Zion National Park
Est. 1919Colorado Plateau / Desert Transition

Zion National Park

Utah, USA

Quick Answer & Key Takeaways

Zion National Park located in Utah was established in 1919. Characterized by its colorado plateau / desert transition climate, the park features signature highlights such as Zion Canyon Scenic Drive & Virgin River gorge, The Narrows canyon wade through towering 1,000-ft slot walls, Angels Landing chain-assisted summit fin. Entry fee: $35 per private vehicle (valid for 7 consecutive days) or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass.. Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) for moderate temperatures and manageable water levels..

Established: 1919 • Climate: Colorado Plateau / Desert Transition
Entry fees: $35 per private vehicle (valid for 7 consecutive days) or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass.
Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) for moderate temperatures and manageable water levels.
Highlights: Zion Canyon Scenic Drive & Virgin River gorge, The Narrows canyon wade through towering 1,000-ft slot walls, Angels Landing chain-assisted summit fin, Emerald Pools hanging garden waterfalls

Park Ecology & Landscape

Located at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert, Zion National Park is renowned for its sheer vertical sandstone walls soaring up to 3,000 feet above the lush riparian corridor of the Virgin River. Zion features iconic treks such as Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Observation Point. The park enforces a mandatory shuttle bus system along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during peak seasons to protect the fragile canyon ecosystem from automobile congestion.

Key Natural Highlights

  • Zion Canyon Scenic Drive & Virgin River gorge
  • The Narrows canyon wade through towering 1,000-ft slot walls
  • Angels Landing chain-assisted summit fin
  • Emerald Pools hanging garden waterfalls
Trail Corridor Access

Explore Verified Trails in Zion National Park

View detailed elevation maps and required permits.

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Planning & Permits

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) for moderate temperatures and manageable water levels.

Entry Fees

$35 per private vehicle (valid for 7 consecutive days) or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass.

Backcountry Permits

Permits required for Angels Landing chained section, Subway canyoneering, and all overnight backcountry bivouacs.

CavingClub.org Field Safety BulletinAlways carry the Ten Essentials, 3 lights for caves, and decontaminate gear for bat protection.
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