SALT LAKE CITY — As Memorial Day approaches, Zion National Park and the broader “Mighty Five” parks in Utah are preparing for the influx of visitors that marks the unofficial start of the summer travel season.
In 2024, Zion National Park welcomed approximately 92,000 visitors over Memorial Day weekend. While that figure represents a small share of the more than 11 million visits recorded across Utah’s national parks last summer, it underscores the growing popularity of the holiday weekend. Memorial Day 2025, set for May 26, is expected to draw similarly large crowds.
The National Park Service (NPS) is preparing for high visitation by warning of anticipated conditions, including long lines at park entrances, trailheads, visitor centers, restrooms, and shuttle stops. Temporary closures of entry stations and heavy traffic in surrounding communities are also possible.
Zion National Park Logistics
Zion remains the most visited of Utah’s national parks. During peak season, parking within the park often fills by mid-morning. To alleviate congestion, the NPS recommends parking in the nearby town of Springdale and utilizing the free shuttle service into the park.
Once inside, visitors must use the park’s shuttle system to access destinations along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Popular stops include trailheads for Emerald Pools, the Narrows, and Angels Landing. The scenic drive is closed to private vehicles from March through November.
Shuttles operate daily and are free of charge. Timetables for both the Springdale and in-park routes are available on the official NPS website.
Health and Safety Tips
With summer temperatures rising, the NPS is urging visitors to stay hydrated and be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illness, such as dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps, and headaches. Visitors are advised to avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, typically in the afternoon.
To minimize crowd exposure and delays, the NPS also recommends visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours.
“Be patient with rangers and other visitors. Busy weekends can be stressful, and we need your help to make sure everyone enjoys their national park visit,” the NPS stated in a release.
Educational Opportunities and Ranger Programs
The Zion Nature Center is scheduled to open for the season on May 23 and will operate daily through September 1. It will feature interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities.
The park also plans to host a variety of ranger-led programs, including educational talks at the visitor center and guided sessions along trails. Event details, including those requiring advance registration, can be found on the Zion National Park calendar.
Permits Required for Angels Landing
Zion National Park officials reiterated that permits are required for those wishing to hike Angels Landing, one of the park’s most iconic — and dangerous — trails. The permit system, implemented in 2022, was designed to manage crowd levels and enhance safety on the narrow ridge section that features a single chain for hand support.
While the seasonal lottery for summer permits closed on April 20, day-before applications remain available. Permits can be requested via Recreation.gov. Hiking Angels Landing without a valid permit may result in a fine of up to $5,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.
The application fee is $6, and those selected are charged an additional $3 per hiker.
Through-Traffic Guidance
State Route 9, also known as Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, runs through the park and connects to other tourist destinations, including Bryce Canyon National Park. The NPS is encouraging non-recreational drivers to use alternate routes to reduce congestion within the park. Recommended alternatives include:
- State Route 20
- State Route 14
- U.S. 89 — Arizona 389 — Utah 59
Travelers looking to avoid the summer rush are encouraged to consider visiting Zion during the off-season for a quieter, more comfortable experience.
