Photo by: Fineas Anton

With only three days to spend in Zion National Park, you'll want to make the most of your time exploring the stunning landscapes and iconic trails. Here's a suggested itinerary for a memorable three-day visit:

With only three days to spend in Zion National Park, you'll want to make the most of your time exploring the stunning landscapes and iconic trails. Here's a suggested itinerary for a memorable three-day visit:

Day 1: Explore the Main Canyon

1. Morning: Angels Landing Trail

   • Start early to beat the crowds and hike the challenging Angels Landing Trail. Enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon from the summit.

2. Afternoon: The Narrows Riverside Walk

   • After a hearty lunch, take the shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava and embark on the Riverside Walk. If time permits, venture further into The Narrows for a unique slot canyon experience.

3. Evening: Sunset at Canyon Overlook Trail

   • Drive to the Canyon Overlook Trail for a short, scenic hike offering stunning sunset views of the main canyon.

Day 2: East Side Exploration

1. Morning: Observation Point Trail

   • Hike the Observation Point Trail for panoramic views of the entire canyon. The trailhead is located at the East Rim Entrance.

2. Afternoon: Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and Checkerboard Mesa

   • Drive the scenic Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, stopping at viewpoints like Checkerboard Mesa. Explore the diverse landscapes of the eastern side of the park.

3. Evening: Stargazing at Zion Canyon Visitor Center

   • Attend a ranger-led stargazing program at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. The park's dark skies offer excellent opportunities for observing celestial wonders.

Day 3: The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

1. Morning: Weeping Rock Trail

   • Take a short hike to Weeping Rock, an iconic alcove with dripping springs and hanging gardens.

2. Midday: Emerald Pools Trail

   • Explore the Emerald Pools Trail, visiting the Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools for a refreshing experience.

3. Afternoon: Scenic Drive and Canyon Junction Bridge

   • Drive the scenic Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and stop at various viewpoints. Capture the famous shot of the Watchman from the Canyon Junction Bridge.

4. Evening: Dinner in Springdale

   • Enjoy dinner in the charming town of Springdale, located just outside the park. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating with beautiful views.

Tips:

• Shuttle System: Utilize the park's shuttle system to access popular trailheads and viewpoints. It reduces traffic and provides a more eco-friendly way to explore the park.
• Permits for Narrows: If planning to hike The Narrows, check for permit availability and weather conditions. Narrows hikes may require a permit due to the limited space in the narrow canyons.
• Hydration and Sun Protection: Zion can be hot, especially in summer. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and dress appropriately for the weather.
• Trail Closures: Check for any trail closures or alerts before starting your hikes.

This itinerary provides a mix of challenging hikes, scenic drives, and iconic viewpoints, allowing you to experience the diverse beauty of Zion National Park in a relatively short time. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences and trail conditions.

Check for Zion National Park conditions and updates here: https://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm