ST. GEORGE — Along with fall, change has come for Zion National Park.
Every year, the National Park Service adjusts shuttle schedules and campground availability to reflect the seasons. Here is what you need to know to plan your visit this fall or winter, according to a press release issued by the park.
Fall personal vehicle access in Zion Canyon starts Monday
- The last day of fall shuttle service in Zion Canyon and Springdale was Sunday.
- Visitors can drive personal vehicles on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive starting Monday.
- Plan for limited parking; when parking in Zion Canyon is full, the park service may temporarily close the road.
Shuttle service resumes Dec. 23 – Jan. 1, 2022
- Shuttle service will resume in Zion Canyon and Springdale starting Dec. 23 for 10 days.
- This 10-day period is a continuation of a pilot program instituted by Zion National Park in recent seasons.
- During the 10 days, visitors cannot drive personal vehicles on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
- Face masks are required on the shuttle.
Winter personal vehicle access in Zion Canyon starts Jan. 2, 2022
- The last day of winter shuttle service in Zion Canyon and Springdale is Jan. 1, 2022.
- Visitors can drive personal vehicles on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive starting on Jan. 2, 2022.
- Plan for limited parking; when parking in Zion Canyon is full, the park service may temporarily close the road.
Shuttle service resumes on weekends in mid-February
The park service will resume shuttle service on weekends only (Saturday and Sunday) in mid-February and daily starting in mid-March. We will share specific dates in 2022.
Fall and winter camping
Watchman Campground is open year-round, and you can make a reservation up to six months before your visit at online or by calling l-877-444-6777. The park encourages you to plan ahead and make arrangements fo
South Campground and Lava Point Campground are closed for the season.
Visitor Center and Wilderness Permit Desk hours
Zion Visitor Center
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Opens 8 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. every day through the fall and the winter.
Wilderness Permit Desk at Zion Visitor Center
- Open 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 3-4:30 p.m.
Need to know
No matter when you visit Zion, plan ahead by checking for updates.
Whether you ride a shuttle or drive your own car in Zion Canyon, be prepared for crowds.
- Parking lots fill up early year-round.
- Watch out for pedestrians and bicyclists if you are driving.
- Stay on trails and avoid walking in the road.
- Ride your bike on the road or the Pa’Rus Trail. Bicycling is not allowed on any other trails in the park. If you are riding in the road, you must stop to let buses pass you.
- The park service may temporarily close roads if traffic is congested or there is nowhere for drivers to park.
- In general, fewer people visit Zion on weekdays than on weekends. Consider arriving early or after 3 p.m. to avoid the busiest times of day.
Plan ahead and prepare
If you cannot park in Zion or if all of our campsites are full, research nearby communities and public lands to learn about other recreational activities and lodging. Always recreate responsibly and respect private owners’ property and facilities.
Please do not gather in large crowds and be mindful of social distancing or wear a face mask if social distancing cannot be maintained. Follow Leave No Trace practices everywhere in the park and be sure to pack out all your trash.
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