Invaluable Tips for First Time Visitors to Zion National Park, Utah

Exploring the national parks in the United States is a travel goal for many people, as each park has its own personality, landscape, history, plants, and wildlife. If you’ve had your sights set on the state of Utah for a national park visit, then the state’s first official park – Zion National Park – is a great place to start. Visiting this park means you’ll get to walk the trails that the native people and pioneers once explored, providing you with a sense of rich history as you take in the breath-taking scenery.

If you are a first-time visitor to Zion National Park and want to be sure that you get the most out of your trip, here are some invaluable tips that will help you do just that.

Scrap the Typical Hotel Accommodations and Opt for Camping

One of the best ways to enjoy the surrounding nature and the beauty that Utah offers visitors is to ditch the typical hotel-style of accommodations and opt for camping instead. There are a number of different types of camping available from the standard tent to RV resorts filled with amenities and things to do.

Take, for example, Temple View RV Resort, which offers campgrounds in St George Utah, not far from Zion National Park. The RV resort offers things such as laundry facilities, a year-round heated hot tub and pool, putting green, exercise room, bathrooms and showers, and a clubhouse. You’ll have all the comforts of home while feeling as though you are part of nature.

Choose Your Travel Time Wisely

One of the best ways to ensure your trip is just as you imagined it would be is to choose your vacation time wisely. While the park is lovely in the summer months, this is the busiest time of the year and the crowds can get pretty big. If you can put off your travels until September or beat the rush in May or June before summer begins, you’ll deal with way fewer crowds. If you’re wanting to experience the beauty of the fall colors, be sure to visit in October.

Choose the Right Hiking Gear

Exploring Zion National Park by foot is always popular, but you want to be sure you are also prepared. Packing the right gear will keep you comfortable and safe so that you have the best experience possible. Whether you plan on a short hike or a full-day hike, you should always be sure to have supportive hiking boots with excellent grip, dress in layers, use sun protection and wear a hat and sunglasses, pack high-protein snacks, bring plenty of water, carry a rain poncho in your bag, and pack an emergency first aid kit, just in case.

Visit the Emerald Pools

One of the standout features of Zion National Park are the Emerald Pools, made up of the upper, middle, and lower sections. You can visit just one or all three, depending on your endurance and skill level.

Pair Up with a Park Ranger

For the ultimate experience, you can also join a park ranger on a two-hour shuttle tour. They will provide you with all the details you’re after, just be sure to reserve a spot in advance.

This is just a small look at the many highlights and tips first-time travelers will want to keep in mind when visiting Zion National Park.