21 Best Things to Do in Zion National Park: A Complete Guide

These best things to do in Zion National Park cover the breathtaking natural sports and view points so you can plan the perfect trip.

Zion National Park in southern Utah is one of the most breathtaking places in the United States. Known for its towering red rock cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and lush river valleys, Zion draws millions of visitors every year.

Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, adventurer, or simply someone who wants to marvel at nature, Zion offers an incredible range of activities.

This guide will walk you through the very best things to do in Zion National Park. From world-famous hikes like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows to peaceful scenic drives and family-friendly strolls, we’ll cover them all in detail so you can plan an unforgettable visit.

Best Things to Do in Zion National Park

1. Hike the Legendary Angel’s Landing

One of the most iconic hikes in America, Angel’s Landing is a must for thrill-seekers and one of the most scenic things to do in Zion National Park. The trail is about 5.4 miles round-trip, with a climb of nearly 1,500 feet in elevation.

The highlight—and challenge—comes in the final half-mile, where you traverse a narrow sandstone ridge with steep drop-offs on both sides. Metal chains bolted into the rock offer handholds, but the exposure is not for the faint of heart.

At the summit, you’ll stand on a perch surrounded by the soaring red cliffs of Zion Canyon, with the Virgin River winding far below. The 360-degree view is jaw-dropping, especially in the golden light of morning or evening.

Tips:

• Permits are now required for the final chain section (lottery system).
• Bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and a good head for heights.
• Go early to avoid crowds and midday heat.

2. Wade Through The Narrows

The Narrows is another bucket-list hike, but this one takes you into the Virgin River itself (another best things to do in Zion National Park). The hike begins at the Riverside Walk and continues upstream into a narrow slot canyon where cliffs rise up to 1,000 feet high, with the river sometimes only 20 feet wide.

You’ll spend most of the hike wading, walking, and sometimes even swimming through the river. The cool water, sculpted rock walls, and play of light make this one of the most unique hikes in the world.

The Narrows offers a surreal, cathedral-like atmosphere. Hiking between towering canyon walls carved by water over millions of years feels like stepping into another world.

Tips:

• Check water flow and flash flood warnings before entering.
• Rent waterproof shoes, socks, and walking sticks in Springdale.
• Start early for fewer crowds.
• Hike as far as you want—most turn around at Wall Street, where the canyon becomes especially dramatic.

3. Hike to Observation Point

Observation Point is often called the best overlook in Zion and needs to be on any USA bucket list, not just one of the best things to do in Zion National Park. From its 6,500-foot elevation, you’ll enjoy a sweeping view that looks down on Angel’s Landing and across the entire canyon.

The classic route from the Weeping Rock trailhead (8 miles round-trip, 2,100 feet of gain) is closed due to rockfall, but hikers can still reach the viewpoint via the East Mesa Trail (7 miles round-trip, much easier).

Few places give you such a commanding perspective of Zion Canyon. It’s less crowded than Angel’s Landing, and many consider the view superior.

Tips:

• The East Mesa Trailhead is reached via dirt roads; check conditions.
• Bring snacks and plenty of water—there’s little shade.
• Go at sunrise or sunset for magical light.

4. Enjoy the Scenic Drive Through Zion Canyon

Not every visitor wants to climb cliffs or wade rivers. Thankfully, Zion offers a stunning Scenic Drive that allows you to admire the beauty of the park from the comfort of a car or shuttle and is another fun things to do in Zion National Park.

The 6.5-mile road runs along the Virgin River beneath towering cliffs like the Court of the Patriarchs, Angels Landing, and Big Bend. In spring through fall, private vehicles are restricted, and visitors must take the free shuttle system—an eco-friendly and convenient way to explore.

The Scenic Drive provides jaw-dropping views without strenuous hiking. Shuttle stops allow you to hop off and explore trailheads, riverside areas, and picnic spots.

Tips:

• The best times are morning and evening when cliffs glow with sunlight.
• Sit on the right side of the shuttle heading up canyon for the best views.

5. Hike the Emerald Pools Trails

For an easier yet rewarding hike, the Emerald Pools Trails are perfect and one of the more picturesque things to do in Zion National Park. There are three levels: Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools, each with waterfalls and shaded alcoves.

• Lower Pool: A short, family-friendly paved trail with a waterfall.
• Middle Pool: Moderate climb with views of the canyon.
• Upper Pool: A steeper trail ending at a large pool beneath a dramatic cliff.

The pools offer a refreshing oasis, especially in summer. The waterfalls cascading over alcoves are picture-perfect.

Tips:

• Trails can be slippery—watch your step.
• Great for families and kids.

6. Watch the Sunset at Canyon Overlook

One of the most rewarding things to do in Zion National Park and short hikes in Zion is the Canyon Overlook Trail. At just 1 mile round-trip, it delivers one of the best views in the park.

The trail begins near the east entrance of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and climbs to a ledge overlooking the main canyon. This is one of the best places for sunset photography and one of the best things to do in Zion. The sun sets behind the canyon, casting warm light over the valley and cliffs.

Tips:

• Parking is limited—arrive early.
• Bring a flashlight if staying for sunset.

7. Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

If you want to see more than Zion Canyon, drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (Route 9). This scenic road climbs out of the canyon through switchbacks and passes through the famous mile-long tunnel built in the 1920s.

On the east side of the tunnel, the scenery shifts to slickrock domes, checkerboard mesas, and sweeping desert views.This drive reveals a completely different side of Zion—less crowded, more open, and equally stunning.

Tips:

• Oversized vehicles need permits to pass through the tunnel.
• Stop at pullouts for photos; don’t rush.

8. Riverside Walk

For those who prefer a gentle stroll, the Riverside Walk is ideal. This paved, 2-mile round-trip path follows the Virgin River to the start of The Narrows.

You’ll walk among cottonwood trees, hanging gardens, and riverside beaches. Wildlife sightings, especially mule deer and birds, are common. It’s accessible for all ages and abilities, and it provides a peaceful, shady introduction to the canyon.

Tips:

• Great hike for families with strollers.
• Go early for morning light reflecting off the canyon walls.

9. Watch the Stars at Night

Zion is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in Utah to stargaze. On clear nights, you’ll see the Milky Way stretching across the sky, along with thousands of stars and planets.

Tips:

• The Kolob Canyons area and Lava Point are great stargazing spots.
• Bring a blanket and flashlight with a red filter.

10. Hike to Hidden Canyon (Currently Closed)

Though currently closed due to rockfall, Hidden Canyon Trail has historically been a favorite. It’s a 2.5-mile hike with steep switchbacks and chains leading to a hanging canyon. The hidden slot canyon feels like a secret world, with sheer walls and cool shade.

11. Hike the Watchman Trail

Starting near the visitor center, the Watchman Trail is a 3-mile round-trip hike that climbs gently to a viewpoint of the Watchman Spire and lower canyon.

It’s less crowded than other trails, and the views at sunset are spectacular, a hidden gem that is one of the best things to do in Zion National Park.

Tips:

• Perfect for a first-day hike.
• Carry water—it can get hot.

12. Explore Kolob Canyons

Many visitors never see the Kolob Canyons, a quieter section of Zion located 40 miles north of the main canyon. This area features towering red rock formations and remote wilderness trails.

Highlights include:

• Kolob Canyons Viewpoint: Easily accessible overlook.
• Taylor Creek Trail: Moderate hike through a canyon with homestead ruins.
• La Verkin Creek Trail: Leads to Kolob Arch, one of the world’s largest natural arches.

Kolob offers solitude and incredible red rock scenery away from the main crowds and is a one of the more unique things to do in Zion National Park.

13. Visit Kolob Terrace and Lava Point

Another off-the-beaten-path area is the Kolob Terrace Road, which climbs into higher elevations above 7,000 feet.

Highlights include:

• Lava Point Overlook: Panoramic view from one of the highest points in the park.
• Cooler temperatures and wildflower meadows in summer.

14. Canyoneering Adventures

Zion is a world-class destination for canyoneering, the sport of descending slot canyons using rappelling, swimming, and scrambling. Few experiences match the adventure and beauty of exploring Zion’s hidden canyons.

Popular canyoneering routes include:

• The Subway: A strenuous but unforgettable trek through a tubular slot canyon (permit required).
• Orderville Canyon: A tributary of The Narrows with waterfalls and tight passages.

Tips:

• Permits are required for most canyoneering routes.
• Guided trips are available for beginners.

15. Horseback Riding

For a unique way to see Zion, consider a horseback riding tour. Guided rides take you along the Virgin River and up to viewpoints. It offers a different perspective, with a slower pace and a connection to the land.

16. Photography

Zion is a dream for photographers. The interplay of light and shadow, red cliffs, and lush riverbanks make for endless opportunities.

Best photo spots:

• Canyon Overlook at sunrise or sunset.
• Big Bend for views of Angel’s Landing.
• The Narrows for dramatic canyon walls.

17. Camping Under the Stars

There are several campgrounds in Zion, including Watchman Campground near the visitor center. Camping lets you wake up to canyon views and enjoy evenings under the stars.

This is one of the unique things to do in Zion National Park and a great way to experience the park when the crowds disperse. .

18. Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing

Zion is home to mule deer, bighorn sheep, wild turkeys, and over 200 species of birds, so why not spend time searching for these beautiful created. Spotting wildlife against the dramatic scenery makes the park even more alive.

19. Rock Climbing

Zion’s massive sandstone walls attract climbers from around the world. While it’s mainly for experts, even watching climbers scaling walls like Moonlight Buttress is awe-inspiring.

20. Picnicking by the Virgin River

Sometimes the best way to enjoy Zion is simply to slow down. Pack a picnic and relax by the river.

Great spots include the Big Bend for a dramatic backdrop, and The Grotto Picninc Area, ideal for families.

21. Take a Day Trip to Bryce Canyon National Park

If you’re already in southern Utah, one of the best add-on adventures is a day trip to Bryce Canyon National Park, located about 1.5–2 hours from Zion and one of the best things to do in Utah.

While Zion is famous for its towering cliffs and narrow canyons, Bryce offers a completely different landscape: colorful natural amphitheaters filled with thousands of spire-like formations called hoodoos.

The contrast between Zion’s towering canyon walls and Bryce’s whimsical, almost otherworldly hoodoos makes this day trip an unforgettable experience. Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point are must-see overlooks. Even a short hike like the Navajo Loop or Queens Garden will take you down among the hoodoos for an entirely new perspective.

Tips:

• Dress in layers—Bryce sits at a much higher elevation than Zion and is often cooler.
• If possible, time your visit for sunrise or sunset when the hoodoos glow with red, orange, and pink hues.
• Consider combining Zion and Bryce into a multi-day road trip to experience two of Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks.

Things to Know before You Go to Zion National Park

Things to Do in Zion National Park F.A.Q

From the adrenaline-pumping chains of Angel’s Landing to the peaceful strolls along the Virgin River, every visitor can find something unforgettable.

Whether you hike, drive, camp, or simply sit and admire the cliffs, Zion leaves a lasting impression. Take your time, respect the land, and let the park’s beauty work its magic.