Zion National Park in One Day: Best Itinerary, Hikes & Viewpoints
Welcome to Zion National Park!
I have visited Zion National Park a few times — once cramming everything into a single day, and another time taking it slower over a couple of days. I have hiked nearly every trail except Angel’s Landing (I never had the permit), and I have experienced Zion in both the scorching heat of August and the cooler, quieter days of March. No matter when you go, I have a good sense of what to expect and how to make the most of your time. This Zion National Park guide shares a carefully planned one-day itinerary with the best hikes, viewpoints, and tips, including how to navigate the Zion shuttle, so you can enjoy the park fully without feeling rushed or missing the highlights.
Oh & as always, practice sustainable tourism while traveling, please :)
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Zion National Park in One Day
Table of Contents
One Day in Zion National Park: Quick Overview
Best Time to Visit Zion for a One-Day Trip
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
Getting Around Zion: Shuttles, Parking & Entry Info
Zion National Park One Day Itinerary
The Best Hikes, Viewpoints, & Scenic Stops in Zion National Park
Where to Eat in and Around Zion
One Day in Zion National Park: Quick Overview
Zion views from the Pa’rus Trail.
Where is Zion National Park Located?
Off Interstate 15 — about 2.5 hours northeast of Las Vegas. The closest town is Springdale, situated directly at the South Entrance to the park.
Zion National Park is in southwestern Utah, about 160 miles from Las Vegas and 300 miles south of Salt Lake City. The easiest way to get there is by car. Most visitors enter through the South Entrance near Springdale.
Nearest International Airport to Zion: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
Zion Park Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round.
For more information on park hours, visitor center hours, etc., head here!
Always check park closures for the most up-to-date operating hours.
If you are visiting Zion between March and November, you will need to use the Zion Shuttle to access Zion Canyon.
A few areas, including Kolob Canyons, Kolob Terrace Road, and Lava Point, can close in winter due to snow. If you visit during the cooler months, definitely check road conditions before heading out.
Some hiking and climbing trails close between March and July to protect nesting falcons—double-check with the park for more information on this.
Zion Fees & Reservations:
Day Use Pass:
$35 per vehicle (valid 7 days)
$30 per motorcycle
$20 per person (walk-in, bike, shuttle)
Free for kids under 15
America the Beautiful Pass accepted
Camping Fees: $20 - $30 nightly. Find more information here!
Backcountry Camping: $20 per permit + $7 per person per night. Must be reserved in advance.
Angel’s Landing Permits: Required for hiking Angel’s Landing. A lottery system for permits.
Zion National Park Facilities:
Visitor Center with park information (8 AM - 7 PM)
Picnic & drinking water are available throughout the park.
You will find plenty of restrooms at each of the trailheads.
Is Zion Dog-friendly? Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash while in Zion NP and out of the water. Head here for more information on which areas of the park dogs are allowed.
Best Time to Visit Zion for a One-Day Trip
Zion National Park is open year-round. The best time to visit depends on what kind of weather and experience you are after. I usually suggest visiting between Fall and Spring to avoid the brutal summer heat. However, keep in mind that The Narrows may close seasonally (April-May) due to high water levels, particularly during spring runoff and after heavy rainfall.
Spring is ideal for hiking, with average temperatures ranging from the 40s up to mid-80s°F. The weather is usually comfortable, and the crowds are a bit lighter than in summer.
Summer in Zion can get HOT, with highs often soaring above 100°F. If you visit during these months, make sure to start your hikes early, pack plenty of water and electrolytes, and be mentally prepared for the heat. When I visited in August, climbing up Scout’s Lookout (the trail leading up to Angel’s Landing) was tough!
Fall is another fantastic time to visit Zion. Temperatures start to cool off in October and November, with highs typically between 40°F and 75°F. The crowds begin to thin, and the light is beautiful for photography.
Winter in Zion is quieter and cooler, with average highs between 30°F and 60°F. Snow is possible, but it does add a beautiful touch to the orange rocks. Dressing in layers is key to staying comfortable when the temperatures dip.
Always check the local weather forecast before your hike, as conditions can change rapidly.
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
The best places to stay for an overnight visit to Zion National Park are…
Springdale: 2-5 minutes from Zion South Entrance (best entrance to Zion).
Virgin: 10 miles or 15 minutes
La Verkin: 18 miles or 25 minutes
Hurricane: 20 miles or 30 minutes
Apple Valley: 35 miles or 45 minutes
Best Accommodation Options For Every Traveler
- Best Low-Budget Option: La Quinta by Wyndham La Verkin
- Best Mid-Budget Option: Zion Park Motel or Zion Mountain Ranch
- Best High-Budget Option: Zion Wildflower Resort
- Best Glamping Option: Under Canvas Zion
You can also find hotel deals at Agoda and Hostelworld! You can help support my travel blog by booking through these links at no extra cost to you.
Getting Around Zion: Shuttles, Parking & Entry Info
Zion Shuttle System & Parking Information:
If you are planning to visit Zion National Park between March and November, private vehicles are not allowed within the park (unless you are staying at Zion Lodge). Instead, you will need to use the Zion Shuttle to go between trailheads inside the park. You can park your car at the visitor center for the day.
The shuttle runs daily and stops at all the main trailheads, so it is super easy to get around once you are in the park. It usually starts around 6–7 AM and runs until 7–8 PM, depending on the time of year.
If you stay in Springdale, you can use the Springdale Shuttle to drop you right at the park entrance.
If you are coming outside of shuttle season (roughly November through February), you can drive your own car through the canyon. It is way more flexible and less crowded, which makes it one of my favorite times to go. During this time, you are allowed to park at trailheads along the Scenic Drive.
Entry Information:
As mentioned, Zion is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round. You do not need a “timed entry” to enter, but arriving early is necessary as Zion is ALWAYS busy and parking can fill up quickly. When I went, I always arrived as soon as the park opened. As the day continues, the lines for the shuttle will become quite long, so keep this in mind when planning your day and make sure to allocate time for navigating the shuttle.
Zion National Park One Day Itinerary
Scout’s Lookout Views.
If you only have one day to spend in Zion National Park, and you want to see it all, this is how to fill your day. Just be sure to pack your meals, snacks, water, electrolytes, and perhaps some coffee to keep you going! For extensive details on each of the following trails, continue down to the best hikes, viewpoints, and scenic stops section.
Stop #1: Hike 3.6 miles and climb 1,122 feet to Scout’s Lookout at sunrise to catch the early morning glow over panoramic views of Zion. Be sure to catch the first park shuttle (6 AM in the summer) to allow yourself a full hour or two for the hike, depending on your pace. The trail includes 21 switchbacks, known as Walter’s Wiggles, which can be challenging. Luckily, the sun exposure is minimal in the early morning. You can plan to spend around 2-3 hours hiking, eating breakfast, and enjoying the views here.
Zion Canyon Shuttle: Stop #6, the trail begins at The Grotto. Around 20 minutes or so from the visitor center.
Bonus: If you have your Angel’s Landing permit, you can continue to the top from here! Be sure to allocate another couple of hours to your itinerary.
Stop #2: Explore The Narrows in Zion National Park — as much or as little as you want. This iconic 16-mile wade through the Virgin River is framed by towering orange cliffs. Keep in mind, this popular hike gets busy, so plan accordingly. You can walk as far or as little as you like. The water gets deeper the further you go — I reached waist-deep on my 5-foot frame. Be sure to wear sturdy, water-ready shoes since you’ll be walking on slippery pebbles and rocks the entire way. A dry bag, walking poles, and waders can also make the hike easier and more comfortable.
Zion Canyon Shuttle: Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop #9). The shuttle ride from Scout’s Lookout (Stop 6) to The Narrows at Temple of Sinawava (Stop 9) takes about 45 minutes one way. It is roughly 7.7 miles along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive with really beautiful views along the ride. The shuttles run every 5 to 10 minutes during busy times. Seats are first-come, first-served.
Stop #3: Enjoy your packed lunch! Hop back onto the Zion Canyon shuttle to the visitor center for a well-deserved meal and water refills.
Stop #4: Venture up the Watchman Trail (for those who did not add in Angel’s Landing) —follow signs from the visitor center to this trail. No shuttle is required to access it (phew). This easy-going hike gradually climbs, rewarding you with wide-open views of Zion Canyon and the stunning orange and red cliffs around it. It is a perfect choice to escape some of the crowds on the more popular trails. I really like this hike—it is manageable for most people and offers some of the best views right over the heart of Zion Canyon.
Plan to allocate around 1.5 - 2 hours for this 3-mile hike, with only 400-600 feet of elevation gain.
Stop #5: Jump in your car and enjoy the drive from Mt. Carmel Tunnel to Zion Canyon Overlook.
It is about a 15-minute drive from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to the Zion Canyon Overlook Trailhead via the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (State Route 9). This road is open year-round for private vehicles, and there are plenty of incredible views along the way.
When you arrive at Zion Canyon Overlook, you will find a few parking spots on the left. They fill up fast, so be sure to get there a little early if you are planning a sunset hike.
Once out of the car, take the 1-mile Zion Canyon Overlook Trail to what is, hands down, my favorite view of Zion Canyon. The hike takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and when you get there, you can enjoy your packed dinner or a snack while soaking in an unforgettable sunset to finish your one day in Zion National Park!
The Best Hikes, Viewpoints, & Scenic Stops in Zion National Park
Zion views from the Watchman Trail.
Me wandering along the Pa’rus Trail in Zion National Park, Utah.
For those who want easier hikes in Zion National Park…
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
Elevation: 0
Estimated Time: 1 hour round-trip (if that)
Difficulty: Easy peasy! It’s a paved walkway offering views of Zion’s towering cliffs around you. It is perfect for everyone, even dogs.
Highlights: This is a great trail for anyone looking for an easier walk through Zion — whether you are biking, bringing your dog, or just want a break from the more intense hikes. That said, I would not recommend prioritizing this one unless hikes like The Narrows, Scout’s Lookout, or Angel’s Landing are not your vibe.
Trailhead Location: Right near the visitor center. No shuttle required, just follow the signage.
Tips for Hiking the Par’rus Trail:
Great biking trail!
Dogs are allowed on this trail.
This trail is completely exposed to the sun, so definitely pack your sunscreen, hat, and some water. It is probably more enjoyable outside of summer or in the early mornings.
Distance: 3-3.2 miles out-and-back
Elevation: minimal, between 400-600 feet
Estimated Time: 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty: I would rate this trail as easy to moderate — you are climbing uphill a bit over rocky terrain. After 11 AM, there is almost no shade, so keep that in mind, especially during the summer months. That said, there are plenty of scenic views along the way to distract you and give you natural break points!
Highlights: A scenic hike that winds gradually uphill, offering wide views of Zion Canyon and the surrounding orange and red rock cliffs. It is a great option for sunrise or if you are looking for a quieter alternative to the busier trails. I really enjoy this hike and find it to be quite doable for most people. The views overlooking the heart of Zion Canyon are especially picturesque.
Trailhead Location: Nearby to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, just follow the signage. There is a Watchman shuttle stop and campground.
Tips for Hiking the Watchman Trail:
Not too much shade along the trail, especially in the afternoon and beyond— mornings will be best to avoid overheating.
Grippy shoes for walking over the rocky terrain.
This is an easy-to-reach hike near the visitor center if you want a hike that does not involve hopping on the shuttle.
This trail offers good lighting during golden hours, and it is much less crowded than other Zion hikes.
The epic view at Zion Canyon Overlook, a must-do for a one day trip to Zion National Park in Utah.
For those who want epic views in Zion National Park…
Scout’s Lookout — this is my number 3 must-do hike in Zion National Park (with or without Angel’s Landing).
Distance: 3.6 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,122 feet
Estimated Time: 2–3 hours, depending on your pace
Difficulty: Moderately challenging, with a steady incline and several switchbacks (21 in total known as Walter’s Wiggles). The trail is sandy in sections, which can make it easy to slip or lose traction.
Highlights: Scout’s Lookout is the final stop before the chains section leading to Angel’s Landing. Even if you do not continue to the top, you will still get stunning panoramic views over Zion Canyon.
Trailhead Location: Stop #6 on the Zion Canyon Shuttle. The trail begins at The Grotto.
Tips for Hiking to Scout’s Lookout:
Start before 10 AM for more shade along the trail.
This is one of the most popular Zion National Park hikes, so it gets crowded quickly. Early morning hiking is best.
Summer heat makes this trail tougher, especially since much of it is exposed. Bring plenty of water and snacks.
Wear shoes with a solid grip, and consider using a hiking pole for extra stability on the sandy switchbacks.
Zion Canyon Overlook — this is my number one hike; you cannot miss for your one-day trip to Zion.
Distance: Just under 1 mile round trip
Elevation: Minimal, around 150 feet give or take
Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour round trip. I recommend allocating more time for just enjoying the view of Zion. I spent around 2 hours hiking the trail and taking in the views.
Difficulty: Easy — a solid trail for just about everyone. You will hike under a rock overhang and cross a few narrow, man-made wooden bridges along the cliffside, which might feel a bit sketchy if you are not a fan of heights.
Highlights: The most epic view over Zion National Park. I still look back at my photos in awe. This spot is great for sunrise and sunset.
Trailhead Location: A short 20-minute drive from Springdale. The trailhead is right off Highway 9, past the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.
Tips for Hiking Zion Canyon Overlook:
Go early or later in the day, as this is a popular hike. However, there is plenty of room to take in the incredible views over Zion, so even when it is crowded, you will still find plenty of space for yourself.
The parking lot fills quickly, so you may have to wait for a spot to open up.
There are drop-offs with no guardrails, so keep children close and watch your step. This is especially important after rain or snow.
This is the most rewarding hike in Zion with minimal effort to get to the view. It is perfect for those who do not want to hike, but still want an epic viewpoint. If you want a more challenging hike with an equally rewarding view, try Observation Point!
Distance: 6.8 miles round-trip
Elevation: 700-775 feet
Estimated Time: 3+ hours hiking, plus additional time enjoying the viewpoint! I spent around 45 minutes at the viewpoint.
Difficulty: Moderately challenging—the trail is mostly flat with a few gentle inclines. It is longer than other hikes around Zion, but not too difficult.
Highlights: Incredible views over Zion Canyon and a challenging hike for the adventurous. You also get a glimpse of Angel’s Landing from here!
Trailhead Location: This trailhead is technically outside of Zion National Park. Take the shuttle from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort with East Zion Adventures to the trailhead. Driving to the trailhead is an option with 4WD, but the road is unpaved, muddy, and the parking lot only has 20 spaces.
Tips for Hiking to Observation Point:
This is a challenging hike, and I recommend really planning for it before heading here. EarthTrekkers has an awesome blog on the hike for those interested. There are no water fountains or facilities at the trailhead.
The trail is almost completely exposed—sunscreen, a hat, water, and snacks are necessities.
Watch for the trail sign—the trailhead is not super obvious. I recommend downloading offline maps just in case.
Bug spray for this trail is essential. Mosquitoes and flies can be annoying, especially in the warmer months.
Me wading through The Narrows in Zion National Park in August.
For those who want challenging hikes in Zion National Park…
Distance: 5.4 miles round-trip
Elevation: 1500+ feet
Estimated Time: 2-4 hours of hiking.
Difficulty: Strenuous (not for the faint of heart)
Highlights: An adrenaline-rushing hike along a rocky cliff with some chains to help pull you along and keep you from slipping. You will start by climbing to Scout’s Lookout, which includes 21 tiring switchbacks. From there, continue another 500 feet up to Angel’s Landing. The hike kicks off with a steep scramble, followed by a narrow, exposed section with massive drop-offs on either side. After that, it is a final climb using chains and carved footholds to reach the summit. At the top, you are rewarded with a 360-degree view of Zion.
Trailhead Location: Stop #6 on the Zion Canyon Shuttle. The trail begins at The Grotto.
Tips for Hiking Angel’s Landing:
Early March and mid-November are the best hiking times to avoid crowds and the extreme heat of summer.
Start early to beat the crowds and the heat — this trail gets busy fast.
Wear sturdy shoes with a good grip — those chains won’t help if your footing slips. Take your time — it is better to be slow and safe.
If you are uncomfortable with heights, this hike might not be for you — those drop-offs can be daunting.
You are hiking along a rocky cliff, so it can become quite dangerous if wet.
This hike is not recommended for children because it is quite easy to slip and fall.
The Narrows— this is my number 2 must-do hike in Zion for your one-day trip.
Distance: 16 miles round-trip, though you definitely do not need to do the whole thing. I hiked about 2 miles in, which felt like more than enough to get the experience.
Elevation: Minimal.
Estimated Time: Depends on how far you go. I spent about 2.5 hours on the trail.
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous, mostly because you are wading through cold, rocky water. That said, you can jump in and get a feel for the Narrows almost immediately without committing to a long trek.
Highlights: This is one of the most iconic hikes in Zion — picture yourself walking through a river, surrounded by towering orange slot canyon walls. It is genuinely one of the most unique trails out there.
Trailhead Location: Temple of Sinawava (Shuttle Stop #9)
Tips for Hiking The Narrows:
Always check conditions before you go. The Narrows can close if water levels are too high or there’s a risk of flash floods, so check the official Zion site before heading out.
You will want shoes with a good grip. Think water shoes or old hiking boots, you do not mind getting soaked. The rocks are super slippery.
I highly recommend a hiking pole. It helped a ton with balance, especially when you cannot see where you are stepping.
Bring a dry bag to keep your phone and snacks safe. You will get wet, even early on in the trail.
Dress for the weather. If it is cooler, you might want a dry suit or neoprene gear. You can rent in Springdale if needed.
Do not drink the water — it can carry harmful bacteria, especially later in the summer.
You do not need to hike the full 16 miles! I only went about 2 miles in and felt like I got the full experience.
If you are doing the full top-down hike (starting from Chamberlain’s Ranch), you will need a permit.
Bonus Scenic Views Not to Miss:
The drive from Canyon Junction Bridge through to Mount Carmel Highway offers many stop-off points.
Views from riding along the Zion Canyon Shuttle through the park.
Where to Eat in and Around Zion
FeelLove Coffee at Zion - Gluten-Free & Vegan Options
WildThyme Cafe - Gluten-Free & Vegan Options
Oscar’s Cafe - Vegan Options
Meme’s Cafe - Gluten-Free & Vegan Options
Packing List & Tips for Visiting Zion National Park
Always check the weather before booking your trip to ensure you choose your preferred conditions and know what to pack, especially in the hot summer when extra water is essential and heat strokes are more common. Bringing layers is your best option to accommodate the cooler mornings and evenings.
Visit midweek — weekends are slammed, even in off-season.
Head out early! The earlier you are, the better chance you have at parking at the visitor center, avoiding shuttle bus lines, and having trails to yourself.
Make sure to have a plan—navigating the shuttle system can eat up valuable time, so knowing your route ahead of time will save you a ton of hassle.
Stock your backpack with snacks, water, and electrolytes to stay hydrated during your travel. This is even more important if you plan to visit during the summer. Early morning visits are best to avoid the heat.
On the topic of summer, know your limits. Do not push too hard, especially in the heat.
Wear sun protective items like sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, etc.
Don’t miss the sunset/sunrise at Canyon Junction Bridge, Canyon Overlook, or Observation Point— it’s epic!
You do not need to hike the entire Narrows; you can hike for a few miles and turn around. You will need water shoes as the bottom is rocky and the water is cold. In colder months, waders are vital. Walking sticks can be helpful to avoid falls. Be sure to check the NPS site constantly—the Narrows often closes.
Pack sturdy hiking shoes to prevent falls, navigate slippery trails, and avoid injuries. If you are traveling from outside the US, purchase travel medical insurance in case of an emergency. My boyfriend (UK) uses Safety Wing’s US plan while he is here.
If you do not have a US SIM, I suggest downloading an eSIM such as Airalo to access maps, trails, and emergency phone calls during your trip.
Download AllTrails to your phone so you have access to the trail maps even when you lose service.
Stay on the trails to protect the environment and yourself. Don’t venture too close to the edges, as rocks can break off at any moment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is one day enough for Zion National Park?
One day is enough to get some epic views of Zion and to cross off a few bucket list hikes from your list. If you start bright and early, you can conquer Angels’ Landing, followed by a mile or so of The Narrows in the second half of the day. However, if you can stretch your time even to 1.5 days, you can cover more ground with a more relaxed pace.
How much time do you need to see Zion National Park?
I recommend having at least one full day (sunrise to sunset) to explore Zion National Park. However, having 2-3 days is more ideal to allow more hiking time and to explore The Narrows fully (16 miles) and Angel’s Landing. Zion has enough hikes to keep you busy for over 3 days, with parks inside and right outside the park. Kanab and Bryce Canyon are close enough to add them onto your itinerary as well.
How early should I start my day at Zion to see everything?
I suggest heading to Zion 15-30 minutes before the doors open. This way, you can be one of the first in (there will be a line) and snatch a parking spot near the visitor center.
Is the Zion shuttle mandatory, and how does it work?
From March until November, private vehicles are not allowed within the park, and you must use the Zion shuttle instead. You will park at the visitor center and catch the shuttle between the trailheads. The shuttle runs daily and stops at all the main trailheads, so it is super easy to get around once you are in the park. It usually starts around 6–7 AM and runs until 7–8 PM, depending on the time of year. You can find some more information on navigating the shuttle here.
What not to miss in Zion National Park?
Canyon Overlook (my favorite hike by far)
The Narrows (duh)
Angel’s Landing or even just the trail leading up to it, Scout’s Lookout.
Walk with your dog or even bike along Pa’rus Trail.
Observation Point for an epic view!
Are there any shortcuts or less crowded spots for hiking in Zion?
Hmmm, this one is a tough question because Zion is extremely popular and is almost always packed with people. The earlier you go, the better chance you have of beating some of the crowds. I do love the Watchman Trail and have found it to be less crowded both times I went. Kolob Canyon is sometimes less crowded as well.
Is Bryce Canyon or Zion better?
Ooooof! Don’t make me pick favorites! Truthfully, the two parks are so different, you cannot really compare them. I personally love Bryce because it feels like a fairyland, and its vast hoodoos make it stand out amongst other parks in Utah in general. I love how the hikes take you down into the hoodoos, while you can also get an epic sunrise and sunset from the viewpoints. Zion, however, has some more challenging or adventurous hikes like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows. If you have time, I would just visit both National Parks. You can easily get a glimpse of both parks within 2 days since they are so close to one another.
