Nestled in the heart of southern Utah, Zion National Park is more than just a scenic escape; it’s a must-visit destination for outdoor adventurers and nature-loving families. But with so much to see and do, creating a well-thought-out Zion National Park itinerary can make the difference between an overwhelming visit and a truly unforgettable one.
In this guide, you’ll find options for 1-, 2-, and 3-day trips to Zion National Park. These itineraries offer a mix of classic hikes, hidden gems, and stunning vistas, ensuring that every moment spent in Zion is unforgettable.
Zion National Park 1-Day Itinerary
If you’re short on time but still want to experience Zion National Park’s must-see attractions, this one-day Zion itinerary packs the park’s top attractions into an action-packed 8-10 hour adventure.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Start your day early—at sunrise if possible—at Canyon Overlook Trail, located just past the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel on the east side of the park. This easy, family-friendly trail is one mile round-trip and takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
Angels Landing
Next, catch the Zion Canyon Shuttle and head to Angels Landing if you scored a permit in advance. This thrilling hike features steep switchbacks, narrow ridgelines, and chains bolted into the rock. This is a strenuous hike that takes 3-5 hours to complete. The total distance is 5.4 miles.
Scout Lookout
Angel’s Landing requires a permit if you want to hike to the top. But if you don’t have a permit, you can still hike to Scout Lookout (4 miles round-trip), which still delivers beautiful views and a less strenuous hike.
Riverside Walk
Take a stroll along the Riverside Walk, a paved, stroller-friendly trail that leads to the entrance of The Narrows. It’s an easy way to experience the beauty of the Virgin River up close. The trail is 2.2 miles round-trip and should take you about 1 hour.
Zion National Park 2-Day Itinerary
For those with a weekend to explore, this two-day itinerary to Zion National Park gives you the perfect balance of iconic hikes and peaceful vistas.
Day 1
Emerald Pools Trail
Kick off your morning with the Emerald Pools Trail, accessible from the Zion Lodge shuttle stop. There are different routes to take to get to the pools; the total distance is about 3 miles. This is a fun, easy-to-moderate hike that takes about 2 hours.
Emerald Pools Trail has three pools: Lower, Middle, and Upper. This trail includes waterfalls, canyon views, and shady alcoves. Swimming is not allowed in the pools.
Observation Point
Visit Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail. You can reach Observation Point from the east using the East Mesa Trail. This is a moderate 6.5-mile round-trip hike. It will take about 3-4 hours to complete. You’ll see epic views similar to the ones at Angels Landing, but without the steep drop-offs.
Pa’rus Trail
Wrap up your day with a walk along the Pa’rus Trail, a paved, bike-friendly trail perfect for sunset views. This trail is 3.5 miles round-trip and takes about 1.5 hours to stroll. The Pa’rus Trail has beautiful views and runs alongside the Virgin River.
Day 2
Kolob Canyons
Drive to Kolob Canyons, a quieter area of the park located about 45 minutes from Zion Canyon. A top pick in Kolob Canyons is Timber Creek Overlook Trail. The trail is 1.2 miles round-trip and is an easy walk offering stunning panoramic views with far fewer crowds than other areas of the park.
Checkerboard Mesa
Head to the East Entrance and stop by Checkerboard Mesa, a photogenic rock formation known for its unusual crosshatch lines. There’s no formal hike, but several pullouts offer great vantage points.
Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
If you’re up for more hiking, take a drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway for elevated views of Zion Canyon.
Zion National Park 3-Day Itinerary
If you’re planning a trip to Zion and want to experience the park like a true adventurer, this three-day itinerary is perfect for you. It’s designed for those looking to dive deeper into Zion’s stunning landscapes, with a mix of high-adrenaline hikes, peaceful trails, and breathtaking overlooks.
Day 1
Observation Point
Hike to Observation Point via East Mesa Trail, especially if you skipped it earlier. The early morning light makes for great photography and cooler temperatures.
Kolob Terrace Road
Explore Kolob Terrace Road, a high-elevation drive with alpine views and minimal traffic. Stop for a picnic or hike the Northgate Peaks Trail. This trail is 4.5 miles round-trip and is considered a moderate hike. It should take you 2-3 hours to complete.
Park visitors love Kolob Terrace Road for its forested scenery, lava fields, and distant views of Zion’s west side.
Day 2
The Narrows
Dedicate your second day to The Narrows, one of Zion’s most iconic adventures. The Narrows gives you a beautiful hike through a river between towering canyon walls, in an unforgettable experience. It has a variable distance, but most people do 5–6 miles round-trip.
This trail goes through water, so it is considered a moderate difficulty because of the variation in water levels. Plan to spend 4-6 hours here. If you don’t have your own gear, you can rent water shoes, neoprene socks, and a walking stick in Springdale, a nearby town.
Day 3
Option A: Zion Canyon Shuttle Stops
Spend your final day taking the Zion Canyon Shuttle and hopping off at stops you missed or want to explore further.
- Big Bend: This is a must for photographers. Nestled in a dramatic curve of the Virgin River, Big Bend offers panoramic views of towering cliffs and the canyon’s famous switchbacks. This stop doesn’t require hiking but provides an incredible visual impact.
- Weeping Rock: The paved trail is just 0.4 miles round-trip, with a moderately steep climb. It leads to a lush alcove with water seeping year-round from the sandstone above.
- Court of the Patriarchs: A short trail leads to an overlook of three towering sandstone peaks named Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It’s a quick walk and is perfect for families or those with limited mobility.
This option is ideal if you want a relaxing day focused on sightseeing, photography, and soaking in the grandeur of Zion without strenuous hiking.
Option B: Multiple Easy Trails
If you’d like a change of pace, explore some short, easy trails:
- Archeology Trail: A brief 0.4-mile hike to the remains of an Ancestral Puebloan site with views of Zion Canyon and informative signage.
- Watchman Trail: A moderate 3.3-mile round-trip trail that offers beautiful views of the Towers of the Virgin and fewer crowds than more popular trails.
- The Grotto Trail: A flat, easy 1-mile connector trail between Zion Lodge and The Grotto, excellent for spotting wildlife in the early morning.
These trails are perfect for travelers wanting a less strenuous final day or who want to explore areas rich in history and nature.
Add Settler’s Junction to Your Zion National Park Itinerary
During your visit, stay at an RV park near Zion to enjoy the perfect balance of adventure and comfort. Settler’s Junction RV Resort offers a convenient base to explore Zion at your own pace, with the beauty of nature and modern amenities right at your doorstep.
Plan your Zion National Park itinerary today and reserve your stay at Settler’s Junction RV Resort for the ultimate southern Utah experience.