Are Reservations Required for Zion National Park?
No, reservations are not required to enter Zion National Park. Unlike some other national parks, such as Yosemite or Glacier, Zion does not require a timed entry or day-use reservation to access the park. Visitors can purchase a pass at the entrance station or online, which allows entry for a specified period.
Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. With its towering sandstone cliffs, famous hikes like Angels Landing, and stunning canyon views, millions of people flock to Zion each year. Due to its popularity, visitors often wonder whether reservations are required to visit the park. This guide will explain everything you need to know about reservations at Zion National Park, including park entry, shuttles, camping, and permits for specific activities.
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Entrance Fees
Visitors must pay an entrance fee, which varies depending on the type of pass:
- Private Vehicle Pass: $35 (valid for 7 consecutive days)
- Motorcycle Pass: $30 (valid for 7 consecutive days)
- Per Person (walk-in, bicycle, or shuttle): $20 (valid for 7 consecutive days)
- Annual Zion Pass: $70 (valid for 1 year for unlimited visits to Zion)
Visitors can also use the America the Beautiful Pass ($80 annually), which grants access to all U.S. national parks.
Do You Need Reservations for the Zion Canyon Shuttle?
Reservations for the Zion Canyon Shuttle are not required as of the current system. However, the shuttle is essential for accessing Zion Canyon during the park’s busiest months.
Shuttle Season
From spring to late fall (typically March through late November), the main road through Zion Canyon is closed to private vehicles. Visitors must use the park’s free shuttle service to access popular trailheads like Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Emerald Pools.
How the Shuttle Works
- Shuttles run frequently throughout the day, stopping at designated points.
- You do not need to reserve a shuttle ticket. You can simply board at the Visitor Center or any of the stops in the canyon.
- During peak times, lines may be long, so arriving early is recommended.
Winter Season
From late November to March, the shuttles do not operate, and visitors can drive their private vehicles into Zion Canyon.
Reservations for Angels Landing Permit
While general entry to the park does not require reservations, specific activities like hiking Angels Landing do require permits.
Why Is a Permit Required?
Angels Landing is one of the most famous and challenging hikes in Zion. Due to its steep, narrow trails and increasing visitor numbers, the National Park Service introduced a permit system to reduce crowding and improve safety.
How to Get a Permit for Angels Landing
- Seasonal Lottery: You can apply for a permit during seasonal lottery windows, which open several months before each season.
- Day-Before Lottery: If you miss the seasonal lottery, you can apply for a permit the day before your planned hike.
Permits can be applied for online at the official Recreation.gov website. There is a $6 application fee, and successful applicants will need to pay $3 per person for the permit.
Reservations for Camping in Zion National Park
If you plan to stay overnight in Zion, reservations are highly recommended for campgrounds inside the park, especially during peak seasons.
Campgrounds in Zion
- Watchman Campground:
- Located near the South Entrance.
- Reservations can be made online up to six months in advance.
- Features tent and RV sites with some electric hookups.
- South Campground:
- Also near the South Entrance.
- Offers tent and RV sites.
- Reservations are available up to two weeks in advance.
- Lava Point Campground:
- A smaller, first-come, first-served campground located 1 hour from Zion Canyon.
Campground reservations can be made online at Recreation.gov. During peak season (spring, summer, and fall), campgrounds often fill up quickly, so planning ahead is important.
Backcountry Camping Permits
For visitors interested in backpacking or camping in Zion’s wilderness areas, a backcountry permit is required.
- Permits can be reserved in advance online or obtained in person at the Visitor Center.
- Popular backcountry sites, like those along The Narrows or West Rim Trail, have limited availability.
Do You Need Permits for Other Activities?
While most areas in Zion are open to the public without reservations, some activities require permits:
The Narrows (Top-Down Hike):
If you plan to hike The Narrows from the top-down (a full-day hike starting outside the park), you will need a backcountry permit. No permit is required for the bottom-up hike, which starts at the Temple of Sinawava.
Canyoneering and Rock Climbing:
- Zion is famous for its slot canyons and climbing routes. Permits are required for technical canyoneering and climbing in areas like The Subway and Mystery Canyon.
- Permits can be reserved online through Recreation.gov.
When Are Reservations Recommended in Zion National Park?
Although general entry does not require reservations, here are key times and activities where planning ahead is helpful:
- Peak Season (Spring and Fall):
- Zion experiences high crowds from March to October. Arriving early in the day can help avoid long waits at the entrance and shuttle lines.
- Holiday Weekends:
- Reservations for campgrounds and permits for Angels Landing or backcountry hikes are highly recommended during holiday weekends.
- Summer Visits:
- Zion is very hot during summer, but visitor numbers remain high. Planning your visit for early mornings or late evenings can help avoid the heat and crowds.
Conclusion
While reservations are not required for general entry to Zion National Park, they are necessary for certain activities like hiking Angels Landing, camping, or backcountry adventures. The park’s shuttle system does not require reservations but is essential for accessing Zion Canyon during busy months. To make the most of your visit, plan ahead, book campsites early, and apply for any required permits. By doing so, you can enjoy Zion’s stunning landscapes, famous hikes, and natural beauty without stress.