Dreaming of a trip to Zion National Park in winter? While summers in Zion may steal the spotlight, winter is this park’s best-kept secret. Winter in Zion is your chance to explore one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S. without the crowds.
I love visiting Zion National Park in winter. If you’re lucky, you might even get a peak of the famous red-rock canyons covered in snow – it’s insanely beautiful!
Winter at Zion offers a completely different vibe: quiet, peaceful, and surprisingly adventurous. Whether you’re hiking through the Narrows with icy water swirling at your feet or driving the scenic Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway with barely another car in sight, this season gives you a front-row seat to the park’s stunning landscapes.
So grab your warm layers, lace up those hiking boots, and get ready to uncover why Zion National Park in winter just might become your new favorite time to visit.
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Important Tips For Visiting Zion in Winter
If you’re visiting Zion in winter for the first time, here are some important things you should know:
- Zion is open year-round. If you visit in winter, expect a quieter, more peaceful experience (except during Christmas and New Years). Entrance fees are also required year-round: $35 per vehicle, or $20 per person if entering on bike/foot.
- The weather is a mixed bag. Zion in winter can serve up everything from sunny, t-shirt-worthy days to snowy, icy storms that temporarily close roads and trails. Pack layers and check the weather forecast often—it changes fast! Check trail and road conditions on the NPS website before you head out.
- Shuttle Service. The park’s shuttle system shuts down seasonally, from December to March. Shuttle service temporarily resumes between Christmas – New Years. When the shuttle is NOT running, Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is open to all cars – meaning you can drive and park directly at the trailhead!
Getting Around Zion in Winter
Getting around Zion during the popular spring and summer months is, at best, an absolute headache, and at worst a complete disaster.
Visiting during winter means you can avoid the long lines for the shuttle and hours spent looking for parking – but there are some unique challenges to getting around Zion in winter.
Winter Road Conditions in Zion
All major roads throughout Zion, including Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Zion-Mt Carmel highway remain open year-round, weather permitting. These roads may close temporarily throughout the season due to snow, ice, or rockfall.
Kolab Canyons Road, which sits several thousand feet higher in elevation than Zion Canyon, is open year-round but frequently closes due to ice and snow. Check conditions before driving to this area of the park.
In the remote northern end of the Park, Kolab Terrace Road and Lava Point Road close for the season due to ice and snow.
Unlike some parks where snow chains are a winter must, Zion usually doesn’t require them. That said, be cautious on icy roads and consider a vehicle with good winter tires if you’re planning to explore beyond the main canyon.
Winter Shuttles in Zion
For most of the winter, the Zion Canyon shuttle system does NOT RUN, meaning private vehicles can drive the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Regular Shuttle service season is typically March through November.
Shuttle service temporarily resumes during late December through New Year’s. If you’re visiting during this window, the shuttle system will be in place, and private cars won’t be allowed on the scenic drive unless you’re staying at the Zion Lodge.
For the latest Zion Shuttle info, check out the official shuttle page.
Take this info to-go! The Zion Itinerary Guide has your perfect 1, 2, or 3 day Zion trip completely planned for you! With over 20 pages of detailed hiking guides, printable daily itineraries, lodging and dining suggestions and more, you can spend less time stressing and more time making epic memories! Check it out, here.
Best Things to Do at Zion in Winter
Winter is Zion National Park’s best-kept secret, and with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, it’s the perfect time to dive into some of the park’s iconic adventures, with some added safety precautions, of course.
From epic hikes to scenic drives, here are the top things to do when visiting Zion in the off-season.
Rent eBikes and Explore Zion Canyon
With the shuttle out of service during most of the winter, the scenic drive is open to cars, but biking offers an entirely different experience. I’ll admit to being a real skeptic about ebiking in Zion before I tried it myself – but once I did, I had to admit, there’s no better way to see Zion!
Read about my experience eBiking in Zion and everything you need to know to experience it yourself!
Pro Tip: Dress in layers! Even on a sunny day, the breeze from biking can make things feel chilly.
Drive the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway
This breathtaking drive is a must-do any time of year, but winter makes it extra special. The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway twists and turns through tunnels, across bridges, and past jaw-dropping red rock vistas.
With fewer cars on the road, you can take your time soaking in the views (and stopping for photos).
The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway winds from Zion Canyon through Zion’s more remote and rugged eastern corners, until it exits the Park. If you’re sticking around in Zion, turn around here and head back to Springdale. Or, continue on to take a day trip to Bryce Canyon National Park, as a day-trip.
Don’t Miss: The short walk to the Checkerboard Mesa viewpoint for a look at Zion’s unique geological formations – and it looks particularly beautiful covered in snow!
Hike the Zion Canyon Overlook
If you’re short on time or just want a quick, rewarding hike, the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is unbeatable. This hike is great for families and hikers of all ages, and one of the best hikes in Zion National Park
This one-mile round-trip trail leaves from a trailhead on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, just past the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. The trail climbs to a panoramic viewpoint offering one of the best vistas in the park.
The trail is usually open in winter but can be slippery if there’s snow or ice.
Hike the Zion Narrows in Winter
Yes, you can hike Zion’s most iconic hike, the Narrows, in winter!
With proper gear (think dry suits, neoprene socks, and sturdy water shoes), you can trek through the icy Virgin River without freezing your toes off. Fewer crowds make this slot canyon even more magical, and the winter light on the canyon walls is otherworldly.
To hike the Narrows during the winter, you’ll want to rent a dry suit and special winter canyoneering footwear from a nearby outfitter in Springdale. Gear can be rented from outfitters in Springdale like Zion Outfitter.
Tackle Angel’s Landing in Winter
Looking for the ultimate challenge? If conditions are right, consider tackling Angel’s Landing, aptly dubbed the “most dangerous hike in America.”
After ascending 21 steep switchbacks called “Walters Wiggles”, hikers make it to Scout’s Lookout. Here you’ll have beautiful views of the Canyon below, and it’s worth it just to hike to this point – even if you don’t have a permit or any intention of going further.
Here, a ranger will check your permit. Hikers must climb the final 0.5 miles over a narrow ridge with 1000’+ cliff drops on either side. At times the trail is only a few feet wide (or less) and requires the use of anchored chains to climb up and down.
Do not attempt the chains section of Angel’s Landing when ice or snow is present!
This is NOT the hike for you if you have any fear of heights. Fatalities from falls do occur on this trail. Brave hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Zion Canyon below.
In 2022 I attempted Angel’s Landing in winter when there was some sketchy ice and snow conditions present.
I made it about 0.1 miles into the chains section when I decided “nope!” and turned around! The lesson: don’t make yourself do something you aren’t comfortable with just for the photo!
During winter, the trail is quieter, giving you space to conquer the chains section at your own pace. You’ll need a permit to hike Angel’s Landing, even in winter, so make sure you plan ahead.
Discover Zion’s Lesser-Known Trails
Winter is the perfect time to explore some of Zion’s quieter hikes without battling the crowds. Try these underrated gems:
- The Watchman Trail: This 3.1 mile trail begins at the Zion Visitor Center and takes you along the Virgin River before climbing up switchbacks up to the base of the Watchman. Along the way you’ll have great views of the nearby town of Springdale, and the greater Zion area.
- Emerald Pools Trail: Visit Zion’s most famous waterfalls on this popular easy hike to the Lower Emerald Pool. The trail begins across the street from the Zion Canyon Lodge.
- Observation Point via East Rim Trail (Currently Closed as of December 2024): This 7-mile hike starts at the Weeping Rock trailhead and climbs a series of switchbacks to the East Rim Trail. After 2,650 feet of elevation gain, hikers are rewarded with incredible views looking down on Zion Canyon and Angel’s Landing.
Where to Stay in Zion National Park During Winter
Winter means fewer crowds and better deals on lodging near Zion—unless it’s the holidays, when things can get busy again. Here are your best options:
Most visitors to Zion stay in the town of Springdale, which is located directly outside the Zion Canyon park entrance.
In Springdale, there are dozens of chain and independent hotels. Prices range from “budget” to luxury, but even budget does tend to be on the pricer side.
The Springhill Suites by Marriott has particularly stunning views of the red rock formations, plus a pool and free breakfast. Other options include, The Best Western Plus (2.5 stars, free wifi, pools & breakfast) the Cliffrose Inn & Suites (4 Star luxury), or the budget-minded Bumbleberry Inn in downtown Springdale.
Explore more lodging near Zion National Park, here.
The Zion Lodge is the only hotel inside Zion National Park, and is my favorite spot to stay in Zion. The Zion Lodge, like most National Park lodges, is fairly rustic but in a superb location. Staying inside the Park means you don’t have to battle long lines at the entrance station or deal with parking, just jump on the shuttle right in front of your room. Book your stay at the Zion Lodge, here.
Camping at Watchman Campground
If you dare to winter camp in Zion, the Watchman Campground is open year-round, located adjacent to the visitor center at the entrance to Zion Canyon. Book reservations for the Watchman Campground, here.
Take this info to-go! The Zion Itinerary Guide has your perfect 1, 2, or 3 day Zion trip completely planned for you! With over 20 pages of detailed hiking guides, printable daily itineraries, lodging and dining suggestions and more, you can spend less time stressing and more time making epic memories! Check it out, here.
Visiting Zion in Winter: Month by Month
Conditions in Zion can vary widely across the season. Here’s what to expect for each month of winter in Zion:
Zion National Park in December
- Average High/Low: 54° / 30°
Early December is quiet as fall crowds fade and temps drop. Zion Canyon shuttle services usually end around the first of the month until mid-December for the holiday rush. Christmas lights in Springdale and festive vibes make this a magical time to visit.
Zion National Park in January
- Average High/Low: 55° / 31°
After the holidays, January is a quiet time to explore Zion’s sights and trails. Snow is possible, so be prepared for potential road or trail closures.
Zion National Park in February
- Average High/Low: 59° / 34°
February is the end of true winter in Zion. Expect rain and the occasional snowstorms throughout the park.
Zion National Park in March
- Average High/Low: 66° / 39°
March marks the start of spring with warming temperatures and unpredictable weather. Crowds begin to return, especially during spring break, but it’s still less hectic than summer.
Conclusion: Visiting Zion National Park in Winter
With fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and stunning landscapes dusted with snow, winter is the perfect time to explore iconic trails, drive scenic roads, and soak up the beauty of Zion National Park.
Whether you’re renting e-bikes, scaling Angels Landing, or staying cozy at the Zion Lodge, winter offers a unique chance to experience this incredible park in a whole new way.
More Resources on Visiting Zion & Bryce Canyon
Epic Zion National Park Itinerary Guide
7 Easy Family-Friendly Hikes in Zion National Park
One Epic Day in Bryce Canyon National Park
Zion Permits & Reservations: Everything You Need to Know
