The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Zion National Park with Kids

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Are you thinking of going to Zion National Park with kids? Zion National Park is one of the best kept secrets of the national park system. When visitors discover the beauty and magic of Zion Canyon, they will be hooked! It doesn’t have that one eye catching feature that sells postcards or pressed pennies, but what it does have is a spectacular cliff and canyon landscape, an abundance of wildlife and a gorgeous river running through it all beckoning you to get in and experience it for yourself.

Our recent visit to Zion National Park with kids was a bit of a surprise. After being wow’ed at the Grand Canyon and inspired at Antelope Canyon, we were taken aback by how beautiful and encompassing Zion was. Here we could all really be in nature, experience and feel it. It’s just what we needed.

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The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Zion National Park with Kids

8 Amazing Family Friendly Things to Do at Zion National Park

The beauty of Zion is that unless you are set on hiking every trail, the park is small enough that on most visits you should have time to hike, relax and shop! No matter what you are doing, you will be surrounded by the beautiful red Navajo sandstone cliffs above you. Below are our top things to do in Zion National Park when you visit with or without kids!

Play in the River

Exploring Zion National ParkOne of the best memories of our recent trip was hanging out in the river watching the kids catch tadpoles. There are so many access points to the Virgin River that you could try a new spot every day and not get bored for weeks. One of our favorite access points was just behind the South Campground. Other access points can be found on the Pa’rus and Riverside Trails. No matter what time of year you visit, make sure to schedule in time for just exploring along the river whether you have kids or not!

Go for a Hike

Exploring Zion National ParkThere are some great family friendly hikes into the cliffs above the canyon. See below for a list of our top family friendly trails. During the hot summer months your hiking time might be limited to early morning or late afternoon, so plan accordingly. Of course most people know of The Narrows and Angels Landing, but there are a variety of great hikes for all ages and skill levels apart from the two most famous trails.

Drive the Mt Carmel Highway

Exploring Zion National ParkTake a drive along the 12- mile scenic Mt Carmel Highway stopping off at a few viewpoints and taking in short strolls for great views. This road connects the South and East entrances of the park, traveling up many switchbacks and through the historic tunnel. If parking allows, stop at Checkerboard Mesa and Canyon Overlook Trail, all while keeping your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep, deer and other wildlife.

Become a Junior Ranger

Exploring Zion National ParkBecoming a Junior Ranger is always one of our favorite activities at any national park. The free junior ranger booklet can be picked up at the Visitor Center or Zion Nature Center. These booklets are great for getting kids actively involved in learning about the park you are visiting. To complete your activities for a badge, attend a ranger talk, hike or program which are great ways to get some dedicated time with the knowledgeable park rangers. This is the first stop we make so that our visit has a purpose and we know what we hope to accomplish during our visit no matter how short or long.

Hang Out at Zion Nature Center

Exploring Zion National ParkIn the summer when temperatures reach well above 100°F, a great place to hang out is the Nature Center. They have a multitude of activities to keep the littles busy such as a coloring station, reading tent, park ranger dress up station and lots of exhibits about the wildlife found at the park. There are also planned programs each day in the summer. Check out the latest map and guide newspaper for times. For older kids, this might just be a quick stop to soak up air conditioning, while younger kids could easily spend hours here!

Eat Ice Cream at Zion Lodge

The perfect after hike treat is a stop at Zion Lodge for a soft serve ice cream. The large grassy lawn just invites you to lay down and stay awhile. The Grotto Trail and Emerald Pool trails both are nearby for you to explore after you have cooled down with your ice cream treat.

Shop for Rocks

Exploring Zion National ParkIf your kids are like ours, it’s a bummer to not be able to collect rocks during a visit to the park. Instead, head to one of Springdale’s rock shops and load up on fancy rocks of all shapes and sizes. The selection is amazing; the little ones will have a hard time deciding which ones to take home. My son still loves his rocks he bought from the rock shop in Zion.

Watch a Movie About the Park

Exploring Zion National Park
Photo via Flickr

Another top activity we highly recommend when visiting any national park is to watch the free video that provides more insight into the park’s animals, nature or history. Drop into the Zion Human History Museum to watch the short 22 min film about the park’s offerings and history. We have found these short films to be quite informative and helpful in guiding our adventures through the national park system. There are also many cool exhibits within the museum to explore, park rangers to chat to and a gift shop where you can load up on souvenirs.

The Top 7  Zion Hikes for Families

Zion is known for one of Utah’s most dangerous hikes, Angel’s Landing. Steering clear of that one, when you have littles in tow, there are still many great hikes that are suitable for families. Below are our top hikes for families at Zion. If you do have older kids and want to give Angel’s Landing a try – let me know how it is because I am still too nervous to try it!

Pa’rus Trail

The best zion hikes for families include this path by the river.The Pa’rus Trail is less of a hike and more of a path used for biking and strolling. It’s great to use as a base to explore the various river access points. If you are traveling with water loving kids, don’t expect to get too far on this trail!

Weeping Rock Trail

Weeping Rock trail is a great family friendly Zion hikes
Photo via Flickr

Weeping Rock is the shortest trail in the park at 1/2 mile round trip, however it is steep in sections. This easy family friendly Zion hike takes you to a cliff alcove covered in green hanging moss from the “weeping” water coming out. The water is said to be 1200 years old! It takes that long to work it’s way through the rock. Be prepared to get a little wet from the mist of the falling water.

Emerald Pools Trail

Middle Pools is a fun Zion hike for the whole family.This is one of the most popular family friendly trails in the park. It can be adjusted to suit your family’s hiking ability. The first part of the trail to the lower pools is a fully paved easy .6 miles. Continuing on to the middle pools takes you off the paved path onto a path with rocks and loose dirt for another .4 miles. At this point, hikers can go back down the way they arrived or follow the Kayenta Trail down for a change of scenery. For those wanting a more strenuous hike, you can hike the additional .5 miles to end at the upper pool. The last .5 mile is short, but steep. The trail to the lower pool is not flat, but it is relatively easy due to the lack of steep inclines as well as the occasional shady areas along the river. As you can see, the pools aren’t quite so emerald, but it’s still worth the effort.

Kayenta Trail

Kayenta Trail, Exploring Zion National ParkThis is a great trail to take to or from from the Emerald Pool trails. Heading up the trail towards Emerald Pools is a bit more uphill than the Lower Pools trail, however it is not difficult and the gorgeous views more than make up for it. This is one of the few recommend trails that is not paved which makes it a bit more adventurous for some kids. Try not to get too distracted checking out the amazing views over the meandering Virgin River below and the canyon it has carved over the years.

The Grotto Trail

Exploring Zion National ParkThe Grotto trail is a short 1 mile riverside trail that connects Zion Lodge to The Grotto (shuttle stop). This can be combined with the Lower Emerald Pool and Kayenta Trails to create a 2.5-mile loop. This is another good trail for popping into the river to cool down. Keep an eye out for wildlife in the morning and evening hours.

Riverside Trail

Exploring Zion National ParkThe Riverside Trail is the gateway trail to the famous Narrows hike (see below). Even without doing the Narrows, this is a picturesque and easy 1 mile (one way) trail to explore. Walking along the river you can stop off at several points to jump into the river to cool down. Continue to the end and splash around in the river that signals the beginning of the Narrows hike.

The Narrows

Exploring Zion National ParkThe Narrows is probably one of the most famous hikes at Zion and for good reason. It is amazing. This hike starts at the end of the Riverside Trail and continues on for 10+ miles (without a permit). You need a permit to continue on further into the canyon, but even exploring the ‘trail’ for a few hours will give you a sense of how special it is.

Even though many will say it is not child friendly, you can hike for quite a while with children depending on the depth of the water and your child’s abilities. There are many families on the river, so you will not be alone. It really is one of the highlights of visiting Zion National park with kids. Don’t forget your walking sticks. They are a must! Read more on our Tips on hiking the Narrows with kids.

Zion National Park Lodging – Where to Stay?

Exploring Zion National Park with kidsInside the Park

There are only a few options of places to stay inside the park, but many more just outside the park in Springdale, UT. If we had planned far enough in advance (i.e. more than 4 months for peak summer season!) a stay at Zion Lodge within the park would have been fabulous. It is hidden away inside the park where motorists driving through cannot reach. The only traffic you will find here are the coming and goings of the Zion shuttle buses. Being in the center of the park does have a price tag however with rooms averaging around $200 a night. 

Camping

The only other option for lodging within the park is camping at Zion. The two campgrounds are South Campground and Watchman. For reservations, your only option is Watchman. You will need to make reservations well in advance to be assured of a spot during the summer. South Campground is first come, first serve. Surprisingly during the weekdays during our visit it was not always full. Be aware that there is little shade at either campground and this is the desert.

Outside of the Park

Outside of the park there are a multitude of Zion Lodging options for all budgets. Unlike some national parks where being outside the park means a 30-40 minute drive each day to reach the main happenings, Springdale sits literally on the edge of the park and it’s entrance. During the summer there is a shuttle bus from town dropping passengers off at the park. Parking can be difficult at times within the park, but even during peak summer season parking is available (before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.) at the Visitor’s Center or Zion Nature Center.

Exploring Zion National Park with kidsFor a fantastic family friendly budget option in Springdale, check out Zion Park Motel. The rooms are basic motel style albeit with a bit more comfortable beds. The hotel boasts a 1970s play set that will keep the kids busy, a pool with unbeatable views and each room has a mini fridge and microwave. Another budget friendly option is Canyon Ranch Motel where all of the rooms are free standing with no shared walls. Their grassy lawn and pool are great for kids needing space to run around. Keep an eye out in the morning and late afternoons for deer hanging out on the grounds.

Exploring Zion National Park with kidsOn the higher end, Cable Mountain Lodge ($160-300 a night) is a family favorite. La Quinta, a chain hotel, is also a great option for families with their picturesque pool complete with fountains for the kids to frolic in. No matter where you stay in Zion, you will be surrounded by gorgeous cliffs and blue skies high above you.

Where to Eat Near Zion National Park

If you stay inside the park, food choices are limited. The only options for meals inside the park are at Zion Lodge’s dining room and cafe. However, if you are staying outside the park, you are in luck. Springdale has an abundance of choices to suit any taste. There are too many places to list, but some of our favorites that we suggest you check out are below.

Zion Pizza & Noodle Co.

Exploring Zion National Park with Kids
Photo courtesy of Bjorn

I still dream about the pizza I had here. This local pizza joint is only open for dinner, so plan a night to check it out. A wonderful selection of fresh made pizza and pastas. The great thing here is all pizza’s can be personalized to suit your little one’s tastes – no tomato sauce, no cheese, pesto sauce, etc. Looking for a decadent sauce free pizza? Try my favorite Garlic Rosemary Cheese pizza. Yum. Save your leftovers for lunch the next day. (They do take credit cards, so disregard the sign in this photo!)

Cafe Soliel

Exploring Zion National Park with kidsThis is the perfect one stop shop for all of your eating needs. Grab a coffee and pastry on your way to a morning hike. Have time, eat in and sample their hot breakfast options. Heading out for a day of hiking and need lunch? Grab a pre-made sandwich and refreshing lemonade for your hike. Located just outside the park entrance means it’s easy to swing by for breakfast or lunch. This place is the happening hip wifi-free place to get a meal.

Oscars Cafe

Exploring Zion National Park with Kids
Photo via Flickr

If you are looking for a cool outdoor cafe, Oscars is it. A wide selection of options on the menu with huge portions. The kids menu is somewhat limited to typical ‘kid friendly’ food, but waiters will work with you on other menu options as needed. Sit outside under the misters or inside in the AC.

Springdale Candy Company

Exploring Zion National ParkLooking for an after dinner sweet? Look no further. The Springdale Candy Company has an ice cream bar, packaged candies, homemade candy and a great selection of candy from the olden days (fire balls, lemonheads, squirt gum!). Stock up for your drive too. This is a must do while visiting Zion National Park with kids.

Other Tips for Visiting Zion National ParkVisiting Zion National Park

  • Phone service is spotty within Zion Canyon. Bring walkie talkies if your family will be splitting up from time to time.
  • Make a habit to check in at the ranger station for the day’s weather forecast. Things can change quickly in the canyon, especially in regards to flash flooding which can happen further up river without any sign of rain in the canyon.
  • Carry a change of clothes and pack towels for spur of the moment water play in the river.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks while in Zion Canyon. The only food available within the park is at Zion Lodge.
  • During the summer months, unless you are staying at the lodge, your only access to the canyon is by the free shuttle bus system. This adds a bit of time to your day, so plan in advance and cushion any schedules you have with time to catch the bus. 

Planning a trip to Zion National Park with kids ? Check out our other posts from Zion & surrounding areas.

Unique Zion National Park Lodging
Top Things to do in Page Arizona
Hiking The Narrows

 

 

 

 

 

 

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25 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Zion National Park with Kids”

  1. Thanks for this! Perfect timing! It is very helpful, lots to think about now.. I read somewhere that there are a few slot canyons. Which one did you go to?

    Thanks again,

    Tarah

    Reply
  2. I’ve traveled all over the U.S, but never to Utah. I had heard about Zion National Park, and how beautiful it is. I think my kids would really enjoy visiting one day. Especially, if they get to go hiking on Weeping Rock Trail. Thanks for sharing. 🙂

    Reply
  3. How wonderful that such grandeur is so accessible in doses appropriate for smaller humans. Developing a love of nature, hiking and curiosity about our world should go without saying. So much beauty and terrific tips on how to enjoy it.

    Reply
  4. Such comprehensive coverage of your amazing vacation! I’m inspired to visit Utah now…thanks for a great blog post!!

    Reply
  5. Wow! that looks amazing! We took the kids to Yellowstone last year and they loved it. We have never been to the Utah parks and Zion will definitely be on the list. #weekendwanderlust

    Reply
  6. Fantastic place for a family getaway. I’ve wanted to head to Zion but didn’t know there was so much other than just hiking. I’ll add it to my list – thanks for the great suggestions.

    Reply
  7. Wow, what a super informative guide! Thanks for providing all of this useful information. I love hiking and this place looks like it’s a good size and has many sleeping and hiking options. I think I’d prefer to camp here than in a hotel / lodge 🙂

    Cheers.

    Reply
  8. I am glad to see that you mentioned Angel’s Landing but didn’t recommend it. I hated hiking Angel’s and seeing people with young children hiking the trail. The worst was the parent with an infant in a backpack on that trail.

    Great list of things to do with the kids in my favorite park.

    Reply
    • Crazy that someone would do it with a baby! My son is a great hiker but there is no chance I would put his or my life at risk up there! Looked beautiful, but it can wait!

      Reply
  9. We absolutely loved Zion National Park – and it definitely brought out the kid in us. We went bobbing down the Virgin River in inner tubes as part of an activity with a local outdoors company and we absolutely loved it (and at $17 or so, it was pretty cheap fun).

    We also appreciated that there was a laundromat on the main street in the center of town, making it easy for us to multi-task travel chores with eating. Great park, great town.

    Reply
    • The laundromat was pretty convenient! We had laundry services in our last place so didn’t use it, but good to remember it’s there! We saw a few kids tubing on the river on their own, but it was a bit low for grown ups I think.

      Reply
  10. Love all the pictures and tips! The Pizza & Noodle Co. offers foods that most people love, and it’s great that you can build your own pizza–excellent for kids! Weeping Rock and The Narrows would be my first picks for trails! A good friend of mine just got back from visiting and she loved it! Thanks!

    Reply
  11. Thumbs up on the Jr. Ranger program! It’s a great way to cement a memory in the little ones. Great photos of your children against the canyons–what a treasure. Thanks for the tips on eating and places to stay. We will have to check these out on a trip back north.

    Reply
    • The Jr. Ranger program is one of our favorite aspects of visiting parks! My son is already on badge 15..always looking to add more! I wish more people knew about it!

      Reply
  12. This was such a thorough guide for those with families and single people like myself 🙂 I haven’t been to Zion yet, so it’s good to know where to stay and what to eat outside the park! Thank you! Also good to know that temps get so high… maybe I’ll aim for a winter trip!

    Reply
  13. These are all great tips! Thanks for sharing. The Riverside trail looks really nice. Will need to put this on the list for Family Vacation ideas. Found you on #WeekendWanderlust!

    Reply
  14. This is such a great, comprehensive post. I’ve pinned it for when I finally do make it to Zion with the family. I tried to do it last Thanksgiving and then this upcoming Thanksgiving, but it hasn’t worked out. Perhaps 2016 will be our year. We’ll probably end up buying some of those rocks.

    Reply
  15. I visited Zion for the first time with my 18 year old daughter and we were blown away by the beauty of the park. The park was also very accessible with very few people in the park. We learned from the locals that this is the best time of the year and that the summers are ‘nuts’!

    I’m looking forward to going back next December!

    Reply

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