Zion National Park covers nearly 230 square miles of stunning cliffs, red rocks, deep canyons, and winding trails. Each season brings something fresh, making Zion a place you’ll want to visit again and again. While many visitors stick to a day or two, they often miss hidden gems and unforgettable experiences that Zion has to offer.
If you’re planning a shorter trip, a 3-day Zion itinerary will guide you to all the must-see spots and most popular hikes. For those with more time, a 7-day Zion itinerary offers a deeper experience. You’ll have time to explore peaceful trails, enjoy quieter moments, and discover hidden gems within the park.
In this guide, we’ll outline the best things to do in Zion, including family-friendly Zion activities, quiet Zion viewpoints, and best Zion hikes for beginners. We’ll cover must-see hikes, scenic spots and some amazing Zion trip planning tips to ensure you make the most of your visit.
Keep reading to start your trip to Zion!
3-Day Zion National Park Itinerary: Perfect for First-Time Visitors
This 3-day Zion itinerary balances iconic landmarks with unforgettable trails. Flanigan’s Resort offers a relaxing place to stay, with easy access to the park.
Day 1: Iconic Views & Easy Hikes
- Morning: Arrive and check in at Flanigan’s Resort.
- Midday: Hop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle and wind through breathtaking scenery, passing iconic landmarks like Zion Lodge, the towering cliffs of Angels Landing, and the misty walls of Weeping Rock.
- Afternoon: Take a Riverside Walk or hike The Narrows. Even a short walk offers stunning canyon views.
- Evening: Watch the sunset from Canyon Overlook Trail, where golden light spills over Zion’s dramatic cliffs.
Day 2: Thrilling Hikes & Adventure
- Early Morning: Challenge yourself with the Angels Landing hike, one of Zion’s most exhilarating trails. The steep climb and narrow ridges lead to jaw-dropping panoramic views. (Permit required)
- Midday: Ride the Zion Canyon Shuttle and enjoy scenic stops like Zion Lodge, Angels Landing, and Weeping Rock.
- Afternoon: Hike to the Emerald Pools, where cascading waterfalls and lush greenery create a peaceful retreat.
Day 3: One Last Adventure Before Departure
- Morning: Take on the Watchman Trail, a rewarding yet easy hike offering breathtaking views of Zion’s southern landscape.
- Afternoon: Relax at Flanigan’s Resort before heading home.
7-Day Zion National Park Itinerary: Explore the Best of Zion and Beyond
This 7-day trip to Zion and nearby spots gives you a great mix of natural beauty and local charm. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your week.
Days 1-3: As Above (3-Day Zion travel guide)
The first three days will be just like the three-day Zion National Park itinerary, covering all the must-see spots. You’ll hike to Angels Landing, explore the Emerald Pools, and enjoy the views along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Flanigan’s Resort will be your cozy home for the trip, with tasty meals waiting at The Spotted Dog Restaurant.
Day 4: East Zion and Kanarra Falls
- Morning: Drive to the east entrance and visit Checkerboard Mesa. Then hike the Canyon Overlook Trail for broad canyon views
- Afternoon: Explore Kolob Canyons and take the Timber Creek Overlook Trail. Alternatively, hike Kanarra Falls with its slot canyons and wooden ladders for a unique experience
- Evening: Unwind at Flanigan’s Resort, where a warm meal at Spotted Dog Restaurant and a peaceful night’s sleep await.
Day 5: Bryce Canyon Day Trip
- Morning: Take a scenic 2-hour drive to Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its amazing hoodoos and tall rock formations.
- Midday: Hike the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden trails in Bryce Canyon. These popular trails provide close-up views of the dramatic formations.
- Afternoon: After your hike, visit the Visitor Center and stop at some viewpoints to enjoy the park’s unique beauty.
- Evening: Relax at Flanigan’s Resort, perhaps treating yourself to a rejuvenating spa session.
This is just one of the best things to do in Zion during your trip. For more, check out our Zion hiking guide.
Day 6: Off-the-Beaten-Path Zion
- Morning: Head to Lava Point Overlook, a higher elevation that offers panoramic views of Zion’s rugged landscape. The peaceful environment here is a great way to begin the day.
- Afternoon: Visit Grafton Ghost Town for a peaceful and historical stroll. Alternatively, for more advanced hikers, consider the West Rim Trail or The Subway. These require more time and permits but offer unforgettable scenery.
- Evening: Reflect on your adventures while enjoying a final night at Flanigan’s Resort.
Day 7: Relax and Departure
- Morning: Begin your last day with a peaceful yoga session at Flanigan’s Resort.
- Late Morning: Take one last scenic ride through Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This will give you a chance to revisit any hidden gems in Zion you may have missed and soak in the beauty one last time.
- Afternoon: Afternoon: Depart Zion with unforgettable memories, say goodbye to Flanigan’s Resort. As you leave, you’ll carry memories of awe-inspiring landscapes and thrilling adventures.
Additional Tips for Your Zion National Park Itinerary
- Permits: Popular hikes like Angels Landing require a permit, available through a lottery system.
- Zion Canyon Shuttle: During busy times, Zion has a shuttle service available. Check the schedule and plan your day around it for a smooth visit, whether you’re following a short or long Zion trip plan.
- Hydration and Safety: Stay hydrated, wear good shoes, and watch out for the heat and tough trails when using the Zion hiking guide.
- Reservations: Zion can get busy, so book your stay, tours, and permits early for easy Zion trip planning.
Comparison Table: 3-Day Zion Itinerary vs. 7-Day Zion Itinerary
| Feature | 3-Day Zion Itinerary | 7-Day Zion Itinerary |
| Best For | First-time visitors or those with limited time. | Outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers looking for a deeper experience. |
| Main Focus | Covering the main highlights of Zion, including iconic hikes and viewpoints. | Exploring both major spots and hidden gems across the park, with a more relaxed pace. |
| Pace | Fast and action-packed, focusing on major hikes and viewpoints. | Slow and immersive, with more time for exploration and relaxation. |
| Key Activities | Focus on Zion’s top hikes: Angels Landing, The Narrows, Watchman Trail, and scenic viewpoints like Canyon Overlook. | Check out popular spots and hidden gems like Kolob Canyons, Grafton Ghost Town, Lava Point Overlook, and Checkerboard Mesa. |
| Flexibility | Short visits to the main spots with little room for changes. | More flexible schedule to add unplanned hikes, rest, or detours to other parks nearby. |
| Crowd Level | It can get busy during peak seasons because the trip is short and there aren’t many activities. | The longer itinerary means fewer crowds, so you can explore more peacefully. |
| Best For | Visitors who want to see the best things to do in Zion in a short time. | Those wanting a more in-depth experience with opportunities for photography, extra hikes, and rest. |
Conclusion
Planning a 3-day or a longer 7-day Zion itinerary? Either way, Zion National Park offers something special. The park’s beauty, combined with great hikes and peaceful spots, makes for a trip you won’t forget.
Flanigan’s Resort makes it all easier, giving you a comfortable and convenient place to stay while you explore. Whether you’re here for a short visit or a longer stay, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy Zion to the fullest.
Ready for your Zion adventure?
Come stay at Flanigan’s Resort and let us help you make the most of your trip. Zion is waiting, and your perfect getaway is just a click away.