Zion National Park has some of America’s most dramatic canyon scenery, which, unlike the Grand Canyon, you can begin exploring from the canyon floor. It’s home to some of the world’s tallest cliffs, striking desert terrain, gorgeous forested mesas, and more. You’ll enjoy endless options for outdoor recreation year-round, but spring brings outstanding experiences. To help you enjoy an unforgettable trip this season, we’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Zion National Park in spring.
Start Your Spring Adventure from the Visitor Center
There is no better spot to begin your spring adventure than the Visitor Center. The park boasts two visitor centers: Zion Canyon near the park’s South Entrance and Kolob Canyons Visitor Center, both operating year-round. These facilities provide you with the park’s information, from the geologic history to shuttle information and everything in between.
Stroll the Riverside Walk
Known as the Gateway to the famous “Narrows,” the Riverside Walk is a paved trail along the scenic Virgin River. It guarantees a relaxing adventure in the spring with stunning views of the river, the sheer sandstones, and the lush surroundings. The hike caters to everyone, including families with strollers and visitors on wheelchairs.
Hike to Observation Point
The Observation Point is recognized for its unparalleled views of Zion Canyon’s dramatic scenery. At 6500 feet, you can marvel at the view of the canyon’s whole length, plus nearby landmarks like Angels Landing. You can get to the top by hiking the 7-mile out-and-back East Mesa Trail, which is considered moderately difficult.
Explore the Narrows
The Riverside Walk leads to the starting point of the Narrows Hike, and not everyone chooses to end up there. If you explore the Narrows Hike in spring, you’ll be treated to some of the most gorgeous parts of Zion National Park. However, with spring run-off thanks to the melting snow, you may need to bring a dry suit. Also, the Narrows might be closed between March and April because of the high water level, making it a perfect late-spring activity.
Hike Angels Landing
Angels Landing is one of the most rewarding hikes in Zion National Park, thanks to its diverse scenery. It offers the ultimate thrill, with spring bringing pleasant weather and vibrant wildflower blooms along the Virgin River. A shuttle ride from Zion Canyon Visitor Center will quickly get you to the trailhead. To enjoy this beautiful hike, you have to apply for a permit.
Bike the Pa’Rus Trail
The Pa’Rus Trail is a multi-use 3.5-mile trail stretching from Zion Visitor Center to the Canyon Junction. It meanders along the Virgin River and offers breathtaking views of the park’s wonders, including sandstone formations and meadows, with endless opportunities for taking epic photographs. Unlike some trails in Utah’s first national park, you can always bring your furry friend here.
Hike the Emerald Pools Trail
Emerald Pools Hike is a series of trails leading to three distinct pools—the Upper, Middle, and Lower Emerald Pools—and their majestic waterfalls. The Lower Emerald Pool is considered the easiest trail; the Upper one is strenuous but worth exploring. The waterfalls in the oasis are best seen in spring when they are most dramatic and the surrounding vegetation is more vibrant.
Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail
Canyon Overlook is famous for its panoramic views of the park’s natural wonders, from the Great Arch to the Virgin River. The one-mile (roundtrip) hike is flat and easy, with spectacular scenery, but the final viewpoint offers the most amazing vistas. Many consider it “a bang for your buck” because it delivers some of the most beautiful views of the park in a short amount of time.
Hike the Kolob Arch Trail for Dramatic Scenery
As the name suggests. This scenic hike takes you to Kolob Arch, the world’s sixth-longest natural arch, with a span of 287.4 feet. The freestanding natural architecture is a must-visit for its spectacular vistas, remoteness, and the unique opportunity to discover the beauty of Kolob Canyon. The best part? It’s a less-traveled route, guaranteeing a quieter experience of the park.
Unwind at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
After a long day of discovering the wonders of Zion National Park, unwind at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. Nestled near the east entrance, the resort’s serene setting and top-notch amenities—from a hot tub and a pool to mini-golf—make it a great place to relax. It’s also known for its outdoor offerings, from relaxing nature trails to ziplining, horseback riding, and rock-climbing adventures.
Drive Mount Carmel Highway
The superior engineering and picture-perfect views make driving the Mount Carmel Highway one of the best things to do in Zion National Park in spring. One of the most striking features of this scenic road is the 1.1-mile tunnel, which is fitted with “windows” for sweeping views of Zion Canyon’s unparalleled beauty.
Explore Zion Human History Museum
If you are interested in Zion’s rich human history, visit this fabulous museum. Zion Human History Museum has an incredible collection of artifacts, giving an insight into the lives of the area’s first inhabitants. The museum’s back patio boasts stunning views of West Temple and the Towers of the Virgin.
Go Camping at Watchman Campground
Camping is one of the best ways to discover the wonders of Zion National Park, and Watchman Campground is a convenient option. Thanks to its location near the park’s south entrance, you enjoy easy access to Zion Canyon Visitor Center, shuttle ride services, and the gateway to Utah’s first national park, Springdale. The campground, known for its excellent views, has over 180 campsites, including tent-only, group sites, and two wheelchair-friendly sites.
Hike Cable Mountain
The hike to Cable Mountain is a challenging but greatly rewarding trail worth taking in spring. It guarantees exceptional views of the iconic Zion Canyon. Before getting to the overlook, you’ll enjoy diverse scenery, from a high desert to pine forests and meadows. Sunrises and sunsets from Cable Mountain are incredibly breathtaking.
Hike the Weeping Rock Trail
There is no better time to witness the surreal beauty of the “weeping” rock than springtime. Its name comes from an alcove at the end of the hike that continuously drips water, giving its walls the “weeping” effect. The ever-dripping water feeds the lush, hanging garden along the rock’s face, creating an otherworldly desert oasis that’s nothing short of a feast for the eye.
