Snow, chilly temps, ice, slush...
Are you willing to risk these to visit Zion in the off season? If you are, you will not regret it. We visited Zion in March and it was an incredible experience. The landscape will have you in awe no matter the season, but add in a dusting of snow, and it is like no other place.
Why go in the off season?
So why is it worth going when the weather and the trail conditions are unpredictable?
The number one reason is, of course, that it is less crowded. Let me be clear, there are still many people visiting in the off season, but less than in the warmer months.
My favorite part is being able to drive through the park and look at all the sights from the road. In the summer you'll need to take the shuttle in to get to certain areas. The downside of this feature is that some parking lots and roads close when they reach capacity, so go early in the day!
How to Prepare for Your Visit:
Buy a National Park Pass. You can purchase one either within the park upon arrival or online at https://store.usgs.gov/recreational-passes It is worth the pass to go into the park day after day, plus have access to all the other amazing places in our National Park system.
Apply for Permits. Some of the park's most famous landmarks, such as Angel's Landing, require a permit to enter. You will need to enter the lottery for those permits. Check out https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.htm for the latest information.
Time your visit. While the park is generally less crowded in the winter, keep in mind certain times around holidays and spring break will bring in more people. We learned the hard way that spring break is very busy. Check on the dates for both colleges and the school districts.
Book Accommodations Ahead of Time. Whether you plan to camp, stay at a resort, or a hotel, accommodations can book up quickly even in the off season. Plan ahead and make sure your have a place to stay.
Have the correct gear. With winter conditions you need to be prepared for all types of weather and trail conditions. Layers are your friend. Here is what we recommend bringing with you:
Some type of traction control item for your shoes. Cleats, spikes, crampons, etc. You do not want to hike on ice/slippery snow without these. We strongly recommend purchasing these BEFORE your trip!
Water resistant Jackets
Layers of clothing
Backpack with emergency gear, water, food, spare clothes (include socks), hats, gloves, trail map
Emergency gear should include: first aid kit, foil emergency blankets, cell phone or emergency communication device, fire starter, matches, lighter or flint
If you are going to attempt hiking the narrows, check with the park website on the extra gear required. There are many places to rent the gear as well.
Things to Do
Join a Ranger Program. The Ranger Programs are fantastic ways to learn about the park, its flora and fauna, and its history. We take every opportunity to use Ranger Programs in our homeschooling. Nothing beats learning by seeing and doing.
Winter is a great time to join a ranger program. The groups will be smaller and you will have a better opportunity to see things and talk directly to the rangers. While there is no cost to these, some of the programs do require prior reservation, so make sure to check in online or at the visitor center to reserve your spot.
Hike. The best way to see this park and truly take in its wonder is to hike. The park has options from easy to difficult for all ranges of hiking abilities. Each trail is gorgeous, I can not fully explain the grandeur of Zion, it will blow your mind with its beauty again and again. The bonus of winter trails is that there are less people and the trails are quieter. The downside is you risk having to hike in cold temperatures and on slush, ice or snow. If you come prepared you will enjoy beautiful winter hiking. Remember to always use caution on trails that have steep drop offs, not matter the season.
Take a Drive. Driving through park is a great way to experience the beauty of Zion, without having to gear up for a hike. There are many places to pull off, get out and take photos. Make sure to be on the lookout for Bighorn sheep and other wildlife on your drive.
Check out the Visitor Center and the Lodge. Even though it is the outdoor features of Zion that are the highlight of this park, take a little time to grab a bite to eat in one of the restaurants, check out he gift shops, and learn a little more by going into the Visitor Center.
Things to Keep in Mind
Some areas close. Roads can close do to weather conditions. Some, such as the road to Lava Point and the West Rim trail head, always close seasonally. This means that you may not have access to all areas of park.
You can't control the weather. No matter how hard you work to prepare for your visit, you may not get to do all the things you would like to. A big snowfall may shut down a road or make a trail unsafe to traverse.
Parking fills up quickly. If you want to get to a popular trail head, you probably need to arrive early, by 8:00 or 9:00 am. This is especially true during spring break!
Let's plan your trip to Zion! Check out our travel planning page to get started!
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