Visitors view wildlife on Pa’rus Trail, December 20, 2023/NPS, Jonathan Shafer

Year-end holiday visitors to Zion National Park in Utah can take advantage of shuttle buses that will be operating through December 31.   

• First shuttle leaving the visitor center is at 8 a.m. 

• Last shuttle leaving the visitor center is at 3 p.m. 

• Last Shuttle leaving the Temple of Sinawava is at 5:45 p.m. 

• During these 10 days, visitors cannot drive personal vehicles on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.  

In December, if there are more people in line than there is space available on the shuttle that departs at 3 p.m. (i.e. if everyone in line will not fit on the last bus), those who do not board can return another day to ride up-canyon or visit areas other than Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. 

Winter Personal Vehicle Access In Zion Canyon Starts January 1, 2024  

• The last day of winter shuttle service in Zion Canyon and Springdale is December 31, 2023.  

• Visitors can drive personal vehicles on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive starting on January 1, 2024.  

• Plan for limited parking; when parking in Zion Canyon is full, the NPS may temporarily limit access.  

Shuttle Service Resumes In Spring  

The Park Service will resume shuttle service in spring.  

Fall And Winter Camping  

Watchman Campground is open year-round, and you can make a reservation up to six months before your visit at www.recreation.gov or by calling l-877-444-6777. Plan ahead and make arrangements for where you will stay before you get to the park.  

South Campground and Lava Point Campground are closed for the season.  

Visitor Center And Wilderness Permit Desk Hours  

Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyons Visitor Centers  

• Open 8 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. every day through the fall and winter.  

Wilderness Permit Desks  

• Zion Canyon Wilderness Desk: Open 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.  

• Kolob Canyons Wilderness Desk: Closed for the season. Get permits at Zion Canyon Wilderness Desk.    

Zion staff post updates on the park’s operating hours and seasons webpage when hours change.    

Temperatures Are Falling  

Check conditions if you plan to be outside. Air temperatures are near freezing at night, and water temperatures have been consistently below 50 degrees Fahrenheit  in the Virgin River (the Narrows). Check the forecast and dress in layers to stay warm.   

Weeping Rock  

Following  rockfall on November 14, Weeping Rock Shuttle Stop, parking area, and trail remain closed until further notice while park scientists and maintenance staff assess rock in the area.  

Whether you ride a shuttle or drive your own car in Zion Canyon, be prepared for crowds.  

• Parking fills early year-round.  

• Watch out for pedestrians and bicyclists if you are driving.  

• Stay on trails and avoid walking in the road.  

• Ride your bike on the road or the Pa’Rus Trail. Bicycling is not allowed on any other trails in the park. If you are riding in the road, you must stop to let buses pass you.  

• The NPS may temporarily close roads if traffic is congested or there is nowhere for drivers to park.  

• In general, fewer people visit Zion on weekdays than weekends. Consider arriving early or after 3 p.m. to avoid the busiest times of day.  

Plan Ahead And Prepare  

If you cannot park in Zion or if all of the campsites are full, research nearby communities and public lands to learn about other recreational activities and lodging. Always recreate responsibly and respect private owners’ property and facilities.