Introduction
If you’re planning a trip and wondering about the top things to do in Zion National Park, you’re in for one of the most unforgettable outdoor destinations in the United States. From iconic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows to scenic drives, easy riverside walks, and epic sunrise viewpoints, Zion packs a lot into one relatively compact park.
Located in southwestern Utah, Zion National Park is famous for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, emerald pools, and some of the most dramatic hiking landscapes in the American Southwest. Whether you’re a serious hiker, a road trip traveler, or a first-time national park visitor, Zion offers a mix of adventure and scenery that’s hard to beat.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do in Zion National Park, including must-do hikes, scenic viewpoints, travel tips, and how to make the most of your visit.
Why Zion National Park Is Worth Visiting
Zion isn’t just about one famous trail or one scenic drive. What makes it special is the variety of experiences packed into one place. You can spend the morning hiking a thrilling trail with huge canyon views, cool off by walking through a river in the afternoon, and end the day watching the cliffs glow orange at sunset.
Your trip can include:
- Iconic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows
- Family-friendly walks such as the Pa’rus Trail
- Scenic drives and shuttle-access viewpoints
- Quiet corners of the park like Kolob Canyons
- Sunrise, sunset, and stargazing opportunities
The key is knowing which experiences match your time, fitness level, and travel style.
1. Hike Angels Landing
If there’s one hike that defines Zion, it’s Angels Landing. This world-famous trail is known for steep switchbacks, dramatic drop-offs, and one of the most spectacular summit views in the national park system.
Why It’s One of the Top Things to Do in Zion National Park
- One of the park’s most iconic hikes
- Incredible panoramic views over Zion Canyon
- A bucket-list trail for adventurous hikers
What to Know Before You Go
- The hike begins at The Grotto shuttle stop
- The trail climbs through Walter’s Wiggles to Scout Lookout
- A permit is required for the final chained section to Angels Landing
- The trail is strenuous and not ideal for anyone uncomfortable with heights
Best For
Experienced hikers looking for a challenge and unforgettable canyon views.
👉 Tip: If you don’t get a permit or don’t want to do the exposed final section, Scout Lookout is still a fantastic destination with excellent views.
2. Walk Through The Narrows
The Narrows is one of the most unique hikes in the U.S. Instead of following a traditional trail, you hike directly through the Virgin River, surrounded by massive canyon walls that narrow dramatically around you.
Why It’s So Popular
- It’s one of Zion’s most memorable and immersive experiences
- The canyon scenery becomes more dramatic the farther you go
- You can turn around whenever you want, making it flexible for different fitness levels
Important Tips
- Start from the Temple of Sinawava via the Riverside Walk
- Wear proper water shoes or hiking shoes with grip
- Use a walking stick for stability
- Always check flash flood conditions before starting
Best For
Travelers who want a true Zion adventure without needing technical climbing skills.
3. Ride the Zion Canyon Shuttle and Explore Scenic Stops
One of the easiest ways to experience Zion is by using the Zion Canyon Shuttle, which runs through the main canyon for much of the year. It’s not just transportation—it’s part of the experience.
Why the Shuttle Is Worth Doing
- It gives you access to major trailheads and viewpoints
- You can hop off for short walks and photo stops
- It removes the stress of driving and parking inside the canyon
Notable Shuttle Stops
- The Grotto – access to Angels Landing
- Zion Lodge – central stop for food and nearby trails
- Big Bend – scenic viewpoint
- Temple of Sinawava – start of Riverside Walk and The Narrows
Best For
First-time visitors, families, and anyone who wants to see Zion without committing to a huge hike.
4. Explore the Emerald Pools Trails
The Emerald Pools trail system is one of the most popular moderate hiking areas in Zion and a great option if you want something scenic without the intensity of Angels Landing.
Trail Options
- Lower Emerald Pool – easiest and best for casual walkers
- Middle Emerald Pools – more elevation and broader views
- Upper Emerald Pool – the most challenging section with a quieter feel
Why It’s Worth Adding to Your Itinerary
- Beautiful combination of water, cliffs, and shaded sections
- Great for families or mixed-ability groups
- Flexible route options depending on energy and time
Best For
Visitors looking for a classic Zion hike with waterfalls, pools, and canyon scenery.
5. Walk the Pa’rus Trail
If you want an easy and scenic walk, the Pa’rus Trail is one of the best things to do in Zion National Park. It’s paved, relatively flat, and follows the Virgin River with beautiful views of the surrounding cliffs.
Why It’s a Great Choice
- One of the most accessible trails in Zion
- Perfect for sunrise or sunset walks
- Great for families, beginner hikers, and photographers
- One of the few trails where bikes are allowed
Best For
Anyone who wants a relaxed, scenic experience without a strenuous climb.
6. Hike Canyon Overlook Trail
For one of the best short hikes in the park, head to Canyon Overlook Trail. This trail is much shorter than Zion’s signature hikes, but the view at the end is one of the best effort-to-reward experiences in the park.
Why It’s One of the Best Things to Do in Zion
- Short hike with a huge panoramic payoff
- Great option if you don’t have time for a long trail
- Perfect for sunrise, sunset, or a quick scenic stop
Things to Know
- Located near the east side of the park beyond the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel
- Parking is limited, so go early if possible
Best For
Travelers with limited time or anyone looking for a shorter scenic hike.
7. Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the park and gives you a completely different perspective of Zion beyond the main canyon.
Highlights of the Drive
- Towering sandstone formations
- Scenic switchbacks and overlooks
- Access to Canyon Overlook Trail
- A dramatic drive through the historic tunnel
Why It’s Worth Doing
It’s one of the best ways to experience Zion if you’re road-tripping or want a scenic activity that doesn’t require a major hike.
8. Visit Kolob Canyons
If you want to escape the busiest part of the park, Kolob Canyons is one of the most underrated places to visit in Zion National Park.
Why It’s Worth Visiting
- Fewer crowds than the main canyon
- Dramatic red rock scenery
- Scenic drive and short hikes
- Great for a half-day detour or second-day itinerary
Best For
Travelers who want a quieter Zion experience or are returning to the park for a deeper look beyond the main highlights.
9. Watch Sunrise or Sunset in Zion Canyon
Zion is stunning at any hour, but sunrise and sunset are when the canyon really glows. The cliffs reflect warm orange and red tones, and the softer light makes the whole landscape feel even more dramatic.
Great Sunrise and Sunset Spots
- Canyon Junction Bridge
- Pa’rus Trail
- Canyon Overlook
- The Watchman area near the visitor center
Why It’s One of the Best Things to Do in Zion
It’s simple, free, and unforgettable—especially if you love photography or want a slower moment in the park between hikes.
10. Stay for Stargazing
Zion’s dark skies make it an excellent place for stargazing, especially if you’re staying nearby and don’t need to rush out of the park after sunset.
Why It’s Worth It
- Clear desert skies can produce incredible star visibility
- The canyon walls create a dramatic backdrop for night photography
- It’s a peaceful way to end a busy hiking day
Best For
Overnight visitors, photographers, and anyone who wants to experience Zion beyond daylight hours.
Best Zion Activities for Different Travel Styles
Best for First-Time Visitors
- Angels Landing or Scout Lookout
- The Narrows
- Shuttle ride through Zion Canyon
- Canyon Overlook Trail
- Sunset at Canyon Junction
Best for Families
- Pa’rus Trail
- Lower Emerald Pool
- Shuttle sightseeing
- Scenic drives
Best for Serious Hikers
- Angels Landing
- The Narrows
- Observation Point (if accessible via current route conditions)
- Longer day hikes on the West Rim or East Rim connections
Best for a 1-Day Zion Trip
- One major hike (Angels Landing or The Narrows)
- One short trail (Pa’rus or Canyon Overlook)
- Shuttle sightseeing
- Sunset viewpoint
Zion National Park Travel Tips
Start Early
Parking fills quickly, especially in spring, summer, and fall. Early starts also help you avoid the hottest part of the day on exposed trails.
Use the Shuttle System
If the shuttle is running, it’s the easiest way to access trailheads and viewpoints in Zion Canyon.
Bring Plenty of Water
Zion’s dry climate and exposed hikes can dehydrate you fast, especially on strenuous trails.
Check Trail Conditions Before You Go
This matters most for The Narrows, where flash flood risk and water levels can affect access.
Choose Hikes Based on Ability, Not Hype
Zion has something for everyone. You do not need to do the hardest trail to have an incredible visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one thing to do in Zion National Park?
For many visitors, the top experience is either hiking Angels Landing or walking through The Narrows, depending on whether you prefer heights or water hiking.
Is Zion worth visiting if you don’t want to do difficult hikes?
Yes. Zion has scenic drives, shuttle-access viewpoints, easy trails like the Pa’rus Trail, and beautiful sunrise and sunset spots that don’t require strenuous hiking.
How many days do you need in Zion National Park?
Two to three days is ideal if you want to experience both major hikes and a few scenic stops. One day is enough for highlights, but Zion is best when you have extra time.
Do you need a permit for Angels Landing?
Yes. A permit is required to continue beyond Scout Lookout onto the final chained section of Angels Landing.
What should first-time visitors prioritize in Zion?
If it’s your first visit, prioritize one major hike, one easy scenic trail, the Zion Canyon shuttle ride, and either a sunrise or sunset viewpoint.
Conclusion
There’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Zion National Park, but the best experiences depend on your travel style, fitness level, and how much time you have. If you want Zion’s biggest thrills, Angels Landing and The Narrows should be at the top of your list. If you’d rather balance iconic adventures with easier sightseeing, the Pa’rus Trail, Emerald Pools, Canyon Overlook, and scenic drives will give you a more relaxed but equally memorable Zion experience.
For first-time visitors, the best approach is simple: choose one signature adventure, leave room for a few scenic stops, and don’t underestimate how much Zion’s scale and beauty will slow you down in the best possible way.
No matter how you explore it, Zion National Park is one of those places that leaves you wanting just one more hike, one more viewpoint, and one more sunset in the canyon.
