Everything to Know About Visiting Zion National Park in Winter
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Visiting Zion National Park in winter is truly an experience unlike any other.
The beauty of Utah’s national parks is that each season, they transform, bringing nature lovers an entirely different experience than what they would have had if they visited six months earlier.
Winter is an especially transformative time of year. It coats the mountain peaks white, spotlighting the ever-persistent evergreens. Zion National Park in winter sings a different tune than in summer but is beautiful all the same.
We have made you a complete guide to enjoying this incredible location to the fullest during this year’s cold spell.
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Why Visit Zion National Park in Winter?
Not only is the scenery still breathtaking in winter, but it may be only seen by your eyes.
With cooler temperatures comes a decrease in visitors, allowing you to experience the trails of Zion in almost solitude. The weather can definitely be testy, but if you’re willing to brave the average 40-degree temperatures, it’s worth it.
Another perk that comes with fewer visitors is the cheaper accommodations. Lodges and hotels in the area are much more likely to offer deals to those adventuring in Zion National Park winter temperatures.
Zion National Park Winter Packing List
Your packing list will reflect the change in the weather. Layers, layers, layers. Layers will be your best friend.
Bring a long-sleeved t-shirt you can strip down to when the sun is high in the sky, and you just trekked up a steep hill. A sweatshirt (another layer) and a jacket impervious to rain or snow are essential additions.
Warm socks and good shoes are a must. And if you are planning to stay in the park after dark, since the sun sets a little earlier this time of year, bring along a headlamp just to be safe. Your phone flashlight might not cut it.
It may also be a good idea to look into specific equipment to handle the ice and snow that you may encounter on the trails.
Here’s a bulleted list to help you pack:
- Long-sleeve shirt
- Sweatshirt/jacket
- Warm socks
- Good hiking shoes
- Headlamp
- Ice equipment
Things to do in Zion National Park in Winter
Drive the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
One of the beauties of Zion National Park in winter is the ability to take your own vehicle all over the park.
In the summer, thousands and thousands of visitors enter the park each day, making it impossible for them to bring a car into the canyon. Instead, a shuttle runs, stopping at nine locations close to trailheads throughout the scenic road.
Early December rolls around and the shuttle goes into hibernation, opening up the road for your personal exploration. This way, you can see the park’s winter beauty without stepping out of the car if you wish, or you can make your own stops.
Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail
To get one of the best views of Zion National Park in winter, or any time of year, you need to hike the Canyon Overlook Trail.
You’ll find this trail in the Upper East Canyon, where the shuttle normally does not make a stop at.
Lucky you, you can drive right up to it. After driving through Mount Carmel tunnel, the trailhead parking lot will be on your right. This is a very popular hike, so be sure to get here early to make sure you get a spot.
Hike up to the top, about half a mile, to see Zion Canyon in its entirety, expanding out in front of you. This is a must for your Zion National Park winter itinerary.
Do the Riverside Walk
The Riverside Walk is the best way to experience the Narrows at Zion National Park in winter unless you’re a fan of freezing cold water that can reach up to your waist or higher.
With this 45-minute walk, you can stroll along the beginnings of the trail, experiencing the infamous slot canyon with towering walls, trickling waterfalls, and luscious vegetation.
It is an experience for all five senses: crisp, clear mountain air, the rolling of the water, and the feeling of the path beneath your feet. Overall, it is a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t forget.
Go snowshoeing
On their website, Zion Ponderosa has a slogan, “If you can hike, you can snowshoe.” And it’s true! Zion trails can be just as accessible in the winter if you’re willing to strap on some funny-looking shoes and tread over the ground’s new, white layer.
If you’re in Zion National Park in December, snowshoeing is the perfect addition to your winter itinerary. It is incredibly easy to learn and easy to rent a pair in the town near Zion, Springdale.
If you’re visiting Zion right after a snowstorm, this will be your best way to explore the park.
Look for wildlife
A new season brings new wildlife. And, unlike in the summer, wildlife living in Zion National Park in winter are less likely to get scared off by the myriad visitors.
This winter, keep an eye out for Mule deer, hawks, elk, eagles, and maybe even a wild turkey.
Take Winter Zion Photography
Pulling out your camera should be scattered throughout your Zion National Park winter itinerary.
This time of year the scenery is unique, something you’ll definitely want to capture. It is also much easier to snap a good photo due to the likeliness of cloudy days. Without the sun bearing down on your subjects, your pictures will turn out much better.
Canyon Overlook, Kolob Terrace Road, and Court of the Patriarchs are a few of Zion’s jewels you’ll want to capture.
Tips for Visiting During Winter in Zion National Park
Bring snacks and pack your own lunch
Zion National Park is located right next to Springdale, where dining options are available, but to do this, you would have to exit the park. To maximize your time within the wonderful winter wilderness, I suggest preparing a lunch and packing it in.
Springdale dining is certainly delicious but can also get really pricey, especially when feeding multiple people. Packing a lunch is your most convenient and affordable option.
Sol Food Supermarket, Happy Camper Market, or Hoodoos General Store will have everything you need to make a gourmet hiker’s lunch while visiting Zion National Park in winter.
Try to start your day bright and early
The sun falls fast in the winter, so if you want to get a full day’s worth of exploring the park, you’ll want to be up and running earlier than normal.
And even though Zion National Park winter temperatures can be daunting, it is still Utah’s most famous national park. To ensure seeing fewer crowds on a busy day, you’ll want to be one of the first ones in the park.
Pack microspikes & hiking poles for ice/snow
Safety comes first, always. There are a few extra items that come with enjoying the park at this time of year, and two of those are microspikes and hiking poles.
With these equipped, you won’t have to worry about slipping on any ice or snow threatening to ruin your day.
Wear lots of layers
I mentioned this above in our packing list, and it cannot be said enough. It begins to get cold in Zion National Park in December and stays that way for the next couple of months.
You should have a couple of layers on hand to shed or throw on in case of an unexpected storm.
Zion National Park Winter Lodging
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale
Marriot is a tried and true hotel chain where you are guaranteed excellent service and everything you for your visit to Zion National Park in winter.
There’s free parking, a fitness center, and free wifi. You can book one of their chic rooms that come with everything but a full kitchen for as low as $96 a night.
Springhill Suites is located a mile from Zion and pets can be accommodated for a fee.
🏨 Check rates for SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale!
Cable Mountain Lodge
If you want to be right outside of Zion’s door, Cable Mountain Lodge is the place to stay. Spend a night or two in a suite, or upgrade to a full-sized house to make your stay even more comfortable.
Nightly rates begin at $150, but the decor, amenities (including a full-service spa), and convenience make it worth the splurge.
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Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection By Hilton
When I hear Cliffrose Springdale, I think girls’ trip. The rooms, pink and flowery in the best way, are situated to have the best views of the Utah scenery.
There’s breakfast and a restaurant, Anthera. Located five minutes from Zion, you can head here after a long day of hiking, relax at the spa, and get cleaned up for dinner. Pets are not allowed.
These rooms are pricier, starting at $278, but have the views and amenities to back it up.
🏨 Check rates for Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton!
Final Thoughts: Zion National Park in Winter
If you were debating whether to visit Zion National Park in winter or not when you started reading, hopefully, you’ve now decided on a solid yes.
It may require a bit more preparation than visiting in the summer, but you’ll have just as many, if not more, memorable moments to take back home with you.
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