not going, there is a parking lot. Parking in the winter during the day will be hard to find. LENGTH 4.8 miles round trip PERMIT INFO Because Angel's Landing is such an awesome hike it has become very popular and very crowded. When it get's too busy on the chains it makes hiking unsafe.....and not fun. So the park implemented a permit system starting April 1st 2022. The permits are issued quarterly or the day before. TRAIL DETAILS The start of the trail will take you along the Virgin River. As you veer away from the river, you will begin the switchbacks and intense elevation gain. Before you reach the first top section called Scout’s Lookout, you will get the joy (haha) of climbing 21 steep switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles. From here you will start on the real fun stuff.....the chains and steep drop-offs. As long as you hold on to the chains, go slow and are careful with your footing, there is nothing to be scared of. RELATED: Hiking Details For Angels Landing - Zion National Park Sunrise/Sunset Details There are excellent views along the entire hike, and the views get better and better as you climb. The hike to the top is about 1500 vertical feet. Sunrise or sunset, it doesn't matter, it will be spectacular either way. During the months that the shuttle is running it will be hard to watch sunrise or sunset from the top of Angels Landing because of the schedule. Rent an e-bike and ride the canyon so you can go our earlier or stay out later. You will skip the crowds and heat as well. ***Sunset among the cliffs in East Zion 7 - East Zion LOCATION The east section of Zion is just past the Zion Mount Carmel Tunnel LENGTH It just depends where you pull over. You might have to climb a little or a lot TRAIL DETAILS Pull over on one of the many pull outs along the highway 9 in East Zion. Scramble the slick rock up, up, up so you will have a good vantage point to watch sunrise or sunset. Sunrise/Sunset Details The most stunning views will most likely be of the layered mountains facing to the west but you could get lucky and find a great spot to watch sunrise from the east. Sunrise or sunset from any of the higher up vantage points will be stunning. ***Sunset on a cloudy day 8 - TOWER OF THE VIRGINS LOCATION The Zion Human History Museum inside the park LENGTH No hiking involved TRAIL DETAILS There is a covered viewing deck with benches just behind the Zion Human History Museum with a stunning view of Tower of the Virgins. There is plenty of parking. This is the perfect spot if you want something comfortable and easy. Sunrise/Sunset Details The view faces to the west so you don't actually watch the sunrise. The sun will slowly light up the cliffs and turn them a vibrant orange. For sunset cross your fingers and hope that you get a light show with some clouds. That is always my favorite. ***Sunset on the bridge 9 - CANYON JUNCTION BRIDGE LOCATION The Canyon Junction Bridge is right at the junction of Highway 9 and the road the goes into the canyon. LENGTH This is a drive up spot unless you take the Pa'Rus Trail starting at the Visitor Center or Human History Museum. TRAIL DETAILS You can walk or ride your bike along the Pa'Rus Trail to get to Canyon Junction Bridge or you can drive and park up just after the bridge. Parking is limited so plan accordingly. Sunrise/Sunset Details The Canyon Junction Bridge is one of the most iconic locations in Zion National Park, offering an amazing view of the Virgin River and The Watchman. This spot is particularly good at sunset when The Watchman glows red and the curving Virgin River reflects the sky. There are 2 other bridges below the Canyon Junction Bridge that are also great for watching sunrise or sunset. You can also walk to the river just below the bridge to get away from the crowds on the bridge and get another great perspective. ***Sunrise on the river at Court Of the Patriarchs 10 - COURT OF THE PATRIARCHS LOCATION The Court of the Patriarchs is the first stop in Zion Canyon LENGTH No hiking involved TRAIL DETAILS The Court of the Patriarchs is the first stop in Zion Canyon with a short, paved trail leading to an overlook. This is a nice view but is very limited in composition opportunities. You can also cross the road and go down to the edge of the Virgin River for a beautiful composition of the river and sharp peaks. Further back along the paved road is a bridge crossing the Virgin River. A short trail leads to the left and down to the river just before the bridge. The 3 Patriarchs rise above the bridge and create a classic Zion composition. Sunrise/Sunset Details This entire area is incredible and usually uncrowded. Continue across the bridge and follow the trail for more surprises as the cliff walls rise directly above you. This is one of my favorite areas in Zion to shoot, so go and see why:) . BONUS IDEA - SUNSET JEEP TOUR WITH EAST ZION ADVENTURES Take a rugged and bumpy adventure ride in a tricked-out open-air Jeep to catch stunning views of the sun setting behind the Zion cliffs with East Zion Adventures. I did the 1.5 hour tour a couple summers ago with my girlfriend. The ride was rugged, bumpy, and so much fun. The jeeps were open air and more than capable of taking on the steeped hills and crazy dirt roads. At the top of the knoll, we had time to relax, take in the views and enjoy the show as the sun descended behind the towering cliffs of Zion National Park. It was the perfect evening! I hope this list inspires you to watch a sunrise or sunset during you time in Zion National Park. It is a magical experience to watch the cliffs light up and it never happens the exact some way. Be prepared to be surprised and delighted. Happy Adventuring, Arika CHECK OUT THESE OTHER RELATED POSTS

Las Vegas might not be the first place that comes to mind for a family-friendly vacation, but it’s actually an amazing destination to explore with kids. Growing up in southern Utah, I visited Vegas on little family getaways at least a few times a year, and I always loved it. Despite its reputation as an adult destination, there are tons of really great things to do in Las Vegas with kids. Now I take my kiddos to Vegas at least once a year for a fun and easy vacation close to home. We usually go in August, so we can do back to school clothes shopping at all the stores, but this year we went over spring break for a quick little getaway. The Top Things to Do in Las Vegas with Kids Each time we visit, I like to do at least one exciting new activity, so this guide includes all the things to do in Las Vegas with kids that we have actually done and loved. Museum of Illusions Visiting the Museum of Illusions  is a super cool afternoon activity with kids in Las Vegas. When I went with my kiddos, we spent about two hours checking out the installations and illusion rooms and had an absolute blast. Exhibits like the Cloning Table and Reversed Room kept the kids super engaged the whole time. The Museum of Illusions is conveniently located right on The Strip, and I really appreciated that it wasn’t priced too crazy high. Lots of activities in Vegas can be super pricey, but this didn’t break the bank with an adult ticket for $41 and kids tickets for $34 if you purchase online  (tickets are $5 more apiece when purchased at the door). Kayaking Emerald Cove Emerald Cove is a stunning spot nestled in the Black Canyon along the Colorado River, and kayaking to the cove is one of the coolest outdoor things to do in Las Vegas with kids. We booked a 3-4 hour kayak tour with River Dogz  to paddle from Willow Beach Marina to Emerald Cove, and it cost around $500 for me plus 3 kiddos. Our guide was wonderful…very patient with the kids, and you could tell she knew what she was doing. CLICK FOR MORE INFO TO BOOK A PHOTO SHOOT IN ZION! I think on a beautiful day this would be such a fun adventure, but I have mixed reviews for our experience because we didn’t have the greatest weather on our kayaking trip. We did this tour in March, and there was wind in the forecast for the day of our trip, so they gave me the option of canceling. I honestly probably should have done that, but it was the only day we could go, and I didn’t have anything else planned, so we went ahead with it. The first part of our adventure started out well. The kayaking was really fun, and the river was beautiful. The weather was even fairly nice at the start of the day, but it was overcast, so the green I was expecting to see in the Emerald Cove was disappointing. You really need the sunlight to get that vivid green hue in the water.  But after our visit to the cove, the wind really started to pick up. We got wet, it was extremely cold, and getting back to the dock was just such a miserable struggle. I really do not recommend doing this tour if there is wind in the forecast. But if the weather is good, this would be an awesome outdoor family adventure in Las Vegas! ***Images courtesy of my fabulous big sis Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area It’s such a surprise to find the gorgeous landscape of  Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area just outside of the bright, bustling atmosphere that is Las Vegas! Over the years I have visited Red Rock Canyon quite a few times with my kiddos, and it’s always a treat to escape The Strip and explore this outdoor space. A great moderate hike in Red Rock Canyon is the Calico Tanks trail , which is just under 2.5 miles round trip. You will encounter a decent amount of rock scrambling on the trail, but it’s very doable and will be fun for all but the littlest kids. After the big watering hole near the end of trail, there is a trickier scrambling section to get up to an awesome view of Vegas, but you can just skip this part and head back if it’s too much for you or your kiddos. Note: From October 1 through May 31, timed entry reservations are required  between 8am-5pm to enter the Red Rock Canyon Scenic Loop. Entrance fees are $20/vehicle or a valid National Parks pass. Also, be aware that the Scenic Loop is a one-way road , so it’s a good idea to plan out your stops ahead of time because you won’t be able to turn around and go back if you miss anything. Valley of Fire State Park Valley of Fire State Park Nevada is just an hour from the Vegas airport and is a perfect stop if you’re driving from Las Vegas to Zion National Park . Valley of Fire features stunning red and pink rock formations and slot canyons to explore for an awesome family adventure, making it one of the top things to do in Las Vegas with kids. Some of my favorite hikes in Valley of Fire State Park include White Domes Loop, Fire Wave, and Rainbow Vista, all of which are easy to moderate. Mouse’s Tank is my absolute must-hike trail for kids because it’s under a mile, and the kiddos will love the opportunities for off-trail rock scrambling and the interesting petroglyphs along the way. Check out my full guide to Valley of Fire State Park here ! Cathedral Gorge State Park Visiting Cathedral Gorge State Park requires a bit of a detour since it’s about 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, but it would be a nice little day trip on the way to Zion. Cathedral Gorge stands out from the typical southwest desert landscape of sandstone and red rocks with its soft bentonite clay spires. These mud spires were formed over a million years ago from a volcanic eruption, and they are continually eroding and changing shape after every rain. A nice hike with little kids is in Cathedral Gorge is starting at the water tower then walking south toward the canyon caves and moon caves. You’ll find a number of slot canyons here to hike into, so you can expect to explore this area for at least an hour. There are also a handful of other trails in the park that are only around a couple miles in length and good for families as well. Read more about visiting Cathedral Gorge State Park here ! Springs Nature Preserve Wandering through Springs Preserve  is a great morning activity with lots of learning opportunities and intriguing things to keep the kiddos engaged and interested. From a botanical garden to a desert tortoise habitat to an Old West train ride, there is something for everyone in the family at Springs Preserve. Plus, the preserve is just a quick and easy drive from The Strip, and I really love that it’s inexpensive (yay!). Tickets are $18.95 for adults and $10.95 for kids, and online ticket reservations  are recommended, especially for weekends and holidays. The Fremont Street Experience Fremont Street  is a fun place to go with the family to get a very Vegas experience…neon lights, live music, good food, great shopping. I like this area a lot because it has an artsy atmosphere along with the classic Vegas vibe. There are fun places to eat and cool thrift shops close by. For the thrill seeking kiddos and adults, there is a zip line where you can fly high above Fremont Street for an unforgettable experience. If you prefer to stay on solid ground, don’t miss the light show every night on the largest LED canopy screen in the world. Downtown Container Park After you’ve had your fill of Fremont Street, the Downtown Container Park is a short walk away and a fun place to escape from the hustle and bustle. This open air shopping center has lots of restaurants and stores to browse (including a candy shop for the kiddos). Kids will love the giant 40-foot-tall Mantis who throws giant flames of fire several stories high. Don’t miss the drum circle every night at sundown to wake the Mantis up!  Note: Kids are allowed in the Container Park until 9pm, then the park becomes 21+. Area 15 Area 15  is very high on my list of the best things to do in Las Vegas with kids, even though it also has a pretty high price tag. My kiddos and I checked it out a few years ago, and we had such a blast that I think it’s totally worth it. During our visit to Area 15, we visited Wink World and Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart. We spent several hours exploring the surreal activities, taking pictures of the psychedelic installations, and eating creative ice cream concoctions. There is seriously so much to see and do that you could easily spend a couple days here to really get your money’s worth. Note: Four levels of passes are available for purchase  depending on what you want to do, but the cheaper two levels don’t include access to Meow Wolf. Cowabunga Water Park If you are visiting Vegas in the summer, a day at Cowabunga Water Park  is a must if you have kiddos who love the water. There are two locations in Las Vegas, and we went to the Henderson location a few years ago and had an awesome time. You can splash around in the wave pool, float along the lazy river, or take a thrilling ride down the many water slides and easily spend the whole day here having family fun. Mount Charleston Another one of my favorite outdoor escapes near Las Vegas is Mount Charleston . You wouldn’t think you could get to the mountains in just 45 minutes from Las Vegas, but you can! I have camped here with my kids and also done little day trips with my sisters who live in Vegas, and it’s such a great way to escape the desert heat. You can take a scenic drive through the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area or take a hike on one of the many trails around Mount Charleston. While a hike to the summit of the 11,916 foot peak is challenging, you can find plenty of easier trails for the kiddos. Note: Since Mount Charleston is at a significantly higher elevation than Las Vegas, be prepared for snow if you’re visiting during the winter. Some trails close in the winter, and driving conditions could be dangerous.  Where to Stay in Las Vegas with Kids These are the places I have stayed when visiting Las Vegas with my kiddos, and we had a good experience at each of them. Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa Located on the west side of Las Vegas in the Summerlin area, Red Rock Casino Resort  is a great hotel away from the hustle and bustle of the Vegas Strip. Yet it is still close to great shopping and excellent places to eat, and it’s just a 10-minute drive from Red Rock Canyon. The massive pool area was probably the best part of staying at this hotel…we absolutely LOVED the pool! Golden Nugget The Golden Nugget  is a classic Vegas hotel right next to the Fremont Street Experience, which I really liked for easy access to entertainment. The Tank pool is unique because it has a huge shark tank aquarium with a water slide which is so fun for the kids. Just be aware that the pool hours are pretty limited, so you have to plan around that. Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino We just recently stayed at the Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino  over spring break, and I was very impressed with it! The location is just a minute walk to the Fremont Street Experience for easy access to food and shopping. The hotel is newer and more modern than the Golden Nugget, and it felt high-end yet the price was great. We didn’t have a chance to check out the pool while we were there, but it’s on the rooftop with a skyline view and looked really nice. If you stay here, I highly recommend walking across the street in the morning to Craft Kitchen in the Fremont Food Hall for breakfast…seriously so yummy!  As you can see, Las Vegas is actually a wonderful destination for a family vacation, and I hope this post helps you plan your own amazing visit to Las Vegas with kids! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

If you’re visiting Bryce Canyon National Park, don’t limit yourself to staying within the park boundaries. Though Bryce is an incredible place, I think any trip to the area should include some of the more off-the-beaten path attractions outside the park as well. From hiking a slot canyon to checking out a hidden gem of a state park, you’ll find lots of family-friendly things to do near Bryce Canyon. Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon Itinerary Since I spend most of my time in and around Zion National Park, it’s always nice to get a chance to explore other places in southern Utah like Bryce Canyon. I recently enjoyed a staycation near Bryce with my kiddos, and this was our itinerary. Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon: Clear Sky Resort We made Clear Sky Resort  our home base for adventuring around Bryce, and we absolutely loved this place! The location was super convenient for exploring all the things to do near Bryce Canyon, and the amenities were awesome. At Clear Sky Resort, you stay in a glass dome so you can stargaze right from bed! We got incredibly lucky to be staying during a time of super dark skies with no moon or clouds, and it was absolutely incredible. Laying in bed and looking out at a sky full of stars is truly magical. Beyond the stargazing, the sky dome was actually very comfortable to stay in and fits a family of four perfectly. The beds were very comfortable, and even in the cold, the dome stayed warm and cozy. Each dome also has a private bath with a rainfall shower. Day 1 of Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon Evening: Check Into Clear Sky After about a 2-hour drive from the Zion area, we checked into Clear Sky Resort for our staycation near Bryce Canyon. We tried the stargazing tour that the resort offers, but a big rambunctious group that also joined took all the attention of our guide, so we decided to cut it short and get our money back. I do think it would be a fun experience otherwise! Day 2 of Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon Breakfast: Clear Sky Clear Sky will deliver your breakfast right to your dome, and I loved this! Eating breakfast in the dome while slowly waking up in the morning was a special experience to savor. Morning: Willis Creek After breakfast, we headed out to Willis Creek slot canyon, about a half an hour drive from Clear Sky. Hiking Willis Creek is one of my favorite things to do near Bryce Canyon, because it’s an easy slot canyon where you can choose how far you want to explore. CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BOOKING A PHOTO SHOOT IN ZION We didn’t do the full hike this time because it was icy, and we didn’t bring traction for our shoes…next time.  If you do bring Yaktrax or microspikes, I highly recommend Willis Creek in the winter because the ice in the slot canyon with the sandstone walls towering above you is absolutely magical. Willis Creek Trail Details Distance: 4.8 miles round trip (but the best narrows are in the first mile and a half or so) Elevation Gain:  675 feet Location: The trailhead is along BLM500/Skutumpah Road near the town of Cannonville. Check out my blog post here for more stunning southern Utah slot canyons  to explore! Lunch: Route 12 Grill in Tropic Winter is the off-season in this area near Bryce Canyon, so we found very limited options for meals which was frustrating. We had lunch at Route 12 Grill in Tropic because it was the only place open. While it is located in a cute gas station with fun souvenirs, the food was not particularly great…just fast fried food. Afternoon: Kodachrome Basin State Park After lunch, we made our way to Kodachrome Basin State Park. I seriously love this park, and visiting it is definitely one of my top things to do near Bryce Canyon. The park was so quiet and peaceful while we were there, which is one of the pluses of visiting southern Utah in winter . We hiked Angels Palace,  my favorite trail in the park, and didn’t see a single person the whole time. Evening: Sightseeing & Dinner To finish our day, we drove over to Chimney Rock and then Grosvenor Arch. Both are quick stops to see some unique and cool rock formations. By then we were absolutely exhausted after our day of adventure, so we headed back to Clear Sky for dinner. Though the restaurant dining room was closed for renovations while we were there, they had dining domes set up which were pretty fun to eat in. There was also live music both nights of our stay, and my kiddos loved playing games on the lawn and the free s’mores in the evening. Day 3 of Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon Morning: Bryce Canyon National Park We enjoyed another wonderful breakfast at Clear Sky, and then we sadly had to check out. But luckily Bryce Canyon National Park is just 20 minutes away! My kids weren’t feeling up for a hike in Bryce on this trip, so we just took a nice drive out Rainbow Point. But if you’re looking for family-friendly hikes in Bryce Canyon, I highly recommend the Mossy Cave Trail. This short hike is just under a mile and follows Water Canyon so you get to see some of the iconic hoodoos that Bryce is known for. The Navajo Loop Trail is my other favorite easy trail in Bryce since it heads through Wall Street, the only slot canyon in the park. Find my full one-day itinerary in Bryce Canyon in the winter with kids here ! Other Awesome Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon If you’re staying at Clear Sky, it is so close to so many amazing spots for hiking and exploring and other things to do near Bryce Canyon……like so, so many! Here are a few: Escalante The town of Escalante is just about a half an hour away from Clear Sky, and it features both incredible hiking and 5-star farm to table dining. In Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, you can hike Lower Calf Creek Falls, a truly spectacular trail to a waterfall, or Zebra Canyon, an easy, non-technical slot canyon. After hiking, treat yourself to a scenic drive to dinner at Hell’s Backbone Grill, a foodie haven on a farm. Get even more info about visiting Escalante in my blog post here ! Red Canyon Red Canyon is an oft-overlooked part of Dixie National Forest, but it’s absolutely worth checking out…especially since it’s just half an hour from Clear Sky. Along Scenic Byway 12, you’ll pass through two arched tunnels of red rock and see hoodoos, spires, and more lining the road. You can easily pull off to take pictures of the cool sandstone and limestone formations or stop to stretch your legs on a hike. Cottonwood Canyon Road Take a scenic drive off the beaten path in southern Utah along Cottonwood Canyon Road. The dirt road stretches 47 miles from Kodachrome Basin State Park to Kanab, UT, and there are so many opportunities to explore along the road. I highly recommend stopping along the way to hike Cottonwood Narrows North…the slot canyon is stunning, and it’s a quick and easy hike to get to it. WARNING:  Do not attempt this road if there is a chance of rain in the forecast. The road will quickly become a muddy mess, and there is no cell service out here if you do get stuck. Hope this list of things to do near Bryce Canyon inspires an adventurous family trip to southern Utah for you! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

While most people visit southern Utah to see the famous landscapes of Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park, you’ll find so many more amazing spots to explore here if you know where to look! I grew up in the area and have called it home again for the last nine years. Exploring and searching for new hidden gems is one of my favorite past times and I love that I get to share them with you. Get off-the-beaten-path and see some exceptional sights in southern Utah away from the biggest crowds. You will be so glad you did. Top 10 Hidden Gems in Southern Utah These hidden gems in Utah range from rock formations to slot canyons to waterfalls to state parks and more, so you’ll find something for everyone to explore. The Nautilus Snow Canyon State Park Water Canyon Kodachrome Basin State Park Brian Head Resort Cedar Breaks National Monument Spring Creek Canyon Kolob Terrace Red Cliffs National Reserve Toquerville Falls Read on to discover why each of these places are hidden gems in southern Utah and get all the info you need to plan a visit. 1. The Nautilus The Nautilus tops my list of hidden gems in Utah because it is an incredible rock formation that you can hike into. The light inside the mollusk-like formation is absolutely stunning, and the ripples of yellow stripes running through the white rock are so cool. WHY IT’S A GEM The Nautilus is a unique swirly rock formation that resembles a seashell. When you hike down into the white rock dome, it spirals around, giving you the feeling you are exploring a large mollusk shell. There is even a section of rock you can slide down! Kids will absolutely love playing in The Nautilus, and everyone can appreciate its beauty. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO ABOUT BOOKING A PHOTO SHOOT IN ZION LOCATION You’ll find The Nautilus about 45 minutes east of the town of Kanab, UT along White House Road off of Highway 89. IMPORTANT INFO The trail to The Nautilus is less than a mile round trip, so it’s definitely doable for families with kids. No fee or permit is required to hike The Nautilus, making it a convenient spontaneous excursion. Learn more about hiking The Nautilus here ! 2. Snow Canyon State Park Another of my favorite hidden gems in southern Utah is Snow Canyon State Park. While people understandably come to southern Utah to visit Zion National Park, I think Snow Canyon should not be missed either. WHY IT’S A GEM Snow Canyon State Park is an amazing place to escape the crowds that flock to Zion. You can find solitude here along with incredible views of unique sandstone and basalt rock formations. The Petrified Sand Dunes are super cool, and the Lava Tube Trail offers both caves to explore and panoramic desert views to take in. LOCATION Located just north of the St. George, UT, Snow Canyon State Park is about an hour away from the Springdale entrance of Zion National Park. IMPORTANT INFO The day-use entrance fee for Snow Canyon State Park is $15/vehicle ($10/vehicle for Utah residents). Check out my full blog post about Snow Canyon State Park here ! 3. Water Canyon Water Canyon is a bit off the beaten path, but it’s a beautiful and interesting trail from start to finish, making it one of the best hidden gems in Utah if you’re looking for a fantastic hike. WHY IT’S A GEM With rock scrambling, sheer red cliffs, a shallow year-round creek, a waterfall canyon oasis, and stunning valley views, Water Canyon has it all. And at 4.25 round trip (with 500 ft of elevation gain), this hike makes for the perfect half day  adventure for outdoor lovers. LOCATION Water Canyon is located just outside Hildale, UT in the Canaan Mountain Wilderness south of Zion. It is just under an hour drive west of Kanab or about a 40 minute drive southeast of Hurricane. IMPORTANT INFO No fee or permit is required to hike Water Canyon. Just be aware that the last mile or so drive to reach the trailhead is along a bumpy dirt road, so make sure your vehicle can handle it (especially after recent rain). Find all the details about hiking Water Canyon in my blog post here ! 4. Kodachrome Basin State Park Kodachrome Basin State Park is often overshadowed by all the other amazing places in the region, but it’s absolutely one of the hidden gems in southern Utah. WHY IT’S A GEM Kodachrome Basin features 67 stone spires (known as sedimentary pipes) made of multicolored sandstone. In fact, the colors you will find here are what led the area to be named after the Kodak color film in 1948, so it’s simply stunning! A couple of great hikes in Kodachrome Basin are the 1.5-mile Angel’s Palace loop and the 6-mile double loop Panorama Trail, which takes you to the scenic Panorama Point and several of the park’s signature sandstone spires. Three of the trails in the park - Panorama Trail, Big Bear Geyser Trail, and Grand Parade Loop - are also open to mountain biking if that’s your thing. LOCATION Kodachrome Basin State Park is about 2 hours northeast of Zion but only about a half an hour east of Bryce Canyon National Park, so it’s a great addition to your itinerary if you’re visiting both national parks. IMPORTANT INFO The day-use entrance fee for Kodachrome Basin State Park is $10/vehicle. Discover other awesome southern Utah state parks in my blog post here ! 5. Brian Head Resort While you might not expect to find a ski resort in the southern Utah desert, Brian Head Resort will surprise you with plenty of snow and super cheap lift tickets. WHY IT’S A GEM Imagine hitting the slopes with snow-dusted red sandstone hoodoos in the distance…that’s what you’ll find at Brian Head, and there’s truly no other resort like it! Brian Head also has the highest base of all of Utah’s ski resorts at an elevation of  9600 feet, and the terrain features 71 runs with 1,320 feet of vert. Plus, compared to major ski resorts, the lift tickets at Brian Head Resort  are an absolute steal, so it really is one of the best hidden gems in Utah for skiers and snowboarders. LOCATION Brian Head is conveniently located to both Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. It is just over an hour to drive from Brian Head to Bryce Canyon National Park and about an hour and a half from Brian Head to East Zion. IMPORTANT INFO During ski season, a free Brian Head shuttle runs from the resort through town, making it super easy to get around. Check out my ultimate guide to visiting Brian Head here ! 6. Cedar Breaks National Monument Cedar Breaks National Monument is a local gem even among all the national parks, state parks, and other georgeous wilderness areas in southern Utah. WHY IT’S A GEM Often called the “Circle of the Painted Cliffs,” Cedar Breaks National Monument is a naturally-formed rock coliseum featuring colorful arches, hoodoos, and canyons. It’s also home to ancient bristlecone pine trees which stand out in the breathtaking landscape. And since Cedar Breaks sits at a higher elevation than the Zion area – at around 10,000 feet – it’s a great place to escape the heat in summer or find the snow in winter. LOCATION Cedar Breaks National Monument is near the town of Brian Head, about an hour and a half drive north of  Zion and just over an hour from Bryce Canyon National Park. IMPORTANT INFO The entrance fee for Cedar Breaks National Monument is $25/vehicle. An America the Beautiful annual national parks pass  is also valid for entry to Cedar Breaks. 7. Spring Creek Canyon While Spring Creek Canyon might not have the stunning waterfalls of Kanarra Falls or the fame of Kolob Canyons in Zion, it is actually an equally incredible hike through a slot canyon and that makes it one of my favorite hidden gems in Utah. WHY IT’S A GEM The popular slot canyons of southern Utah can get super crowded, but you can find some solitude on Spring Creek Canyon Trail even though it is nestled near more popular and MUCH more crowded hikes. This trail is located just 5 minutes away from the very popular Kanarra Falls hike , and it is an awesome alternative since it doesn’t require a permit, it’s way less crowded, and it is one of coolest slot canyons in southern Utah! LOCATION Spring Creek Canyon is in Kanarraville, UT, just 10 minutes north of the Kolob Canyons area of Zion National Park and 20 minutes south of Cedar City. IMPORTANT INFO No permit or fee is required to hike Spring Creek Canyon. As with all slot canyons in southern Utah, do NOT do this hike if rain is in the forecast due to the serious potential of dangerous flash flooding. Get all my tips for escaping the crowds and hiking Spring Creek Canyon here ! 8. Kolob Terrace Kolob Terrace Road is one of the hidden gems in southern Utah right by Zion National Park. The road runs just outside the park boundaries, so you can find amazing views along here without the crowds (and without having to wait in line to get into the park). WHY IT’S A GEM As you drive down Kolob Terrace Road, you’ll encounter many wide open meadows with stunning panoramas  and beautiful red rocks in the distance. You can simply pull over and appreciate the views here without fighting for a parking spot or coordinating your ride on the Zion shuttle . My favorite spot along Kolob Terrace Road is Lambs Knoll. From here,  you can get a great perspective of Tabernacle Dome, West Temple, the Guardian Angels and other landmark features of Zion. You can also take a short hike to the base of the rock formation that’s popular with climbers. LOCATION Kolob Terrace Road runs from just outside the town of Virgin, UT around 25 miles up to Kolob Reservoir. Lambs Knoll is located about 10 miles up Kolob Terrace Road coming from Virgin. IMPORTANT INFO You do not need to pay a fee to drive on Kolob Terrace Road sits it is outside the boundaries of Zion National Park. Find more info about visiting Lambs Knoll in my blog post here ! 9. Red Cliffs National Reserve Red Cliffs National Reserve is right next to my hometown of Hurricane, UT , so it has always been a hidden gem of mine and one of my favorite places to explore in southern Utah. WHY IT’S A GEM You really get so much in one area when you visit Red Cliffs National Reserve! You can hike to Babylon Arch, hike the Red Reef Trail, see the Dinosaur Footprints, and also check out the Red Cliffs Archeological Site, all in one visit. LOCATION You’ll find Red Cliffs National Reserve in the Hurricane, about 25 minutes east of Saint George and 30 minutes west of Zion National Park. IMPORTANT INFO Red Cliffs National Reserve is managed by the Bureau of Land Management and charges a small $5 day-use fee for access. You can also use your National Parks Pass for entrance. 10. Toquerville Falls WHY IT’S A GEM Toquerville Falls is truly what desert dreams are made of. A waterfall oasis in the middle of nowhere with a swimming hole and lots of space for exploring, Toquerville Falls is a destination that the whole family is sure to love. (My kiddos were absolutely in heaven here!) You can also spend the night here and camp along La Verkin Creek, which is situated on BLM land. There are no marked campsites, and camping is on a first-come/first-serve basis. LOCATION Toquerville Falls is about an hour drive from Springdale and Zion National Park, about half an hour north of the town of La Verkin. IMPORTANT INFO To get to Toquerville Falls, you will have to drive on a nearly 6-mile stretch of road that requires a high clearance vehicle with 4 wheel drive. Do not try to drive this road in anything less, or, trust me, you will get stuck. Read more about my experience t aking an ATV tour with Mad Moose Rentals to Toqurville Falls Hope this post helped you discover a few hidden gems in Utah to add to your must-visit list! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

Did you know that southern Utah sits on the 37th parallel, the same latitude as amazing wine producing regions like southern Italy, Portugal, Spain and Greece? Several wineries in southern Utah take advantage of this great climate to produce outstanding wines, and you can find them along the Utah Wine Trail . I recently visited  all the southern Utah wineries  on a fun girls' weekend (I let my little brother join too...haha!), and we had an absolute blast! It was so much fun to explore each winery, compare their unique offerings, and experience the different flavors and atmospheres. Such a perfect getaway filled with great wine, good company, and beautiful scenery! Here are the five wineries in Utah that make up the Utah Wine Trail : I/G Winery In 2012, I/G Winery  was the first winery to open in southern Utah in nearly 150 years and is now the oldest and largest winery in the region. The wines at I/G Winery are made locally with grapes sourced from vineyards in Washington, Oregon, California, and Utah.  CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT BOOKING A PHOTO SHOOT The beautiful tasting room in downtown Cedar City is sumptuously decorated and makes you want to stay awhile…which you can do while you savor one of the available wine tasting flights. Enjoy the Exhilarate Sauvignon Blanc, the Seduction Red Blend, or a signature cocktail while you cozy up by the fireplace or relax on the patio. Check out my blog post for more things to do in Cedar City  after your wine tasting! I/G WINERY INFO Location: 59 West Center Street, Cedar City, UT 84720 Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 2:00pm-8:30pm Friday & Saturday 12:00pm-11:00pm Sunday 2:00pm-8:00pm Closed Monday GIRLS WEEKEND DETAILS: We absolutely loved the unique  Barrel Room Tasting  experience at  I/G Winery ! This one-on-one session with a sommelier was both educational and delicious. While enjoying perfectly paired small bites, we learned proper wine-tasting techniques and sampled  five unique wines —the final pour coming  straight from the barrel , giving us the rare chance to taste wine in its purest form. Such an unforgettable experience! The Vine Yard Owner Roberto Alvarez grows 10 varietals of grapes at The Vine Yard , including 6 reds (Cariñena, Garnacha, Petite Syrah, Tempranillo, Syrah, Zinfandel) and 4 whites (Albariño, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon Blanc, Viognier). He also makes smooth and balanced blends like the G.O.A.T, a uniquely delicious red blend. The Vine Yard is one of two wineries on the Utah Wine Trail that are located in Leeds, UT, about 15 mins from the Hurricane Valley . Tastings can be scheduled by appointment and are intimate, sit-down affairs which include tapas bites and detailed descriptions of the wines. THE VINE YARD INFO Location: 1282 N Shadow Ln, Leeds, Utah 84746 Hours: Monday-Saturday 12:00pm-6:00pm Closed Sunday GIRLS WEEKEND DETAILS: Our  wine tasting with Roberto  at  The Vine Winery  in Leeds was hands down the most unique experience of the weekend. Roberto’s passion for his winery was truly inspiring—he walked us through the  history of the winery, the meaning behind the artwork on his bottles (such a sweet story!), and the thought process behind each wine. We spent about an hour with him, sipping wine, enjoying delicious meats, cheese, and bread, and even walking the property and getting a behind-the-scenes look at how the wine is made. His knowledge and storytelling made the experience so much more than just a tasting—it was truly something special! Zion Vineyards Zion Vineyards  began producing wines in 2015 and currently grows 10 varietals. Different grapes shine in different years, and Zion Vineyards has won several awards, especially for its reds, which are all aged in oak barrels, while the white wines are aged in stainless steel tanks. You can find Zion Vineyards about 20 minutes northeast of St. George in the town of Leeds, UT. The tasting room is open seven days a week, and you can simply walk in and enjoy a tasting of whites like Grenache Blanc and Albarino and reds such as Tempranillo and Petit Syrah. Discover more things to do in St. George in my blog post here ! ZION VINEYARDS INFO Location: 5 Hidden Valley Road, Leeds, UT 44410 Hours: Monday-Thursday 12:00pm-6:00pm Friday-Sunday 12:00pm-7:00pm GIRLS WEEKEND DETAILS:   Our experience at  Zion Vineyards  was the most laid-back of the weekend. While the setup felt a bit less personal, the staff was friendly, and the wines were excellent. It was the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy some great flavors in a beautiful setting. Bold & Delaney The vineyards of Bold & Delaney  are situated on a volcanic field between two dormant volcanoes. Volcanic soils produce desirable grapes, and the altitude of the vineyard brings cooler evening temperatures which helps balance the sugar and acid in the grapes grown here. Bold & Delaney produces some unique wines in southern Utah, including Malvasia Bianca, a dry white originally from ancient Greece. For this stop on the Utah Wine Trail, you’ll make your way out to the Dammeron Valley near Snow Canyon State Park . Schedule a tasting so you can select a flight from 15 wines to sip in the sunny tasting room or outside with a view of the vineyards. BOLD & DELANEY INFO Location: 1315 N Horsemans Park Dr, Dammeron Valley, UT 84783 Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 11:00pm-6:00pm Closed Monday (except holidays) GIRLS WEEKEND DETAILS:   Our stop at  Bold & Delaney Winery  in  Dammeron Valley  began with a gorgeous drive—I absolutely love this area of southern Utah! The winery’s setting is truly stunning, and  owner John  was incredibly friendly, giving us a personal tour of the property. We enjoyed a relaxing afternoon outside, sipping delicious wine and indulging in a  charcuterie board , all while soaking in the peaceful, quiet atmosphere. Such a perfect spot to unwind! Water Canyon Winery Water Canyon Winery  stands out for producing natural, organic wines without any additives like sulfites, preservatives, or foreign yeasts. Wines produced at Water Canyon include Sangiovese, Malbec, Grenache Rosé, Golden Muscat, as well as several blends. This is the southernmost stop on the Utah Wine Trail as Water Canyon Winery is located in Hildale, UT, right on the Utah/Arizona border. Book a tasting and you can enjoy the natural wines along with stunning views of the sandstone cliffs of Water Canyon . This winery also offers lodging, a wedding venue, and an RV Park (coming soon). While you’re in the area, don’t miss a visit to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park , too! WATER CANYON WINERY INFO Location: 1050 W Field Ave, Hildale, UT 84784 Hours: Wednesday-Sunday 12:00pm-6:00pm Closed Monday & Tuesday GIRLS WEEKEND DETAILS: Our stop at  Water Canyon Winery  in  Hildale  was, hands down, our  favorite  along the Utah wine trail! We loved their  organic approach  to winemaking—the wines were absolutely delicious. As a  family-owned winery , you could truly feel the heart and soul that  Shane and his family  pour into every detail. The beautiful and modern design of the buildings added such a cool touch, and the  scenic setting  was breathtaking. Shane even gave us a behind-the-scenes tour of the wine production process, and it was so fun to see the  care and craftsmanship that goes into every step of the process. Such an unforgettable experience! Hope this guide gives you everything you need to explore the Utah Wine Trail  and enjoy the vineyards along the 37th parallel! I highly suggest adding this to any girls trip itinery to southern Utah! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

Do you want to experience Zion National Park, but you're short on time? Being a local, I have spent my whole life taking day trips to Zion. So whether you are visiting in the summer, winter, with girlfriends, or your family, I will show you what things to check out and how to make the most of your one day in Zion. I have put together ten different ways you can spend one day in Zion National Park. IS IT WORTH IT TO SPEND ONE DAY IN ZION? Let's just get this out of the way right now; spending one day in Zion isn't enough. I get it, though. Sometimes that's all you've got, and that's ok. One day in Zion will be just enough to whet your appetite and get you to make plans to come back later for more. One day in Zion will allow you to see the magnificent towering red cliffs that Zion is known for and get a taste of that Zion magic. GETTING TO ZION The most popular way to get to Zion is by flying into the Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas and renting a car. Las Vegas is a 2.5-hour drive from Zion. Driving from Las Vegas means you can stop at Valley of Fire State Park & Snow Canyon State park to break up the drive and see some stunning sights on your drive. These two state parks are absolutely stunning and 100 percent worth the stop. The next closest major airport is Salt Lake City. Salt Lake is a 4.5-hour drive from Zion. Flying into Salt Lake will allow you to turn your vacation into a week-long road trip! First, go through Moab and hit up Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Then head south and stop at Goblin Valley State Park, Capitol Reef National Park, and Bryce Canyon National Park. You can also fly into the Saint George Regional airport . This airport is much smaller with minimal flight options, but if you can find one that works for you, the time savings and convenience will be a huge bonus. It is a 50-minute drive from Saint George to Zion. THE DIFFERENT AREAS OF ZION Zion National Park is made up of 229 square miles of land and is comprised of four main sections. If you only have one day in Zion, I suggest focusing on just one or two sections. When visiting Zion, the closest town with restaurants and lodging is Springdale, UT. Springdale is located right next to the visitor center and campgrounds. The visitor center is where you will park to get on the shuttle to go into Zion Canyon. THE FOUR MAIN SECTIONS OF ZION ZION (MAIN) CANYON ***E-biking the Zion Canyon This is the busiest section of Zion and is only accessible via shuttle for the majority of the year (see below for details on navigating the shuttle). Zion Canyon is where you go for iconic hikes like Angels Landing and the Narrows. EAST ZION ***Views from East Zion East Zion is located on the east side of the Mt. Carmel Tunnel. It is at a higher elevation, just above Zion Canyon, and temps run 5-10 degrees cooler. Great hikes include Canyon Overlook, Many Pools, and off-the-beaten-path exploring along Clear Creek. KOLOB CANYON *Views from Kolob Canyon in the winter One of Zion's best-kept secrets, Kolob Canyon is tucked into the northwest corner of Zion National Park. Soaring cliffs of red Navajo Sandstone and breathtaking views are the highlight along a stunning 5-mile scenic drive. The canyons are easily accessed from Interstate 15. Our favorite family-friendly hikes in Kolob Canyons are Taylor Creek and Timber Creek Overlook. KOLOB TERRACE ***Views along Kolob Terrace Kolob Terrace is a section of Zion that begins with a 15 minute drive west of Springdale and leads you to great Zion hikes like The Subway, Northgate Peaks trail and Lambs Knoll. It is a stunning scenic drive and perfect for rainy days. GETTING AROUND ZION AND NAVIGATING THE SHUTTLE Let's start with the one thing that confuses people the most. The Zion shuttle ONLY runs to Zion Canyon. Everywhere outside Zion Canyon is accessible via car. The shuttle runs from early March through November. Outside of those times,(it does run again over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays) you can drive your car into the Main Canyon. CHECK OUT THE SHUTTLE SCHEDULE HERE . The shuttle is free, and no reservation is needed. In the summer when the park is the busiest, mornings are crowded with long lines. Afternoons are less busy and usually have no line. If you don't want the hassle of parking at the visitor center, the free shuttle running in Springdale can take you from your hotel to the walk-in entrance station, where you can board the Zion shuttle. This is a good option when the park is super busy and parking at the visitor center is full. PRO TIP The park never closes. If you get to the entrance station before or after the rangers, you get into the park for free. THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ZION ***Family hiking Riverside Walk in the Summer Any time is a great time to visit Zion, but each season has positives and negatives. Here is a rundown of what to expect in each season. SUMMER (MAY-SEPTEMBER) Visiting Zion in Summer is when you have to work around the most crowds and when the heat will be the most intense. But Summer is when Zion is at her most beautiful. Everything is so green and lush in the canyon, and if you like water, well, this is the best time to play in the Virgin River and do water hikes like The Narrows. SPRING/FALL (MARCH-APRIL & OCTOBER-NOVEMBER) Visiting Zion in the spring or fall is great because you won't have to deal with the intense heat or cold, and the crowds won't be quite as bad. I still suggest getting out first thing in the morning, but it will be harder to stay in the park later in the day since the days are shorter than in the summer. WINTER (DECEMBER-FEBRUARY) Winter is the least busy time to visit the park, except during Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks. There is no shuttle service, so you can drive into Zion Canyon. Trails can be closed, and icy conditions are often present. Services in Springdale are more limited in the winter. ***Cable Mountain Lodge in Springdale, Ut Where to stay when visiting Zion If you only have one day in the park, you will want to stay somewhere close to the park. I recommend staying in Springdale or, for something less expensive, the Hurricane Valley. Springdale is a touristy town with touristy prices, but it also has charm and a ton of great restaurants and lodging options. The Hurricane Valley includes Hurricane, La Verkin, and Virgin. These small towns are 15-30 minutes from the west entrance of Zion & Springdale. These towns feature hotels, Airbnb, places to eat, and grocery stores like Walmart. Where to Stay in Springdale Cable Mountain Lodge Cliffrose Lodge Flanigans Inn Where to stay in the Hurricane Valley The Dwellings Open Sky The Ardella Cottage 10 DIFFERENT ONE DAY ITINERARIES FOR VISITING ZION 1 - A Chill day in Zion (March - October) 2 - Girls trip Spa Day (Any time of year) 3 - High Adventure Day (May-October) 4 - Zion Canyon Family Day (June-September) 5 - Family adventure day (May - September) 6 - Pack in as much as possible (March - November) 7 - Zion off the beaten path - Kolob terrace & Kolob Canyon (Year round) 8 - East Zion Family day (March - November) 9 - A Snowy Winter Day in Zion (December - March) 10 - Casual Summer Day in Zion (May - September) 1 - A Chill day in Zion (March - October) MORNING Canyon Overlook East Zion Drive AFTERNOON Shuttle ride through the park Hike Riverside Walk Zion Human History Museum Walk the Pa'Rus trail for sunset This one-day itinerary gives you the best of the park without feeling rushed. Have a slow morning eating breakfast before heading into the park. Oscar's Cafe is a great breakfast option. After breakfast, drive up to East Zion and hike Canyon Overlook. It is a quick hike at 1.25 miles round trip but packs a punch with stunning views. (During busier times of the year it could be hard to find parking). After the hike, drive through east Zion for a scenic tour, turn around, and head back to Springdale for lunch. I recommend Zion Pizza Noodle or Whiptale Grill for lunch. Head to the visitor center after lunch to park and get on the shuttle. Take the shuttle through the park for a scenic tour. Get out at the last stop, Temple of Sinewava. ***The Riverside Walk trail Hike Riverside Walk and then take the shuttle back out the canyon and go to the Zion Human History Museum to learn the history of Zion, see artifacts from the native people, and watch a short film about the history of Zion. After the museum, take the short trail to walk along the Pa'Rus trail. Take one of the paths down to the river. Enjoy solitude along the river, and then head back to Springdale for dinner. 2 - Girls trip Spa Day (Any time of year) MORNING The Spa at Cable MTN AFTERNOON Rent an e-bike and bike the Zion Canyon This one-day itinerary is excellent for a girl's trip or couples. You will have the morning to relax and pamper yourself and then e-bike the Zion Canyon. Start the morning with breakfast at Mimi's Cafe and then head over to The Spa at Cable Mountain Lodge for some relaxation and pampering. If you are with your girlfriends, the 30-minute targeted treatment in the social sweet is the way to go. You can also get a massage, body treatments, or a facial. One of my favorite things about The Spa is the beautiful women's locker room with a lemongrass eucalyptus-infused steam room and whirlpool. I also love the relaxation lounge. It's such a peaceful space with a lighted salt wall, moving art, fresh fruit, and fruit-infused water. After your relaxing morning, arrange for Greater Zion E-bike Rentals to meet outside The Spa and drop off your e-bikes. They will give you a quick tutorial, and you'll be off. Ride your bike to Whiptail grill for lunch and head up the canyon via the Pa'Rus trail. CHECK OUT THIS POST FOR MORE INFO IN RENTING AN E-BIKE IN ZION There is nothing like exploring all along the canyon at your own pace. Zooming through the canyon with the wind in your hair and the smells of the lush desert vegetation around you is the best way to experience the canyon. Make a stop at the Zion Lodge and get ice cream to eat under the big cottonwood tree on the lawn.....heaven!!!! PRO TIP If the Castle Dome Cafe is closed (only open in the summer & they close at 4) you can get ice cream to go from The Red Rock Grill located in The Zion Lodge. Head back into Springdale, drop off your bikes, and then head to Oscars Cafe or Zion Pizza Noodle for dinner. 3 - High Adventure Day (May-October) MORNING The Narrows AFTERNOON Rent e-bike Angels Landing This itinerary is for adventurous couples and families with older kids that are in good shape and skilled in the outdoors. This itinerary also requires you to get a permit to hike Angels Landing. GET MORE INFO FOR GETTING A PERMIT AND HIKING ANGELS LANDING HERE. Your day will start early. Have everything ready to go the night before. Pack a sack lunch, plenty of snacks, and water. READ THIS BLOG POST FOR TIPS AND INFO FOR HIKING THE NARROWS. Eat breakfast at your hotel/Airbnb and get on the first shuttle heading up the canyon (6-7am depending on the time of year). Take the shuttle to the last stop, Temple of Sinawava. The Narrows starts once you step off the paved trail of Riverside Walk. Bring walking sticks for added support. ALWAYS check the weather before you head into a narrow canyon. Flash floods are always possible. Time the hike so you are on the shuttle back to your hotel by mid-day. Rest, and then pick up your e-bike. Renting an e-bike will allow you to hike Angels Landing a little later in the day than most. You will skip the crowds and heat as well as not have to worry about missing the last shuttle out of the canyon. Bike up the canyon to The Grotto shuttle stop. With an e-bike, it will take about 20 minutes to get to the Angels Landing trailhead. Time your 5-mile round trip hike to watch sunset at the top of Angels Landing. As soon as the sun sets, head back down the chains while the light is still out. Once you hit the end of the chains, it will be dark, and you will pull out your headlamps for the remainder of the hike. Enjoy riding your e-bike out of the canyon in the dark. It is a magical experience. 4 - Zion Canyon Family Day (June-September) MORNING Junior ranger handbook Hike Riverside Walk AFTERNOON Picnic lunch at The Lodge Hike Emerald Pools Nature center Start your day by visiting the Zion National Park Visitor Center to get a Junior Ranger Handbook for the kids to work on throughout the day. Jump on the shuttle and ride it to the last stop, Temple of Sinawava, where you will hike the Riverside Walk trail. The the 2.5-mile round trip Riverside Walk trail is mostly level and paved, making it doable for all skill levels. Shear red rock mountains and hanging gardens line the path as you walk along the Virgin River. The end of this trail is the beginning of one of Zion's most popular hikes in the summer, The Narrows. After your first hike of the day head over to The Lodge and eat a picnic lunch on the lawn. The large field is so fun for kids to run and play. After lunch, walk across the road to the start of the Emerald Pools trail. This classic Zion hike is great for kids and features one of the few waterfalls on display in the park. Hike 1 mile round trip for the lower pool, 1.25 miles for the middle pool, and 2.5 miles round trip for the upper pool. After hiking Emerald Pools, jump on the shuttle back to the visitor center and walk or drive to The Nature Center. Time it so you hit the 4:30 program. The Nature Center features daily youth-specific programs where kids will learn about powerful geological forces and much more. All programs are carefully developed by staff to create a fun and enjoyable learning experience for visiting youth and their families. The Nature Center is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Finish up the last of the Junior Ranger Handbook and then head back to the visitor center, where your child will present their completed handbook to a park ranger and take an oath to protect and care for the national parks. 5 - Family adventure day (May - September) MORNING The Narrows AFTERNOON Canyon Overlook/Pa'Rus Trail For this day you will start early. Have everything ready to go the night before. Pack a sack lunch, plenty of snacks, and water. READ THIS BLOG POST FOR TIPS ON HIKING THE NARROWS WITH KIDS. NOTE: RENT SHOES AND A WALKING STICK AT ZION OUTFITTERS OR ZION ADVENTURE COMPANY THE DAY BEFORE Eat breakfast at your hotel/Airbnb and get on the first shuttle heading up the canyon (6-7am depending on the time of year). Located at the last shuttle stop in the main canyon, The Narrows starts once you step off the paved trail of Riverside Walk. Bring walking sticks for added support. Plan plenty of time for the kids to play in the water. ALWAYS check the weather before you head into a narrow canyon. Flash floods are always possible. When you finish hiking The Narrows, jump back on the shuttle and head back to your hotel. Take some time to rest and eat dinner. After dinner, head to the Pa'Rus trail for a casual stroll along the Virgin River. For something a little more adventurous, you could drive to Canyon Overlook on the east side of the park. This 1.25-mile hike is fun for kids and has stunning views of the park. 6 - Pack in as much as possible (March - November) MORNING Riverside Walk/The Narrows Scouts Lookout/Angels Landing Kayenta Trail to Lower Emerald Pools AFTERNOON Clear Creek Canyon Overlook Pa'Rus This full day in the park will allow you to see all the main points of attraction that Zion is known for. This day will also leave you exhausted.......in a good way. NOTE: RENT SHOES AND A WALKING STICK AT ZION OUTFITTERS OR ZION ADVENTURE COMPANY THE DAY BEFORE. BRING A BACK PACK BIG ENOUGH TO CARRY A CHANGE OF SHOES SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO WEAR WET HIKING BOOTS THE REST OF THE DAY. I RECOMMEND TO CHANGE INTO HIKING SANDALS LIKE TEVA OR CHACOS. For this day you will start early. Have everything ready to go the night before. Pack a sack lunch, so you don't have to waste time going in and out of the park for food. Pack plenty of snacks and water (there are water refill stations at Temple of Sinawava, The Grotto and The Lodge). Eat breakfast at your hotel/Airbnb and get on the first shuttle heading up the canyon (around 6 or 7 am depending on time of year you are visiting). You will take the shuttle all the way through the park (45 mins) and get a wonderful scenic view of Zion Canyon. Riverside Walk starts at the last shuttle stop. This 2.5 mile round trip hike takes you right along the Virgin River. The end of this hike is the start of The Narrows. Walk up the river for a little bit to check The Narrows off your list. Eat your sack lunch along the river at Riverside walk or at some picnic tables before Angels Landing.  With your first two hikes out of the way jump on the shuttle and get off at the Grotto shuttle stop. Hike an hour or so of Angels Landing. No need for a permit. You won't be hiking the chain section.  The elevation is steep right off the bat, so an hour of hiking will get you to some stunning views. If you have time (try to be done by mid-afternoon), try to make it to Scouts Lookout. Head back down. When you get back to the start you will see the Kayenta trail head, take that to see the Lower Emerald Pools. This concludes your morning hiking through Zion Canyon. If you need a snack head to The Zion Loge for an ice cream at Castle Dome cafe and chill on the lawn. Take the shuttle back to the visitor center and drive up to East Zion. Stop at the Many Pools trailhead. From here, you will hike and explore along Clear Creek. Clear Creek is the main dry streambed that follows Route 9 throughout the east side of Zion. Although it may not be an actual named hike in Zion, it is excellent for some off-the-beaten-path hiking and fun.   CLICK HER TO READ MORE ABOUT HIKING CLEAR CREEK After exploring Clear Creek, head back the way you came. Stop just before the tunnel to hike Canyon Overlook. Canyon Overlook is a 1.25-mile family-friendly trail on the east side of Zion that features big horn sheep sightings, caves (kind of), and one of the most breathtaking views in the park.   Head back into Springdale for dinner. If there is any daylight left after dinner and you have any energy left after a day of hiking, head back into the park and park at the Human History Museum. From here, you will take a short trail to get to the Pa'Rus trail. This paved path along the Virgin River has stunning views of the iconic Watchman Mountain and is perfect for an evening stroll. 7 - Zion off the beaten path - Kolob Terrace & Kolob Canyon (Year round) ***Views at Timber Creek Trail MORNING Kolob Terrace Road Lambs Knoll AFTERNOON Kolob Canyon Taylor Creek Timber Creek Overlook This Zion itinerary is not the one for you if you want to see and do all the iconc things in Zion. This itinerary will get you away from the crowds and let you see a beautiful side of Zion National Park that most people don't get to see. Start your morning by driving up the Kolob Terrace Road. This road starts in Virgin and winds you along meadows, red rock walls, beautiful wide open views, and much more. Stop at Lambs Knoll for a short .8-mile round trip hike. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT VISITING LAMBS KNOLL . Lambs Knoll is a cluster of breathtaking rock formations and big views popular for climbing and canyoneering. This short hike is excellent for families and leads you to a tight slot canyon. After Lambs Knoll, get in the car and continue your drive to see more sights along Kolob Terrace Road. Make sure to stop along the way and enjoy the stunning drive. When you are finished exploring along Kolob Terrace for the morning, head to River Rock Roasting Company in La Verkin for lunch. River Rock has great coffee, sandwiches, cinnamon rolls, and views of the Virgin River. After lunch, head to Kolob Canyon. One of Zion's best-kept secrets, Kolob Canyon is tucked into the northwest corner of Zion National Park. Soaring cliffs of red Navajo Sandstone and breathtaking views are the highlight along a stunning 5-mile scenic drive. ***Double arch alcove at Taylor Creek Stop at Taylor Creek and hike the 5-mile round-trip trail that meanders along a small stream. Taylor Creek has two historic cabins along the trail and a stunning double arch at the end. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT HIKING TAYLOR CREEK After Taylor Creek, drive to the end of the scenic Kolob Canyon Road and hike Timber Creek Overlook Trail. Timber Creek is an easy one-mile round-trip trail with minimal elevation gain and stunning views all along the way. 8 - East Zion Family day (March - November) ***Clear Creek Slot Canyon MORNING Hike Canyon Overlook Explore Clear Creek/Hike Many Pools Trail Finish the scenic drive of East Zion AFTERNOON Lunch and exploring Springdale Visit the Natural History Museum Start your day hiking one of Zion's most breathtaking family-friendly hikes, Canyon Overlook. The trail is 1.25 miles round trip and mostly level. It is important to note that even though this is a very kid-friendly hike, there are plenty of spots along the trail and especially at the overlook, that can be dangerous. CLICK HER TO READ MORE ABOUT HIKING CANYON OVERLOOK After Canyon Overlook, head up the road 5 miles to the Many Pools parking area for some exploring along the dry stream bed below. Clear Creek is the main dry streambed that follows Route 9 throughout the east side of Zion. Although it may not be an actual named hike in Zion, it is excellent for some off-the-beaten-path hiking and fun. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT HIKING CLEAR CREEK . After exploring Clear Creek, if you want more of a hike take the Many Pools trail. This 2.1 mile round trip hike has 574 ft of elevation gain. This unmaintained trail gives beginner hikers and families a firsthand look at how wind and water sculpt stunning slot canyons. Nicknamed the "East Root Canal" for its shape on topo maps, it's a unique adventure and a great introduction to Zion’s natural wonders! After hiking along Clear Creek/Many Pools, drive the remainder of the East Zion road, and then head back down the canyon. Head into Springdale for lunch at Oscars Cafe or Hangry Goat and a casual afternoon of walking around Springdale. Hit the rock shops, go to the park or library, or head to Gorge Barker Park. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT THINGS TO DO IN SPRINGDALE After your afternoon exploring Sprindale head back into the park to the Zion Human History Museum. Learn the history of Zion, see artifacts from the native people and watch "We Are the Keeper" a beautiful short film about the history of Zion. There are lots of great opportunities for learning! 9 - A Snowy Winter Day in Zion (December - March) MORNING Riverside walk Menu Falls AFTERNOON Court Of the Patriarchs Pa'Rus Trail This winter itinerary is perfect for a snowy winter day in Zion. The hiking is totally doable in the snow and will allow you to have a safe and fun day in Zion after a snowstorm. Make sure to bring some Trex with you just in case you have icy trails. Start your day at Riverside Walk trail at the end of Zion Canyon. This trail is a 2.5-mile round-trip hike with very little elevation gain, so there is no need to worry about slipping on steep inclines. After hiking Riverside Walk, drive 1/2 mile down the canyon to Menu Falls. Menu Falls is a beautiful waterfall alcove slightly hidden just off the scenic drive. It's not easily accessible in the summer so winter is the perfect time to visit. Walk a short wooden pathway and a few stairs to enjoy this magical little spot in the canyon. Continue driving down the canyon, stopping at Court of the Patriarchs. Walk across the street and explore along the Virgin River. Make your way to the scenic bridge sitting just below the iconic Court of the Patriarch mountains. It is so stunning any time of year but especially with a fresh dusting of snow. End your day with dinner at Whip Tail Grill or Oscars Cafe in Springdale. 10 - Casual Summer Day in Zion (May - September) MORNING Tubing and playing in the Virgin River AFTERNOON Lower Pine Creek This day is all about enjoying Zion in the summer. The Virgin River is perfect for cooling off in the summer, and there are so many great spots to enjoy a morning playing in the river. Bring tubes or rent tubes at Zion Outfitters for extra fun. The river is pretty shallow in the summer, but you will still be able to find small stretches to float. After lunch, head over to Lower Pine Creek falls. The park doesn't advertise this hike, so the chances of having some solitude are good. This .7-mile round-trip trail will take you along a stream for the whole hike and ends at a waterfall and pool of water, perfect for playing, catching baby frogs, and even sliding down the waterfall. There are hours of summer fun to be had along this trail. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT HIKING LOWER PINE CREEK FALLS One day in Zion is never enough but with these 10 different one day itineraries I think you well be able to have a great time exploring Zion for the day. I have no doubt that you will be making plans for when you will come back and spend much more than a day. Happy Adventuring, Arika CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS