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Zion

Zion Hiking Tours

4.9 (1 528 reviews)

Explore the red sandstone landscapes and slot canyons of Southern Utah on a guided hike. Choose from half-day excursions or full-day adventures departing from Springdale or Las Vegas.

📅 Free 24-hour cancellation
👥 Small group options available
🥾 Expert medically-trained guides
🚐 Departures from Las Vegas
East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure Free Cancellation
5.0 (1 125) ⏱ 2h

East Zion Crimson Canyon Hike & UTV Adventure

Explore Southern Utah's secluded slot canyons on a guided walk far from the typical tourist crowds.

Zion National Park Small Group Hiking Day Tour from Las Vegas Free Cancellation
4.9 (305)

Zion National Park Small Group Hiking Day Tour from Las Vegas

Explore Zion National Park’s red cliffs and river trails on a guided day trip from Las Vegas.

Zion Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike - with Narrows Free Cancellation
4.9 (89)

Zion Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike - with Narrows

Hike through Zion’s sandstone canyons and Emerald Pools with a local guide in a small group limited to eight people.

Half Day Guided Hike in Zion National Park Free Cancellation
5.0 (9)

Half Day Guided Hike in Zion National Park

Walk Zion’s canyon floor and Emerald Pool trails on this guided half-day tour for small groups of eight or fewer.

What Visitors Say

Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Zion — from practical tips to personal highlights.

D
David W. Germany, Mar 2026
4.5

"A very long day from Las Vegas but totally worth it. The bus was comfortable and they provided plenty of bottled water. The view from Big Bend was amazing, though I wish we had a bit more time to hike deeper into the park."

M
Marcus D. Australia, Dec 2025
5.0

"Booked the East Zion UTV adventure. Zipping around the dirt trails before hiking into the crimson slot canyons was an absolute blast. Highly recommend this if you want to avoid the massive crowds in the main canyon area."

S
Sarah M. United States, Dec 2025
5.0

"Did the half-day hike with my mom and it was fantastic. The 4 miles to Emerald Pools was perfect for us beginners. The 175 stairs were a bit much, but our guide took it slow. Great snacks provided too!"

E
Elena R. Canada, Jul 2025
4.9

"Our guide was medically trained and knew so much about the geology. Hiking 9 miles through the Narrows and Emerald Pools was exhausting but incredible. Definitely rent the river boots and stick in Springdale before you meet up!"

J
James T. United Kingdom, Jun 2025
4.8

"Took the day trip from Vegas. Pickup at the Bellagio was right on time at 6:20am. The drive through the Mt. Carmel tunnel was epic, and the Canyon Overlook hike wasn't too hard. Just be aware of the extra park fee for non-US residents."

C
Chloe H. United States, Jun 2025
4.7

"Loved not having to worry about parking at the visitor center. We met at Zion Outfitter and our guide handled the shuttle tickets and navigating. Walking along the Virgin River at the Temple of Sinawava was stunning."

What to Expect on Your Zion Hiking Tour

Zion National Park hiking tours offer a guided way to explore Utah's oldest and most visited national park without the stress of navigating crowded shuttles or securing trail permits alone. You can expect to walk among towering red sandstone cliffs, wade through river-carved slot canyons, and learn about the area's rich geological history from experienced local guides.

🌊

The Narrows

Wade directly into the Virgin River through a towering slot canyon. Surrounded by sheer 1,000-foot sandstone walls, hikers navigate the cool, rushing water using sturdy walking sticks.

🌿

Emerald Pools

Hike to a beautiful desert oasis featuring trickling waterfalls and massive rock overhangs. The trail includes lush hanging gardens where plants grow downward from the weeping rock walls.

🥾

Riverside Walk

Starting at the Temple of Sinawava, this paved 2.2-mile trail runs parallel to the Virgin River. It offers a shaded canyon environment and is highly accessible for all fitness levels.

🚙

Slot Canyons & UTVs

Explore the quieter East Zion area by riding an off-road UTV to hidden crimson slot canyons. You will hike through narrow corridors carved into the sandstone by millions of years of erosion.

⛰️

Angels Landing

A world-renowned 5.2-mile hike up a dramatic, knife-edge ridge equipped with metal chains. It rewards climbers with thrilling heights and 360-degree views of Zion Canyon.

🛣️

Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway

Many tours include a drive along this spectacular route, passing through the historic Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. It features dramatic canyon panoramas and views of the Great Arch of Zion.

Things to Know Before Booking

Planning a guided hike in Zion requires understanding the park's unique logistics, seasonal weather challenges, and physical demands. Here is what you need to know before securing your spot.

Tour Types Available

Options range from beginner-friendly 4-mile half-day walks to intense 9-mile full-day hikes. You can also book specialized UTV slot canyon adventures in East Zion or full-day coach trips departing from Las Vegas.

Park Entrance Fees

Check your inclusions carefully. While Las Vegas day trips and premium full-day hikes usually cover park admission, some half-day tours require you to pay the $20 pedestrian fee onsite or present an America the Beautiful pass.

Fitness Requirements

Read the physical requirements before booking. Full-day Level 3 hikes involve up to 7 hours of brisk walking on uneven terrain, while half-day tours are beginner-friendly but may still include sections with stairs and moderate inclines.

Transportation & Logistics

Personal vehicles are banned on the Scenic Drive during shuttle season. Most local tours meet at Springdale hotels or paid lots like Zion Outfitter, utilizing the free park shuttle to reach trailheads.

Weather & Safety

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees, and monsoon storms from July to September cause dangerous flash floods. Guides will alter itineraries if heavy rain threatens slot canyons like The Narrows.

Permit Requirements

Hiking past Scout Lookout on Angels Landing requires a specific permit obtained through a lottery system. If your tour includes this specific summit, confirm whether the operator secures the permit or if you must apply yourself.

Cancellation Policies

The vast majority of Zion hiking tours offer a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time, giving you flexibility if your travel plans change.

What to Bring

Always dress in layers and wear high-grip hiking boots. You must carry at least one gallon of water per person per day. For wet hikes, renting neoprene socks and a dry suit in Springdale is highly recommended.

Which Zion Hiking Tour Is Best for You?

Half-Day Guided HikeFull-Day Small Group HikeLas Vegas Day TourUTV & Slot Canyon Hike
Duration Approx. 4 hours (4 miles)Up to 7 hours (9 miles)Full Day (12+ hours)2 hours
Fitness Level Beginner-friendlyModerate to HighSuitable for allModerate
Includes Local Guide, Park Shuttle Transport, SnacksGuide, Park Entry Fees, Springdale Transport, SnacksVegas Hotel Pickup, Lunch, Park Admission, GuideLicensed Guide, UTV Ride, East Zion Access
Price from $124$354$148$130

Plan Your Visit to Zion

Zion National Park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round. However, visitor facility hours vary by season.

  • Zion Canyon Visitor Center: Information desk is open 8:00 am to 7:00 pm.
  • Zion Forever Park Store: Open 8:00 am to 8:00 pm.
  • Wilderness Desk: Open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm for permit pickups.
  • Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel: Open to large vehicles requiring an escort from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm daily.

The free Zion Canyon Shuttle operates from March through November, running every 5 to 15 minutes. Always check the seasonal schedule, as missing the final evening shuttle means an 8-mile walk back in the dark.

Zion is located in southwestern Utah along State Route 9, accessible from several major hubs.

  • From Las Vegas (LAS): The drive is 163 miles and takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes via I-15 North and UT-9 East.
  • From Salt Lake City (SLC): The drive is 307 miles and takes roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes heading south on I-15.
  • Public Transit: The SunTran Zion Route connects St. George to Springdale. It covers 42 miles, costs $5 each way, and operates Monday through Saturday from 5:40 am to 10:30 pm.

If you are driving, be aware that the Visitor Center's 350 parking spots usually fill up by 8:00 am. Overflow parking is available in the town of Springdale for $15 to $25 per day.

The optimal times to visit Zion are during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. October and November are particularly excellent due to peak autumn colors and thinner crowds.

If you plan to hike deep water trails like The Narrows or the Subway, June is the best month as it is the driest time of the year.

Months to Avoid: The peak summer season from July to September brings extreme heat exceeding 100 degrees and frequent monsoon thunderstorms that trigger deadly flash floods. Winter is also challenging, as freezing temperatures, snow, and ice make trails like Angels Landing incredibly slippery and dangerous.

Zion National Park provides several accessible options for visitors with mobility needs.

  • Facilities: The Zion Canyon Visitor Center features accessible parking, restrooms with grab bars, and tactile exhibits.
  • Transportation: The free Zion Canyon Shuttle is equipped with a lift capable of transporting up to two wheelchairs. Visitors with medical needs can also request a Yellow Permit to drive personal vehicles on the Scenic Drive.
  • Trails: The Pa'rus Trail is a fully paved 3.5-mile path ideal for wheelchairs and strollers. The Riverside Walk offers a 2.2-mile paved route, though some natural terrain may require assistance.

For elderly visitors, the Zion Lodge offers an open-air tram tour from spring to fall with ramp access and comfortable seating.

Zion is well-equipped to handle its 4.5 million annual visitors, though services get busy during peak season.

  • Parking: The main Visitor Center has over 350 spaces. If full, use the Flowbird app to pay for parking in Springdale and ride the free town shuttle to the entrance.
  • Water Stations: Hydration is critical. Free spring water refill stations are located at the visitor centers, campgrounds, Zion Lodge, and select shuttle stops.
  • Food and Gear: The Zion Lodge offers dining options inside the park. For specialized hiking equipment, local outfitters in Springdale rent dry suits, neoprene socks, and walking sticks for river hikes.

To protect the park's fragile desert ecosystem and ensure visitor safety, strict rules are enforced.

  • Water Safety: The Virgin River contains toxic cyanobacteria blooms. Swimming or submerging your head is strictly prohibited, and standard water filters cannot remove the deadly toxins.
  • Drones & Vehicles: Drones and remote-controlled aircraft are completely banned. Off-road vehicles (ATVs/OHVs) are not permitted on any park roads.
  • Pets: Dogs are strictly prohibited on all trails except the paved Pa'rus Trail. They must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and kept entirely out of the river.
  • Permits: You must secure a permit to hike past Scout Lookout on Angels Landing, go canyoneering, or camp in the Zion Wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay the park entrance fee if I book a guided hiking tour?

It depends on the specific tour. Premium full-day hikes and Las Vegas day trips usually include the park entry fee in the ticket price. However, some half-day local tours require you to pay the $20 pedestrian fee onsite or present an America the Beautiful pass.

Are Zion hiking tours suitable for beginners?

Yes, there are beginner-friendly options available. Half-day guided hikes typically cover about 4 miles on paved or packed dirt trails, visiting accessible areas like the Emerald Pools and the Riverside Walk.

Will my tour guide provide specialized gear for hiking The Narrows?

Most tours do not supply personal water gear directly. You will need to stop at local outfitters in Springdale, such as Zion Outfitter, to rent items like dry suits, neoprene socks, and sturdy wooden walking sticks before your tour begins.

Can I get picked up from Las Vegas for a Zion tour?

Yes. There are full-day small group tours that depart directly from Las Vegas. They offer round-trip transportation with early morning pickups from major Strip hotels like the Bellagio, Excalibur, and Treasure Island.

Do I need a permit for Angels Landing if I go with a guide?

Yes, a permit is always required to hike the final chain-assisted section past Scout Lookout, regardless of whether you are with a guide. Check with your tour operator to see if they secure the permit for you or if you must apply through the NPS lottery.

What happens to my hiking tour if it rains?

Tour operators monitor weather closely. Because slot canyons like The Narrows are highly susceptible to deadly flash floods during summer monsoons, guides will reroute the hike to safer, higher-elevation trails if rain is predicted.

Can I bring my dog on a guided hike in Zion?

No. Pets are strictly prohibited on almost all trails in Zion, on shuttle buses, and on guided tours. The only exception in the park is the paved Pa'rus Trail, where dogs are allowed on a 6-foot leash.

How physically demanding is the Full-Day hike tour?

Full-day Level 3 hiking tours require a moderate to high level of fitness. Participants should expect to hike briskly for up to 7 hours, covering up to 9 miles over varied terrain with moderate inclines and uneven surfaces.

Where do tours meet if I drive myself to Zion?

Because the Visitor Center parking lot fills up very early, many local tours arrange meeting points at Springdale hotels or paid parking lots just outside the park entrance, such as Zion Outfitter.

Are there any age restrictions for Zion tours?

Age limits vary by tour type. Las Vegas coach tours allow infants (on laps) and children, while strenuous 9-mile full-day hikes are generally restricted to older teenagers and adults with good cardiovascular health.

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