One of the most majestic and frequently visited National Parks in the country is Zion National Park. The park is known for its gorgeous landscape, stunning formations, interesting plants, and wildlife as well as the array of outdoor activities.
While some parks close during the winter season, Zion National Park remains open! If you’re wondering what to do in Zion National Park in winter? We have the answer! If the weather isn’t too cold to have a fun day hiking, nature watching, or even canyoneering.To learn a few tips on engaging in these kinds of activities in St. George during winter, read below!
Zion National Park Activities
Table of Contents
Hiking In Zion National Park in Winter
It’s possible to take a pleasure-filled and leisurely day hike in Zion National Park in winter, but it’s best to stick to certain areas that don’t get so icy. Canyon Overlook Trail is a good option for hikers of all experience levels, and Sand Bench Trailis definitely worth a visit since it’s not overrun by horses in winter like it is in the summer months.
You’ll typically see heavy snowfall at the park’s higher points, but the canyon has little snow and is easy to walk around in winter and enjoy a nice hike in St. George. If you’re traveling with a full pack and need an easy and nice trail to try, you can try the lower part of the Emerald Pools.
Nature Photography
Zion National Park is a hot spot for nature photographers, but outside of winter, it’s quite busy. The colder months award the opportunity to get breathtaking pictures of the area in relative solitude without anybody getting in your shots.
The landscape and river take on an appearance in winter that’s unlike what you’ll see during other times of the year. Here are some of the most picturesque scenes in the park: The Narrows, Court of the Patriarchs, The Watchman View, and if you’re an avid hiker try going to the Angels Landing area! Let us know how it went and what other places you recommend to take pictures.
Canyoneering in Zion
If you’re an advanced canyoneer, you’ll find that visiting Zion National Park in the winter offers exciting new challenges. You’ll have to contend with short days and snow, but if you come well prepared it can be an incredible experience.
Gear that you’ll need before obtaining a winter canyoneering permit in the park includes protective neoprene socks and a wetsuit. Just in case you want to continue on your canyoneering adventure in Utah, check out these slot canyons in Southern Utah you can explore.
From November through the middle of March is when guests can drive their own vehicles into the park, which is great if you want to take some time to see the sights from your car or go for a Zion canyon scenic drive.To enter Zion National Park you can take the main road, the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, as it stays open year-round.
Taking a four-wheel-drive vehicle is best, as even though this road is frequently plowed it can still get icy. Also, don’t forget that the zion national park shuttle service isn’t available from all January and the weekdays of February.
If you’re longing to enjoy nature in the winter and want to have an unforgettable adventure, plan a visit to Zion National Park in St. George, Utah.
Still thinking where to stay when visiting Zion National Park Don’t worry, you can enjoy your next winter vacation staying at Coral Springs Resort and discover all the outdoor and indoor activities in St. George.