Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
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A popular drive within Zion National Park.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
2,677 reviews
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359
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60
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12
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9
SuperDuper Coach
Mitcham, Australia205 contributions
Apr 2022
Astonishingly beautiful canyon. Great short and long hikes.
Horribly busy, and we were there in a ‘quiet’ time. Must be unbearable in summer.
You aren’t allowed to take your car past the visitor center, you have to use their shuttle system. There is such limited parking at the visitors center that we and most others had to go out of the park into the nearby town of Springdale, pay to park ($30 in our case) then either catch a bus or walk back to the national park. The shuttle system works very well, plenty of shuttles. We had no trouble getting on when we wanted to but I can imagine long lines waiting at each stop in summer – and worse still, if you don’t get on at one end of the line, many shuttles might go on by because they are already full. In case you don’t know, there is a single road in the park that finishes at a certain point and you have to come back on the same road – its not a loop road. Therefore there is an end of the line. I think the road is 12 miles long, and has about 6 stops along the way (one or two were closed when we were there, one due to rockfall).
If you can put up with all the mucking about, and can get yourself organised (especially if you can be there early in the day), this is a must see if you are anywhere near this area. The Kayenta trail is beautiful and isn’t a lot of effort; after an initial climb of 50m or so, the rest of the trail is basically flat and hugs the mountainside giving majestic views over the canyon and river. Its about 2 miles and I did it in 45 minutes without hurrying.
Accommodation in the park is exorbitant and accommodation in Springdale is not much better; consider La Verkin or Hurricane, there are plenty of hotels and eating options.
Horribly busy, and we were there in a ‘quiet’ time. Must be unbearable in summer.
You aren’t allowed to take your car past the visitor center, you have to use their shuttle system. There is such limited parking at the visitors center that we and most others had to go out of the park into the nearby town of Springdale, pay to park ($30 in our case) then either catch a bus or walk back to the national park. The shuttle system works very well, plenty of shuttles. We had no trouble getting on when we wanted to but I can imagine long lines waiting at each stop in summer – and worse still, if you don’t get on at one end of the line, many shuttles might go on by because they are already full. In case you don’t know, there is a single road in the park that finishes at a certain point and you have to come back on the same road – its not a loop road. Therefore there is an end of the line. I think the road is 12 miles long, and has about 6 stops along the way (one or two were closed when we were there, one due to rockfall).
If you can put up with all the mucking about, and can get yourself organised (especially if you can be there early in the day), this is a must see if you are anywhere near this area. The Kayenta trail is beautiful and isn’t a lot of effort; after an initial climb of 50m or so, the rest of the trail is basically flat and hugs the mountainside giving majestic views over the canyon and river. Its about 2 miles and I did it in 45 minutes without hurrying.
Accommodation in the park is exorbitant and accommodation in Springdale is not much better; consider La Verkin or Hurricane, there are plenty of hotels and eating options.
Written April 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AndyJo1974
Bronx, NY133 contributions
Oct 2022 • Friends
What no one tells you:
Unless you’re in the Visitor Center parking lot at 7am, you need to pay to park in Springdale ($20+) and ride the city shuttle to the park, enter the park, then catch the shuttle for the Scenic Drive.
The shuttles are fast and come often, but parking in Springdale was a bit confusing and was only until 4pm, so we felt we had to be on a shuttle out by 3pm to move the car. That might not be the case, but as I said, parking was confusing!
The Scenic Drive is nice and being able to hop off and on the bus is convenient.
Unless you’re in the Visitor Center parking lot at 7am, you need to pay to park in Springdale ($20+) and ride the city shuttle to the park, enter the park, then catch the shuttle for the Scenic Drive.
The shuttles are fast and come often, but parking in Springdale was a bit confusing and was only until 4pm, so we felt we had to be on a shuttle out by 3pm to move the car. That might not be the case, but as I said, parking was confusing!
The Scenic Drive is nice and being able to hop off and on the bus is convenient.
Written October 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
marcia s
Summerville, SC189 contributions
May 2020 • Couples
We were at park during covid, shuttles were not running! We drove in late afternoon, hiked the narrows trail until reaching the water. Sun was setting on rocks, crowds were few. It was soo awesome that no words can describe. As sun sets the colors on rocks are In describable!
Written July 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JQ771
Walpole, MA8 contributions
Oct 2020 • Solo
Let me start by stating this is not a negative review about Zion NP itself! We all know how stunningly beautiful Zion is. My problem is with the shuttle system. It is basically IMPOSSIBLE to get shuttle tickets on the Parks App, which is the only place that sells them. I logged on at exactly 9am on the day prior but all tickets were already sold out. So basically I booked a hotel (expensive!) in Springdale to be close to the Zion Canyon Drive but couldn't get on a darn shuttle in order to see it. They charge a $35 entrance fee at the East entrance knowing full well you most likely have no shot at seeing the best part of the park, which irks me. The only other options are walking or renting a bike, which is kind of hard to do with heavy camera gear in tow. As beautiful as Zion is, it's sort of like Disneyland. My advice is to head to Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Grand Staircase. Just as stunning scenery with no B.S. and no crowds.
Written October 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sylboh
Calgary, Canada162 contributions
Dec 2019
The shuttles run for most of the year except end of Nov/Dec into some of Jan. If you simply ride the shuttle you can sit back and relax and enjoy the magnificent views around you. The line for the shuttle can get ridiculous in the summer, worth going during off seasons to save time. The entire shuttle ride is still about 1h15/1h30.
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
HPSGene
Palos Verdes Estates, CA256 contributions
Oct 2020 • Couples
During the shuttle season it’s hard to get the full effect as the shuttles obstruct your view while inside. The best way would be to bike the road. A lot of people were doing that.
I am guessing once the shuttle stops running, the drive up would be great.
We did get shutting tickets for both days were were in this part of the park but I believe we gat them about a month out. They have limited seats on the shuttle right now for distancing.
I am guessing once the shuttle stops running, the drive up would be great.
We did get shutting tickets for both days were were in this part of the park but I believe we gat them about a month out. They have limited seats on the shuttle right now for distancing.
Written October 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our America
Apache Junction, AZ276 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
The rock formations stand large, strong and command presence. So very unique in the layers of colors and movement of lines. The 1.1 mile tunnel built in the 1930s is quite impressive. 2 driving lanes bored straight through this very hard solid rock. Incredible engineering in the 30s. Many pull outs to view sites and hike the trails. Beautiful day.
Written October 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
loves2travelandmore
Forest, Virginia553 contributions
Oct 2022
The Scenic Drive is viewed from the shuttle buses which are based at the information center and are mandatory most of the year to avoid congestion on the roads and the limited parking areas. They travel very regularly, and so you can be dropped off at one trailhead and be picked up at the end of the trail. You can get a good overall feel for the park from the shuttle without exerting yourself if there are physical limitations. At the Zion Lodge we heard coyote pups learning to howl.
Written October 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TishdeDish
O'Fallon, MO16 contributions
Oct 2022
Breathtaking drive! Pictures just don't do this justice! During most months, this drive is a straight shot through the southern end of Zion from gate to gate. You can go north to trolly stop 3. However, it's closed to cars from 3-9 during most of the year. as such, this path is the only real way to drive 'though' Zion. The lighting changes depending upon the weather and time of day. Don't miss diving through during the 'golden hours' near sunset when the light bounces off all of the landscape.
Written October 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TravelingSoccerLoon
Saint Paul, MN5,970 contributions
Feb 2021
Spectacular scenery all along the route. Plenty of pull outs to get out and get some great photos like at Courtyard of the Patriarchs or Great White Throne. However, you really should park the car and do some hikes whether it's the awe inspiring but strenuous climb to the top of Angel's Landing or the easier Riverside Walk or Emerald Pools Trail to fully appreciate this beautiful National Park. During the off-season from November through February when shuttles are not running, I was able to drive my car along the road. However keep in mind that rangers may close the road at any time to prevent traffic from overwhelming the park as happened on Friday Feb 26.
Written March 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rajiv
Kolkata (Calcutta), India
Can I drive to Grand Canyon West Rim from Las Vegas
Written September 13, 2024
How long does it take to drive through the park? We want to do it on our way from Vegas to Colorado but not sure how long it will take?
Written July 25, 2024
My dear Utah mountain experts. I need your help. I am going to be in Salt Lake City on Wed Aug 31 and I would like to see either Moab’s Arches or Zion Park or both. Here is my question - Which drive from SLC to a national park is the easiest because I am not a good driver? I don’t like very high inclines or sharp turns or small roads. Not a jeep or SUV person, but I might rent it anyway. I would like to stay at a nice Lodge, enjoy nice scenic views and not have to struggle with elevation or driving challenges. Unfortunately, I’m not much of a.hiker or biking guru plus the soaring heat will add difficulty. Since I am with a small group taking expensive tours is not an option. Hoping to take a few pictures and relax. Do you have any advice for this Wed through Sat (4days 3 nights) trip to a national park? Also my flight is back home from SLC on Sun (Sep 3) so I’ll have to drive back on Sat Sep 2 from the national park. I could stop somewhere between park and SLC on Sat night. Any suggestions? Thank you so much in advance!
Written July 22, 2023
We are headed to Zion in 2 weeks and hope to hike part of the narrows. We will be staying very near the park entrance in Springdale. With the reduced vehicle access we are wondering if it makes sense to ride bikes instead of trying to drive. We are 2 moderately fit middle aged parents and 2 teens. Can anyone give me info as to how steep the road is and is it relatively safe in terms of cars passing us and drop offs?
Written June 3, 2020
If you’re staying near the entrance, you can definitely ride a bike or even walk. It’s all relatively close. The road is completely flat and paved, so you shouldn’t have any difficulty biking it or walking it.
Written August 1, 2020
You are not allowed to drive through the main canyon - you must take the shuttle from March-November. During the winter, you would be able to drive through the main canyon. Should you have mobility issues, you can apply at the main ranger station for a pass to be able to drive and park into the main canyon.
Written September 24, 2019
Hello, Do i have to pay to pass through the scenic route? even if i have the America the Beautiful pass?
Written September 23, 2019
If you don't have your valid pass you will have to pay the $35 entrance fee. I fell into this trap when I went to the Grand Canyon. I visited both sides within 7 days and after losing the receipt from the south entrance I had to pay again at the north entrance. Just make sure your pass is signed and you have other ID just in case.
Written September 24, 2019
for the Zion scenic drive, I think it should be the one from visitor center to the Temple of Sinawava, and only shuttle bus is allowed in the summer season, so I want to know is it all the stops are worthwhile to stop at, and take some pictures of the views? is it all stops have views of some of the features in the park? if not, then which stops can be skipped? or which stops is a MUST to get off the bus and take a look? thanks.
Written March 24, 2019
I drove thru by car. I do believe the bus was running when I visited.
Written March 24, 2019
My Fiance and I are planning a trip in January 2019 for our 10 year Anniversary and want to know what you guys would suggest for us to pack?
How cold does it get?
We plan to spend 1 or 2 nights in springdale (is this suggested or should I check for places in st George??)
We also plan to drive this scenic route and walk around at the stops but no serious hiking or anything like that.
we are first timers so just want to do light exploring and take in the beauty
TIA!
Written November 12, 2018
Springdale is the best location. I stayed at the Historic Pioneer Lodge and was very happy. It is very close to the entrance to the park.January can be cold or warm, pack layers you will need them to hike. I was there in February and the temperature variance was nearly 40 degrees during my hike up Angels Landing. If you are hiking, BRING PLENTY OF SUPPLIES!!
Written November 13, 2018
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