3 Days in Zion

How This Itinerary Works

Three days gives you room to breathe. Day 1 is a gentle introduction to Zion Canyon, Day 2 is the big-hike day, and Day 3 is a slower day for the east side, photography, and Springdale. Zion Canyon stops on Days 1 and 2 use the canyon shuttle, which typically runs from mid-March through late November. [VERIFY: nps.gov]

Day 1: An Easy Start in Zion Canyon

Morning

Take the shuttle to Zion Lodge (Stop 5) for Emerald Pools, then on to Weeping Rock (Stop 7) for the short Weeping Rock walk. Rockfall has closed the Weeping Rock trail more than once, so confirm its status first. [VERIFY: nps.gov]

Afternoon

Ride to the Temple of Sinawava (Stop 9) and walk the paved Riverside Walk, one of the gentlest and most scenic walks in the park.

Evening

Take the Pa'rus Trail along the Virgin River from the Visitor Center (Stop 1). It is paved, mostly flat, and bike- and leashed-dog-friendly. Dinner in Springdale after; see the eat guides.

Day 2: The Big Hike Day

Morning

Choose one big objective. Angels Landing is the signature hike and needs a permit past Scout Lookout. [VERIFY: nps.gov] Or wade into The Narrows from the Temple of Sinawava; the hike guide lists a range of 1 to 8 hours depending on how far you go, and the top-down through-hike is the permitted version. [VERIFY: nps.gov]

Afternoon

Rest. After a big morning, let the afternoon be an easy one: a long lunch in Springdale, gear return if you rented for The Narrows, and a break for your legs.

Evening

Save energy for the Watchman Trail, a moderate loop of about 2 hours that the hike guide calls exceptional at sunrise and sunset.

Day 3: East Side, Photography, and a Slower Pace

Morning

Drive east through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel to the Canyon Overlook Trail, about an hour round trip and not on the shuttle route. Its lot is tiny, fills at first light, and stays full most of the day, so arrive at first light and, if it is full, plan something else nearby; do not park on the highway shoulder. [VERIFY: nps.gov]

Afternoon

Use the rest of the day for photography. The scenic drives for photographers guide and the best photo spots page will help you choose where to stop.

Evening

Catch the light with the best sunset spots, then a last dinner in Springdale. If you would rather add a park beyond Zion, try the Zion and Bryce itinerary.

Where to Stay

With three nights, choose your base once and stay put. See where to stay near Zion, the Springdale directory, and where to stay for Zion.