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NPS Photo / Wil Marischen
In 2021, Zion recorded more than 5 million visits. From early February through late November, Zion can be very busy. There may be a wait at park entrance stations, and parking often fills by early or mid-morning. Avoid delays using the following tips:
When you plan your trip, remember that Zion is a very popular place to visit on holidays. Some of the most popular weekends to come here include:
On busy days, expect to see a lot of other people on trails and the park shuttle. It is not uncommon for hundreds of people to hike to Emerald Pools, Scout Lookout, or The Narrows each day.
If your plans fall through, or if you are not sure where to go, stop by a visitor center and ask one of the friendly rangers for recommendations! Park rangers will help you plan your visit, so you can get the most out of your Zion experience. Check our Hours of Operation to see when visitor centers are open.
NPS Photo
The park established a seasonal shuttle system to reduce traffic and parking problems in Zion Canyon. Shuttles run daily during the busy season, typically from spring through fall.
During the shuttle season, personal vehicles are not allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (north of Canyon Junction). Visitors can park at Zion Canyon Visitor Center or the town of Springdale and ride the shuttle into the canyon.
Visitors can walk or ride a bicycle up the canyon to avoid shuttles. Just remember that the road is usually extremely hot and sunny in summer, and trailheads are miles up-canyon. Also, bike riders must share the road and yield to busses.
During non-shuttle season, when drivers are allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the park is often still busy. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive will close for the day when there are no more legal parking spaces – often in December, January, and February. This is done to:
For the best chance of finding parking, arrive early.
NPS Photo / Wil Marischen
Please park legally and responsibly in Zion National Park and the town of Springdale. Vehicles parked outside of designated spaces are subject to citation and/or towing:
Kolob Canyons, Kolob Terrace Road, and the park’s east side offer designated parking at trailheads and points of interest. Kolob Canyons and the east side both have paved parking areas. Kolob Terrace Road typically has dirt or gravel lots for its trailheads. Parking is limited – make backup plans and arrive early if possible.
Zion National Park is located on State Route 9, near the town of Springdale, Utah.
View and download maps of Zion National Park.
Learn about vehicle size limits on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway.
Last updated: February 12, 2026
Zion National Park
1 Zion Park Blvd.
Springdale, UT 84767
435-772-3256
If you have questions, please email zion_park_information@nps.gov. Listen to recorded information by calling anytime 24 hours a day. Rangers answer phone calls from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT, but a ranger may not answer if they are already speaking with someone else.
Download the NPS app to navigate the parks on the go.
