The Three Sections of Zion National Park
When planning your trip to Zion National Park, it’s important to note that the park is broken up into three distinct areas you can visit, all with their own unique natural wonders to delight your senses. Be sure to allow plenty of time to visit all three sections of Zion National Park when you’re booking your stay with us at Zion River Resort.
The Three Sections of Zion National Park
Section 1: Zion Canyon
The most popular of the three sections of Zion National Park, Zion Canyon can be accessed from Highway 9 by the South Entrance through the town of Springdale, and by the East entrance from Mt. Caramel Junction. The South Entrance can also be accessed by the free Zion Canyon Springdale Shuttle, which began transporting park visitors to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center on March 13, 2021.
Zion Canyon includes two sections, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Zion-Mt. Caramel Highway. If you’re coming into the park from the East Entrance, you will take the Zion-Mt. Caramel Highway on your way to the Visitor Center and the Canyon Scenic Drive.
Due to the large number of annual visitors, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is not accessible by private vehicle. The only way to see this part of the park is through the Zion Canyon Shuttle System, which is a free service that transports visitors back and forth along the route from 6:00am – 8:15pm daily, with shuttles leaving the Visitor Center every 6-10 minutes. The Scenic Drive includes 8 stops with access to incredible views and 16 different hiking trails. More info >
Section 2: Kolob Terrace Wilderness
Located just 0.3 miles from Zion River Resort is Kolob Terrace Road which will take you all the way to the Kolob Reservoir. Along the breathtaking scenic drive through this part of the park, you will have access to 5 backcountry hiking trails and the Lava Point Overlook.
Water filling stations are not available at any of the trailheads, so be sure to fill up before you go. Pit toilets are available at the Hop Valley and Wildcat Canyon trailheads. No pets are allowed on any of these trails.
Section 3: Kolob Canyons
Also known as the Kolob Fingers due to the canyon’s shapes, the northern section of the park, located off of exit 40 on Interstate 15, grants access to a collection of short box canyons with 2,000 ft cliff walls, the Kolob Arch, and a gorgeous scenic overlook. With 5 hiking trails and over 20 miles of wilderness to explore, Kolob Canyons offers stunning scenery around every corner.
Plan Your Stay
Whether you plan to visit just one or all three sections of Zion National Park, book your next family camping adventure at Zion River Resort, a Traveler’s Choice award-winning RV resort.
