Zion National Park: An Overview
Zion National Park represents one of the smaller national parks located in the United States, encompassing an area of merely 593.3 km². This park is an essential destination for those traveling to Utah.
Renowned for its steep and rugged red rock cliffs alongside its arid landscapes, Zion National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers an array of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and bouldering, ensuring an engaging experience in Utah’s cherished national park.
Among the most remarkable locations within Zion National Park is the Emerald Pools. No visit to the park would be considered complete without taking time to appreciate the shimmering pools. The cascading waterfalls and swift rivers throughout Zion National Park contribute significantly to the park’s breathtaking scenery.
There exists a variety of excellent accommodations both in and around Zion National Park, catering to differing preferences. Some establishments are designed to meet the needs of adventurous travelers, while others provide a more luxurious experience. Camping is a favored choice in Zion National Park, and the area also presents ample glamping options.
Let us delve into the various accommodations available in Zion National Park.
Springdale
Springdale is the most populous area to stay while visiting Zion National Park. Serving as the gateway to the national park, Springdale accommodates nearly every visitor passing through. Although the permanent population is under 1,000, the town is well-equipped for tourism. In fact, during peak season, it is likely that more tourists reside in Springdale than locals.
Springdale is enveloped by Zion National Park. To the northwest, the town is overlooked by Mount Kinesava and The West Temple, while to the southeast, it is sheltered by The Watchman and Johnson Mountain.
The center of Springdale is merely a 3-minute drive from the South Entrance Ranger Station of Zion National Park, affording travelers the closest proximity to the wilderness. Numerous camping sites are available around Springdale, all providing stunning views of the mountains. Many premium accommodations also offer rooms with scenic vistas.
Ideal for: Active Travelers, Adventurous Individuals, Art Enthusiasts, Campers, Couples, Families, First-Time Visitors, Nature Lovers, Nature Photographers, Whistle-Stop Travelers
Neighborhood Highlights: Zion National Park, Springdale Visitor Center, Zion Human History Museum, Pa’rus Trail, Mount Kinesava, The West Temple, The Watchman, Johnson Mountain, DeZion Gallery, Sorella Gallery, David J. West Gallery, Fatali Foundation, Canyon Junction Bridge (view of the Watchman at sunset), Crawford Arch, The Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, Canyon Overlook
Recommended Accommodations:
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park – This modern hotel embodies a sense of sophistication, with rooms that deliver an urban ambiance complemented by stunning views of Zion National Park. The accommodating staff are always willing to assist guests in any way.
Flanigan’s Inn – A contemporary establishment that ensures great value for its guests, Flanigan’s Inn has maintained high standards and is rated with three stars. Each room features a work desk and a flat-screen TV with cable channels, accompanied by free parking.
Driftwood Lodge – Zion National Park – Springdale – A highly recommended hotel offering exceptional facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool with a sunbathing terrace. The homely rooms provide a high level of comfort, and an onsite bar and restaurant operate daily.
Hildale
Hildale, a small city straddling the Utah-Arizona border, is home to just under 3,000 residents. Approximately similar to neighboring Colorado City, the two cities appear as one to the untrained observer due to their striking resemblances.
Exploration of Hildale reveals an inviting environment for travelers seeking a local experience. In contrast to Springdale, which primarily caters to tourists, Hildale provides a limited number of accommodations coupled with a warm welcome.
Located an hour’s drive from the South Entrance Ranger Station of Zion National Park, Hildale offers an alternative lodging option, particularly advantageous during peak seasons when Springdale experiences inflated rates and limited availability.
For travelers eager to connect with locals, The Edge Of The World Brewery & Pub serves as the town’s most popular gathering spot, situated on the Colorado City side of the border.
Ideal for: Active Travelers, Adventurous Individuals, Budget Travelers, Happy Campers, Local Experience Seekers, Off-the-Beaten-Track Travelers, Road Trippers
Neighborhood Highlights: Edge Of The World Brewery & Pub, Zion National Park South Entrance Ranger Station, Springdale, Espresso Creek Coffee, The Beehive Mountain, Hurricane, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, Snow Canyon State Park, Dixie National Forest
Recommended Accommodations:
Zion Glamping Adventures – Located just outside Hildale, Zion Glamping Adventures provides an opportunity to sleep under the stars in luxurious canvas tents featuring real beds and heating elements. Additionally, there is a barbecue area with picnic tables available for guests.
Zion Luxury Camping – Offering comfortable accommodations in Hildale, each luxury tent can accommodate up to two people, with shared, immaculately clean bathroom facilities. Guests can also enjoy picturesque mountain views and barbecue amenities.
Zion Suites of Hildale – A popular choice in Hildale, this hotel features a shared lounge and barbecue terrace for relaxation. All rooms come equipped with tea and coffee making facilities, along with an American-style breakfast included in the room rate.
Hurricane
The city of Hurricane is located within Washington County, Utah, adjacent to the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and just a 23-minute drive from the vibrant city of St George.
Hurricane provides an excellent lodging option for travelers looking to experience both the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and the magnificent Zion National Park effortlessly. For those wishing to maximize their exploration of Utah’s wilderness, Hurricane serves as an ideal base, strategically positioned between Utah’s most pristine landscapes.
Additional natural attractions worth visiting while in Hurricane include Quail Creek State Park and Sand Hollow State Park, the latter of which offers off-highway driving routes appealing to 4X4 enthusiasts. Sand Hollow State Park also functions as a family-friendly recreational area, ideal for swimming and cooling off during hot summer days.
Ideal for: Active Travelers, Adventurous Individuals, Campers, Couples, Families, First-Time Visitors, Fun-Loving Travelers, Nature Lovers, Nature Photographers, Whistle-Stop Travelers
Neighborhood Highlights: Zion National Park, Quail Creek State Park, Sand Hollow State Park, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, St George, Toquerville Falls, Red Cliffs Recreation Area, Silver Reef Museum and Ghost Town, Sky Mountain Golf Course, Sky Ridge Park, St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm
Recommended Accommodations:
Zion Village Townhome – This townhome is ideal for families or those intending to stay longer in Hurricane. It includes a fully equipped kitchen, a living area, and three bedrooms. Both free WiFi and parking are provided for guests.
Hurricane Windgate at Zion – A contemporary hotel located on West State Street, offering cozy rooms with essential amenities. Each room features an ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower. Guests can unwind at the outdoor swimming pool or on the sun terrace.
Econo Lodge Hurricane – Zion National Park – A well-regarded and highly affordable accommodation in Hurricane, Econo Lodge Hurricane delivers exceptional value. Complimentary continental breakfast is part of each room rate, alongside free WiFi and parking availability for guests. The hotel also features an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace.
St. George
The vibrant city of St George offers an excellent accommodation option for urban dwellers interested in exploring Zion National Park while maintaining proximity to city amenities.
With convenient access to Zion National Park and the scenic Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, St George presents a remarkable opportunity. Snow Canyon State Park is located just a 20-minute drive from the city center.
St George serves as a practical choice for families visiting Zion National Park, offering numerous child-friendly activities and extensive dining options; One Hot Grill, a popular hamburger restaurant on Tabernacle Street, is particularly recommended.
One of St George’s major attractions is the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm, an educational park showcasing fossilized plants and fish, along with prehistoric dinosaur tracks and interactive exhibits. The center opens daily at 10 am.
Ideal for: Active Travelers, Adventurous Individuals, Art Enthusiasts, Budding Historians, City Dwellers, Couples, Families, First-Time Visitors, Foodies, Nature Lovers, Nature Photographers, Whistle-Stop Travelers
Neighborhood Highlights: Zion National Park, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, Snow Canyon State Park, St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm, Quail Creek State Park, Sand Hollow State Park, City of St George Golf Course, Red Rock Golf Trail, Brigham Young Winter Home, St George Tabernacle, St. George Children’s Museum, St George City Art Museum, The Arrowhead Gallery, Opera House City of St George
Recommended Accommodations:
La Quinta Inn & Suites Saint George – An affordable lodging option set in an optimal location in St George, featuring a year-round outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. A hearty breakfast is included in each room rate, adding to its value.
Inn On The Cliff – A beloved choice in St George, offering rooms with a rustic ambiance, complemented by homely features such as a seating area and tea and coffee making facilities. Each room includes a private balcony and a 50-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels.
Seven Wives Inn – A highly rated hotel in St George, particularly suitable for families. The complimentary continental breakfast is recognized as one of the finest offerings in St George and should not be missed.
Cedar City
Cedar City is situated to the north of Zion National Park and to the west of Dixie National Forest. Like Hurricane, Cedar City presents an incredible opportunity for travelers to stay close to some of North America’s best-preserved wilderness.
While visiting both Dixie National Forest and Zion National Park in a single day may not be feasible, Cedar City represents an ideal base for exploration. Notably, the beautiful Red Cliffs National Conservation Area is roughly a 50-minute drive away, making Cedar City a hidden gem for those looking to explore Zion National Park.
Cedar Ridge Golf Course stands out as a primary attraction in Cedar City. This 18-hole course opens daily, with rental clubs available. Additionally, the facility includes a driving range, putting green, and chipping green for those seeking practice opportunities before heading to the main course.
Ideal for: Active Travelers, Adventurous Individuals, City Dwellers, Couples, Families, First-Time Visitors, Foodies, Nature Lovers, Nature Photographers, Sporty Travelers, Whistle-Stop Travelers
Neighborhood Highlights: Zion National Park, Dixie National Forest, Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, Cedar Ridge Golf Course, Christmas Lane, Cedar Encampment Monument, Fiddlers Fun Center, Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, Park Discovery, Lone Tree Mountain, The Red Hill, Big Hill, Cedar Breaks National Monument
Recommended Accommodations:
Big Yellow Inn – An outstanding hotel in Cedar City, set within a historic house and managed by a local family. Featuring eight fireplaces, Big Yellow Inn ensures guests remain comfortable and well-fed, offering an impressive breakfast included in every room rate.
Amid Summer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast – This popular hotel in Cedar City is known for its exceptional breakfast, available in various styles, including continental, buffet, and à la carte. Visitors can enjoy complimentary WiFi and free parking, with a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the premises.
El Rey Inn & Suites – A recommended option for travelers to Cedar City, each room includes a TV with cable channels, a microwave, a small fridge, and coffee-making facilities. Family suites that accommodate up to six guests are also available.
