Utah's Mighty 5
All five of Utah's national parks in one loop of red rock, slot canyons and hoodoos. It's the most popular national park road trip in America for good reason.
Best time to visit · Utah
Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
Towering sandstone cliffs, a river you hike through, and Utah's most famous trail.
The best time to visit Zion National Park is April and October–November. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for November. It's busiest in March through October.
Month by month
Best monthsApr, Oct–Nov
Best valueNov
BusiestMar–Oct
Established1919
Zion by season
Winter Good
Mild and quiet, with highs often in the 50s. Private cars are often allowed on the scenic drive when the shuttle isn't running, and the Narrows is cold but doable with a drysuit rental.
Spring Good
Waterfalls and green cottonwoods, but crowds build fast, and snowmelt often closes the Narrows.
Summer Fair
Hot, often over 100°F, and very crowded. Afternoon monsoon storms in July through September raise the risk of flash floods in slot canyons.
Fall Prime
The best season. Comfortable temperatures, a hikeable Narrows, and fall color in the canyon from late October to mid-November.
What to do
- Hike the Narrows up the Virgin River
- Climb Angels Landing (permit required)
- Walk the Riverside Walk and Emerald Pools
- Drive the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway
- Watch sunset from the Canyon Overlook Trail
Local tip
Take the first shuttle of the morning for Angels Landing or the Narrows, and stay in Springdale so you can walk to the entrance.
Good to know
Zion was Utah's first national park and is consistently among the five most-visited national parks.
Before you go: Angels Landing requires a permit through a lottery. A shuttle is mandatory on the scenic drive for most of the year. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Getting there
Closest major airport: Las Vegas (LAS), about 2.5 hours.
Nearby national parks
Approximate driving distance. Check a map for exact routes.
Where to stay
Zion month-by-month ratings
| Month | Rating | Crowds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Good | Moderate | |
| February | Good | Moderate | |
| March | Good | Peak crowds | |
| April | Prime | Peak crowds | Prime season starts · Last prime month |
| May | Good | Peak crowds | |
| June | Good | Peak crowds | |
| July | Fair | Peak crowds | |
| August | Fair | Peak crowds | |
| September | Good | Peak crowds | |
| October | Prime | Peak crowds | Prime season starts |
| November | Prime | Busy | Last prime month · Best value |
| December | Good | Moderate |
Road trips with Zion
Grand Canyon, Zion & Bryce
The classic Southwest loop from Las Vegas: the Grand Canyon's South Rim, Zion's narrow canyon and Bryce's hoodoos.
Questions about visiting Zion
When is the best time to visit Zion National Park?
The best time to visit Zion National Park is April and October–November. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for November. It's busiest in March through October.
What is the worst time to visit Zion National Park?
July and August are the weakest time, when heat is extreme and can be dangerous.
When is Zion National Park most crowded?
Crowds peak in March through October. November offers the best balance of good conditions and fewer people.
Is Zion National Park worth visiting in winter?
Mild and quiet, with highs often in the 50s. Private cars are often allowed on the scenic drive when the shuttle isn't running, and the Narrows is cold but doable with a drysuit rental.
Do you need a reservation for Zion National Park?
Angels Landing requires a permit through a lottery. A shuttle is mandatory on the scenic drive for most of the year. Always check the official NPS page for the current year's rules.
What is the closest airport to Zion National Park?
The most convenient airport is Las Vegas (LAS), about 2.5 hours.
How many days do you need at Zion National Park?
Most road trips spend 2 to 3 days here.
More in Southwest · National parks in Utah · Season calendar
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.