Zion National Park
Zion's defining feature is Zion Canyon itself — a half-mile-deep, sheer-walled sandstone gorge carved by the Virgin River, with the park's most famous hikes climbing directly out of it. Angels Landing's final half-mile along a narrow ridge with chain handholds and thousand-foot drops is the park's signature (and now permit-only) adventure; The Narrows, a hike UP the river itself between soaring canyon walls, is the other. Beyond the canyon floor, the park's slickrock plateaus and slot canyons reward those willing to hike further from the shuttle stops.
Zion National Park FAQs
Yes — a lottery-based permit is required for the final chained section; apply in advance or enter the day-before lottery, since walk-ups are not allowed.
You wade and walk directly in the Virgin River between canyon walls that in places are only 20-30 feet apart — no formal trail, so water shoes or rented canyoneering boots are strongly recommended.
Only outside the shuttle season (roughly late fall to early spring) or if staying at Zion Lodge; otherwise the shuttle is mandatory and private vehicles are turned back at the canyon entrance.
2 days covers Angels Landing (or its viewpoint) and The Narrows; a third day allows time for the quieter Kolob Canyons section or Observation Point.
Spring and fall are the most popular (mild temperatures); summer is hot but still crowded, and The Narrows may close seasonally when water flow is too high.
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