Zion National Park in Utah will enforce new size and weight restrictions on vehicles traveling the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway starting June 7, 2026, aiming to improve safety along the winding route that connects the park’s East Entrance and Zion Canyon.
The National Park Service (NPS) determined that the highway’s narrow lanes, sharp curves, and historic bridges make it unsafe for vehicles exceeding specified dimensions or weight limits, affecting RVs, buses, and other large vehicles.
Under the new criteria, single or combined vehicles cannot be wider than 7 feet 10 inches, taller than 11 feet 4 inches, or heavier than 50,000 pounds.
Single vehicles are limited to 35 feet 9 inches in length, while combined vehicles may not exceed 50 feet.
Vehicles exceeding any of these limits will be denied entry at the East Entrance. The announcement cited safety concerns related to the highway’s tight curves, steep drop-offs, and the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel.
According to a News and Insights report of RVIA, RVs that meet the requirements may continue to traverse the highway without restrictions.
Exceptions for oversized vehicles include parking in the Zion Canyon Visitor Center’s large vehicle lot, visiting Zion Lodge with a pass, driving the Scenic Drive during shuttle off-season, or camping in Watchman or South campgrounds.
During the busy recreation season from March through November, the Zion Canyon Shuttle provides free transport along the Scenic Drive.
Visitors unable to park inside the park can use paid parking in Springdale and ride the Springdale Line shuttle.
Additional shuttle services are being planned, including a service from White Bison Resort in Virgin, Utah, starting March 1.
Travelers seeking alternate routes can bypass the highway via state roads. Highway 20 north of Cedar City adds roughly 63 miles and 42 minutes to reach Bryce Canyon, while Highway 59 southeast toward Jacob Lake adds about 23 miles and 10 minutes to reach the Grand Canyon’s North Rim.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is coordinating with the NPS and Zion Forever Project to improve public messaging and shuttle options for affected visitors.
“The team is also conversing with Zion Forever Project on plans to expand shuttle service to East Entrance of Zion National Park. More information will be provided as it becomes available,” RVIA states.