Nestled in the heart of southwestern Utah, Zion National Park stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. If you are short on time and only have one day in Zion National Park you might be struggling on what to prioritize. We frequently visit Zion (we own a house nearby) and we can confidently share what to prioritize on a Zion National Park 1 day itinerary.
Zion National Park easily made our list of most scenic National Parks in the USA! Our first visit was right after our wedding. We quickly fell in love and visited again in 2019 as we road tripped Utah’s National Parks when we quit our jobs to travel full time. Then, we bought a house nearby Zion in 2021! If that doesn’t show how much we love this place, I don’t know what will.
Zion is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and verdant valleys. It offers a unique and unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts as Zion hikes are some of the best in the world!
While one day in Zion National Park may seem insufficient to explore the vast wonders of this park, with careful planning and strategic choices, you can make the most of your limited time.
This guide will provide you with a comprehensive Zion National Park 1 day itinerary to ensure you leave Zion with a deep appreciation for its natural wonders. Let’s go!
Where to Stay
If your time allows, we highly recommend spending at least one night in or nearby Zion to make the most of your one day in Zion National Park. Here are our recommendations:
Zion Lodge – This hotel is the only hotel in the National Park. To really make the most of your 1 day in Zion and remove any extra driving time from your itinerary, stay here!
Check price and availability for Zion Lodge here!
Cable Mountain Lodge – Just outside of Zion National Park entrance in Springdale. It’s near lots of restaurants and shops.
Check price and availability for Cable Mountain Lodge here!
Zion Mountain Ranch – Adorable cabins on a farm and buffalo ranch. Plus a delicious farm to table restaurant on site. A great place to stay if you want to stay the night before your adventure and start your one day in Zion National Park from the east or finish in the east and stay the night after your adventure.
Check price and availability for Zion Mountain Ranch here!
Entire Duplex – Sleeps 14 – Mountain View & Sport Court – Close to Zion NP – Great for big groups. You can rent the entire duplex for bigger groups or rent one floor, with private entrances (main floor / basement) for smaller groups. I might be biased, but this house rocks 😉
Check price and availability for Entire Duplex here!
Check price and availability for Basement unit here or Main Floor here!
Zion 1 Day Itinerary
Sunrise at the Watchman
Start your day early at one of Zion’s iconic peaks! After all, you only have one day in Zion National Park. You should make the most of it. Grab breakfast and coffee to go and bring it with you to start your day with a picnic while watching the sunrise.
Watching the sunrise at the Watchman Trail in Zion National Park is a captivating experience. As the first light of the day graces the landscape, the red rock formations and the Virgin River begin glowing, creating a spectacular display of colors. The soft light really enhances the vibrancy of the iconic red rocks and it truly is a magical site to see.
Another reason to start your day early is the morning atmosphere is tranquil and intimate. Your morning in the National Park will be calm and peaceful and allow you to connect with nature while surrounded by this beautiful scenery. Sunrise at the Watchman Trail is serene and you’ll beat the crowds that typically gather during the day.
Additionally, the morning hours often witness increased wildlife activity, with animals and birds becoming more animated in the cooler part of the day. For those seeking inspiration, rejuvenation, and a unique perspective on Zion’s natural wonders, the Watchman Trail at sunrise is an unmissable and magical journey.
Morning: Conquer the Narrows or Riverside Walk
From the Watchman Trail, catch the free Zion Canyon shuttle and ride it to the trailhead for the Narrows.
The Narrows hike is one of Zion’s signature trails and a hike you cannot miss during your Zion National Park 1 day itinerary. The Narrows leads you through the slot canyons carved by the Virgin River, with towering sandstone walls on either side that rise hundreds of feet above. Yes, you read that right! You’ll be hiking through a river!
We’ve done this hike multiple times without waterproof gear and special shoes, but if you think it would be helpful there are plenty of places to rent gear from in Springdale. Maybe pack extra shoes so you have a dry pair to change into for the rest of the day.
While the entire Narrows hike can extend for several miles, you can tailor the journey to your preferences and fitness levels. However, before beginning this hike, it’s essential to check weather conditions and river flow first.
If you’re not feeling up to the Narrows hike, spend your morning walking along the Riverside Walk. This is a paved path that leads to the mouth of the Virgin River and where the Narrows hike begins.
It’s an easy walk and it still offers incredible views of the towering canyon walls and river. But you don’t have to get wet. Instead you can sit and watch other hikers get in and out of the river as they begin the Narrows hike.
Mid Morning – Hike Weeping Rock Trail
The Weeping Rock Trail in Zion National Park unveils a short yet enchanting journey into the park’s unique geological wonders.
A brief but moderately steep half-mile hike leads you to the iconic Weeping Rock, a natural alcove where water seeps through the sandstone, creating a delicate curtain of dripping water resembling tears. The shaded alcove beneath the rock is home to a variety of ferns and mosses.
Sit and enjoy the panoramic views of the Virgin River and canyon below while listening to the soothing sound of droplets falling and feeling the cool mist made by the weeping sandstone.
Lunch: at Zion Lodge or Picnic
Well, all that walking probably worked up an appetite. Thankfully it’s time for lunch. For lunch, take the free Zion Canyon shuttle to the Zion Lodge.
Here is a great place to either have a picnic with food you packed. We love a good pb&j, apple and string cheese to refuel. Or, if you didn’t have time to plan ahead and pack something you can eat at Castle Dome Cafe or Red Rock Grill inside the Zion Lodge.
Afternoon: Rewarding Hikes
Now that your belly is full and you’ve had a little rest it’s time for another amazing hike. There are a few incredible options and what hike you decide to do will determine the order you complete them in. This is to keep your time driving in the car as low as possible. You only have one day in Zion National Park, so you don’t want to waste any valuable time in the car.
Read carefully! Your choices are
- Angel’s Landing followed by Canyon Overlook Trail
- Emerald Pools followed by Canyon Overlook Trail
- Canyon Overlook Trail followed by Observation Point
Here is a little bit about each one to help you make your decision and play your Zion National Park 1 day itinerary.
Angel’s Landing
Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park stands as a pinnacle of both challenge and reward for avid hikers. The trail, known for its dramatic elevation gain and narrow ridges, is a thrilling 5.4-mile journey with breathtaking panoramic views.
As you ascend, the trail zigzags through the red rock landscape, leading to a set of 21 steep switchbacks. The challenge intensifies as the path narrows, ultimately reaching Scout Lookout. Here you will see a preview of the ridge that Angel’s Landing is famous for.
The final half-mile to the summit involves traversing a narrow, exposed ridge with sheer drop-offs on either side. Chains anchored to the rock provide support and a sense of security as you negotiate this exhilarating stretch.
The summit itself offers an unrivaled 360-degree panorama of Zion Canyon, the Virgin River, and surrounding peaks, making the strenuous trek worthwhile.
Anyone can hike to Scout Lookout, bu if you plan to complete this hike to it’s entirety, you must have a permit. It is a lottery system so a permit is unfortunately not guaranteed. You can either apply for the day before lottery or the seasonal lottery if your trip is planned well in advance.
Emerald Pools
The Emerald Pools Trail in Zion National Park follows a picturesque path through diverse landscapes. This family-friendly trail spans approximately 2.2 miles, revealing a progression of pools nestled in alcoves beneath towering sandstone cliffs.
The hike starts with a gentle ascent, leading you past the Lower Emerald Pool. Here a delicate waterfall creates a tranquil oasis.
Continuing the journey, the trail ascends to the Middle Emerald Pool, a larger basin encircled by towering rock walls. The Upper Emerald Pool, the final destination, offers a sublime retreat with its clear, emerald-hued waters against a backdrop of soaring sandstone cliffs.
Canyon Overlook Trail
The Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion National Park is a must do during your one day in Zion National Park. This hike is a short but captivating trail that delivers incredible views of Zion Canyon.
Beginning at the east end of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, it’s a 1 mile hike through diverse landscape of slickrock, twisted junipers, and Ponderosa pines. As the trail ascends, it reveals breathtaking overlooks that offer panoramic views of the surrounding red rock formations, showcasing just how beautiful Zion is.
The pinnacle of the hike presents the Canyon Overlook. Here there is an unobstructed view of Zion Canyon, the Virgin River, and the iconic Beehive formation. The scenery is particularly stunning during sunset. If you can time this hike for sunset, do it!
The trailhead is easily reached by car, and the relatively short duration of the hike allows for a quick yet rewarding outdoor experience.
Observation Point
The Observation Point Trail in Zion National Park is closed from Zion Canyon. But the good news is you can still do this trail via the East Mesa Trail and it’s actually way easier.
The hike is relatively flat and easy, and the reward is incredible. This, in our opinion, is the best view in Zion. The climax of the hike stands at an elevation of 6,508 feet and provides an unparalleled viewpoint overlooking Zion Canyon. The vista includes iconic landmarks such as Angel’s Landing and the Virgin River far below.
The sheer magnitude of the landscape, with its sweeping canyons and towering monoliths, creates a sense of awe and accomplishment for those who reach this lofty perch.
After Dark: Stargazing in Zion
If time allows, plan to stay in Zion after dark to finish your one day in Zion National Park with stargazing. As the sun dips below the majestic red rock formations, the park transforms into a designated International Dark Sky Park.
Away from light pollution, the night sky above Zion reveals a dazzling array of stars, planets, and celestial wonders. Stargazers can witness the Milky Way arching across the park, its ethereal glow mirrored by the silhouettes of iconic formations like the Watchman or the Three Patriarchs.
Enjoy 1 Day in Zion
While one day in Zion National Park may only scratch the surface of its natural wonders, following this guide will ensure you experience the park’s highlights. From the towering cliffs of Angels Landing to the serene beauty of the Narrows, Zion’s diverse landscapes promise a day filled with adventure, reflection, and unparalleled beauty.
As you bid farewell, take with you memories that will last a lifetime and a profound appreciation for the beauty of Zion National Park.
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