Why One Day Isn't Nearly Enough Time to Experience Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a magical place. Its soaring red sandstone cliffs light up with the sun. Desert grasses sway back and forth in the summer breeze. The torrent of water that created this heavenly place is now a peaceful, bubbling river. 

It is impossible to tick off all the must-see sights and must-do activities in the park and the surrounding area in one day. Three days is the bare minimum, a week is better, a lifetime is almost enough.

The nearby town of Springdale is the place to go for any and all needs. Bike rentals, guides for all sorts of adventures from slot canyoneering, climbing, even paddle boarding and helicopter tours, everything is there. But, it would be a shame to discount this charming desert oasis as just a shopping stop. Stop and take a breather from all the activity at one of the many galleries featuring local artists and photographers. There’s no better way to bring Zion home than with some art or jewelry. 

If looking to escape the crowds and the summer heat, East Zion’s hidden gems are where to be. Just driving the 12-mile Zion-Mt. Camel Highway is worth it. Photographers and history buffs have to hit Grafton. It's a partially restored ghost town with an old schoolhouse, cemetery, and working orchards. 

Hiking

With over 90 miles of trail across its 124,400 acres of designated wilderness, Zion is truly a hiker’s park. Whether looking for the iconic hikes or more off-the-beaten-path choices, there is plenty to do. 

Without any hyperbole, Angel's Landing is one of the most memorable hikes on the planet. It’s Zion’s most popular hike and THE one to do if up for the heights, exposure, and challenge. Note that it has gotten expteremly popular and you'll need a free permit to hike it. They can be nearly I'm[possible to get the day of, so be sure to plan ahead. 

The Narrows gets into Zion’s signature feature: slot canyons. It’s a unique experience, there is no trail per se, hikers wade up the Virgin riverbed, boxed in by 1,000-foot cliffs. A side trip up Orderville Canyon is a worth-it add-on. Pro tip: Zion Outfitters in Springdale rents dry suits to keep those feet dry.

If looking for solitude, check out the Coalpits Trail. It’s a long day or an easy overnight that follows the sandy banks of a serene desert wash. This little-traveled corner of the park is surprisingly lush with giant cottonwood trees, stunted sagebrush, and kaleidoscopic wildflowers.

Cycling

The premier road ride to do is the Zion Scenic Drive. The out-n-back route passes all the canyon’s major landmarks as cyclists climb about 1,200 feet over 17 miles. The route is off limits to all public traffic. Only occasional shuttle buses are allowed, enabling riders to enjoy the scenery without noise or danger. (Note that buses will not pass cyclists, so riders should pull over and let them pass.) Pro Tip: The shuttles have racks for two bikes. Hitch a ride to the Temple of Sinawava and enjoy the ride back, it’s almost all downhill. 

Mountain biking is prohibited in the park proper. That’s OK, Gooseberry Mesa has world-class riding that rivals the more-famous Moab. Gooseberry’s 30 miles of trail deliver fun, techy riding and limitless views. 

Over in Virgin, check out the Whole Guacamole. It’s a little easier terrain than in Gooseberry and has postcard-worthy views of the backsides of West Temple and Mount Kinesava. It’s 11 miles of smile-inducing singletrack and slickrock. Look up to see owls, hawks and even condor. 

Between Hurricane and La Verkin, there sits an IMBA Epic called the J.E.M./Hurricane Rim/Gould loop. It’s 25 miles of swoopy, fast, and sculpted singletrack. A highlight is the climb to the overlook the above the Virgin River. 

Rock Climbing

Climbers the world over come to Zion to scale the user-friendly big walls. Classics like Spaceshot, Northeast Buttress, Moonlight Buttress, and Prodigal Sun are iconic aid routes. Monkeyfinger and Iron Messiah are long free routes that are stellar. The Namaste Wall and Mountain Of the Sun are perfect if looking for a day of cragging on shorter trad routes or bolted sport climbs.

Canyoneering

Rappelling down a narrow, curved passageway is unforgettable. The park has several classics for the adventurous involving long rappels, bracing swims, and climbs over rock formations. Routes like the Subway, Orderville or Keyhole Canyon, and Pine Creek make Zion a Mecca for canyoneering. Springdale has several well-qualified people that specialize in guiding visitors of all experience levels.

Eating

Hungry travelers don’t want for good food here either. In Springdale, start with a hearty breakfast of a Mexican green chili omelet at Oscar’s Cafe. For lunch, check out the sweet potato tamales at the Bit & Spur, a local institution. The Spotted Dog Cafe specializes in free-range meats and local food like Rocky Mountain red trout or the wild game meatloaf. And no visit to Zion is complete without a dinner at Switchback Grille, well known for its prime steak and fresh seafood.

The fun and adventure that awaits the intrepid visitor to this area of southwestern Utah is monumental. The views are so grand, the horizon so far, the formation so tall, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. In the glowing red canyons of Zion, slowing down means seeing more.