The winter season might just be Zion National Park’s best-kept secret. This season sees the fewest number of visitors to the park. Many people simply choose not to travel this time of year. Others assume that visiting a national park during a season that sees cooler temps and the occasional snow is a bad idea. But ask any local, and you’ll learn that they’re wrong.
Much of Southern Utah, including Zion National Park, see relatively mild winters. While snow does occur from time to time, turning the park into a beautiful winter wonderland, for most of the season you can still enjoy the same activities you would in the summer, as long as you’re willing to wear a few extra layers.
But while you can still hike, take a scenic drive, or join an off-road tour this time of year, there are a few extra activities you’ll be able to enjoy during your stay at Flanigan’s Resort. If you’re planning a stay at Springdale Utah vacation rentals this winter, keep reading to learn a few seasonal activities you can enjoy.
Winter Sports
While Zion does see some snow every winter, you won’t find anyone enjoying winter sports here. But this doesn’t mean that you’ll have to go all the way to Park City or Salt Lake City to hit the slopes! Instead, you will find some less than 2 hours from the park in Brian Head, Utah.
If you want to spend a day on the slopes, you can easily make it to Brian Head Resort and back to your comfy Springdale Utah vacation rentals in a day. This makes for an excellent way to break up a few days of hiking and exploring the park. The ski resort there offers gear rentals, lessons, and routes in a variety of difficulties. It isn’t quite as large as the ski resorts that you’ll find in Park City. But if you’re looking to mix up your visit to Southern Utah with a day on the slopes, these are the perfect fit.
Snowmobile Tours
If you’re looking to enjoy the snow without the work (and the next day’s soreness) of skiing and snowboarding, don’t discount a day trip to Brian Head Resort just yet. You can also enjoy a unique activity that you won’t find just anywhere; a snowmobile tour. If you’re never ridden one of these motorized, snowbound machines, this is a wonderful way to give one a try with the help and guidance of an experienced guide.
Located on the edge of Cedar Breaks National Monument, your tour will give you a chance to experience the region and its beautiful landscapes covered in bright, white snow. Just like at the ski resort, you can rent any gear you might need, like snow pants and coats or waterproof boots.
Off-Road Adventures
You don’t have to travel all the way to Brian Head to get an adrenaline rush going. There are plenty of ways to do that in Springdale, as well as in nearby Hurricane and St. George, Utah.
Off-road tours and rentals are fun no matter what time of year you visit. If you don’t want to bundle up or face the chill of an open UTV or ATV, opt instead for a Jeep tour, or rent a Jeep Wrangler from one of the many outfitters. That way you can crank up the heat and still enjoy a thrilling adventure on any number of the off-road trails in the area.
Winter Hiking
Don’t let the chilly temperatures or a little snow keep you from enjoying what draws so many annual visitors to Zion; the trails. While some roads and trails may close when there is heavy snowfall, many remain open all season long.
With the right gear and some planning, you can still enjoy the trails that are open, even when snow is present. Waterproof hiking boots, with added treads when there is ice will help your feet stay dry and allow you to keep steady. Thermals, with insulating mid-layers of fleece, wool, or down, and topped with a waterproof coat or shell will keep you safe and warm, even in sub-zero temperatures. When conditions are icy, consider sticking to Zion’s flatter trails, like Riverside Walk.
A Spa Day
If the wintery weather and all that hiking have you looking for a break and a chance to warm up, a spa day might be just the thing. And an on-site spa is just one of the things that makes Flanigan’s Resort one of the best Zion hotels!
Deep Canyon Spa is the perfect place to warm up, relax, and unwind during your winter visit to Southern Utah. After a relaxing afternoon at the spa, you’ll even find some of the best dining in Zion National Park just steps away at Spotted Dog.
Planning Your Winter Stay at Springdale Utah Vacation Rentals
Don’t let the cold or the snow scare you away; winter is a great time to visit Zion and the rest of Southern Utah. Whether you plan to enjoy skiing and snowboarding, a snowmobile tour, an off-road adventure, hiking, or even just a relaxing spa day, you’ll still get a chance to explore the outdoors and the beauty of the park.
Ready to plan a winter visit to Flanigan’s Resort? Book your stay today!