Hopefully it won't be long before winter's snow coat the roof of Zion National Park/NPS file

Though fall in southern Utah is starting out on the warm side (highs in the mid-70s this week), the turning of the calendar means Zion National Park is transitioning to fall and winter operations. With Covid-19 still a concerning issue, operations have been tweaked accordingly.

Thanksgiving dining at Zion Lodge

The Zion Lodge will be providing a Thanksgiving-themed menu on Thanksgiving Day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for take-out only. No seated dining will be available. The Castle Dome Café will continue operations on a take-out only basis. Through November, Castle Dome Café will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

End of Shuttle Service November 29

Zion Canyon shuttle service both in the national park and Springdale ends Sunday, November 29. Starting November 30, personal vehicles will be able to access Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Parking is limited and it is encouraged that visitors have alternate plans if they are unable to park in the canyon. When parking is full, the Scenic Drive may be closed until space becomes available.

Planning for Spring 2021 shuttle service is underway. The continuation of the timed ticket system for shuttles will be re-evaluated in late winter based on local, state, and CDC guidance related to COVID-19.

Shuttle Service December 24, 2020 – January 2, 2021

Shuttle service will resume both in the national park and Springdale from December 24 through January 2. This 10-day period of mandatory shuttle service for the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is a continuation of a pilot program instituted by Zion National Park in recent seasons. Similar to the 2020 season, shuttle capacity will be reduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic and timed tickets will be required.

Tickets for both advanced sale and “day-before” are available for $1. Tickets are limited and sell quickly. Tickets must be purchased online at Recreation.gov or using the Recreation.gov mobile app. The park staff encourages visitors to check out the website in advance to familiarize themselves with its operation. Shuttle tickets are not sold at the park.

Campground Updates

The South Campground closed November 1. The Watchman Campground will remain open and available through reservations (Call 877-444-6777 or visit www.recreation.gov) and there will be some availability for some first come, first served.

Visiting Zion this Fall and Winter

As always, the park recommends that visitors plan ahead and check the park website before their visit at nps.gov/zion to see what activities are currently available and what facilities may be open or closed.

During shuttle and non-shuttle times, parking will fill early. Once full, additional vehicles can only be allowed in that area after parking spaces become available. With high vehicular traffic expected, walkers and cyclists must adhere to safety requirements along roadways and proceed single file to reduce potential conflicts with vehicles. Likewise, motorists must pay attention to pedestrian and bicyclists safety in road corridors. If traffic becomes too congested, entry to portions of the park may be temporarily suspended until traffic clears. This ensures access to emergencies by first responders along the park road corridors. There is additional parking in Springdale. The park’s Pedestrian Entrance Station (walk-in bridge from Springdale) is open only on the same dates as shuttles are in operation.

Visitors who can be flexible with their schedule are encouraged to visit Friday or Monday rather than Saturday or Sunday. Consider arriving early or after 3 p.m. to avoid congestion. Visitors should have alternate plans in the region in case their intended destination or activity is not available when they arrive. Nearby communities and public lands have many options for lodging and recreational activities. Always recreate responsibly and respect private lands and facilities.

The NPS requests the public’s cooperation by avoiding crowds and adhering to social distancing, wearing a face mask, and utilizing Leave No Trace practices. As in any winter season, visitors should check and plan for conditions such as ice, snow, and cold temperatures.