Zion Canyon Scenic Drive offers captivating views along the way and is accessible via the Zion National Park shuttle system, Oct. 3, 2021 | Photo by Vin Cappiello, St. George News
SPRINGDALE – From shuttle schedules to campsite reservations and hiking trails galore, Zion National Park is a busy place. So before you head to the park, there is much to consider.
Visitors are required to travel via shuttle in certain sections of the park, and starting Sunday, May 21, increased shuttle services will be available.
According to a news release from the National Park Service, Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to recreational drivers while the park shuttle is operating.
“Before you get to the shuttle, plan for limited parking,” the release said. “When parking inside Zion is full, the NPS may temporarily close parking lots and roads.”
Shuttle service in Zion Canyon and Springdale
From May 21 through Sept. 17, the Zion Canyon Shuttle System schedule will be:
Zion Canyon Line (for visitors inside Zion National Park)
6 a.m., first bus into the canyon from Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
7 p.m., last bus into the canyon from Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
8:15 p.m., last bus out of the canyon from Temple of Sinawava.
Springdale Line (for visitors who park or stay in Springdale)
7 a.m., first bus to Zion Canyon Village from Majestic View Lodge.
8 p.m., last bus into town from Zion Canyon Village.
Plan ahead and prepare
- The Narrows has been closed since mid-April due to high water. Check current conditions to see if this route is open before you visit.
- The trail bridge at Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop No. 5) to Emerald Pools is closed. Plan to hike from the Grotto (Shuttle Stop No. 6) or the Court of the Patriarchs (Shuttle Stop No. 4) to visit Emerald Pools. You cannot cross the Virgin River at Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop No. 5).
Visitors who cannot find parking in Zion or if all campsites are full, should consider learning more about nearby communities and public lands to find other recreational activities and lodging in the area, the news release said.
Camping
Watchman Campground
- Open year-round.
- Make reservations up to 6 months before your visit on recreation.gov.
South Campground
- Opens early-June.
- Make reservations up to two weeks before your visit on recreation.gov.
Lava Point Campground
- Closed until snow melts.
- Make reservations up to two weeks before your visit on recreation.gov.
Learn more and make reservations online at www.recreation.gov or by calling l-877-444-6777. We encourage you to plan ahead and make arrangements for where you will stay before you arrive at the park. Campgrounds fill early.
Park services and visitor center hours
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
Kolob Canyons Visitor Center
Information and Wilderness Desk, open 8 a.m.-5 p.m. every day.
Zion Nature Center
Opens May 26 then noon-5 p.m. every day.
Zion Human History Museum
Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. every day.
- Parking lots fill up early year-round.
- Watch for pedestrians and bicyclists if you are driving.
- Dress in layers because weather can change quickly and your safety is your responsibility.
- Stay on trails and avoid walking in the road.
- Ride your bike on the road or the Pa’rus Trail. Bicycling is not allowed on any other trails in the park. If you are riding in the road, you must stop to let buses pass.
- Know where your pet can go. Pets are not allowed on park shuttles or any park trail except the Pa’rus Trail. Read about how to B.A.R.K. in the park.
- The NPS may temporarily close roads if traffic is congested or there is nowhere for drivers to park.
- In general, fewer people visit Zion on weekdays than weekends. Consider arriving early or after 3 p.m. to avoid the busiest times of day.