Things to Do in Zion National Park
Zion is compact, but the main canyon gets crowded fast. The best trip mixes one hard-to-access headline hike with easier viewpoints, short trails, and a Springdale base that keeps shuttle logistics simple.
Quick Answer
The best things to do in Zion are The Narrows, Angels Landing if you have a permit, Emerald Pools, Canyon Overlook Trail, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive by shuttle, and quieter side trips to Kolob Canyons or Observation Point routes.
The Narrows
The Narrows is Zion’s signature river hike through a slot canyon carved by the Virgin River. Most first-time visitors do the bottom-up route from the Temple of Sinawava. Water levels, cold, and flash flood risk matter more than distance, so check current conditions before you commit.
- Best in warmer months with safe flow levels
- Rent river shoes and a walking stick in Springdale
- Do not enter during flash flood risk
Angels Landing
Angels Landing is the park’s most famous exposed ridge hike and requires a permit for the chained section. If you do not get a permit, hike to Scout Lookout for a strong viewpoint without continuing onto the narrow ridge.
- Permit required for the chained section
- Start early for heat and crowds
- Skip in storms, ice, or high wind
Emerald Pools And Canyon Overlook
Emerald Pools is the easy-to-moderate canyon-floor choice with ledges, water, and shade depending on conditions. Canyon Overlook is short, scenic, and outside the main shuttle corridor, making it useful when you want a high-value hike without committing half a day.
Scenic Drive, Springdale, And Quieter Add-Ons
During shuttle season, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is shuttle-only for most visitors. Stay in Springdale if you want to avoid moving your car. If the main canyon is packed, look at Kolob Canyons, Watchman Trail, Pa’rus Trail, or Observation Point access routes outside the canyon floor.
Plan And Track This Park
Add Zion to your TravelCharted checklist so you can track it with the rest of your national parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one thing to do in Zion National Park?
For most visitors, The Narrows is the signature Zion experience. Angels Landing is equally famous, but the permit requirement and exposure make it less universal.
Can you visit Zion without hiking Angels Landing?
Yes. The Narrows, Emerald Pools, Canyon Overlook, Watchman Trail, Pa’rus Trail, and the canyon shuttle viewpoints can easily fill a strong Zion trip.
Where should you stay for Zion National Park?
Springdale is the most convenient base because it sits next to the main entrance and connects to the park shuttle. Hurricane and La Verkin are usually cheaper but require more driving.
More National Park Guides
Where to stay
Where to Stay Near Yosemite National Park
Compare where to stay near Yosemite National Park, including Yosemite Valley, El Portal, Mariposa, Oakhurst, and Groveland.
Itinerary
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary
Plan a Great Smoky Mountains National Park itinerary with Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, Roaring Fork, waterfalls, and gateway towns.