Hikes and backpacking routes
Apart from simply seeing the canyon in person, hiking and backpacking are the main draws at Zion. Famous trails like the adrenaline-inducing Angels Landing require a timed entry permit to hike (which can be avoided by booking a guided day hike), but there are plenty of other scenic paths through brilliant orange rock formations that any visitor can hop on at will. The Canyon Overlook Trail, on the park’s east side, is a low-mileage, high-reward hike with phenomenal views and photo ops along its easy one-mile stretch. If you’re looking to crunch out big miles and escape the main canyon masses, an overnight or day jaunt along the La Verkin Creek Trail should be first on your list.
Scenic drives
Private vehicles are only allowed along the iconic Zion Canyon Scenic Drive from December through February (a free shuttle is required during other months), but there’s a wealth of alternative scenic drives through the scrubby pinyon pines and striated cliffs that the area is so famous for. Just east of Zion’s main canyon, road trippers can wind around Highway 9 to Mt. Carmel Junction, passing striking tangerine plateaus and the unique, crosshatched texture of hulking Checkerboard Mesa. You’ll find another postcard-inspiring view an hour north from Springdale, along the less-traveled road through Kolob Canyons, which is known for epic hiking trails and brilliant red crags, sans crowds.
Cycling
With private vehicle access to Zion Canyon prohibited spring through fall (creating a safe and car-free scenic route), many visitors opt to bike into the park, and a bevy of friendly Zion bike rental shops have sprouted up nearby to help with growing demand. Zion Cycles and Zion Peddler rent road bikes and eBikes in the town of Springdale. Just remember: Bikes are allowed on park roadways, but not on any paths—except for the paved Pa’rus Trail.
Guided excursions
Not everyone wants to set off into the desert wilderness on their own, and because of Zion’s high popularity there are dozens of standout guided tours and day hikes designed with adventurous travelers in mind.
Equestrians of all ability levels can embark on day trips through Zion’s towering sandstone pinnacles with Canyon Trail Rides, a local business that’s been guiding visitors for over 50 years. Adrenaline junkies hoping to get up close and personal with the park’s rock formations won’t want to miss an expert-led day of climbing or canyoneering.
Solo travelers seeking company, or anyone with more than just a couple days in the area, should check out Wildland Trekking’s base camp and inn-based hiking tours, both of which include daily meals and a trek through the steep canyon walls of The Narrows.