Zion National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States, is gearing up for another busy season with visitors eager to experience its breathtaking landscapes, diverse hiking trails, and scenic drives.
As the start of shuttle service and President’s Day weekend approaches, it’s never too soon to plan your next visit to Zion.
To help you navigate the shuttle service, parking, and permits, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that will give you the inside scoop on what to expect this year.
As per the NPS’ press release, shuttle service will not be available during the President’s Day weekend.
During this time, visitors will have to rely on personal vehicles to travel along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, which runs from Canyon Junction to popular trailheads such as the Temple of Sinawava and the Narrows.
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that parking space fills up quickly on holiday weekends, and the National Park Service may temporarily close Zion Canyon Scenic Drive once parking is full.
The 2023 shuttle service is anticipated to begin on March 11 and will resume in Zion Canyon and Springdale.
If you’re looking to avoid parking woes, consider parking in Town and taking the free Springdale Line shuttle.
For winter and spring camping, the Watchman Campground is open year-round, while the South Campground will be closed for improvement, and Lava Point will remain closed until spring snowmelt clears the road.
The South Campground will undergo improvements starting, and the National Park Service plans to share the final design for the project in the fall.
Angels Landing is one of the most popular hiking trails in Zion National Park. To ensure the safety of visitors, the park has released Spring Seasonal Lottery permits to hike Angels Landing from March 1 to May 31.
If you’re planning to hike from June 1 to August 31, you can apply for a permit in the Summer Seasonal Lottery, which opens on April 1. If you don’t secure a permit through the lottery, you can still apply for one using the Day-before Lottery.
Planning your visit to Zion National Park requires some forethought and preparation, especially if you’re visiting during peak season. However, with a little bit of planning and a lot of excitement, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience at Zion.
So pack your bags and get ready to discover the wonders of Zion!