There’s so much to see and do in Zion National Park, but if you’re short on time in the Zion area, we’ll help you decide what to see at Zion National Park in one day!
Although there’s plenty to see and do at Zion, we still think it’s worth visiting for just a day if you’ll be in the area. If you need to narrow down what to see at Zion National Park in one day, we highly recommend waking up early to fit in as much as possible!
Rest up, because this will be a long and adventure filled day!
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Morning: Early wake up and Coffee
If you’re staying in Hurricane or St. George, River Rock Roasting Co. is on your way to Zion National Park and is the best way to start your one day adventure. It opens at 6:30 AM (and 7:00 AM on Sundays) so you can get an early start.
Beautiful views and delicious coffee, what more do you need? Sit on the patio for the best experience!
If you’re staying closer to Zion National park, there are several coffee and breakfast restaurants that are right next to the park. We loved the lattes and avocado toast from FeelLove Coffee. FeelLove Coffee opens at 6 am.
Go for a Day Hike
With so many epic hikes to choose from, it will be hard to choose which hike do at Zion National Park with only one day. Here’s a list of some of the most popular hikes in the park to help you decide.
Whichever hike you choose, be sure to start early to have ample time for seeing the rest of Zion National Park in one day!
Don’t forget to download offline trail maps with the AllTrails app and be sure to research and prepare!
The Narrows
You’ll start by taking the Zion Canyon Shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava trailhead to start he Narrows hike. This is one of the most unique hikes in the US and a must on your list of what to see at Zion National Park in one day.
You’ll wade and hike through the Virgin river in a slot canyon with thousand foot walls. This hike gets very crowded so going early will be best to avoid crowds.
This hike is perfect if you’re short on time as you can turn around at any point. The full trail is 10 miles total and the iconic Wall Street section with the narrowest section of the slot canyon is about 2.5 miles in.
You’ll need waterproof shoes, pants, socks, and a walking stick. We rented from Zion Adventure Company right outside of the park and there are plenty of outfitters to choose from. See our complete guide to the Narrows.
Observation Point
This is an 8 mile strenuous out-and-back hike. Switchback after switchback gets your heart rate skyrocketing, but the incredible views are worth it.
This trail is currently closed from Weeping Rock trailhead, but can still be accessed via the East Mesa Trail. Be sure to start this hike early and bring plenty of water and food.
Emerald Pools Loop Trail
An easy, family friendly hike that is across from the Visitor Center. At 3 miles, you could do this one and another option from the list if you were motivated.
You can even hike to Lower Emerald Pool only if you’d like. Due to its accessibility, this trail can become very crowded.
Angel’s Landing
One of the most famous hikes at the park! We actually haven’t done Angel’s Landing yet, but we had to mention it. Reservations are required now and you can find them on the National Park Service website.
This is a strenuous hike and the infamous chain section is not for those with fear of heights. If you’re up for it though, Angel’s Landing provides some of the best views in the park.
The Subway
Another trail on our bucket list! This trail requires a permit lottery that makes it a bit difficult to access. We haven’t been successful in obtaining these permits yet, but can’t wait to do this trail one day.
It’s a strenuous trail with a technical and non-technical route. Find more information about the trail on the National Park Service website.
Lunch and check out the Visitor Center
Take a break from the sun and check out the Zion National Park Visitor Center. You’ll find park information, exhibits, maps, a bookstore, and gift shop.
Return your Narrows Gear
Don’t forget to return your Narrows gear at the end of the day.
Sunset at Canyon Overlook Trail
The entire trail is scenic. This is an incredible and easy trail to end your (surely, exhausting) day. This trail is only 1 mile, but has a huge reward at the end.
The trail itself is interesting and winds around cliffs, but the view at the end is the reason this trail is a must do on your list of what to see at Zion National Park in one day.
Sunset is the best time to do this trail, but go early to find parking and give yourself ample time for taking photos and taking in the views!
Celebrate your day with dinner
If you’re not ready to pass out from exhaustion, stop by your accommodation and freshen up before ending your night at Wood. Ash. Rye. This restaurant and craft cocktail bar in St. George is the perfect way to end your trip!
It serves chef-curated American style farm to table dishes in a cozy and warm atmosphere. There is something for everyone on the menu.
Wood. Ash. Rye. is located in the Advenire hotel which is an incredible place to stay when visiting Zion National Park. Reservations are recommended.
Where to Stay at Zion National Park
It helps to be strategic with where you stay when you are trying to see Zion National Park in one day, so we would recommend staying in Springdale, the town closest to the park.
However, your travel plans may take you to other nearby national and state parks, so we wanted to include some other accommodation options.
If you’re looking for more ideas to on places to visit near Zion National Park, check out our 4 Day Southwest Road Trip Itinerary.
Options inside the park:
- Zion Lodge (open year round): the only lodging option inside of the park besides campgrounds, the Zion Lodge books up quickly but is a great option for those wanting to stay inside the park.
- Watchman Campground (open year round)
- South Campground (open March-October)
- Lava Point Campground (open May-September)
You can make reservations for campgrounds recreation.gov.
Options outside of the park:
Springdale, Utah is the closest town to Zion National Park. It’s actually within walking distance from the park entrance, however, it’s also a small town and books up quickly.
St. George, Utah is a fantastic option that is within an hour drive, but also closer to some of the other attractions in the area. St. George is also nearby so many other epic adventures. We stayed at The Advenire in St. George and absolutely loved it!
Be sure to check our AirBnB and VRBO for even more accommodation options.
What to see at Zion National Park in One Day
Only having one day to explore Zion National Park will be rushed, but we still think it is worth stopping if you’re in the area and short at time, as there is so much to see at Zion National Park in One Day.
We hope this guide helped you narrow down what to see. You can’t go wrong with of the hikes or activities at Zion National Park!
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Things to do in Zion National Park Besides Hikingsays:
February 8, 2024 at 2:37 pm[…] We hope this list of things to do in Zion National Park besides hiking was helpful! If you’re short on time during your visit, check out our guide on what to see in Zion National Park in One Day! […]