One Day in Zion National Park | What To Do on a Day Trip

Thinking of spending one day in Zion National Park? This 229-square-mile park is filled with breathtaking sights and exciting hikes for every level. 

With soaring red cliffs, an impressive canyon, and the Virgin River feeding through the park, it’s no surprise that Zion brings in almost five million yearly visitors. And, due to its proximity to the bustling town of Springdale, Zion is a convenient destination for a one-day trip. 

Of course, a day trip to Zion National Park will take some careful planning. This park has some of the best hikes in the world, and you don’t want to miss out on any of the highlights. Luckily for you, this guide covers everything you need to know to time your visit perfectly and show up well-prepared.

So let’s jump right in and find out how to visit the best national park in Utah in one day. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

Zion National Park is great to visit at any time of the year. But some seasons may work better for a one-day trip. 

Zion is a great national park to visit during fall or spring, as the days are mild and the evenings are cooler. In fall, the peak season crowds start to dwindle, and you’ll get to see the fall colors.  

During spring, however, you might not be able to hike the Narrows, as the Virgin River has a very high flow rate at this time. 

As the shoulder season brings fewer visitors, you’ll also have a larger variety of hotel options, and they’re bound to be cheaper than in summer. 

Visiting Zion National Park in the summer is not always ideal. While the weather is clear and all programs and services are running, temperatures can be quite high, and the park is packed with visitors. So you may encounter delays due to busy trails or full parking lots, which is not ideal if you only have one day in Zion. 

Accommodation prices in Springdale also soar during summer, making for a much more expensive trip.  

Visiting Zion National Park during winter is also a great option. You’ll have many trails to yourself and will get to explore the reddish landscape under a dusting of snow. The downside of visiting during winter is that the Zion shuttle doesn’t operate, and certain trails or roads may be closed. 

What To Pack For One Day In Zion

• Sunscreen: Utah gets HOT! Even in the winter, we were hiking in bright sunny weather at times.  >Buy Sunscreen
• Hiking Boots/Shoes: If you use tennis shoes, you can easily hurt your toes by hitting a rock by accident (Trust me, I have done it so many times before). >Check Out My Hiking Shoes
• Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps you prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
• Water Reservoir: Water reservoirs help prevent me from getting dehydrated while hiking. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have a plastic taste. >Here Is My Water Reservoir
• Water: Stay nice and hydrated.
• Sunglasses: It can get sunny, so make sure to pack some sunglasses. >Check Out These Sunglasses
• Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars. Clif Bars are great for hiking.
• Camera: The Sony A6000 was one of the first cameras I started traveling with. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.  >Buy Sony Camera Here
• First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started going on adventures. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
• Day Pack to carry all your things: The REI bag I have linked, we have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
• Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get stranded in the dark! It is a lot more portable and easier to use than a flashlight. >Buy A Headlamp Now
• Leggings or shorts: Shorts are good for hot days and if you are hiking the narrows! >Click For These Cute Shorts
• Breathable sweat-wicking shirts: Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
• Sports Bra: For women. >Buy One Here
• Jacket: In case you go during the winter months.  >Buy My Favorite Jacket
• Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
• Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here
• National Park Pass:  I highly recommend getting a year-long America The Beautiful Pass. >Get It Here
• Sandals: If you are hiking the Narrows then I suggest good sandals. >Click Here For These
• Trekking Poles: I highly recommend this if you are hiking the narrows. It really helps with balance. I forgot mine and had to find a tree branch for support. >Buy Some Here
• Map For Zion: A map is essential, so you don’t get lost. I usually bring an AllTrails+ map on my phone, and a physical map. I love National Geographic’s maps. They are good quality >Buy One Here

How to Get to Zion National Park

The closest major airport to Zion National Park is in Las Vegas. This airport is about a 3-hour drive away.

To get to the main entrance to Zion, where the visitor center is located, you’ll pass through Sunningdale, UT. This entrance is the easiest option if you’re coming from Las Vegas or Southern California. 

Alternatively, the east entrance is the better option if you’re heading to the park from Page, Arizona, Bryce Canyon National Park, or the Grand Canyon. 

Getting Around Zion National Park

Zion National Park has its own shuttle service, which makes getting around the park convenient and relatively efficient. The shuttle is free and operates from mid-March until about the end of November. 

When the shuttle is in operation, there’s no private vehicle access to the park. So you won’t be able to take your car into the park. It can also be really challenging finding parking at the visitor center during peak season, so you’ll want to arrive super early in the morning to secure a space to park for free.  

If there’s no available parking at the visitor center, you’ll need to park at a paid parking spot in nearby Springdale. 

The shuttle doesn’t operate in winter, so that is the only time you’ll get to drive through the park with your own car. 

Map Of One Day In Zion National Park

You can copy and download the itinerary below, but I would also print it because you can’t see the itinerary if you have no service.

Where to Stay For 1 Day in Zion National Park

There’s only one lodging offering in the national park, which is Zion Lodge. But, nearby Springdale is filled with excellent accommodation options. There are also a few places to camp if you’re up for it. Below are some of the best options for where to stay in Zion National Park. 

Cable Mountain Lodge (Luxury)

Conveniently located a five-minute walk from Zion’s south entrance, this luxurious lodge offers spacious accommodations with striking views of Zion Canyon. Every suite and studio has a small kitchen and air conditioning. 

You’ll also have access to a private beach on the Virgin River and an outdoor pool and hot tub to unwind after your day of adventure. If you’re seeking some entertainment, you’ll find the Fatali Art Gallery and Zion Canyon Theater nearby. >>>Check Availability

Springhill Suites by Marriott (Mid-range)

Situated about a mile from Zion National Park’s south entrance, the elegant Springhill Suites offers everything you need for a comfortable night’s rest. Unwind in the outdoor pool or hot tub, or pop out to one of the nearby restaurants for a hearty dinner. >>>Check Availability

Zion Park Motel (Budget)

Featuring a bit more of a vintage flair, the Zion Park Motel in Springdale is an ideal spot if you’d like to save on accommodation costs. The spacious motel is within walking distance from the south entrance and has a large pool to cool down in. >>>Check Availability

Camping: Watchman Campground (Budget)

If you’re looking to end your one day in Zion with a night under the stars, camping is a great option. The Watchman Campground is by the south entrance, Visitor Center, and the Virgin River. 

Tent camping sites start at $20 per night, with some sites offering electrical hookups. There is also a bathroom with potable water. This campground is quite popular, so try to book your spot well in advance. >>>Find Out More

Glamping: Zion Wildflower (Virgin)

This quiet and luxurious campground is about 14 miles from Zion National Park. The site offers fully furnished covered wagons, mesa tents, and bungalows — all sporting modern and elegant interiors. Enjoy mountain views from your private patio or take a stroll to the nearby Virgin River. >>>Check Availability

Tours At Zion National Park

One Day at Zion National Park | Top Activities

There are countless exciting activities in Zion National Park. But, with only one day in Zion, you’ll want to focus on the park highlights. Below are some of the top things to do on a Zion day trip. 

1. Enjoy Sunrise on the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

• Mileage: 1-mile round trip
• Elevation Gain: 187 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

The Zion Canyon Overlook trail is an excellent option to kick off your day with. The short, marked trail takes you 1,000 feet above the canyon floor, offering unmatched views of the canyon and the Virgin River. 

This hike also leads past two excellent Zion attractions, the Great Arch and the Checkerboard Mesa. The canyon is spectacular as the sun washes over the towering red sandstone cliffs, so don’t forget your hiking camera gear!

The Overlook Trail is on the eastern end of the park, accessed via the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. Because the shuttle doesn’t operate here, you can drive your vehicle directly to the trailhead. Be sure to arrive early as the parking lot is small. If you do find a full parking lot, don’t stress. As the trail is short, there’ll likely be a quick turnover of cars. 

2. Emerald Pools Trail

• Mileage: 3-mile loop trail
• Elevation Gain: 620 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Once you’ve warmed up on the Canyon Overlook Trail, you can take on something slightly more strenuous but equally scenic. As the name suggests, this trail leads to three stunning pools, the Lower, Middle, and Upper Emeralds Pools. It’s a great option for any type of hiker, as you can modify the hike according to your difficulty. 

Your moderate hike will start with an easy walk on a relatively flat, paved trail up to the first pool. This pool has a waterfall that you can walk under, which is great for warm days. Once you’ve reached the first pool, you can return the same way you came for a short 1.4-mile out-and-back hike. 

If you continue onto the Middle and Upper Pools, you’ll be walking across rockier terrain. The second pool is just above the Lower Pool, but it’s a steep climb to get there. 

From there, you’ll continue about 200 feet higher to the Upper Pools, which are larger and have some lovely waterfalls. This serene area is shaded and perfect for catching your breath and cooling down. 

After reaching the top, you can follow the Kayenta Trail down to complete the loop. 

3. Lunch at Zion Canyon Brew Pub

The great thing about Zion National Park is that it’s conveniently close to some amazing food spots. The closest place to enjoy lunch near the park is Zion Canyon Brew Pub. This pub is situated just before the River Entrance and the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. 

This pub offers some satisfying lunchtime options like hearty burgers — including vegetarian-friendly options. If you’re even hungrier, comforting classics like fish and chips and bangers and mash are also on the menu. 

You’ll have to take the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive back from the Emerald Pools trailhead, which should only take about 15 minutes by vehicle. This may take a bit longer if you’re waiting on a shuttle, so keep this in mind when planning out your day. 

4. Take on The Narrows or the Riverside Walk Trail 

• Mileage: 8.9 miles out-and-back
• Elevation Gain: 696 feet
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Once you’re fuelled up and well-rested, it’s time to take on something a bit more challenging. The Narrows hike is one of the best Zion National Park hikes. 

You’ll be trekking through the Virgin River on a nearly 10-mile route through the narrowest part of Zion Canyon. The canyon walls tower thousands of feet above you and create excellent shows of light where the sun peeps through. 

This popular hike through one of the most beautiful slot canyons in Utah is great for the summer or fall months. In spring, the melting winter snow increases the river volume, making it unsafe to hike this trail. 

There are many ways to hike this trail. However, the full, 16-mile top-to-bottom version of the hike requires a permit and a full day or two of hiking. So, for your one day in Zion, the 9-mile bottom-up trail will be your best bet. 

This trail starts at the Temple of Sinawava and follows from the Riverside Walk. You’ll be walking upstream, in the river, for many miles. Once you’ve reached the end of this trail at Big Springs, you’ll return downstream. The hike should take about three to four hours and requires you to be moderately fit. 

Riverside Walk Trail

• Mileage: 1.9 miles out-and-back
• Elevation Gain: 194 feet
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

If you’re looking for a slightly easier trail near the Virgin River, you can hike the Riverside Walk Trail. This route is less demanding, and you don’t have to walk through the water. It’s also wheelchair accessible and only takes about an hour to complete. 

The Riverside Trail starts at the Temple of Sinawava and follows a paved, flat path to the Narrows trailhead. Along the way, you’ll spot some waterfalls and parts of the Virgin River. 

5. Hike the Watchman Trail

• Mileage: 3.1 miles out-and-back
• Elevation Gain: 636 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

If you’re only up for some moderate hiking, the leisurely Watchman Trail is an excellent option. The trail offers some great views of the famous Watchman Peak but doesn’t actually lead all the way up to it — so it’s still very much a family-friendly trail. 

Kicking off at the visitor center, this trail makes a steep incline before looping around a small valley. You’ll enjoy beautiful vistas of the canyon, the visitor center, and Springdale in the distance. 

Much of the hike is unshaded, so it’s better to hike it early in the morning or later in the afternoon. It’s usually not as popular as Angels Landing and the Emerald Pools, so it’s a great alternative if you’re looking to avoid crowds. 

6. Sunset at Canyon Junction Bridge

After your moderately challenging hike, why not cool down with a relaxing stroll to the Canyon Junction Bridge? This bridge offers a lovely view over the rushing Virgin River, along with the Watchman in the background.

It’s especially stunning in the evening, as the setting sun throws warm hues across the red sandstone. So this is the perfect spot to secure a postcard-worthy photo as a memento of your Zion day trip. 

This view is one of the highlights of Zion National Park, and it’s pretty popular for sunset, so parking may be scarce. Luckily, you can take the Zion Shuttle to bus stop #3 to get to this viewpoint instead. 

You also have the option of taking a riverside stroll along the paved, wheelchair-, bicycle-, and pet-friendly Pa’rus Trail. This route starts near the visitor center and South Campground and follows along the Virgin River. The walk to the bridge is about 2 miles. 

7. Bonus: Angels Landing

• Mileage: 4.4 miles out-and-back
• Elevation Gain: 1604 feet
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

The world-famous Angels Landing is one of the best hikes in Utah. Though, it’s not for the faint of heart. If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, you can switch out one of the easier hikes for this option. 

The trail begins at shuttle stop #6, near The Grotto Picnic Area — which is a great alternative lunchtime spot if you packed your own meal. You’ll follow the West Rim Trail. The first two miles of the trail consist of a few switchbacks and lead through Refrigerator Canyon — a shaded and cool canyon with a level path.

After Refrigerator Canyon, you’ll come to Walter’s Wiggles. This part of the trail has 21 steep and tight switchbacks that lead up to Scout’s Lookout. This area is a broad, flat overlook that offers some lovely views of the canyon. You can stop here and turn back if you’re not keen on hiking the final and most dangerous part of the hike. 

However, if you’re seeking something thrilling, you’re going to want to continue the trail. The last part of your hike leads to a half-mile trail across the narrow spine of a ridge. This ridge has steep dropoffs on both sides, and that 0.5 miles feel much longer due to how scary it is. It’s definitely not ideal for small children to hike. 

Luckily, there are chains bolted into the rock to assist you along the way, but you’ll still want to be extra cautious with each step. Wear your best hiking boots, as you’re going to need a stable footing on this part of the trail. 

Once you’ve made it past the scariest part, you’ll reach Angels Landing, a viewpoint offering 360-degree views of the park. 

Angels Landing Permits

Due to its popularity, you need to apply for a permit to take on this hike — specifically the chained portion of the trail. There are two options. The first is to apply for a Seasonal Lottery, which allocates you a day and time when you can hike. For your one-day trip, however, the Day-before lottery might work out a bit better. 

You’ll have to apply online and pay a $6 permit application fee. If you do get a permit, you need to download or print it to present to the park rangers for a check. 

Where to Eat in and Near Zion National Park

Unlike many other amazing national parks in the U.S., Zion is near an abundance of food spots. Below are some of the best places for breakfast, lunch, or dinner in and near Zion. 

Where to Eat in Zion 

The only place that offers food (and lodging) inside the national park is Zion Lodge. This hotel has a restaurant, Red Rock Grill, and a coffee shop, Castle Dome Café. 

Places to Eat Near Zion National Park

With Zion being on Springdale’s doorstep, there are many excellent options for any meal of the day. You can take the Zion Shuttle into Springdale, so you don’t have to worry about losing your parking spot. Below are some of the best places to eat. 

• Deep Creek Coffee Company: Charming little cafe with patio and roof seating, offering views of the surrounding mountains. Come here for your caffeine fix and the tasty avocado toast. 
• MeMe’s Café: Situated opposite Deep Creek Coffee, this spot makes some excellent savory crepes and other hearty delights. 
• Oscar’s Cafe: In the same area, you’ll find this Tex-Mex restaurant. Enjoy a sweet potato burrito or some pork chili verde in a bright and spacious little spot. 
• FeelLove Coffee: This modern coffee shop near the Watchman campground has a patio where you can soak up the views while enjoying some coffee or pastries. They have a wide variety of vegan options too. 
• Camp Outpost: This charming restaurant near Zion Canyon RV Park prepares some excellent burgers, sandwiches, and food bowls.
• Cafe Soleil: This quaint and quirky spot is close to the Zion Visitor Center and is filled with interesting art. Enjoy a coffee on the sidewalk or order a wrap or sandwich to enjoy in a picnic area for lunch. 

Tips for Your Zion National Park One-Day Itinerary 

Below are a few tips for visiting Zion National Park in 1 day.

Arrive Early

Parking in the park is limited, and finding a spot can be time-consuming and frustrating. Plan to arrive at the park well before 8 am to not only find a parking spot but also get a head start on your day. 

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You’ll be covering a lot of miles on your one day in Zion. Make sure your shoes are comfortable enough to wear all day, and ensure that they provide proper ankle support in the case that you may slip. Open-toed shoes are not ideal. 

If you plan on hiking The Narrows, try to wear fast-drying hiking boots so you’re not spending the rest of the day in wet shoes. Also, make sure that your shoes can handle being immersed in water for a long period without being damaged. Or wear some hiking sandals.

Book Accommodation Ahead of Time

This is especially important if you’re planning a day trip during peak season. While spontaneity is fun, you’ll need to plan your one-day trip ahead of time, as accommodation can be hard to find on short notice. If you do decide to book accommodation last minute, you might not find the most affordable or convenient option — or any options at all.   

Download Maps

Cell service in the park is limited, and there may be areas where you have no connection. So be sure to save your hiking maps offline to avoid getting lost, or print them as backups. Get AllTrails+ For Offline Maps

Use the Shuttle System

Between March and November, only the shuttle is allowed to drive on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The shuttle system is super convenient and efficient and goes directly to many of the top attractions in the park. So, while you can walk to different sights, the shuttle can get you there faster and spare you some energy. 

Pack Lunch 

If you’re visiting Zion on a budget, pack your own lunch to enjoy in the park’s many shaded areas. The Grotto picnic area is a popular spot for picnics and even has barbeque facilities. Bringing lunch to enjoy in the park will also save you some time, as waiting for your order at a restaurant can cut into your limited time. 

Get an America The Beautiful Pass

The United States is full of some of the best national parks, and Zion will definitely leave you wanting more. You can save money by opting for an America the Beautiful Pass. 

This pass allows you access to over 1000 national parks and recreational areas within the U.S. for an entire year. For context: an entry ticket to Zion is $35 per vehicle entering and $20 per person entering. 

Leave No Trace

Zion’s natural landscape may seem hardy, but the park’s ecology is vulnerable to constant foot traffic and pollution. Be sure to practice the principles of “Leave no Trace” and take everything you brought into the park back out with you. 

Refresh Your Wildlife Safety Knowledge

There are countless interesting animals wandering about the park, including deer, mountain lions, petite kangaroos, the California Condor, and bighorn sheep. Have a look at these wildlife safety tips before your trip to the park. 

Check the Park’s Official Site for Updated Information

Weather conditions can change quickly in the park. So check the official National Park Service site for up-to-date information on the Zion weather conditions and any road or hiking trail closures.

Zion National Park in One Day | FAQs

Still have a few questions about visiting Zion National Park in a day? Have a look at these answers to some of the most frequently asked questions. 

Is One Day Enough To See Zion National Park?

It’s definitely possible to see Zion in one day. With a little bit of planning, you can see most of Zion’s top highlights and some smaller attractions in a day. 

Can I Visit Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park in One Day? 

You technically could visit both Zion and Bryce Canyon National Park in a day. But, with limited time and Bryce Canyon being just under two hours away by car, you won’t get to see much, and your day may feel a bit rushed. If you’d like to see both, however, Bryce is close enough to see the next day. 

Can I Just Drive Through Zion National Park?

Zion National Park has a stunning scenic drive that runs through the park to the east entrance. Due to large tourist crowds during peak season, no private vehicles are allowed on this road between March and November. During the off-season, when shuttles aren’t operating, you can drive on this road in your own car. 

Can You Hike The Narrows and Angels Landing in One Day? 

If you’re super fit and up for the challenge, you can certainly fit both hikes into one day, but it may be too demanding for the average hiker. 

Both hikes are quite physically demanding and take a few hours to complete. So you might end up only being able to fit these two hikes and little else in your Zion one-day itinerary. 

Can You Walk into Zion National Park?

You can walk into Zion National Park. The park entry fee per person walking in without a vehicle is $20. The ticket is valid for seven days. A more cost-effective option, however, is to drive into the park and pay $35 per vehicle entering. This covers all people in the vehicle up to 15 passengers. We used our America The Beautiful Pass to get in.

Ready for Your Zion National Park Day Trip? 

With this in-depth guide on what to do in Zion National Park in one day, you’ll be sufficiently prepared for a memorable day in one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States. 

There are countless activities and sites waiting for you in the park, and this Zion National Park 1 day itinerary only covers some of the most popular. And with Springdale being so close to the park, you’ll be spoilt for choice with excellent food and accommodation options. So your one-day trip should be a breeze.

If you’re looking for more excellent places to visit in Utah, why not have a look at this guide on the best activities in Canyonlands National Park? You may also find these beginner hiking tips helpful if you’re still finding your feet. 

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