Best Places for Photos in Zion National Park (Local Photographer’s Guide)
- 38 minutes ago
- 5 min read
One of the best souvenirs you can take home from your Zion vacation is photos.
Not just the kind that live on your phone—but the kind that capture the feeling of being here… the landscape, the connection, and those little in-between moments you’ll want to remember long after your trip is over.
There are so many beautiful places to take photos in Zion National Park and the surrounding areas, from easy-access spots to more adventurous Zion photoshoot locations with incredible views.
After photographing families and couples here for the past 10 years, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring and finding the best Zion photography locations—places that not only look incredible in photos, but also create a really fun and meaningful experience.
Some spots are easy and playful, others are more adventurous with big views or slot canyon scenery—and each one brings something different.
I’m going to walk you through my go-to Zion photo locations and what makes each one special so you can find the one that feels like the best fit for you.
Where to Take Photos in Zion National Park
If you’re searching for the best places for photos in Zion National Park, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some of the best Zion photography locations are easy to access and perfect for families, while others require a short hike but offer more dramatic views for couples, engagements, and elopements.
Best Places for Photos in Zion National Park
Pa’Rus Trail (Best Zion Family Photo Location + Easy Access)
Located right in Zion next to Springdale, the Pa’Rus Trail is one of the best places for family photos in Zion National Park.
This location features:
a beautiful path along the Virgin River
red rock views
and iconic views of the Watchman mountain in the background
It’s a short and easy walk, making it perfect for:
families with kids
couples
big groups
This is the most convenient Zion photoshoot location if you’re staying in Springdale. No shuttle is needed, parking is easy, and the river nearby makes it especially fun for water play in the summer.
Canyon Overlook (Best Zion Engagement & Elopement Photo Location)
Canyon Overlook is one of the most iconic Zion photography locations and easily one of the best spots for couples, engagements, and elopements.
This location features:
big, sweeping Zion views
dramatic cliffs
and a beautiful, adventurous hike
The trail is about 1.25 miles round trip with elevation gain and rocky terrain, making it ideal for:
adventurous couples
active families
Because this is one of the most popular photo spots in Zion, we typically shoot here at sunrise when it’s quieter and parking is easy to find.
East Zion (Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Zion Photo Location)
Located about 35 minutes from Springdale, East Zion is one of my favorite areas for photos. It's not a named trail and it is totally off the beaten path.....yes!!!!!
This location features:
wide open views
tons of red rock
and a quieter, more relaxed feel
This is a great option for:
families
couples
groups wanting a unique Zion photoshoot location
There’s a short, steep hike up a sandy hill to reach the best photo spots. Convenient if staying in Springdale, Orderville, or Kanab. No shuttle needed and parking is easy.
Clear Creek (Best Slot Canyon Photo Location Near Zion)
Located in East Zion about 20 minutes from Springdale, Clear Creek is one of the most unique Zion photography locations.
This spot features:
a beautiful slot canyon
incredible sandstone textures
and tons of red rock
It’s a short, rocky path to reach the shoot location and works great for:
families
couples
groups
If you’re looking for something more adventurous and different from typical Zion views, this is an amazing option. No shuttle needed and parking is easy.
Lambs Knoll (Hidden Gem Zion Photo Location)
Located about 45 minutes northwest of Springdale along Kolob Terrace road, Lambs Knoll is one of the best hidden gem photo locations near Zion.
This off-the-beaten-path spot features:
a short and easy hike....if you want to explore
red rock
Fun rock climbing opportunities for kids
and a small slot canyon
Perfect for:
families
couples
relaxed, adventurous sessions
Convenient if staying in Springdale or the Hurricane Valley.
Kolob Terrace (Scenic Zion Photo Location with Open Views)
Located about 50 minutes northwest of Springdale along Kolob Terrace Road, this is one of the most peaceful Zion photography locations.
This area features:
a beautiful open meadow
sweeping views of Zion
soft, glowing light
There’s a short, slightly rocky path to reach the shoot location.
Great for:
families
couples
larger groups
Convenient if staying in Hurricane Valley or Springdale.
Lower Pine Creek (Best Adventure Photo Location in Zion)
Located just 10 minutes from Springdale, Lower Pine Creek is one of the most adventurous Zion photoshoot locations.
This location features:
a beautiful waterfall
red rock canyon walls
and a more active hiking experience
The hike is just under a mile round trip and includes:
stream hopping
climbing rocks
walking along ledges
Best for:
adventurous families
couples who want something more active
No shuttle needed and parking is easy.
Observation Point (Biggest Views in Zion National Park)
The East Mesa Trail to Observation Point is one of the most epic Zion photography locations if you’re up for a hike.
This 6.5 mile round trip hike leads to:
the highest viewpoint in Zion
views overlooking Angels Landing
and a quieter experience away from crowds
Perfect for:
adventurous couples
those wanting the biggest views in the park
Convenient if staying in Orderville.
How to Choose the Best Zion Photoshoot Location
The best Zion photoshoot location really depends on your group, your comfort level, and the kind of experience you want.
Want easy + playful? Pa’Rus Trail or Kolob Terrace
Want iconic Zion views? Canyon Overlook or East Zion
Want something quieter + unique? East Zion or Lower Pine Creek
Want slot canyon vibes? Clear Creek or Kambs Knoll
Want a hidden gem feel? Lambs Knoll or East Zion
Want open scenic views? Kolob Terrace or East Zion
Want adventure + water? Lower Pine Creek or Pa'Rus Trail
Want the biggest views in the park? Observation Point or Canyon Overlook
What Should You Wear for Your Zion Photos?
Once you’ve chosen your location, the next step is figuring out what to wear.
The right outfit can completely change the feel of your photos—from relaxed and playful to more elevated and styled.
I break down exactly what photographs best in Zion, including color palettes, outfit ideas by season, and tips for feeling comfortable during your session: CLICK HERE: What to Wear for Photos in Zion National Park (Color Tips + Outfit Ideas)
Planning a Photoshoot in Zion?
If you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park, choosing the right location is one of the biggest parts of creating photos you’ll love.
We help families and couples choose the best Zion photography locations and plan sessions that feel relaxed, fun, and completely tailored to you—from location and timing to what to wear.
If this is something you’ve been thinking about, I’d love to help you plan it: Book your Zion photo session here
Happy Adventuring,
Arika
