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Planning on spending one day in Zion National Park? It is not a very long time, because there is so much to see and do in Zion. But, if you can only spend one day in Zion National Park, then I have this perfect one-day Zion itinerary for you that ticks off the best national park highlights.

Zion National Park can easily be combined with a visit to Bryce Canyon National Park: Zion to Bryce Canyon in 3 Days – Perfect Rod Trip Itinerary.

Looking for a longer road trip? How about this Epic 7-Day Road Trip Through Utah National Parks?

Where is Zion National Park

Zion National Park is located within the state of Utah, in the southwestern United States.

How to Get to Zion National Park

  • By Plane

Two International Airports are the closest to Zion National Park that you can fly in: Las Vegas, Nevada located 170 miles from the park, and Salt Lake City, Utah located 300 miles from the park.

The closest Regional Airports are located in Saint George, Utah – 49 miles from the park, and Cedar City, Utah – 60 miles from the park.

  • By Car

If you are driving from Las Vegas, Nevada, and/or Saint George, Utah following are the directions:

  • Interstate 15 North
  • Exit 16 – Right on State Route 9 East (33 miles)
  • Right to stay on State Route 9 East in La Verkin, Utah (20 miles)
  • Stay on State Route 9 East into Zion National Park, the Visitor Center is ahead on the right.

If you are driving from Salt Lake City, Utah, and/or Cedar City, Utah following are the directions:

  • Interstate 15 South
  • Exit 27 – Left on State Route 17 South (26 miles)
  • Left on State Route 9 East in La Verkin, Utah (20 miles)
  • Stay on State Route 9 East into Zion National Park, the Visitor Center is ahead on the right.
Road trip to Zion National Park

Zion Scenic Drive / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

When Is the Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

  • Spring or Fall

To start with, the best time to visit the park is during spring or fall, specifically April – May and September – October. The weather is mild with daytime average temperatures in the 60s and 70s F.

  • Summer

Furthermore, summer, specifically June – September is the high season. The number of tourists skyrockets during these months. The temperatures skyrocket as well ranging from the high 80s to 100s F.

  • Winter

Finally, winter, specifically November through March, is a good time to visit Zion National Park. Above all, you will be able to find some solitude. Snow seldom reaches the canyon floor and that being the case, the scenic drive and hiking can be enjoyed during that time.

However, make sure to check the weather and local snow conditions. You need to make sure that the trails you are planning to hike are clear and safe. For example, during the winter months trails like Angels Landing can be snowy/icy on the higher sections. Temperatures can range from low 50s to sometimes low 70s F.

Observation Point

View from Observation Point in Zion National Park / One Day in Zion 

One Day in Zion

Where to Stay in Zion National Park

  • Staying Inside Zion National Park 

Hands down, nothing beats staying inside the park! However, accommodations are very limited and you will need to make reservations at least a year in advance. Zion Lodge is the only hotel inside the park. It is open year-round and has several different types of accommodations like cabins, hotel rooms, and suites. My recommendation is to get a cabin. They all have gas log fireplaces, private porches, full baths, microwaves, and mini-refrigerators.

Zion National Park has three campgrounds. South and Watchman Campgrounds are inside the Zion Canyon, Lava Point Campground is about 1-hour drive from Zion Canyon on the Kolob Terrace Road.

South Campground is located about 0.5 miles from the South Entrance. It is open from March through October. It has 117 sites.

Watchman Campground is located about 0.25 miles from the South Entrance. Tent and electric campsites are available year-round. Watchman Campground has 190 sites.

Reservations for both South and Watchman Campgrounds need to be made well in advance at Recreation.gov.

Lava Point Campground is located about 1-hour drive from Zion Canyon on the Kolob Terrace Road. This campground is typically open May through September, as weather allows. There are 6 primitive campsites available first-come, first-serve. The campground has pit toilets and trash cans, but no water. Vehicles longer than 19 feet are not permitted on the road to the campground.

  • Staying Near Zion National Park

Springdale, UT is conveniently right at the entrance to Zion and it is the perfect getaway to Zion National Park. There are many options of where you can stay in Springdale and several good places where to can grab a bite to eat.

I stayed in Springdale several times and my two top choices are Hampton Inn & Suites Springdale/Zion National Park, and SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park. Both places are clean and comfortable, and the location is perfect.

Where to eat in Springdale, UT? Hands down, if you are in Springdale, UT then head to Oscar’s Cafe. Everything on the menu is simply delicious! However, make sure to try the murder burger or the pork burrito.  Another place you should check out is Spotted Dog. My recommendation is to try the Southwest Chicken with wild rice and fresh mango avocado salsa.

What You Need to Know About Zion National Park

  • To start with, the United States Congress established Zion National Park on November 19, 1919. A separate Zion National Monument, the Kolob Canyons area, was proclaimed on January 22, 1937, and was incorporated into the park on July 11, 1956.
  • Secondly, Zion National Park covers an area of 229 square miles.
  • Next, the park is named after the Hebrew word, “Zion.” This word translates as “a place of peace and relaxation.”
  • More importantly, Zion National Park is home to one of the most endangered species, the California condor. Its population as of December 2016 remains at 446 living wild and in captivity.
  • Lastly, Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel is located in Zion National Park. It is 1.1 miles long and it opened and was dedicated on July 4, 1930. Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel is considered an engineering marvel.
Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel

Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel in Zion National Park / One Day in Zion 

One Day in Zion

Quick read:

Above all, I honestly cannot resist adding the fact one of my favorite movies “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” was filmed near Zion National Park.

Specifically, it was filmed in the ghost town of Grafton.

Interestingly, Butch Cassidy was born Robert Leroy Parker on April 13, 1866, in Beaver, Utah. In 1900, he partnered with Harry Longabaugh, nicknamed the “Sundance Kid,” to rob banks and trains. They were the leaders of the Wild Bunch.

The members of the Wild Bunch: Front row left to right: Harry A. Longabaugh, alias the Sundance Kid, Ben Kilpatrick, alias the Tall Texan, Robert Leroy Parker, alias Butch Cassidy; Standing: Will Carver & Harvey Logan, alias Kid Curry; Fort Worth, Texas, 1900.

Photo of Wild Bunch

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons from the studio of John Swartz

What Are the Opening Hours and Entrance Fees to Zion National Park

Zion National Park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. However, some facilities reduce the opening hours during winter.

All visitors are required to purchase a recreational use pass. You pay for the pass at the entrance to the park. The pass is valid for seven consecutive days including the date of purchase and costs $30.

Please check the National Park website for detailed prices.

One Day in Zion

Perfect photo opportunity at the sign to the entrance to Zion National Park / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

If you are visiting several national parks during your vacation, you should consider purchasing an annual pass. The cost of the annual pass is $80.

The annual pass is a great deal! It is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, such as national parks, national wildlife refuges, national forests, and grasslands.

Buy America the Beautiful National Park Pass here.

How to Get Around in Zion National Park

If you are visiting the park between April and October, then using the shuttle is mandatory. No private vehicles are allowed inside the park.

By the same token, the shuttle is free. Your park entrance ticket covers the cost of the shuttle.

The shuttle operates in Springdale, Utah, as well as inside the park. You can hop on/hop off at any of the shuttle stops.

Shuttle in Zion National Park

Using the shuttle in Zion National Park is super easy and very convenient. / One Day in Zion 

One Day in Zion

How to Spend One Day in Zion National Park

I have been to Zion National Park several times. I have done different versions of this itinerary.

These are my suggestions of how to spend one day in Zion to get the most out of it.

Keep in mind, that trails might be temporarily closed during different times of the year usually due to the damage they sustain during the heavy rains. This one-day itinerary will give you a couple of different options just in case there are trail closures.

This itinerary concludes with the Zion Narrows Hike. In my opinion, a visit to Zion National Park needs to include Zion Narrows. It is a legendary hike! The river is your trail. However, some advanced planning is necessary. You will need some waterproof pants, shoes and a walking stick. That is why I suggest that you start your one day in Zion National Park at Zion Outfitter Store in Springdale.

  1. Zion Outfitter Store in Springdale, UT
  2. Court of the Patriarchs
  3. Emerald Pools Trail
  4. Angels Landing Trail (option #1)
  5. Weeping Rock Trail
  6. Observation Point Trail (option #2)
  7. Riverside Walk
  8. The Zion Narrows

NUMBER 1

Quick Stop at Zion Outfitter Store in Springdale

Our first stop of this one day itinerary is in Springdale at Zion Outfitter Store. Address is: 7 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale, UT 84767. You can’t miss it. It is a busy place!

We are going to rent some gear so that we will be able to comfortably navigate the wet, uneven terrain in the Zion Narrows. The Zion Narrows is a hike upstream the Virgin River. We are going to hike for at least half a mile, just to get the feel for the Zion Narrows and take some spectacular pictures. Plus, it will be a lot of fun!

Reservations for the rentals are not required but are available on the Zion Outfitter site: Zion Outfitter. Adjustments can easily be made to all reservations upon arrival. They keep plenty of equipment in stock in order to accommodate all walk-in customers. All Narrows equipment can be picked up either the morning of our hike or the evening prior after 4pm.

Rental Packages and Prices:

  1. Warm Weather Package  – it is recommended during summer months and includes canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, and a hiking stick. The canyoneering boots provide a great grip on wet or dry rock. In addition, they give an awesome ankle support. Further, you need to know that your feet will get wet, but they will be kept warm by the neoprene socks. The wooden hiking stick is ideal for balance and stability. Believe me, you will need it!The rental cost is $24.
  2. Dry Pants Package – it is recommended during fall when the water levels are low but the water is absolutely frigid. Dry Pants Package includes dry pants, which are waist high, canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, and a wooden hiking stick. The pants will keep all water out so you are able to wear your regular hiking clothes underneath. The rental cost is $41.
  3. Dry Bib Package – it is recommended during spring and winter. The water levels are high and of course the water is icy cold. The Dry Bibs come up to the armpits providing more coverage than the dry pants. The package includes: dry bibs (waders), canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, and a wooden hiking stick. The rental cost is $45.

More importantly, you will need some kind of waterproof backpack to keep all your documents, phones, cameras, etc safe and dry.

Hiking Zion Narrows

Zion Narrows is a legendary hike. You will need the proper equipment to do this hike. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Zion Narrows

Make sure to rent waterproof shoes, pants, and a walking stick. / One Day in Zion

Zion Narrows Trail

If you have the proper equipment, you will be safe and comfortable hiking the Zion Narrows. / One Day in Zion

NUMBER 2

Stop by the Court of the Patriarchs

Map of Zion Scenic Drive

Court of the Patriarchs is shuttle stop #4 / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Court of the Patriarchs is our second stop of the day. It is located right at Zion Shuttle stop number 4. It is the most iconic image of Zion National Park.

Make sure to take a 50-yard staircase uphill to get to the best view of the Court of the Patriarchs.

Right in front of you are three peaks. From left to right are: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The view is particularly beautiful in the morning light or at sunset.

One Day in Zion

Court of the Patriarchs / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

NUMBER 3

Take a Short Hike to Lower Emerald Pools

Scenic Drive in Zion National Park

Map of Emerald Pools Trail in Zion National Park / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Emerald Pools Trail is our third stop of one day in Zion itineraryEmerald Pools Trailhead is located right next to Zion Lodge, which is shuttle stop number 5.

Emerald Pools Trail is a Zion classic! It is an absolute delight to hike this trail. It intertwines past a small stream that rolls down the cliffs and forms several waterfalls and pools.

Emerald Pools Trail consists of three sections and if you are up to it, then you can hike from Lower Emerald Pools to Middle and finish your hike at Upper Emerald Pools. However, I would keep it short and just hike to Lower Emerald Pools, since it is a full day and there are more hikes ahead.

So, if you just hike to Lower Emerald Pools, it should take you no more than 30 minutes to do the hike. All in all, it is an easy hike with very little elevation change.

Emerald Pools Trail in Zion

Emerald Pools Trail is one of the most delightful trails in Zion National Park / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

What is cool is that this trail takes you under an alcove with the waterfall spilling over it.

However, I need to mention that if you are visiting during the summer months, there might not be very many waterfalls, they probably will be reduced to just a mere trickle.

Yet, something to keep in mind is that late summer is a monsoon season and it brings quite a few downpours. So, if there is a chance of rain, then I would immediately head to Emerald Pools and you would be amazed how beautiful this place is after the rain.

Emerald Pools Trail in Zion

Emerald Pools Trail goes under an alcove with the waterfalls spilling over it. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Emerald Pools Trail in Zion

Emerald Pools Trail is a great spot to visit after the rain when the waterfalls are most abundant. / One Day in Zion

Emerald Pools Trail in Zion

If you are visiting Emerald Pools during the summer months, then there might not be very many waterfalls. / One Day in Zion

NUMBER 4

Hike Angels Landing Trail (Option # 1)

Map of Angels Landing Trail in Zion National Park

Map of Angels Landing Trail in Zion National Park

One Day in Zion

Angels Landing Trail is one of the most famous hikes in the United States and it has been named America’s Scariest Hike.

So, right off the bat, I have to say that Angels Landing Trail is not recommended for people with a fear of heights. What you need to know is that there are sections of the trail where you will be walking on a narrow spine of the mountain and using chains to help you up.

Intrepid’s Tip:

In order to hike Angel’s Landing Trail, you need to reserve Timed Entry Ticket. Visit recreation.gov to make reservations. From my personal experience, it is extremely difficult to obtain a Timed Entry Ticket. If all the tickets are already gone, do not despair. There is an even better hike in Zion with views that surpass Angel’s Landing, namely Observation Point Trail. It is listed on this itinerary as option # 2.

Angels Landing Trail

Angels Landing Trail is not recommended for people with a fear of heights. /  One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

The total distance is 2.5 miles one way. Specifically:

  • Grotto Trailhead to Refrigerator Canyon – 1.1 miles
  • Refrigerator Canyon to Scouts Lookout – .85 mile
  • Scouts Lookout to Angels Landing – .55 mile

The length of time to complete this hike is about 3 to 6 hours depending on your physical fitness. The total elevation change is 1,490 feet.

Angels Landing Trail starts at the Grotto Trailhead. This is shuttle stop number 6.

To begin with, cross the hiker’s bridge over the Virgin River and follow the trail. Initially, you are on the West Rim Trail. If you look up, the Angels Landing Peak is right in front of you.

Angels Landing Trail

When you cross the hiker’s bridge over the Virgin River, you will be hiking along the West Rim Trail. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

The trail remains at an easy grade as it approaches the lower cliffs blocking the entrance to Refrigerator Canyon.

Next, as you get closer to the lower cliffs the trail begins a series of switchbacks. Although the switchbacks are wiggly, these are not Walter’s Wiggles yet. You will reach them later on. The switchbacks will take you to the top of the ridge above Refrigerator Canyon.

Angels Landing Trail

The trail remains at an easy grade as it approaches the lower cliffs blocking the entrance to Refrigerator Canyon. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Next, the trail gradually climbs up the canyon and pretty soon you will get to the famous 1930’s CCC engineering section called Water’s Wiggles. Each wiggle is a short switchback. There are a total of 21 wiggles!

Angels Landing Trail

Each wiggle is a short switchback. There are a total of 21 wiggles! / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Next, you will get to Scout’s Lookout. Here you can admire the canyon below as well as get a good look at the final section of the trail leading to Angels Landing.

Additionally, at Scout’s Lookout, you leave West Rim Trail and continue on Angels Landing Trail.

Ahead of you is the most challenging part of the trail. You will be using chains to help you get higher up. There are guard rails as well as some carved steps to steady your climb.

A lot of people stop hiking right at this point. And, it is ok! If you are not up to it, then rest a bit and head back down.

One Day in Zion

You will be using chains to help you get higher up. / One Day in Zion

Angels Landing Trail

There are guard rails as well as some carved steps to steady your climb. / One Day in Zion

However, if you decide to continue, you will be rewarded with an amazing 360-degree view.

When you are ready, simply retrace your steps and head back to where you started.

Angels Landing Trail

The view from Angels Landing is breathtaking. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Learn More About Angels Landing Hike: 

How to Hike Angels Landing Trail in Zion – Step-By-Step Guide

NUMBER 5

Take a Short Walk Along Weeping Rock Trail

Scenic Drive in Zion National Park

Map of Weeping Rock Trail in Zion National Park / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Weeping Rock Trail is the next stop of the one-day itinerary to Zion!

The trail will take you into a large bowl-shaped alcove with water flowing over its recess. The water causes the so-called “weeping walls”. And, the “weeping walls” form lush hanging gardens.

Be on the lookout for the hanging Columbine. It is endemic to Zion. There are two species of Columbine in the park – the golden one, which has yellow flowers, and the western one, which has red and yellow flowers.

Weeping Rock Trail is an easy trail. The round trip distance is about .5 miles and it should take you no more than 30 minutes to complete this hike.

The Weeping Rock Trailhead is located at Zion shuttle stop number 7.

Start by crossing the little hiker’s bridge. Then, turn left and hike up the paved trail to the viewing area. Depending on the season and weather conditions, you should see a beautiful waterfall cascading down and over the viewing platform.

Weeping Rock Trail

Weeping Rock Trail / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Weeping Rock Trail

Weeping Rock Trail / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Weeping Rock Trail has a nice shade and stays cool even during the hottest days. In addition, the water flowing down from the Weeping Rock provides invigorating refreshment in the dry heat. So, be prepared to get a bit wet. Likewise, use caution when walking since the path might be a little slippery.

If you are visiting the park in the wintertime, please be prepared for the trail closure due to icy conditions.

NUMBER 6

Hike to Observation Poin in Zion (Option # 2)

As I mentioned previously, if Angels Landing Trail is closed, or if all the Timed Entry Tickets are already gone, then another option is to hike the Observation Point Trail.

I have to honestly say that the view from the Observation Point is so much better than the view from Angels Landing. Why? Observation Point stands at 6,507 feet above the sea level, which is over 700 feet higher than the famous Angels Landing.

So, once you get to the top, you will be able to see Angels Landing and pat yourself on the back for being adventurous to conquer the higher viewpoint.

Weeping Rock Trailhead is the starting point for Observation Point Trail. It is shuttle stop number 7.

What you need to know is that the round trip distance is 8 miles. It will take you at least 4-5 hours to complete this trail. All in all, it is a strenuous hike with an elevation change of 2,100 feet.

Notably, almost right from the beginning, you start climbing. It will be a switchback after switchback, however, slowly you will be gaining elevation. You will be able to start enjoying the views fairly shortly after you start.

Observation Point Trail in Zion

Observation Point Trail is a strenuous hike with an elevation change of 2,100 feet. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

After 0.7 miles of climbing up the switchbacks, you will reach the junction to the Hidden Canyon Trail.

From here, the trail takes a turn and enters Echo Canyon. You will immediately notice a change of scenery. You are now surrounded by canyon walls.

There are more shady areas and the temperature is much lower at this point. Also, the trail flattens a little as well.

By the way, Echo Canyon is quite beautiful. You will definitely take some great photos of the small slot canyons.

Observation Point Trail in Zion

When you enter Echo Canyon, you will immediately notice a change of scenery. You are now surrounded by canyon walls. / One Day in Zion

Observation Point Trail in Zion

There are more shady areas and the temperature is much lower at this point. Also, the trail flattens a little as well. / One Day in Zion

Observation Point Trail in Zion

Echo Canyon is quite beautiful. You will definitely take some great photos of the small slot canyons. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

After 2.1 miles, you will pass a junction that connects to the East Rim Trail. Next, continue through a series of steep zigzags. This will be a final ascent through the upper White Cliff formations.

Right after, you are standing on the rim of the sandy upper plateau. The last mile is mostly level as the trail heads northwest.

Next, you will pass the last trail junction, which is East Mesa Trail. Subsequently, the trail heads south, and there you are! You made it! The view is magnificent with Angels Landing and the valley far below.

Learn More About Observation Point Hike: 

How to Hike Observation Point Trail in Zion – Step-By-Step Guide

Observation Point Trail in Zion

You made it! The view is magnificent with Angels Landing and the valley far below / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

NUMBER 7

Take a Riverside Walk Trail

Riverside Walk is an easy trail with little elevation change. It is about 2 miles long round trip. Riverside Walk Trailhead is located at Temple of Sinawava, which is Zion shuttle stop number 9.

It is perfect for a family stroll, and children and it is wheelchair accessible. Riverside Walk meanders along the Virgin River. And, at every turn, you will be captivated by another breathtaking spot.

Riverside Walk in Zion

You made it! The view is magnificent with Angels Landing and the valley far below. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

By the way, historically, Riverside Walk was called Gateway to the Narrows. And, this is right here where the legendary hike called Zion Narrows starts!

So, if the weather is good and the water level is safe, then make sure you include the Zion Narrows hike in your one day in Zion itinerary. If you rented the shoes and the dry pants, then the hike should be a lot of fun and you will not get cold. Plus, you should have a walking stick for the balance, which will be very handy.

NUMBER 8

Hike Zion Narrows - Zion's Legendary Trail

The Zion Narrows is a legendary hike. Notably, you are hiking the Virgin River upstream. In other words, you are hiking the Zion Narrows “Bottom-Up”.

In the summer this hike is especially pleasant in the late afternoon, or an early evening when this part of the canyon is out of direct sunlight.

The starting point for this hike is the last stop on the bus shuttle, number 9, Temple of Sinawava. We start with the Riverside Walk, which takes us to the Zion Narrows.

Keep in mind that you can alter the length of this hike. Go only as far as you want to go! If you feel like you are getting too cold or too tired, just turn around and go back.

Zion Narrows

Weather forecasts need to be taken very seriously. Do not hike the Zion Narrows if there is any kind of rain in the forecast. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

The Zion Narrows Quick Facts:

  • Distance – 5 miles one-way
    • Temple of Sinawava to Gateway to the Narrows – 1 mile
    • Gateway to the Narrows to Mystery Falls – .5 mile
    • Mystery Falls to Wall Street – 1.25 miles
    • Wall Street to Orderville Canyon – .25 mile
    • Orderville Canyon to Big Springs – 2.5 miles
  • Length of Time  – 3-4 hours
  • Elevation Change – mostly flat
  • Difficulty Level – moderate to strenuous river hiking (It is a gradual ascent up the river. You are hiking in knee-deep to waist-deep water)
  • Access – Temple of Sinawava – number 9 on the map
Zion Narrows

Of all the hikes in Zion, Zion Narrows needs to be included in your one day in Zion National Park itinerary. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Zion Narrows

Hiking Zion Narrows is one of the best things to do during one day in Zion National Park. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

The Zion Narrows Practical Information:

  • No Permit is required if you are hiking the Zion Narrows ” Bottom-Up”
  • Weather forecasts need to be taken very seriously. Do not hike the Zion Narrows if there is any kind of rain in the forecast. Flash floods can develop within minutes with strong, rushing water.
  • The Zion Narrows might be closed during the spring months due to snow melt and spring run-off.
Zion Narrows

One day in Zion National Park needs to include the Zion Narrows hike. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Three Options of Hiking the Zion Narrows “Bottom Up:

1. Mystery Falls – Mystery Falls is less than half a mile from the Gateway to the Narrows. It is a very beautiful spot where the water falls down the walls. You can stop right at Mystery Falls and retrace your steps.

2. Wall Street –  if you feel like you are able to continue on, then,  it is roughly 1.25 miles from Mystery Falls to Wall Street. Notably, Wall Street starts when the walls narrow and the Virgin River fills the canyon bottom. The scenery is beautiful here.

3. Orderville Canyon – just a few minutes up from the start of Wall Street is the junction with Orderville Canyon coming in on the right. If you have any energy left, or there is enough time then continue on. This section lasts about a mile and is stunning. As the walls begin to open, I would recommend this as the turnaround spot.

By the way, It will take you 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the junction with Orderville Canyon.

Zion Narrows

In the summer this hike is especially pleasant in the late afternoon, or an early evening when this part of the canyon is out of direct sunlight. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

If you are into photography, then you will absolutely love taking pictures of Zion Narrows. It is one of the visually stunning places that you will ver visit. If taking pictures is something that interests you, then check out my post: Best Photography Locations in Zion National Park

Zion Narrows

If you are into photography, then you will enjoy taking pictures of Zion Narrows. / One Day in Zion

One Day in Zion

Zion Narrows

Hiking Zion Narrows is one of the top things to do in one day in Zion National Park. / One Day in Zion

Zion Narrows

Zion Narrows is a visually stunning place. / One Day in Zion

Learn More About Zion Narrows Hike: 

How to Hike Zion Narrows Trail – Step-By-Step Guide

Zion Narrows hike concludes your one day in Zion adventure. Needless to say, it is a full day packed with many activities. I know you will have fun and enjoy your one day in Zion National Park!

Intrepid Scout's Tips for One Day in Zion

  • Do not expect any solitude at these popular spots in Zion National Park. You will have plenty of company! So, make sure to start your one day in Zion National Park as early as possible.
  • Angels Landing is a scary hike, so make sure you are up to it. If not, then consider hiking Observation Point Trail.
  • Zion Narrows is an absolute must and it needs to be included in your one-day in Zion itinerary. It is a unique place and visually stunning. However,  make sure you are prepared for this hike.
  • Are you planning any road trips this year? How about a 7-Day Road Trip Through Utah National Parks? Check it out and start planning!

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Now, It Is Your Turn, I Would Like to Hear Back from You!

Are you planning your trip to Zion National Park?

Please let me know! Drop me a quick comment right below!

Click on any of the images below to get inspired and to help you with the planning process with your trip to Zion National Park!

Comments:

6 thoughts on “Perfect ONE DAY in Zion National Park (Itinerary+Maps+Tips)


2019-04-24

Fantastic information and gorgeous photos…thanks for sharing!!

    2019-04-24

    Hi Pamela,
    Thank you so much for visiting my website! I appreciate your comment!
    Anna

2019-11-20

I looooved Zion National Park! I’ve been there 5 years ago with friends and we’ve hiked Angels Landing, which was absolutely fabulous!
This year I’ve been in Zion again and wanted to do the Narrows, but in April it wasn’t possible to hike there and almost all of the other trails had been closed because of the hard winter and land slides.

we’ve ended up doing a fantastic trip in the Kalop Canyons section of the park which was supernice as we hadn’t had the time to visit that area the previous time.
Still a little sad that we didn’t have the chance to hike the Narrows! Maybe we gotta come back once more 😉

All the Best,
Christina from https://miles-and-shores.com

    2019-11-20

    Hey Christina!
    Angels Landing is a great hike! I love it.
    Sorry about the Narrows. My daughter is still waiting to get to do this hike. It all depends on the weather. I have no doubt you will experience the Narrows one day!

Catherine
2020-06-30

Thank you for the quick summary of the places to hike in Zion. We plan to go in July and only have one day to hike. Some of us don’t care to hike through the water even though Narrows is so beautiful. And we can’t do Angels Landing due to two little kids with us. What do you recommend for the perfect hiking trail or trails on a hot summer day? Thank you in advance for any tips!

    2020-06-30

    Hi Catherine,
    There are so many family friendly hikes in Zion.
    Check out my post: 10 Staggeringly Cool Hikes in Zion National Park. You will find some great hikes that the entire family can enjoy! I give detailed descriptions of each hike, so you will be well prepared.
    https://www.intrepidscout.com/family-friendly-hikes-in-zion-national-park/

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