10 Incredible Things to Do in Zion National Park, United States
Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. Located in southwestern Utah, the park is known for its stunning red rock canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and incredible hiking trails. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of sightseeing or an adventurous weekend of hiking and exploring, Zion National Park has something for everyone. Here are 10 incredible things to do in Zion National Park.
1. Hike the Narrows
The Narrows is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park. This 16-mile round-trip hike takes you through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, with towering walls on either side. The hike is a bit challenging due to the river crossing and the steep terrain, but the views are worth it. Make sure to bring plenty of water and good hiking shoes!
2. Take a Jeep Tour
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to explore Zion National Park, consider taking a jeep tour. You’ll get to see the park from the comfort of an air-conditioned jeep, with knowledgeable guides pointing out the highlights and giving you the inside scoop on the park.
3. Climb Angels Landing
Angels Landing is one of the most iconic hikes in Zion National Park. This strenuous 5-mile round-trip trail takes you up a steep series of switchbacks to a stunning viewpoint overlooking Zion Canyon. The final stretch of the hike is along a narrow ridge with sheer drops on either side, so it’s not for the faint of heart!
4. Go Horseback Riding
If you’d rather explore Zion National Park on horseback, there are several companies that offer guided horseback rides. You’ll get to see the park from a different perspective, with your trusty steed taking you through the trails and across the river.
5. Take a Scenic Drive
If you don’t feel like hiking, you can still explore the park by taking a scenic drive. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway takes you through the park, with plenty of pull-offs for you to take in the views. Make sure to stop at the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, an engineering marvel that cuts through the sandstone cliffs.
6. Tour the Zion Human History Museum
The Zion Human History Museum is a great place to learn more about the history of the park and the people who have called it home. The museum has interactive exhibits and artifacts from the area’s ancient inhabitants, as well as a film about the park’s geology and ecology.
7. Go Bird Watching
Zion National Park is home to over 300 species of birds, making it a great place for bird watching. Bring your binoculars and head out to the park’s meadows, rivers, and canyons to spot some of the park’s feathered residents.
8. Go Camping
If you’d like to spend more than a day in Zion National Park, you can go camping. There are several campgrounds in the park, ranging from primitive sites to RV sites with hookups. Camping is a great way to get up close and personal with the park’s stunning scenery.
9. Take a River Rafting Trip
If you’re looking for a more thrilling way to explore Zion National Park, consider taking a river rafting trip. You’ll get to explore the park’s canyons and rivers from a different perspective, with your guide pointing out the highlights and helping you navigate the rapids.
10. Visit the Kolob Canyons
The Kolob Canyons are a lesser-known part of Zion National Park, but they’re just as stunning as the main canyon. This 5-mile scenic drive takes you through a series of red rock canyons, with plenty of pull-offs for you to take in the views. Make sure to stop at the Kolob Arch, a natural archway that’s one of the largest in the world.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of sightseeing or an adventurous weekend of hiking and exploring, Zion National Park has something for everyone. With its stunning red rock canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and incredible hiking trails, Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. From hiking the Narrows to taking a jeep tour, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Zion National Park.