From our on-site spa to our delicious restaurant with its extensive wine menu, Flanigan’s Resort is the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway. But this doesn’t mean that we aren’t also a family friendly Zion resort.
We offer a variety of room types to accommodate families large and small. From our beautiful pool to our great location close to the park, Flanigan’s is one of the best hotels Zion National Park has for families.
Keep reading to learn some of the best kid-friendly hikes to enjoy during your next stay at the best Zion resort.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Angel’s Landing may be the most famous trail in Zion National Park, but it’s far from family-friendly. Luckily, visitors looking to enjoy similar views without the steep, lengthy hike can head to Canyon Overlook Trail instead.
Canyon Overlook Trail is located just a short distance past the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, in Zion’s Upper Canyon. The shuttle buses don’t run to the Upper Canyon, so you’ll need to drive your personal vehicle to this railhead. But the ride through the tunnel is an adventure all its own. At over a mile long, this historic tunnel is a must-see during your visit anyway.
While there is parking available at the trailhead, it can fill up quickly on busy days, so consider arriving early in the day. Canyon Overlook Trail is 1-mile round trip, with around 163 feet of elevation gain. It isn’t paved, so you won’t be able to bring strollers or wagons. But the hike is easy enough for older kids or those that can be carried. At the end of the trail, before you turn around to head back to the start of the hike, you’ll enjoy some incredible views of Zion’s Lower Canyon far below.
Riverside Walk
After seeing Zion’s Lower Canyon from far above, head to Riverside Walk to see it from the opposite angle. This trail is located at the end of the Zion Canyon Shuttle Loop, where Zion Canyon Road ends and the Virgin River carves its way into the increasingly narrow canyon.
Riverside Walk is a 2.2-mile, roundtrip hike. The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it a good choice for wheelchairs, strollers, and kids. A parking lot at the trailhead is available when the Zion Canyon shuttles aren’t in operation. When they are, you can hop off at Stop 9, at Temple of Sinawava.
After leaving the parking lot behind, you’ll follow the Virgin River into the narrowing canyon. The trail offers more shade than most, which is great for a hot, sunny day. At the end of the trail, before you turn around to head back to the parking lot, you’ll find the beginning of The Narrows, a famous hike that goes up the Virgin River, requiring hikers to wade for long portions. Kids will love taking a few steps down to the riverbank to dip their toes in the water.
Pa’Rus Trail
Looking for an extra special way to explore Zion with the whole family? An e-bike rental is a great way to zip through the park on a busy day without waiting for the shuttle buses. Flanigan’s Resort has partnered with Zion Peddler to make it easy for guests to add an e-bike rental to their stay. You can book your rental when you book your room or charge a rental to your room during your stay.
If you do rent an e-bike, you’ll want to head to Pa’Rus Trail. While you might not be hiking, this is the only trail in the park open to e-bikes. The trail is 3.5-miles one-way and is paved for the entire route. Pa’Rus Trail is open to bikes, strollers, and even leashed pets. There are plenty of overlooks and places to take a break along the trail. It’s a great spot to pack a lunch to enjoy during your ride.
Weeping Rock Trail
Another popular trail to enjoy with kids during your Zion Resort stay is Weeping Rock Trail. This is one of the shortest trails in the park, at just .4-miles roundtrip. The short hike is paved and handicap accessible, and a good choice if you need to bring a stroller.
The trail is named for the sandstone cliff that you’ll hike underneath, which is covered in plants that hang over the edge and create a shady alcove. Along the trail, there is a viewing platform perched over the Weeping Rock stream. Steps leading down to the water are a good spot for kids to splash around and cool off on a hot day.
Planning Your Zion Resort Stay
These hikes are a great choice for your next family visit to Flanigan’s Resort. But they can also be the perfect relaxing hike for your next romantic getaway at your favorite Zion resort!
Ready to start planning your next visit? Book your stay at Flanigan’s Resort today!