The Best Itinerary for 2 Days In Zion National Park: What to Do and See
Zion National Park is one of the most visited parks in the country, and for good reason! I have been to Zion National Park multiple times, and I still find myself with a list of things I’d like to do on my next trip. For most people, 2 days in Zion National Park is ideal, especially if you’re including it in a road trip to see all of the Utah National Parks.
In this article I cover:
- A complete itinerary for 2 days in Zion National Park
- The best way to get to Zion
- Best months to visit Zion
- Where to stay in and near the park
2 Days In Zion National Park Itinerary
I think 2 days in Zion National Park is the perfect amount of time to see all the highlights without feeling rushed.
On day one, hike Angels Landing, explore Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and watch sunset in Zion at Canyon Overlook.
On day two, start with a hike to Observation Point, followed by The Watchman Trail and Pa’rus Trail before spending the afternoon in The Narrows.
Don’t have two days? Check out my itinerary for one day in Zion National Park.
Day 1: Angels Landing, Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Canyon Overlook
The first day of your Zion trip is all about seeing the best the park has to offer!
Morning: Hike Angels Landing
Start the day at Angels Landing. This hike is incredibly unique and one of my favorite hikes ever! (Second to Grinnell Glacier in Glacier National Park) There’s a few important things to know about this hike, though.
First, Angels Landing requires a permit to hike. The permit system is fairly competitive so I recommend you submit for the lottery several months in advance. More on Zion permits here.
Second, Angels Landing is actually the final portion of Scouts Lookout trail. The majority of this hike (the first 4.2 miles) do not require a permit. The final section (the part most people think of, with the steep cliffs and chains) is Angels Landing trail and requires a permit.
Finally, the last section of this hike is jolting even if you don’t have a fear of heights. If you are not comfortable with heights then this is not the hike for you.
The worst thing you can do is panic when you’re out on the ledge, putting yourself and those around you in danger. I saw several people having complete melt-downs in the middle of the hike – which is 3 feet wide in sections with a several hundred feet drop off on either side.
Know your own limits. If you’re not a fan of heights you can still hike to Scouts Landing and wait to rejoin your group (in fact, many people do this- you might even make some new friends while you’re waiting!)
Angels Landing Trail Details
Distance: 4.3 miles
Elevation Change: 1,827 feet
Zion Shuttle Stop: Big Bend
A love note about AllTrails
The trail links in this article take you to the detailed trail guides on AllTrails. I love this app and use it on every single hike I take. There’s a free and a pro version (AllTrails+).
Free version: Allows you to view trail details and save trails to curated lists. I have a list for each National Park and I save the hikes I’m planning in there so I can easily find them while traveling.
AllTrails+: $2.99 per month allows you to live share your activity with friends or family, download offline maps so you’re able to access them without cell service (great for National Parks) and will send you alerts when you deviate from the trail so you don’t get lost.
I have been using the AllTrails+ for many years. I love the added safety features, especially as a solo hiker.
Afternoon: Explore Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
In the afternoon, bike, drive or take the Zion Shuttle along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
My favorite way to see Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is with e-bike rentals from Zion Outfitters. You can go at your own pace without waiting in long lines for the shuttle. The road is approximately 7 miles in one direction, which makes it easy for biking.
Depending on what time of year you’re visiting, you may be able to drive your own vehicle into the park. However, if the shuttles are running during your visit, you must take the shuttle instead.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Shuttle Only: March – October + Christmas Week
Private Vehicles Allowed On Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: November – February
Dates vary slightly each year so check the official NPS website
Along the Scenic Drive you can stop at various viewpoints, like Court of the Patriarchs.
The Scenic Drive follows the river, so most of the viewpoints and short walks along this route are flat and well paved.
Evening: Sunset at Canyon Overlook
In the evening, hike to Canyon Overlook. The trailhead for Canyon Overlook is along Route 9 (Zion-Mt Carmel Highway) so you don’t need to take the Zion Canyon Shuttle.
With only 187 feet of elevation change and less than 1 mile long, this is a perfect hike for sunset in Zion with an incredible view of the park.
Canyon Overlook Trail Details
Distance: 1 mile
Elevation Change: 187 feet
Shuttle Stop: None – take Zion-Mt Carmel Highway
Day 2: Observation Point, Watchman, Pa’rus & The Narrows
Day 2 in Zion is jam packed with goodies! I recommend getting an early start so you can pack everything in before sundown.
Morning: Observation Point & Watchman Trail
Hike to Observation Point for sunrise in Zion National Park.
There are three different routes to Observation Point. Unfortunately, the most popular route, starting from Weeping Rock on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, is closed indefinitely due to a massive 2019 rock slide.
It’s still possible to hike to Observation Point by approaching from the East side of the park on either East Mesa Trail or East Rim Trail. I recommend East Mesa Trail.
The trailhead for both of these is only accessible via North Fork Road to Zion Ponderosa Ranch Road. These roads are unpaved and can be tricky to access after heavy rains and without a high-clearance or 4wd vehicle. There is no shuttle service to either of these trailheads and both routes are out-and-back trails.
Note: During the summer season it’s possible to get a private shuttle to these trailheads through East Zion Adventures.
The viewpoint of the park, including Angels Landing, is incredible from Observation Point. Additionally, because this is a harder hike, and less accessible, there are very few crowds to contend with.
East Mesa Trail Details
Distance: 7 miles
Elevation Change: 702 feet
Shuttle Stop: n/a
After, hike Watchman Trial. The trail picks up right near the Visitor Center, and if parking is already full you can take the Springdale Shuttle and then walk across the Visitor Center area to the trailhead.
The Watchman Trial is a moderate hike and offers great views of lower Zion Canyon and the town of Springdale. It’s just over 3 miles and the trail loops around the summit giving you 360° views.
The Watchman Trail Details
Distance: 3.1 miles
Elevation Change: 636 feet
Shuttle Stop: Zion Canyon Visitors Center
Afternoon: Pa’rus Trail and The Narrows
Start your afternoon on Pa’rus Trail. It’s a paved and handicap accessible river walk with stunning canyon views. Conveniently, it’s located at the visitors center, so after hiking The Watchman you can jump right on this trail.
You can also bike this path or walk your dog in Zion. The trail is an out-and-back that totals just over 3 miles, but it’s also possible to hike it in one direction and take the shuttle back.
Pa’rus Trail Details
Distance: 3.2 miles
Elevation Change: 134 feet
Shuttle Stop: Zion Visitor Center or Canyon Junction
Finally, head to The Narrows. This is the farthest shuttle stop in Zion Canyon and takes about 45-minutes to get to from the park entrance.
The Narrows is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park so it can get quite busy during the middle of the day.
The first 1.9 miles of The Narrows shares the same path as Riverside Walk, so you’ll also be able to check that hike off your bucket list as well.
You will be knee-deep in water (or deeper) for this entire hike, so be prepared! I rented gear from Zion Outfitters (located near the park entrance) for about $32 and was glad to have it. Proper shoes are absolutely necessary because the river bed is lined with rocks that move as you walk on them.
I also rented one of their wooden walking sticks and was so glad I didn’t attempt to bring along my trekking poles for this hike – the rocky bottom eats the bottoms of trekking poles and you’re very likely to damage them.
The wooden walking sticks are great for keeping you sturdy. There were a few patches of rough current that I would not have been able to cross without the support from the walking stick.
Depending on how far upstream you decide to walk, The Narrows can take up to 7 hours to complete.
The Narrows Trail Details
Distance: up to 9.4 miles
Elevation Change: 334 feet
Shuttle Stop: Temple Of Sinawava
Evening: Explore Springdale
In the evening, head into Springdale (just outside of Zion) to explore the shops and find a tasty meal for dinner.
I recommend trying Thai Sapa, Camp Outpost (try the Prickly Pear Margarita!), Oscar’s Cafe (try the chicken and chorizo burrito!) or Wild Thyme Cafe.
Optional Things To Do With More Time
If you have some more time in Zion, I recommend these additional hikes.
Emerald Pools Trail
Take the 3 mile Emerald Pools loop. This hike takes you past Lower, Middle and Upper Emerald Pools, but I think the Upper Pool is the most serene. The path follows the Virgin River before cutting up towards the pools.
Note: The bridge at Zion Lodge is currently closed. The trail is still possible but it’s an out-and-back from The Grotto along Kayenta Trail instead of being a loop back along Lower Emerald Pool Trail and passing the lodge.
Emerald Pool Trail Details
Distance: 3 miles
Elevation Change: 620 feet
Shuttle Stop: The Grotto
Hidden Canyon Trail
Hidden Canyon is one of the best kept secrets in Zion National Park. It’s a shorter trail (just 3.1 miles) but it has a lot of elevation change and some scramble sections. There’s also some cliff walking so if you’re scared of heights this trail won’t be for you.
Note: Unfortunately this trail was impacted by the massive 2018 rockslide which left 45 feet of trail buried and is closed indefinitely.
The hike starts from Weeping Rock (take the shuttle to stop 8 – Big Bend) and quickly picks up elevation with plenty of switchbacks. Because the trail cuts through the cliffside there are some sections where trails are literally carved into the side of the mountain and chains are installed for your safety. Once you make it into the canyon you can explore as much as you want!
Hidden Canyon Trail Details
Distance: 3.1 miles
Elevation Change: 971 feet
Shuttle Stop: Big Bend
Getting To Zion National Park
Unless you’re a Utah local, you’ll likely be flying to Zion National Park. The two closest airports to Zion are Las Vegas (LAS) airport and Salt Lake City (SLC) airport.
Anytime I have looked up flight prices and rental car prices, Las Vegas is cheaper than Salt Lake City by far.
I recommend you fly into Las Vegas, especially if you plan to rent a car. You’ll not only save money by doing this, but you’ll also save time! Las Vegas airport is closer to Zion than Salt Lake City and often has more direct flights.
Drive Time to Zion National Park
Las Vegas to Zion: 2 hours 20 minutes
Salt Lake City Utah to Zion National Park: 3 hours 45 minutes
Compare rental car prices here.
Consider booking a campervan for your road trip!
Where To Stay
If you’re looking to stay in Zion National Park you have a few options. There is one lodge in Zion, and three campgrounds. Keep in mind, if you’re traveling during the summer the park can get very hot and most of the campsites are unshaded.
If you prefer hotel or vacation rentals I recommend staying in Springdale. It’s the closest place to stay near the park as it’s literally right outside the main gate.
Other towns near Zion include Hurricane and St George, both with great budget-friendly hotel options.
On my recent trip, I booked very last minute and was happy to find a cute, pet-friendly cabin rental in Apple Valley with stunning sunsets only 30 minutes from Zion.
Check out my Zion Itinerary Planner & Travel Guide for more details about the best places to stay.
Zion National Park Entrance Fee
The entry fee for Zion National Park is $35 per vehicle (good for 7 days), or $20 per person if you walk in.
If you’re taking a road trip to Utah’s Might 5 National Parks I highly recommend getting an America The Beautiful National Park Pass. It’s an annual pass that costs $80 and gets you into all the National Parks (+2000 other national recreation areas) for free.
I’ve been a pass holder for several years and I really love it! Not only does it save me money on park visits, but some parks have express lanes which allow me to skip the looooong lines at the entry gate (sometimes 2+ hours long!)
When Is The Best Time To Visit Zion National Park?
For the perfect combination of good weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery, fall is the best time to visit Zion.
If you can, I would avoid summer at all costs – it’s just too hot and the crowds are wild. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in Zion during each month so you can plan the perfect trip.
Zion In Spring – March & April
Spring is a favorite for many visitors due to the mild weather, typically ranging from the 60s to 70s. You’ll catch wildflowers in bloom and witness Zion’s plant life waking up after winter.
However, higher trails can still have lingering snow or ice, so be careful on hikes like Angels Landing.
Spring break brings crowds, but if you aim for late April, you’ll enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Pro Tip: Be prepared for the Virgin River’s higher water levels, which may The Narrows trail temporarily.
Zion In Summer – May, June, July, August & September
Summer is the busiest and hottest season in Zion. With temperatures regularly reaching 100°F in July and August, it’s crucial to plan early morning hikes and stay hydrated.
May offers the most tolerable weather, with highs in the 80s. Afternoon thunderstorms and flash floods are common, so always check the weather before hitting the trails.
Crowds are thick, and parking fills up fast, so take advantage of the Zion shuttle system.
Pro Tip: If summer is your only option, aim for early mornings and carry plenty of water.
Zion In Fall – October & November
Fall is arguably the best time to visit Zion (and my preference). Temperatures are mild, averaging in the 60s and 70s, and crowds start to dwindle after fall break.
This is the perfect time to enjoy the park’s scenic hikes with less competition for trail space. The park’s foliage also puts on a surprising show, with golden hues popping up throughout Zion Canyon in late October and early November.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to layer up! Mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially during November in Zion.
Winter In Zion – December, January & February
With far fewer visitors, you’ll have many trails and viewpoints to yourself during winter in Zion. Daytime temperatures can be comfortable, hovering in the 50s and 60s, though nights are often below freezing.
Snowfall transforms Zion’s red cliffs into a magical landscape, but you’ll need to be prepared for icy conditions on certain trails. Winter storms may close some roads and trails, so check conditions before you go.
Pro Tip: Microspikes or other traction devices are a must for navigating icy paths, especially after snowstorms.
Summary: 2 Days In Zion National Park
During two days in Zion you can hike Angels Landing, Canyon Overlook, The Watchman, Observation Point and Pa’rus Trail in addition to exploring the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive by bike, car or shuttle. It’s enough time to experience all the highlights in Zion National Park.
If your trip allows for more time, consider taking a roadtrip from Zion to Arches, stopping at Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef and Canyonlands along the way.
FAQs: 2 days In Zion National Park
Can you do Zion National Park in 2 days?
Yes you can absolutely do Zion National Park in 2 days. Most of the parks popular hikes and features are located in the main Zion Canyon section which makes them easy and efficient to access in just 2 days.
How many days can you spend in Zion?
A 2 day Zion National Park itinerary is the perfect amount of time to see all the highlights. Keep in mind that some activities, like hiking Angels Landing, require a permit so plan ahead.
How long does it take to go through Zion National Park?
It takes 45 minutes to drive (or ride the shuttle) from the entrance of Zion National Park to the opposite side of Zion Canyon, near the Temple of Sinawava.
Which is better Zion or Bryce?
The debate between Zion vs Bryce is tricky because both parks are so different, even though they’re close to each other. Zion is better if you’re looking for longer hikes, a variety of terrain and water features. Bryce is better if you’re looking for shorter hikes, hoodoos, or to escape the summer heat – which is possible at Bryce due to its high elevation.
