The Ultimate Guide to Zion’s Spectacular Canyon

Zion Canyon is a long and narrow canyon in southwestern Utah, United States, carved by the North Fork of the Virgin River. In some places, the Navajo Sandstone walls rise to nearly 2,000 feet above the floor of the canyon. Today, at approximately 146,000 acres, nearly all of Zion Canyon is within a single park—Zion National Park. Indeed, millions visit the site annually, as many as over 5 million in the peak year. Geologically, Zion Canyon reveals an estimated 2,000 ft thick sectioning of sedimentary layers. The overlying rocks are Jurassic Navajo Sandstone (ancient desert dunes), and beneath them are older sandstones and limestones. The Colorado Plateau (rising to some 10,000′) was uplifted by tectons, providing the Virgin River the power to slice through these rocks.

 

Scientists tell us that; “Navajo Sandstone is a highly resistant red to buff colored sandstone with a broad set of applications that have long been utilized throughout human history. Navajo Sandstone is a red to, less commonly, white or pink, very hard, fine-grained sandstone of Middle Jurassic Age. These vibrantly colored layers (Navajo Sandstone on top, Kayenta/Moenave sandstone, and Kaibab limestone on the bottom) span ~150 million years of earth history. Uplift increased either stream gradients or the slope of the Virgin River, or both, so that the river began to eat away, fast. In reality, “the Virgin River is still sculpting” the canyon: it is still stripping away shale underlayers and undercutting sandstone, slowly working to deepen and widen Zion Canyon.

 

Zion Canyon experiences a desert climate. Summers are hot (average highs 100°F in July) and winters cool (average highs 54°F in January). Rainfall is scarce (~16.3 in.), but 99% falls during monsoon storms in the summer months. Day/night fluctuations can surpass 30°F, so hikers should be prepared for significant temperature shifts. The majority (about 65%) of visitors arrive from April through September, which coincides with the warm spring/summer months.

 

 

 

How was Zion Canyon created?

 

Zion Canyon developed as the Virgin River eroded downward into lifted sedimentary rock. The river carved out a deep gorge in the rising plateau; thousands of feet of rock were eventually eroded by the River.

What rock units form Zion Canyon?

 

The canyon walls reveal a succession of sedimentary layers that span only a portion of the epocohes of geological time, from roughly 270 to about 180 million years ago. The uppermost layer is Jurassic Navajo Sandstone, laid down by giant ancient sand dunes. Beneath it are the Kayenta and Moenave sandstones (fluvial deposits) and the Kaibab limestone of old seas. They are of different colors and hardnesses. For instance, the Navajo Sandstone is thick and cross-bedded, creating the big red cliffs.

What led to the formation of Zion Canyon through erosion and uplift?

 

The uplift increased the plateau forming Zion Canyon as much as (up to about 10,000ft) and varved the streams. The North Fork of the Virgin River subsequently tore through, cutting away the rock beneath. And since the uplift has started, the river has been removing “several thousand feet of rock” that stacked above the canyon. This rapidly flowing river carved a narrow, V-shaped valley and that valley became Zion Canyon. Erosion is continuing: “The Virgin River is still cutting through” the canyon. It has not stopped cutting through the hard Navajo Sandstone as well as eroding the softer shale underneath, breaking the sandstone walls and deepening and widening the gorge.

 

 

What are the main attractions and hikes in Zion Canyon?

 

Published Aug. 21, 2017 Updated Oct. 30, 2019 3. Hikes and views Zion Canyon is home to several iconic hikes and overlooks. Key highlights include:

 

• Angels Landing: A 5.4-mile suggestively difficult (it has just a 1,488-ft gain) out and back to the narrow 5,790-ft summit of this monolith for summit views in all directions. The last half-mile is chain-railing protected.
• Observation Point: The pictures do not lie, 8-mile trail (-/+2300 ft) to about 6,500 ft elevations of even higher views than Angels Landing.
• The Narrows: A hike (up to 16 miles out-and-back) up the river along the Virgin River. The walls of the canyon taper down to ~20-feet wide. Hikers wade the river between huge walls of stone (flash flood danger during storms).
• Canyon Overlook: A brief 0.5-mile (one-way) hike (+154 ft) on the east side. It terminates at a cliff-edge viewpoint overlooking Zion Canyon (opposite the “Towers of the Virgin”).
• Emerald Pools: A ~3-mile loop to visit waterfalls and ponded pools. (Note: swimming is not allowed.)
• Other easy trails: Riverside Walk (2 mi paved roundtrip along the Virgin River) and Pa’rus Trail (3.2 mi roundtrip; multi-use concrete trail to the canyon junction) with pastoral river scenes.

Every path is well signposted and level of difficulty differs. For instance, Angels Landing is a 3- to 4-hour hike, while Canyon Overlook is an easy stroll. Note that all trails must be prepared (see below).

What is the weather like in Zion Canyon?

 

Zion Canyon is in a high-desert climate: hot through the day with low humidity in summer and moderate during wintertime. Normal high temperatures in July are around 100°F (38°C), with 100°F being surpassed on 71 days per year, in contrast to January average high temperatures of approximately 54°F (12°C). Nights can drop 30 degrees or more. It receives an average of about 16 inches of rain per year, the bulk of it during the summer monsoon season. July–Aug afternoon thunderstorms can create flash floods in narrow areas such as The Narrows. For that reason, hikers should bring plenty of water and sun protection any time of year and check the weather forecast (and skip the river hike if rain is expected).

 

Seasonal highlights: A spring (Apr–May) wildflowers festoon riverbanks and rivers are rising, with mean highs 75–85°F).Summer (Jun–Aug) is hottest and most crowded, with mean temperatures 100°F. In fall (Sept–Oct) temperatures cool down and there’s some autumn color. Winter (Nov–Mar) is cold and off-season (highs around 50°F; some snow). In fact, 65% of Zion’s visitors come in the Apr–Sept time period, so spring/fall provide more temperate weather and fewer people.

 

 

What should visitors know to prepare for Zion Canyon?

 

Visitors should be prepared for strenuous hikes, intense heat and access via shuttle only. Key tips include:

• Take the shuttle It’s free. From March to November most of the trails of Zion Canyon are only accessible by shuttle. Private cars are not allowed beyond the Visitor Center during the height of summer. Shuttles are ~7-20min apart arrive early in summer. (Note: Zion has 26 battery-powered shuttle buses as of 2024.)
• Stay hydrated, skip the heat: During the summer months, it can reach upwards of 95-100°F. Hike early morning or late afternoon to avoid the mid-day heat on the trails. Have at least 1 gallon of water per person and wear sun protection.
• Check the weather and river flows: Afternoon thunderstorms in the summer can appear unexpectedly. Don’t hike The Narrows or slot canyons if rain is in the forecast (flash floods can happen fast).
• Permits and fees: Everyone must pay a park entrance fee. Get a permit to hike Angels Landing (needed to go beyond Scout Lookout). Permits are also required for backcountry campers. No permit is required for day-hikes (except Angels Landing) or shuttle use.
• Physical prep: A lot of Zion’s trails see a seriously steep elevation gain. Wear good footwear. Keep in mind that park rescue crews make numerous rescues each year; hiking with a group and knowing your limits is a safer bet.

Visitors can safely appreciate its beauty by preparing for Zion’s heat, scenery and throngs. Adhere to Leave No Trace principles, bring maps or the NPS app, and tell someone your plans.

 

Category	Feature / Season	Data / Details
Viewpoint	Angels Landing	5.4 miles round-trip; +1,488 feet; 5,790 feet at the summit with chains.
Viewpoint	Observation Point	8 mi; +2,300 ft gain; summit ~6,500 ft with 360 views.
Viewpoint	Canyon Overlook	0.5 mi (one-way); +154 ft; easy trail ends at a canyon edge view “ the “Towers of the Virgin.
Trail Name	The Narrows (river)	Length16 mi hike (out & back) Condition canyon can be as narrow as ~20 ft Lowdown: Requires wading in water; high risk of flooding
Trail	Emerald Pools	~3 mi loop; waterfalls and pools; no swimming. Moderate difficulty.
Season	Spring (Apr–May)	Highs 75–86°F; warm; wildflowers, increasing river flows; 19% of annual visitation (Apr 8%, May 11%).
Season	Summer (Jun–Aug)	Highs ~95–100°F; very hot, afternoon storms frequent; busiest (Jun 12%, Jul 12%, Aug 10% of annual visits).
Season	Fall (Sep–Oct)	Highs 85–91°F; cooler; fall foliage; 22% of visits (Sep 11%, Oct 11%).
Season	Winter (Nov–March)	Highs 50–64°F, lows 30°F; rare snow; least crowded (~16% of visits).

 

 

What is the best time to visit Zion Canyon?

 

Opt for a trip in spring (April–May) or fall (Sept–Oct) for the most comfortable weather when crowds are lighter. There is mild weather during these seasons (pleasant 70s–80s°F). June-August Summer is hot (95-100 F) and crowded (each June/July ~12% of annual visits). Winter offers cold nights and snow on the occasional day, but without so many people. So, for the best temperatures and minimal crowds, plan for late spring or early fall.

What permits or fees do I need for Zion Canyon?

 

The park entrance fee (approximately $35 per vehicle, annually updated) is charged to all visitors. You need a permit to hike Angels Landing past Scout Lookout – the process can be done by lottery or day-before. For most other day hikes, and for riding the shuttle, no permit is required. You need a separate permit for backcountry camping (camping overnight in the wild). All campsite or lodging reservations within the park require a reservation.

Do I have to take the shuttle, or can I drive in Zion Canyon?

 

Private cars are not permitted beyond the Visitor Center, spring through fall – free park shuttle service is available. For details, see below under Getting Around. The shuttle stops at several trailheads (#1–#6 in the canyon), and shuttle service is frequent. During the winter the shuttle may not run and private cars can drive up canyon. Note: Zion’s shuttle fleet has converted to all-electric (26 buses as of 2024). Be sure to check the day’s shuttle schedule and arrive early as lots can fill fast.

Can I camping or spend the night at Zion Canyon?

 

Yes. Watchman Campground (located next to the Visitor Center) is open year-round and has both tent and RV sites (reservations required). Sites are available seasonally at South Campground (near the Zion Museum). —Zion Lodge (inside the canyon) rim features cabins and a restaurant. Reservations are required for all campground sites: there is no walk-in camping in Zion Canyon. Backcountry (wilderness) camping is permit required and only allowed in a designated area.

Can I take my pet to Zion Canyon trails?

 

Pets on a leash are restricted to the paved Pa’rus Trail. This 3.2-mile trail runs alongside the Virgin River and is the only trail in Zion Canyon where dogs (on a leash, no longer than 6’), longboards, and bicycles are allowed. Most trails (Angels Landing, Narrows, etc.) and the backcountry do not permit pets. Service animals are allowed only on paved and on boardwalk surface.

What precautions can I take in Zion Canyon?

 

If you plan well, Zion Canyon is fairly safe. Make sure to have enough water and wear sunblock, particularly in the summer. Monitor weather reports – don’t venture into slot canyons like The Narrows if rain is in the forecast (flash flooding can occur very quickly). Adhere closely to trail safety (don’t inch close to cliff ledges, hang on to chains on Angels Landing). Rockfall and unstable trails are present, and sturdy shoes and care are required. And, finally, give wildlife space (rattlesnakes are uncommon but exist). In other words, prepare, understand the conditions of the park, and hike only as far as you can.