Exploring Zion National Park with Kids: The Ultimate Family Guide
Planning a trip to Zion National Park with kids and need the best tips on things to do, where to stay, what to pack, and family-friendly travel tips?
Zion is a place that feels like pure magic—towering red rock cliffs, the emerald Virgin River, and trails that lead to some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the country.
But is Zion National Park a good place to visit with kids? Absolutely!
Zion is a fantastic national park for families; with its easy hikes, splash-worthy river spots, nearby day trips, and adventure-filled experiences make it perfect for kids of all ages.
Located in southern Utah, Zion is part of Utah’s famed Mighty 5 and a paradise for families looking to explore a lush red desert.
In this guide, I’ll share the best family-friendly hikes, tips for avoiding crowds, where to stay, and fun things to do beyond the trails. Plus, I’ll include what we learned from our visit—what worked, what didn’t, and the little details that can make a big difference when exploring Zion with kids. Let’s dive in!
Psst: This is an in-depth guide to Zion with kids. You can use the table of contents below to skip to the exact info you need.
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FAQ’s About Visiting Zion NP With Kids
When is the Best Time to Visit Zion with Kids?
Timing is everything when visiting Zion National Park, especially with kids. Zion NP is one of the most visited parks in the US, and in 2024, it clocked in at 4.9 million visitors. What does that mean for you? You’ll want to avoid peak visitation time from April to September.
In general, the best times to visit to avoid overwhelming crowds and extreme heat are February to March and October to November.
Let’s break down each season and the pros and cons of visiting during that time.
Spring (March-May): A Perfect Balance
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Zion with kids. Temperatures are warming up, wildflowers are blooming, and the Virgin River is flowing at full blast. However, this is the beginning of the busy season, with March seeing a significant uptick in visitors. You can expect it to get more crowded as the season continues, especially around Spring Break. Because crowds are an issue, early mornings and weekdays are your best bet for quieter trails.
Due to the spring runoff, The Narrows Hike is often closed due to high currents and inaccessibility. If that’s a big reason you want to visit the park, I would choose another season to visit.
March is also when the Zion shuttle system begins (I’ll explain more below!), and you can no longer drive your vehicle onto the Scenic Drive.
Summer (June–August): Manageable with the Right Prep and Expectations
Summer is Zion’s busiest season, and for good reason—the long days and accessible trails make it an appealing time for families. However, it also brings extreme heat, often exceeding 100°F (38°C) in the afternoons. If you’re visiting in summer, plan to hit the trails early (think sunrise starts) and focus on shaded hikes like Riverside Walk or water-based adventures like wading through The Narrows.
Get a hotel with a pool!
Fall (September–November): Ideal for Comfortable Hiking
For families looking to avoid the crowds and scorching heat, fall is a fantastic time to visit Zion with kids. September still sees warm temperatures, but by October, the weather becomes crisp and comfortable for hiking. Fall foliage adds a pop of color to the canyon, making trails like Emerald Pools and Canyon Overlook even more picturesque. Crowds remain moderate through September and October but begin to thin out significantly by November, making late fall one of the best times for a peaceful family adventure.
Winter (December–February): Quiet and Underrated
Winter in Zion is often overlooked, but it can be a dream for families who don’t mind cooler temperatures. Snow dusts the higher elevations, creating a stunning contrast against the red rock cliffs. With fewer visitors, you can enjoy trails like Pa’rus Trail and Riverside Walk in near solitude. However, some hikes, such as Angels Landing, can be icy and dangerous, and The Narrows may be too cold for younger kids. That said, winter is worth considering if you want a quiet, crowd-free experience.
Another perk of the winter season is the shuttle system has shut down, so you can drive through the entire park.
If the cold turns you off, consider visiting in February when it’s warmer (that’s when we visited, and we loved it) and the crowds are still low.
How to Navigate Peak Season with Kids
If your trip falls during peak season (spring break, summer, or holiday weekends), a few key strategies can help make the experience smoother:
- Start early. The best way to beat the crowds and heat is to begin hikes as early as possible. When I say early, I mean sunrise. I know. Do the best you can.
- Use the shuttle bus system wisely. Get on the first available shuttle or at the busiest time of the day, and plan your hikes in less crowded areas like the Kolob Canyon area.
- The parking lot is typically full by 10:00 a.m. If you get up later than that, you’ll need to take the shuttle bus in Springdale.
- Consider renting an e-bike: If you don’t want to be at the mercy of a crowded shuttle line or have to wake up at 5 a.m., you can rent an ebike with an attachment for your kids so you can bike the Scenic Drive. Ebikes are available to rent throughout Springdale and at the entrance to the park. Some bike rental places allow kids to use ebikes if they are the right height and age, generally from 12 and up. Zion Outfitter is located at the entrance to the park, but there are several other companies, so you can shop around for the best price.
How Many Days Do You Need in Zion National Park with Kids?
For a family-friendly trip to Zion, 2 to 3 days is the ideal amount of time. This allows you to experience the park’s top highlights without feeling rushed while also factoring in kids’ pacing and rest time.
If your family enjoys hiking and being outdoors, three days in Zion provides a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It also allows you to explore other parts of the park, often passed over, or try day trips to other spots near Zion.
If Zion is part of a longer trip to other Utah National Parks, I would allot a minimum of a day and a half if you’re short on time.
Is There Food in Zion National Park?
Yes, there are dining options inside the park at Zion Lodge, the park’s only hotel. You can dine at Castle Dome Cafe, a casual grab-and-go option with sandwiches, coffee, and ice cream. There’s also Red Rock Grill, a sit-down restaurant with a full menu, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Outside the park, within walking distance of the park’s main parking lot, is Zion Canyon Brew Pub. It is a good choice for families looking for a relaxed meal with outdoor seating. You can expect a long wait to get seated in the high season.
It’s a good idea to bring your own snacks, packed lunches, and plenty of water—especially if you plan on hiking.
How much does Zion National Park cost?
$35 per car, and the pass is good for seven days.
If you are traveling with a child in the 4th grade, you can get a 4th Grade Pass, allowing free admission for your child and everyone in the family (if you’re in one vehicle). You can learn about getting a 4th Grade Pass here.
If you plan on visiting other National Parks, you may be better off buying an America the Beautiful Pass. Valid for one year, it grants admission to every National Park, including hundreds of additional National Park Service sites. We bought one when we traveled through Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Glacier National Park and saved a lot of money. You can learn more about the pass and buy it here.
How do you get to Zion National Park?
Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah, near Springdale. Zion has three entrances (South, East, Kolob), but most visitors enter through Zion’s South Entrance near Springdale, where you’ll find the main visitor center, shuttle stops, and the majority of accommodations.
While there is no airport in Zion itself, several major airports provide access:
- Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS) – 170 miles (2.5-hour drive)
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) – 311 miles (4.5-hour drive)
- St. George Regional Airport (SGU) – 49 miles (1-hour drive)
- Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) – 60 miles (1.5-hour drive)
For most travelers, Las Vegas offers the best combination of affordability, direct flights, and rental car options. St. George and Cedar City are much closer but have limited flights and are often more expensive. You’ll also find cheaper car rentals in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City.
If you need a rental car, we suggest using rentalcars.com to find the best prices.
Where to Stay in Zion National Park With Kids
Your lodging choice will depend on how close you want to be to the action. Staying inside the park offers unbeatable convenience, while staying outside in Springdale provides more dining and accommodation options.
Staying Inside Zion: Lodging & Camping
Choosing the right place to stay is crucial when planning a trip to Zion National Park for families, as it can impact how much time you spend exploring versus commuting. If you want to maximize your time in the park and avoid the hassle of driving or shuttling each day, staying inside Zion is the most convenient option. However, options are limited, so book months in advance if that’s your ideal scenario.
- Zion Lodge – The only lodging option in the park. This historic hotel offers comfortable rooms, cabins, and a restaurant. The perk of staying here is that from the lodge, you can walk to Emerald Pools and rent bikes from the hotel to get to the Riverside Walk, allowing you to bypass the Shuttle.
- Watchman Campground – One of the best-located campgrounds in any national park, it’s just a short walk from the visitor center. Offers RV and tent sites with beautiful canyon views.
- South Campground – Another popular camping option near the park entrance, though it lacks RV hookups.
- Lava Point Campground – A remote, first-come, first-served campground about an hour from the main canyon, great for those looking to escape the crowds.
Staying Outside the Park: Springdale Hotels & Vacation Rentals
If you’re wondering where to stay in Zion with kids, Springdale is a top choice thanks to its proximity and family-friendly amenities. Located outside Zion’s south entrance, a free shuttle runs between town and the park entrance, making it easy to access Zion without worrying about parking. The town has numerous places to eat and buy groceries, making it the most convenient place to base yourself.
With the extreme temperatures in Zion, it’s nice to enter the park and easily return to your hotel for a midday break.
We stayed at the Springhill Suites by Marriott and enjoyed our time there. It has a great pool, a hot tub, a complimentary breakfast, and two restaurants within walking distance. No complaints! You can check current prices here.
Other family-friendly hotels that are highly rated in Springdale include:
- Cable Mountain Lodge – One of the closest hotels to the park entrance, featuring spacious suites and a pool with fantastic canyon views. You can walk from the hotel right into the park. Can’t beat that!
- Red Cliffs Lodge – A newer hotel that took over from La Quinta, the Red Cliffs Lodge is a more upscale experience for families who want a more luxurious feel.
- Zion Canyon Lodge – A more budget-friendly option in Springdale, with easy access to the park shuttle.
Vacation Rentals & Glamping:
We often choose to rent a home because we can save more by cooking at home, and we love the extra space. Also, a washer and dryer are nice when you’re hiking every day! The Zion area also offers a variety of unique glamping options that might appeal to a family seeking a stay that feels like its own experience. Check out these home rentals and glamping
- Under Canvas Zion – A luxury glamping experience with safari-style tents and stunning desert scenery.
- Zion Wildflower Resort – A fun mix of canvas tents, bungalows, and covered wagons, great for adventurous kids.
- Cabin Rentals: Simple cabin rentals with bunk beds for kids.
- Watchman Home Rental – A beautiful rental home with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and views of Zion NP. Great for multigenerational travel or group travel.
If you can’t find affordable lodging near Zion, consider checking in Hurricane. It’s about a 30-minute drive from the park. You can browse hotels here and home rentals here.
TIP: Wherever you choose to stay, planning ahead is key—lodging inside Zion books up 6+ months in advance, and Springdale hotels can fill quickly, especially during peak season.
What To Pack When Visiting Zion National Park With Kids
Here’s a short list of things to bring to Zion National Park when visiting with kids. This list mainly pertains to visiting in the warm to hot months. You can check out my Zion in winter guide (coming soon!) for what to bring in colder temperatures.
Moisture-wicking layers: Temperatures can vary throughout the day, so lightweight, breathable clothing is best. I love to wear UPF clothing, so we don’t have to wear a lot of sunblock. I also like that it’s a quick-dry material, so it’s perfect for the Narrows. We use the Vapor Apparel UPF long-sleeve shirts with a hood for maximum protection.
Hats & sunglasses – The sun can be intense, and shade is limited on many trails. A wide-brim hat offers the best protection. I love the hats from Sunday Afternoon for kids. The Kids Sun Chaser Cap is fantastic for sun protection!
Sun Protection: Even though we rely on UPF clothing to reduce our sunblock use, you’ll need sunscreen for exposed skin. I love to use Supergoop for the face and Kidstick for our bodies.
Hiking shoes or sandals with good grip – Sturdy shoes are ideal for most trails since they can be rocky and slippery, but if you’re hiking The Narrows, water-friendly hiking sandals that can go from hiking trail to water (like Keens) are also a good choice.
Lightweight rain jacket – Zion experiences occasional rain showers, especially in the summer, so having a packable rain shell like this in your daypack is a good idea.
Extra socks – If you’re hiking in water or doing multiple trails, dry socks are a lifesaver for kiddos who always seem to get dirty or wet.
Child carrier or hiking backpack – If traveling to Zion National Park with a toddler or baby, you’ll want to bring a hiking carrier for the more demanding hikes. The Deuter Kid Comfort Pro is the premium choice for a hiking backpack for toddlers. You can read about other great carriers in our guide to the best toddler carriers for travel.
Reusable water bottles or hydration packs – Staying hydrated is crucial, as Zion’s dry climate and extreme heat can cause heat exhaustion. We brought our reusable water bottles and made sure to have more than we thought necessary. Refill stations are available at shuttle stops and the visitor center.
High-energy snacks – Trail mix, granola bars, and dried fruit help keep energy up during hikes.
Electrolyte packets – The heat of Zion shouldn’t be ignored, so electrolyte packets are a great way to ensure you’re staying hydrated and safe.
AN OVERVIEW OF THE PARK + THE SHUTTLE SYSTEM
Entrances to Zion National Park
Before we discuss things to do in Zion with kids, it’s helpful to understand the park’s general layout and operation. While Zion has three entrances, most visitors enter through the South Entrance to explore Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This area of the park is where all the “famous” hikes are, including The Narrows and Angels Landing.
For this guide, we’ll primarily cover this area, but if you have time, venturing to the Kolob Canyon Entrance is a great way to break away from the crowds.
The park has three entrances:
- The South Entrance: Beginning in Springdale, this is the most used entrance and is reflected in the map above.
- The East Entrance: Useful for people coming from Bryce Canyon, Escalante, or Kanab.
- The Kolob Canyon Entrance: Kolob Canyons does not connect to the park’s main section and is best thought of as its own experience. It’s a roughly 45-minute drive from the south entrance. You can see this driving directions map for a better idea of where it is in reference to Springdale.
- Kolob Terrace Entrance: This is an unofficial entrance with no amenities or visitors center. It’s an off-the-beaten-path choice for well-prepared adventure families.
Quick Guide to the Zion National Park Shuttle System
Zion National Park operates a mandatory shuttle system from March through late November to reduce congestion and protect the park’s natural beauty. No private vehicles are allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (except for guests at the Zion Lodge). You must take the shuttle to access popular hikes like Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Emerald Pools.
Here’s what you need to know:
Two Shuttle Routes:
- Zion Canyon Shuttle (Inside the Park) – Runs from the Visitor Center to the Temple of Sinawava, stopping at key trailheads and scenic points.
- Springdale Shuttle (Outside the Park) – Connects hotels, restaurants, and parking areas in Springdale to the park’s Pedestrian Entrance. In spring and fall, the shuttle operates from 6:30 a.m. to 10:15 p.m. During the summer months (mid-May to early September), it runs from 5:30 a.m. to 11:15 p.m. Shuttles arrive every 10 to 15 minutes throughout the day and every 20 to 30 minutes in the early morning and late evening. Here is a map of the Springdale Shuttle stops.
Zion Canyon Shuttle Schedule & Stops
- Runs Daily: Every 10-15 minutes from morning until evening.
- Free & First-Come, First-Served: No reservations needed.
- Hop-On, Hop-Off: You can get off at any stop and catch the next shuttle when you’re ready.
- Wait Times: In the high season, you can expect a wait from 3o minutes to an hour in the middle of the day. All the more reason to get your day started at 7:00 a.m.!
Zion Canyon Shuttle Operation Time
- March to mid-May: The first shuttle leaves the Visitor Center at 7:00 a.m., and the last shuttle departs at 5:00 p.m., with the final shuttle back to the Visitor Center at 7:15 p.m.
- Mid-May to mid-September (busiest season): The first shuttle starts earlier, at 6:00 a.m., and the last shuttle leaves at 7:00 p.m., with the final shuttle back to the Visitor Center at 8:15 p.m.
- Mid-September to early November: The schedule shifts back, with the first shuttle at 7:00 a.m., the last one at 5:00 p.m., and the final shuttle out of the canyon at 7:15 p.m.
You can check the NPS website here for the most up-to-date shuttle schedule.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN ZION NATIONAL PARK WITH KIDS
We’ve finally arrived at what to do in Zion National Park with kids! The above was a lot of information to digest, but it will make traveling to the park easier. There are endless Zion National Park family activities, from scenic hikes to wildlife spotting and river play.
Here’s a rundown of the best Zion hikes for families and other fun kid friendly activities in the park.
Emerald Pools Trail
Distance: Varies (Lower: 1.2 miles, Upper: 3 miles round trip) | Difficulty: Easy to moderate | Trailhead: Zion Lodge or The Grottos
Easily one of the most popular hikes for families, the Emerald Pools Trail is a great example of family activities in Zion National Park that combine adventure with stunning scenery. The Emerald Pool Trail takes you past lush vegetation, waterfalls, and beautiful rock formations. The Lower Emerald Pool is the easiest option, while the Upper Pool requires more elevation gain but offers an impressive waterfall. We loved this hike, and our son HAD A BLAST jumping and playing off the rocks. Depending on the season, the pools can be underwhelming, but the actual hike and landscape are so beautiful that it’s still a great hike for kids. Also, swimming is not allowed in the pools.
TIP: We started the Emerald Pool Trail at the Grotto Parking Lot because the Zion Lodge entrance to the hike was closed for bridge repairs. If you start at the Grotto Parking Lot, you’ll take the Kayenta Trail and add an additional two miles. We liked the addition of the Kayenta Trail and recommend it to anyone seeking a longer hike.
Riverside Walk Trail
Distance: 2.2 miles round trip | Difficulty: Easy | Trailhead: Temple of Sinawava
This trail leads to the entrance of the Narrows, so it’s a great way to take a peak at the trail if you don’t plan on getting into the river and continuing on the famed hiking path. The easy paved trail follows the Virgin River, offering beautiful canyon views and plenty of opportunities to play, wade, or skip rocks into the river. Since the trail is mostly shaded, it’s a welcome respite from the heat.
It’s a lovely, simple hike and great for toddlers and young children.
TIP: While the trail is paved, it’s a little broken up and gets hilly in sections, so it’s not the best stroller trail. We pushed someone in a wheelchair on the trail, and we had to stop halfway because it was simply too hard.
The Narrows (Lower Section)
Distance: Varies | Difficulty: Moderate | Trailhead: Temple of Sinawava
If your kids love water, hiking The Narrows will be an unforgettable experience! The lower section can be done as a short out-and-back walk through the river, allowing kids to wade and splash in the shallow areas without committing to the entire trek. To reach the entrance, you’ll first hike one mile on the Riverside Walk, which leads directly to where the canyon narrows and the water hike begins.
One of the best things about The Narrows is its flexibility—you can turn around whenever it feels right for your family. Whether the water gets too deep, the current feels too strong, or your little adventurers are ready for a break, you’re in control of the experience.
In the summer, you can hike in a bathing suit or quick-dry clothing, but sturdy water shoes with good traction are necessary. A walking stick is also highly recommended for balance as you navigate the rocky riverbed against the current. Some hikers leave walking sticks near the entrance for others to use, so you may be able to find one there.
If you’re planning to hike a longer section of The Narrows, it’s best to dedicate a full day to the adventure and bring plenty of food and water. While the mileage may not seem extensive, trekking against the current and navigating the rocky riverbed make for a much slower, more challenging journey than a traditional trail. You can see a silly video of me trying to hike the Narrows in winter here.
The Narrows is typically closed in the spring due to high water levels from snowmelt, but summer and early fall are ideal times to visit with kids. With Zion’s scorching temperatures, the refreshing 55–65°F water will be the perfect way to cool off.
READ NEXT: We Hiked The Narrows In Winter: Here’s What To Expect
FYI: The Virgin River contains cyanobacteria, a toxic algae. Avoid swallowing it or getting it in your eyes. It’s recommended to keep your head above water and refrain from using water purifiers to drink from the river.
Pa’rus Trail
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip | Difficulty: Easy | Trailhead: Visitor Center
The Pa’rus Trail is Zion’s only fully paved trail, making it an ideal choice for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes. This scenic path follows the Virgin River, crossing several bridges and offering plenty of spots to rest and enjoy the views. However, since it’s fully exposed, it can get quite hot in the afternoon—morning or evening hikes are the most comfortable.
While it’s not the most adventurous trail, it’s a great option for multigenerational families. We walked this path while pushing a family member in a wheelchair, and my son enjoyed running ahead on the flat terrain. It’s also a good backup plan if shuttle lines at the Visitor Center are long and you need a relaxing way to pass the time.
You can also access the Human History Museum and the Zion Nature Center along the trail.
The Pa’rus Trail is also a great spot to access the Virgin River if your kids want to play in the water.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Distance: 1 mile round trip | Difficulty: Moderate | Trailhead: East side of Zion Tunnel
Since Angels Landing isn’t suitable for families, the Canyon Overlook Trail is the best way to enjoy stunning views of Zion. The trail has drop-offs (though some sections have railings), so it’s not an excellent trail for toddlers or young kids who are more accident-prone. Here’s a video of the trail if you want a better idea to see if it’s right for your family.
With a 163 elevation gain and a 1-mile out-and-back distance, it’s a short hike with a big payoff- breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon at the top. For the best experience, aim to hike near sunset or sunrise, when the soft light creates a magical atmosphere perfect for photos. Parking is minimal, so get there early or in the late afternoon.
Watchman Trail
Distance: 3.3 miles round trip | Difficulty: Moderate | Trailhead: Visitor Center
If the Canyon Overlook Trail isn’t right for you, another option for a “view” hike is the Watchman Trail. Starting at the Visitor Center, the trail climbs steadily for a 360-degree panoramic view of Zion, including the iconic Watchman Mountain. While the hike is relatively short, the 368-foot elevation gain and rocky sections can make it challenging, so it’s best suited for families with older children or those looking for a moderate adventure. Since the trail is exposed, start early or later in the evening to avoid the heat.
Biking Through Zion Canyon
Beyond hiking, another fantastic way to experience the park is biking through it. It’s the best hack for avoiding shuttle lines if you’re visiting in the high season. We are a family that loves to bike, so the pleasure of biking through these phenomenal landscapes is its own fun adventure.
In general, most people prefer e-bikes since the scenic drive going north is uphill and would be difficult for kids. You have a few options for biking with kids.
You can:
- Bike the Pa’rus Trail out and back for a simple adventure. No e-bikes are needed, and kids can bike the flat path on their own.
- Bike the Pa’rus Trail and continue to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Due to the elevation gain, e-bikes are recommended. You can rent bikes with a passenger seat in the back. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is 7 miles one way.
- Get on the shuttle with your bikes (they’re allowed on the shuttle!) and bike the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive downhill and then back to the Visitor Center via the Pa’rus Trail.
I recommend upgrading to the ebikes with a seat in the back for your kids versus a standard bike. Due to the heavy nature of the bikes (they’re 50 pounds minimum), most companies won’t rent out bikes to anyone under 13.
There is a dedicated bike lane, but since no cars are allowed, the two-lane road will give you plenty of space to bike. It’s just bikes and the NPS shuttles!
You can check out Zion Peddlers for bike rentals in Zion.
Junior Ranger Program
The Junior Ranger Program is available at most National Parks and allows your child to earn a Junior Ranger patch. During a visit, your child must complete a series of simple activities from a Junior Ranger Activity Booklet.
It’s fun and gets them learning in an interactive way. You can learn more about it here.
Ranger Led Activities
Zion National Park offers ranger-led activities that change with the seasons. These activities range from guided hikes to campfire talks and even wildlife-watching programs, each designed to engage kids and adults alike in the wonders of the park.
The best way to find out what’s available during your visit is to stop by the Visitor Center. They have an up-to-date schedule of ranger-led activities and can help you plan your day based on what’s happening while you’re in the park. Check the schedule early, as some activities may require reservations or have specific age recommendations. You can also check this calendar to see what’s going on.
Guided Tours
Another great way to experience the park and be led is to explore guided tours through Zion and the greater area. I like to use Get Your Guide since people can submit reviews, and you can get a better idea of whether it’s the right fit for your family. Fun tours in Zion and beyond include:
East Zion UTV Ride and Slot Canyon Hike
Mountain Horseback Tour
Half-Day Canyoneering Experience
Zion National Park Family Itinerary
If you want a sample itinerary, here’s a great way to structure 3 days in Zion and the Springdale area.
Day 1: Explore by E-Bike & Hike
- Morning: Rent e-bikes and cruise the Pa’rus Trail. Continue your ride along the Scenic Drive, enjoying the Court of the Patriarchs and the beautiful landscape before heading to the Emerald Pools Trail for a fun hike. Pack a lunch or eat at the Lodge.
- Afternoon: Bike back to the Visitor Center and check out the exhibits before heading to your hotel to relax. Spend the rest of the afternoon unwinding by the pool.
Day 2: Hike the Narrows & Enjoy Views
- Early Morning: Catch the shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava to walk the Riverside Walk and hike The Narrows. Enjoy the refreshing river walk and head back whenever you feel ready. Pack a lunch!
- Midday: Return to the hotel for a break from the hot midday sun and relax by the pool.
- Afternoon: After the break, drive back into the park and choose between two great hikes: the Canyon Overlook Trail or Watchman Trail. Both offer amazing views and are great for families.
Day 3: Kolob Canyons or Guided Hike
Opt for one of the guided tours mentioned above, like the Canyoneering Tour, or head to the quiet part of Zion, Kolob Canyons, for more stunning red rocks and easy hikes.
Alternatively, you can visit a nearby state park, such as Sand Hollow State Park or Quail Creek State Park. Both are about 45 minutes from Springdale.
Lastly, you could take a big day trip to Bryce Canyon National Park. The park is a two-hour drive from Springdale, Utah.
That’s our complete guide to visiting Zion National Park with kids. Enjoy your Zion family vacation!
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