Popular types of activities in Zion National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Angels landing hiking trail in Zion National Park, Utah, USA

Zion National Park is known for its hiking and canyoneering opportunities. There are also a number of scenic drives and lookouts, as well as ranger-led programs. In terms of general tourist activities, Zion is located near a number of other attractions, including the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Lake Powell.

1. Hiking

Zion National Park is a popular hiking destination for both beginners and experts. Hikers can expect to experience a variety of terrain, including rocky hills, flat desert plains, and steep, narrow canyons. The park is home to a variety of animals, including bighorn sheep, pronghorn antelope, and golden eagles.

2. Biking

If you are biking in or near Zion, you will experience beautiful scenery, great weather, and plenty of opportunity to explore. There are many bike trails in and around Zion National Park that will take you on a journey through the park. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the weather can be hot and sunny.

3. Rock Climbing

Rock climbing in Zion National Park typically involves scrambling up or hanging off formations of sandstone or granite. There are many routes available for both beginner and experienced climbers. Climbers should expect to sweat and get a little dirty, but the views are well worth it.

4. Camping

When camping in or near Zion National Park, visitors should expect the following: The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including forests, deserts, canyons, and mesas. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, backpacking, biking, and horseback riding. Campers should expect to have close encounters with wildlife, including bison, elk, and deer.

5. Horseback Riding

When horseback riding in or near Zion National Park, you may expect to ride through vast, open landscapes and pass by spectacular natural features such asrock formations, precipitous canyons, and waterfalls. You may also encounter wildlife such as bighorn sheep, elk, and pronghorn antelope.

6. Canoeing

When canoeing in or near Zion, expect stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding landscapes. You may also encounter wildlife, including deer, beaver, and otters.

7. Fishing

Fishing in or near Zion can be rewarding, as there are many good-sized fish in the area. Expect to see largemouth, smallmouth, and rainbow trout in the streams and rivers, as well as brown and rainbow trout in the lakes.

8. Bird Watching

There is a lot to see when bird watching in or near Zion National Park. The park is home to over 1,000 species of birds, making it one of the most diverse areas in the Western United States. Some of the most common birds to see in the park include bald eagles, golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, ospreys, and ravens.