What to know before heading to Zion National Park this Presidents Day weekend and beyond

Zion National Park is traditionally busy during Presidents Day weekend, Zion National Park, Utah, date not specified | Photo courtesy of Zion National Park, St. George News

ST. GEORGE — With Presidents Day on the horizon, Zion National Park officials issued a press release to help visitors plan ahead.

Presidents Day weekend 

Holiday weekends are busy at Zion National Park.

  • Shuttles will not run during Presidents Day weekend.
  • When shuttles are not running, drivers can use personal vehicles on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (the road from Canyon Junction to popular trailheads including the Temple of Sinawava and the Narrows).
  • Plan for limited parking. Space typically fills early on holiday weekends.
  • When parking in Zion Canyon is full, the National Park Service may temporarily close Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
  • Expect to long waits at the South Entrance.
  • Check the forecast and be ready for snow, rain or ice.

2024 shuttle service resumes March 3 

In this file photo, visitors wait to board Zion Canyon Line Shuttles, Zion National Park, Utah, Nov. 20, 2023 | Photo courtesy of National Park Service/ Jonathan Shafer, St. George News

Shuttle service will resume this March in Zion Canyon and Springdale. Visitors can drive personal vehicles on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive until shuttle service starts.

Winter and spring camping 

Watchman Campground

South Campground   

  • Closed.

Lava Point 

  • Closed for the winter season.

Learn more at www.recreation.gov or by calling l-877-444-6777. Plan ahead and make arrangements before you arrive at the park.

Visitor Center, Wilderness Permit Desk and Park Store hours   

Zion Canyon Visitor Center 

  • Opens 8 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. every day.

Wilderness Permit Desk

  • Open from 8-10 a.m. and from 3-4:30 p.m. at Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
  • No Wilderness Permits are issued at Kolob Canyons Visitor Center in winter.

Zion Canyon Park Store – Managed by Zion Forever   

  • Opens 8 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. every day.

Kolob Canyons Visitor Center 

  • Open 8 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. every day.
  • Visit Zion Canyon Visitor Center if you need a Wilderness Permit. No Wilderness Permits are issued at Kolob Canyons in winter.

Kolob Canyons Park Store – Managed by Zion Forever 

  • Open at 8 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. every day.

Plan ahead and prepare   

A fire ring at Watchman Campground is blackened in Zion National Park, Utah July 30, 2023 | Photo courtesy of the National Park Service/Abi Farish, St. George News

If you cannot find parking in Zion or if all of our campsites are full, research nearby communities and public lands to learn about other recreational activities and lodging in the area. Always recreate responsibly and respect private owners’ property and facilities. Follow Leave No Trace practices everywhere and be sure to pack out all your trash.

Need to know   

No matter when you visit Zion National Park, plan ahead by checking for updates.

  • Parking lots fill up early year-round.
  • Watch out for pedestrians and bicyclists if you are driving.
  • B.A.R.K. in the park. Pets are only allowed in campgrounds, on paved surfaces, and the Pa’rus Trail. Plan ahead if you will visit with a pet.
  • Dress in layers and consider using traction devices because weather can change quickly and your safety is your responsibility.
  • 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 weekends. Consider arriving early or after 3 p.m. to avoid the busiest times of day.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2024, all rights reserved.

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