When is the best time to visit Zion National Park? That is a question that I get asked a lot and I must say, it's a hard one to answer. In truth, I think any time is a great time to visit Zion but with any outdoor destination, there are things you need to think about and prepare for so that you can have the best time possible.
To figure out the best time to visit Zion National Park, you need to think about the weather during each season, the crowds you might encounter, the Zion shuttle logistics, and what restaurants and shops in Springdale might be open or closed at certain times of year. The typical weather at different times of year is an important thing to keep in mind when choosing the best time to visit Zion National Park.
Here is the lowdown — including my best insider tips — on visiting Zion in each season. Visiting Zion in the Summer is when you are going to have to work around the most crowds and also when the heat is going to be the most intense but I would never tell anyone not to visit in the summer.
In my opinion, summer is when Zion is at her most beautiful. Everything is so green and lush in the canyon and if you like water, well this is the best time to visit Zion National Park and play in the Virgin River. To avoid the crowds make sure to get out first thing in the morning. Never, never, never try to get on the shuttles anytime after am if you want to avoid crowds and lines to get on the shuttles.
The early start time is so worth it you guys! Having that little bit of solitude in the mornings is priceless. If you are hiking one of the more popular trails like Angels Landing or The Narrows I suggest you line up for the shuttles at am. View the Zion shuttle schedule here , and be sure to check out my guide to everything you need to know about riding the Zion National Park shuttle here!
