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Zion National Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, was originally established as Mukuntuweap National Monument in 1909 before being renamed and designated a national park in 1919. The park's defining feature is Zion Canyon, a 24-kilometer long gorge reaching depths of 800 meters, carved by the North Fork of the Virgin River through reddish Navajo Sandstone. Geographically situated at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert, it supports an immense biodiversity including over 900 plant species and nearly 300 bird species. Renowned hiking trails like 'The Narrows' take visitors directly into the riverbed, while 'Angels Landing' gives a thrilling climb to an iconic overlook. The area's history includes ancient Ancestral Puebloan and Paiute cultures, followed by 19th-century Mormon pioneers who gave the canyon its biblical name. To manage its popularity and protect the environment, the park utilizes a mandatory shuttle system for visitors during peak seasons. Zion is celebrated for its towering monoliths, slot canyons, and bustling hanging gardens sustained by seepage from the sandstone walls.

Location: United States
Top sights: Mountain of Mystery · Ivins Mountain · Castle Dome
Nearby: Zion Springdale (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-2	-1	3	7	12	19	22	21	17	9	3	-2
Rain mm	32	36	32	26	18	7	34	32	25	32	23	35

📋 Practical info

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Best season

Zion National Park is open year-round, but spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer sees crowded canyons, winter may bring snow.

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Best time of day

Early morning or late afternoon provide the best light for photos and higher animal activity. Midday temperatures in the canyon are extreme.

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Etiquette

Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile desert vegetation. Feeding animals is strictly prohibited.

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What to bring

Sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and sun protection are mandatory. Binoculars help spot mule deer or birds.

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Getting there

The park is near Springdale, Utah, reachable by car via Utah State Route 9. In summer the shuttle system in the main canyon is mandatory.

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What to expect

Despite high visitor numbers, patience and early starts can yield quiet moments away from main trails. Animals like bighorn sheep are often seen at dusk.

Geography

Coordinates

37.29820, -113.02630

Facts

Designated a National Park on November 19, 1919.
Zion Canyon reaches depths of up to 2,640 feet.
Home to over 900 species of diverse vascular plants.
The 1.1-mile Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel opened in 1930.
Horse Ranch Mountain is the highest point at 8,726 feet.
The Angels Landing trail gains 1,488 feet in elevation.

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Zion National Park (6)

Mountain of Mystery🌿 nature

A notable peak in Zion National Park often seen from the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.

Ivins Mountain🌿 nature

A peak in Zion National Park named after early settler Ivins.

Castle Dome🌿 nature

A tower-like peak in Zion National Park resembling a castle.

Floating Rock 📍 landmark

A rock formation called Floating Rock in Zion National Park.

House Rock 📍 landmark

A distinctive house-shaped sandstone formation in the National Park.

Big Springs 📍 landmark

A powerful natural spring that flows into the nearby river.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the highlight in Zion?

Hiking the 'Narrows', a canyon carved by the river.

Is the park shuttle mandatory?

During peak season, yes, to access Zion Valley.

How hard are the trails?

Ranges from very easy to extremely demanding, like Angels Landing.

When should you visit Zion?

Early in the morning to avoid the heat and the crowds.

Are there water sources?

Only at visitor centers and parking areas, carry plenty with you.

Zion National Park: where is it located?

Zion National Park is located in United States.

Zion National Park: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mountain of Mystery, Ivins Mountain, Castle Dome.

Zion National Park: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Zion National Park: why is it worth visiting?

Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, was originally established as Mukuntuweap National Monument in 1909 before being renamed and designated a national park in 1919.

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Zion National Park

Best time to visit & climate