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Although Zion is open year round, the Zion Human History Museum is closed during the winter months, and the shuttles do not run between November and March. From June through August, Zion receives the bulk of its annual visitors, so expect crowded trails, little parking and long waits at local restaurants (most of which do not accept reservations for small groups) -- especially on weekends. It's best to reserve your accommodations well in advance for a summer trip to Zion.
Families who visit the park in shoulder-season (spring and fall) can avoid the summer crowds while still taking advantage of favorable weather. And if you want to visit the park when it's really uncrowded, pack up your coats and plan a winter getaway to the park. Winters in Zion are relatively mild, with daytime temperatures reaching highs of 50 degrees in December and January.
Getting There and Around
McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas is the closest major airport to the park. It's located roughly 150 miles from Zion, and the drive takes about three-and-a-half hours. St. George Municipal Airport, a much smaller airport served only by United, Delta and SkyWest Airlines, is just 46 miles from Zion.
There are two free shuttles that operate in and around Zion National Park: the Zion Canyon Shuttle and the Springdale Shuttle. If you're staying in town, you can pick up the Springdale Shuttle at one of many stops along Zion Park Boulevard, which will take you to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Pick up the Zion Canyon Shuttle, which travels to eight stops inside the park, at the Visitor Center.
The shuttles run from April through October. Parking at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center is scarce (unless you arrive early enough), so it's best to park in Springdale and take the Springdale Shuttle to the edge of the park -- look for signs that say "Shuttle Parking" where you can leave your car free of charge. Shuttles run very frequently, sometimes as often as every seven minutes.
Visitor Bureau
Zion Visitor Bureau
Zion National Park Planning & Tips
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Zion National Park Planning & Tips
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