[FULL GUIDE] 50 Must-See Experiences at Zion National Park for Hiking and Scenic Views

Key Takeaways:

• Zion National Park is renowned for its majestic red rock formations, iconic hiking trails, and incredible vistas, making it a top destination for outdoor adventurers.
• Visitors can experience Zion through its world-famous hikes, like The Narrows and Angels Landing, or explore its stunning backcountry and scenic drives.
• Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone looking for a more relaxed nature experience, Zion offers something for everyone to enjoy in this awe-inspiring desert landscape.

Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a landscape of rugged beauty, iconic red rock formations, and captivating hiking trails. Established as a national park in 1919, Zion draws millions of visitors each year to witness its awe-inspiring cliffs, emerald pools, and winding canyons. Known for its world-famous hikes, such as Angels Landing and The Narrows, Zion is a paradise for adventure seekers, but it also offers accessible trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing for visitors of all experience levels. With its dramatic geological features, Zion is a natural wonder that continues to captivate visitors year-round, offering everything from strenuous hikes to peaceful nature walks, and stunning views at every turn.

50 Things to Do at Zion National Park:

#1 Hike Angels Landing:
Challenge yourself with the famous Angels Landing hike for breathtaking views of Zion Canyon.

#2 Explore The Narrows:
Wade through the Virgin River in Zion’s iconic Narrows for an unforgettable adventure.

#3 Take the Scenic Drive:
Drive through Zion Canyon Scenic Drive for stunning views of towering cliffs and lush valleys.

#4 Hike the Emerald Pools Trail:
Hike to the Emerald Pools, offering waterfalls, lush vegetation, and panoramic canyon views.

#5 Go Canyoneering in Zion:
Experience canyoneering in one of Zion’s many slot canyons for an exhilarating adventure.

#6 Visit Kolob Canyons:
Explore the quieter side of Zion at Kolob Canyons, offering beautiful, lesser-visited trails and viewpoints.

#7 Watch the Sunset at Canyon Overlook:
Catch a breathtaking sunset over Zion Canyon from the Canyon Overlook Trail.

#8 Take a Guided Tour:
Join a guided ranger tour to learn about Zion’s geology, history, and wildlife.

#9 Explore the Checkerboard Mesa:
Visit the Checkerboard Mesa, a stunning sandstone formation with unique crosshatch patterns.

#10 Hike the Watchman Trail:
Enjoy a moderate hike with stunning views of Zion Canyon and the park’s iconic peaks.

#11 Go Horseback Riding:
Take a horseback ride through Zion’s scenic landscapes for a fun and relaxing experience.

#12 Visit the Zion Human History Museum:
Learn about Zion’s cultural and natural history at the Zion Human History Museum.

#13 Explore Hidden Canyon:
Hike the Hidden Canyon Trail for a relatively short but steep adventure with incredible views.

#14 Go Stargazing at the Kolob Canyons:
Enjoy clear desert skies and incredible stargazing at the Kolob Canyons section of Zion.

#15 Hike the Riverside Walk:
Walk along the Virgin River on this easy trail leading to The Narrows entrance.

#16 Climb to the Top of Observation Point:
Hike to Observation Point for one of the best panoramic views of Zion Canyon.

#17 Visit the Court of the Patriarchs:
Take a short walk to the Court of the Patriarchs, where you can admire Zion’s towering rock formations.

#18 Kayak the Virgin River:
Kayak or raft along the Virgin River for a scenic water adventure through Zion’s picturesque canyons.

#19 Explore the Subway:
Take on the adventurous Subway route, a challenging and famous canyoneering hike through Zion’s unique terrain.

#20 Go Birdwatching:
Spot a variety of bird species, including Peregrine Falcons and California Condors, in Zion’s diverse habitats.

#21 Take the Pa’rus Trail:
Hike or bike the easy Pa’rus Trail along the Virgin River, offering beautiful views and wildlife sightings.

#22 Go Rock Climbing:
Test your climbing skills on one of Zion’s famous rock faces, including El Capitan and The Streaked Wall.

#23 Explore the Temple of Sinawava:
Hike the Temple of Sinawava for a great start to The Narrows and to admire its massive rock formations.

#24 Visit the Zion National Park Visitor Center:
Start your visit at the Zion Visitor Center for maps, exhibits, and essential information about the park.

#25 Take the Scenic Kolob Terrace Road:
Drive along Kolob Terrace Road for breathtaking views and a less crowded area of the park.

#26 Go on a Scenic Shuttle Ride:
Take the Zion Canyon Shuttle for a convenient and scenic way to explore the park.

#27 Hike the Angel’s Landing Trail:
For an exhilarating challenge, hike to the top of Angel’s Landing for one of Zion’s best views.

#28 Explore the Grotto Trail:
Hike the Grotto Trail, a short and easy trail offering beautiful views and access to The Narrows.

#29 Take a Photography Tour:
Capture Zion’s iconic landscapes on a guided photography tour for tips and perfect shots.

#30 Attend the Zion Canyon Music Festival:
Enjoy live music performances and local culture at the Zion Canyon Music Festival.

#31 Visit the Weeping Rock:
Take a short hike to the Weeping Rock, where water seeps from the canyon walls.

#32 Go for a Scenic Bike Ride:
Ride a bike along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive or on designated bike trails for a unique way to explore.

#33 Take the East Rim Trail:
Explore Zion’s East Rim Trail for incredible views and the chance to see the park’s diverse ecosystems.

#34 Hike to the Cable Mountain:
Take the steep Cable Mountain Trail for views of Zion Canyon and the surrounding desert.

#35 Visit the Zion Canyon Visitor Center:
Learn about the park’s unique geological features, history, and visitor resources at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

#36 Take the La Verkin Creek Trail:
Hike the La Verkin Creek Trail for a more secluded, peaceful trek through Zion’s desert landscape.

#37 Go on a Nature Walk:
Join a ranger-led nature walk to learn about Zion’s diverse flora and fauna.

#38 Hike the West Rim Trail:
Take on the West Rim Trail for stunning views of Zion’s high desert and narrow canyons.

#39 Explore the Zion Tunnel:
Drive through the famous Zion Tunnel, carved through the rock, as you make your way into the park.

#40 Visit the Zion Rock and Mountain Guides:
Learn about Zion’s geology and rock climbing opportunities with Zion Rock and Mountain Guides.

#41 Experience the Wildflower Blooms:
Visit in spring to witness the park’s wildflower blooms, adding vibrant colors to Zion’s landscapes.

#42 Take a Photography Workshop:
Capture Zion’s beauty with the help of an expert photographer through a guided workshop.

#43 Visit the Checkerboard Mesa:
Explore the striking Checkerboard Mesa, a unique sandstone formation with intriguing cross-hatching patterns.

#44 Hike to the Lower Emerald Pool:
Take a short hike to the Lower Emerald Pool for views of waterfalls and surrounding cliffs.

#45 Explore the Hidden Valley:
Hike into Hidden Valley for a secluded and peaceful spot, ideal for nature lovers.

#46 Go on a Sunset Tour:
Take a ranger-led sunset tour to see Zion’s incredible landscapes bathed in warm, golden light.

#47 Take the Hidden Canyon Trail:
Hike the Hidden Canyon Trail, offering secluded views and a quiet escape from the crowds.

#48 Visit the Zion Art Gallery:
Browse Zion’s art gallery to see works inspired by the park’s breathtaking landscapes.

#49 Go Cross-Country Skiing in Winter:
In winter, explore Zion’s snow-covered trails by cross-country skiing for a peaceful adventure.

#50 Take a Guided Wildflower Tour:
Join a guided tour to learn about Zion’s diverse and colorful wildflowers, especially in spring.

For a smooth and organized adventure in Zion, plan your trip with PlanMyWeekend.ai and enjoy every moment of your journey!

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai