How to See Zion National Park in Only One Day
- Elaine Sison
- May 28
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 4
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Zion National Park is one of the most visited parks in the country and by far still ranks on my top five favorite parks to visit. We did a road trip from San Francisco, CA in my Honda Accord and explore all the five national parks in Utah, starting with Zion National Park. I recommend going for at least two days, but if you’re tight on schedule then here is a one-day itinerary and how to prepare for Zion National Park. I go into more depth on additional details on how to prepare for Zion National Park in this blog.
7 AM: Hike to the Top of Angel’s Landing
Angel's Landing now requires a permit and the only way to get it is through a lottery system. I was fortunately enough to experience this before the park implemented the lottery, but if you're lucky enough to score, I would recommend starting your morning by hiking Angel’s Landing. It is the most popular and thrilling hike at Zion National Park, with a moderate 5-mile hike that is not for the faint-hearted because it can be dangerous if you're not careful. It starts off easy and then hits you with inclining switchbacks with amazing views. Towards the last mile, the path begins to narrow and the only thing to support your path are the jagged rocks and a suspended chain. You’ll soon find yourself walking on the ledge of the mountain so be careful of where you step. Once you reach the top, take a break and enjoy the rewarding view. Come as early as you can because it is a heavily trafficked hike with one way to the top and the same way back. Length: 5 miles
Difficulty rating: Moderate
Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Shuttle stop: #6 The Grotto (the shuttle runs seasonly between May - October)
Pro Tips:
Get in moderate shape for this hike and get sturdy hiking shoes with good threading on the soles to avoid slipping.
Only the Zion shuttles and tour guides are allowed to drive on the scenic route to Angel’s Landing so plan accordingly during the peak season between May to October, but double check the nps.gov website for the latest schedule.
Missed the Angel's Landing Lottery?
Getting a permit for Angel's Landing is tough and not a sure thing, but don't let the lottery define your trip. There are other spots with similar views. You can still hike part of Angel's Landing to tackle the 21 steep switchbacks on the paved trail until you reach Scout's Lookout. Trust me, this part of the hike is pretty unforgettable too. I'd suggest being in decent shape for this trek, as it's not suitable for seniors or young kids as its a 2-mile hike with the elevation gain of 1,122 feet from the beginning of the trailhead to Scouts Lookout. At Scout's Lookout, park rangers will check for permits, but you can switch to the West Rim Trail and hike another 2-3 miles. After Scout's Lookout, the crowd thins out a lot, and you'll get a great view looking down on Angel's Landing from a higher spot. The total distance of West Rim Trail spans 14 miles, so it's up to you how far you want to trek and it can easily take all day.
Another option to consider is Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail as of 2026 because the traditional trail from Weeping Rock is closed. The hike is a moderate level with the distance being 7-miles out and back roundtrip. The elevation gain is only 300 feet so this trail is much easier on your knees in comparison to Angel's Landing. Observation Point is higher than Angel's Landing so you get a more expansive view of the valley. Observation Point is the perfect photo opportunity that some say is better than Angel's Landing. However, keep in mind that this hike is longer than Angel's Landing so you might want to skip the next activity to accommodate more time for the Observation Point hike.
11 AM - 12 PM: Lower Emerald Pool Trail
Emerald’s Pool Trail is an easy family stroll conveniently next to Angel’s Landing, so I recommend doing this after you finish Angel’s Landing. Emerald’s Pool branches off into three different trails: lower, middle, and upper. Lower Emerald Pool has scenic views with the ability to walk behind a waterfall. The water and pool are roped and gated to protect the landscape from the heavy traffic of visitors that walks the trail, so swimming is not permitted.
Pro tip: Emerald Pool Trail is next to Angel’s Landing, so there is no need to hop on the shuttle. Middle Emerald Pool Trail connects to the lower trail, so you’re able to do both.
1:30 PM: Relax and enjoy lunch at The Zion Lodge
By the time you have finished Angel's Landing and Emerald's Pool, you will probably be hungry. Grab lunch at The Zion Lodge and relax on the shaded lawn outside the food and souvenir shop. The Zion Lodge is a prime shuttle stop for visitors to order hot food and buy souvenirs so it'll be busy during the peak season.
Season: Year-round
Shuttle stop: #5 Zion Lodge
3 - 4 PM: Visit the Zion Canyon Visitors Center
Before you leave the park, you can drop by the Zion Canyon Visitors Center to get any final souvenirs or get any additional educational information about the park. The visitors center is your one stop shop to fuel up, get information, souvenirs, and great for the kids with junior ranger activities. The shuttle will take you back to the first shuttle stop where you initially started your day.
Season: Year-round
Shuttle stop: #1 Zion Canyon Visitors Center
Final tip: Pack it in, and pack it out. It is everyone’s duty to bring out what you bring in.
Turns out you have more time to explore Zion National Park? Take a look at the 2-day itinerary for visiting Zion National Park where this gives you more time to explore additional activities. You can also learn more about the shuttle system and additional tips during the peak season through how to prepare for Zion National Park.
Related resources:
Things to do in St. George, Utah
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