A quick internet search will result in an endless stream of tips for planning your visit to Zion National Park. But many of these tips are aimed at tourists. And while you may be planning to visit as a tourist, these aren’t the tips you want to use while enjoying your hotel Zion inn stay.
Who better to get tips from though than a local? Following the tips that locals use when navigating the park can help you beat the crowds, skip the overrated tourist traps, and experience the park in an entirely new way.
If you’re planning a visit to Flanigan’s Resort in 2024, keep reading. We’re breaking down the insider tips you need during your stay.
The Most Popular Season Might Not Be the Best
One of the most important facts that locals know that many tourists don’t is that just because a season is the most popular time to visit the park doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s the best.
Like most national parks, Zion’s busiest season is summer. The days are long and sunny. Businesses stay open later, and tour companies tend to offer more options and tour times than they do any other time of year. Kids and college students tend to have a break from school, allowing families to travel. Even airlines tend to offer more flight options this time of year.
But all of these factors add up to one big truth; summer is the busiest season in Zion National Park. Particularly during June and July and around the weekends, you can expect crowds to descend on Zion. This can result in lines to ride the shuttle buses and crowding on popular trails.
If this is the only time that you can squeeze in a getaway, this doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy an incredible visit to the park. However, if you do have some flexibility in when you can travel, consider booking a visit during the off-season.
Locals often refer to winter as Zion’s “Secret Season.” This time of year sees the lowest number of visitors to the park. While temperatures can be cold, the weather tends to be mild throughout the season in the park, which means that you can still hike and enjoy other outdoor activities. And when the park does see snow, it turns into a beautiful, sparkling winter wonderland.
If your travel plans are flexible and you want to visit like a local, plan a stay at our Utah spa resort sometime from late fall to early spring.
Rainy, Snowy, or Cold Days are the Best Time to Visit the Park
Locals don’t let a little rain, snow, or a cold day scare them away from visiting the park. In fact, they know that days like this tend to see fewer visitors, making them a great time to enjoy the park with fewer crowds!
As mentioned, winter in Zion tends to be fairly mild. Winters in Zion are fairly mild. The coldest month of the year is January, with average daily highs in the 40s and daily average lows in the 20s. Southern Utah doesn’t see a lot of annual precipitation. February sees the most rain and snow, averaging just over an inch throughout the month.
But if you happen to find yourself facing a particularly cool or wet day in Zion, don’t assume this means that you’ll be stuck in your hotel room. With the right gear, you can still enjoy a full day in the park. Dress in warm layers that you can add or remove throughout the day as the temperature changes or you get your heart rate up on a hike. Consider packing ice grips for your shoes if you want to hike a steep or challenging trail in icy conditions. And if the day is warm but raining, grab your raincoat and embrace the break from the triple-digit temperatures Zion sees in the summer!
If you decide that you do need a break from the weather during your getaway, don’t fret. A stay at Flanigan’s Resort is the best spa getaway in Utah. That’s because while the resort is perfect for maximizing your time in the park, our on-site spa, Deep Canyon Spa, is just steps away, too!
Arrive Early and Stay Late
Locals won’t just tell you that certain seasons are better than others if you’re looking to book a stay in our hotel Zion inn. They’ll also suggest that you get to the park very early, and stay late, in order to beat the crowds.
Many day visitors to the park come in in the middle of the day and leave by the afternoon. Getting to the park early will allow you to hit the trails before too many others arrive. And staying into the evening will let you enjoy some quieter hours in the park before you go.
Planning a Hotel Zion Inn Stay in 2024
If you’re planning a stay in our hotel Zion inn in 2024, these tips can help you experience the park like a local! Another tip any local or experienced visitor will tell you is that booking the right hotel can make or break your trip.
Flanigan’s Resort is a luxury hotel located just over a half mile from the entrance to the park. From our great location to our on-site spa, range of room options, delicious restaurant, and special amenities, you’ll find everything you need for an incredible getaway. Book your stay at our Utah spa resort today to see for yourself what makes our resort unique!