If Zion National Park is on your travel radar, prepare to be amazed. My spouse and I were fortunate to spend a week immersed in the stunning red landscapes and breathtaking vistas of Zion and its surroundings. If you’re wondering about the best places to stay near Zion National Park, you’ve landed in the right spot.
This is a genuine guide to the top hotels, Airbnbs, and glamping experiences, categorized by location. Not every option lives up to the hype. I’m sharing only the accommodations I would personally recommend or have experienced near Zion National Park.
While Springdale is often touted as the “best place to stay” near Zion, I believe the ideal location depends on your travel style and desired experience. Refer to the map below to get a sense of the area before we dive in.
Important Reminder: Regardless of where you decide to stay, booking well in advance is crucial. Zion consistently ranks among the most popular National Parks in the US, and the best accommodations get booked up quickly, often months ahead. For last-minute trips, consider embracing the adventure of camping!
[Map of SW Utah: pink circles indicate where to stay near Zion National Park]
TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY NEAR ZION NATIONAL PARK
For those who prefer to skip the details and get straight to the recommendations, here are my top three picks for where to stay near Zion National Park:
Wellness Tip
Staying hydrated is key when exploring Southern Utah. Aim for at least 3 liters of water daily, and even more if you’re hiking. The desert environment and elevation demand increased hydration.
Staying Inside Zion National Park
Accommodation options within Zion National Park are limited, but the areas just outside the park offer numerous choices. This guide will explore both in-park and near-park lodging to help you make the best decision.
1. Zion Lodge – Premier In-Park Lodging
Zion Lodge, nestled in the heart of the park, boasts a shuttle stop right at its doorstep. While convenient, this central location also means the lodge area can be busy with visitors throughout the day. The lodge itself might feel a touch dated, but staying here grants you unparalleled access to the park during quieter hours, especially when wildlife is more active.
During our park visit, we explored Zion Lodge and recognized its appeal, particularly for families. Staying here offers a significant advantage for early trail access, allowing you to beat the crowds without a pre-dawn wake-up call. However, dining within the park is limited to one restaurant at the lodge, which can get crowded. For more diverse dining options, you’ll need to venture outside the park.
Zion Lodge in Zion National Park
Many activities and amenities are located outside the park, including shops, restaurants, breweries, excursion providers, and specialty coffee shops. If you plan to hike The Narrows, you’ll need to head to Springdale to rent essential gear like water socks and a walking stick from Zion Outfitters.
Did You Know?
Zion National Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park! This prestigious certification acknowledges the exceptional quality of the park’s night skies and enhances visitor experiences through astronomy-focused programs. Be sure to admire the stars at night and contribute to preserving this resource by minimizing light use.
2. Springdale, UT – The Most Convenient Place to Stay Near Zion
As illustrated on the map, Springdale is the closest town to Zion and a popular choice for many visitors. Its charm and mere 5-minute shuttle ride to the Zion entrance are undeniable draws. Springdale offers a wide array of lodging options, alongside excellent restaurants, quality coffee shops, a brewery, and a market stocked with healthy food choices.
While I personally lean towards more secluded settings, Springdale’s convenience and proximity to the park are unmatched.
Pro-Tip: Staying in Springdale gives you a better chance at securing a parking spot at the Visitor Center (though it fills up rapidly after park opening). Alternatively, leave your car at your hotel and utilize the efficient Zion shuttle system.
The Loft at Zion
The Loft at Zion offers unparalleled proximity to the park – second only to camping at the South Campground. You can literally walk to the park entrance in about 3 minutes, eliminating parking hassles entirely. This modern, newly constructed accommodation boasts stunning views in every direction and is conveniently located above Springdale’s best coffee shop.
Cable Mountain Lodge
Cable Mountain Lodge, with a 9.4 Booking.com rating, is another superb Springdale option. It’s incredibly close to the park entrance, grocery stores, coffee shops, restaurants, and Zion Outfitters for your Narrows gear rentals. They feature apartment-style suites with kitchenettes and multi-level layouts. On-site amenities include a pool, spa, and convenience store. A truly excellent choice!
Wellness Tip
Zion can get extremely crowded, particularly from June to September. For a more tranquil experience, consider accommodations away from the main tourist hubs to escape the crowds.
Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection By Hilton
Another highly-rated Springdale gem, Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection By Hilton boasts a 9.2 on Booking.com. Cliffrose offers a range of lodging, from standard hotel rooms to spacious apartment-style suites. The grounds and views are magnificent, rooms are modern and generous in size, and amenities are abundant. Unwind in the gardens, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or indulge in spa treatments after a day of exploring Zion’s trails.
3. Virgin, UT – Glamping and Unique Stays Near Zion
Virgin, the second closest town to Zion, is about a 20-minute drive from the park entrance. While dining and grocery options are more limited compared to Springdale, Virgin does have a few restaurants and attractions like Fort Zion, complete with a petting zoo, gift shop, and ice cream.
Zion Helicopters, easily spotted from the road, offers thrilling aerial tours of Zion. However, Virgin’s main draw is its unique and memorable accommodation choices!
Under Canvas Zion
Eco-Conscious Glamping
Under Canvas Zion holds a 9.2 rating on Booking.com. Part of a collection of ten Under Canvas locations across the US, our experience at their Zion site was exceptional and certainly not our last! Under Canvas defines itself as “upscale safari-inspired glamping.”
Each spacious canvas tent is equipped with a private bathroom featuring hot water, a luxurious king-size bed, and a cozy fireplace. This location is approximately a 25-minute drive from the Zion National Park entrance.
For an in-depth look, read my full review: Under Canvas Zion: My Unsponsored Review
Under Canvas, Zion. Glamping tents and outdoor property showcasing the unique accommodation style.
Zion Wildflower
Zion Wildflower, also in Virgin, boasts a 9.2 Booking.com rating. This newer glamping destination is generally more budget-friendly than Under Canvas. Accommodation choices range from tiny homes to yurt-style tents and even covered wagons! Tiny homes offer the convenience of electricity.
Zion Wildflower has a lively and fun atmosphere, attracting families and a slightly younger crowd compared to Under Canvas, likely due to its more accessible price point. While there’s no restaurant on-site, a convenience store is available. Guests can enjoy fire pits, games, and complimentary s’mores in the evenings.
Located just off the main road in Virgin (the same road leading to Under Canvas), Zion Wildflower might feel less secluded, but its elevated position provides stunning views.
4. Hildale, UT – Unique Cabins with Incredible Views Near Zion
Hildale might be a small, unassuming town, but it holds a hidden gem for Zion visitors.
Zion Eco Cabins
Eco-Friendly Accommodation
Just a 40-minute drive from Zion, these A-frame cabins are perfect for couples or solo travelers. The location is tranquil due to its distance from the park, and the views of the Canaan Mountain Wilderness are simply breathtaking.
Collage of Zion Eco Cabins A-Frame showcasing the hot tub, bathroom interior, and panoramic views of the Canaan Mountain Wilderness.
About a year ago, I discovered these cabins on Instagram and planned a Zion trip specifically around staying here. The Zion A-Frame absolutely exceeded expectations. The drive from Zion to Hildale through Apple Valley is also exceptional, with several trails accessible directly from the highway. But back to the cabins…
Zion Eco Cabins in Hildale, Utah, highlighting the A-frame structure and surrounding natural beauty.
The Zion A-frame cabin features a convertible door that opens up the space, perfect for sunrise viewing or stargazing from bed. Amenities include a hot tub, a separate and well-appointed bathroom, AC, a beautiful viewing deck, a fire pit, and a grill.
While there are multiple A-frames to choose from, the “Zion A-Frame” stands out with its superior view, deck, and hot tub – justifying its higher price point. If you have the chance to stay here, don’t miss it.
5. East Zion (Glendale, Orderville, Mt Carmel Junction) – Resort Style Stays Near Zion
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort truly offers something for everyone. From luxurious vacation homes to cozy cabins to remote campsites and everything in between, they have it all.
Located on Zion’s eastern border (refer to the map), the resort also provides convenient access to numerous activities along Scenic Highway 89 and easy day trips to Bryce Canyon National Park.
6. Boondocking – Free Camping Near Zion National Park
Extensive BLM land surrounds Zion. If you are fully equipped for self-sufficient camping, take advantage of these free dispersed camping opportunities!
Planning Your Zion National Park Visit: FAQs
What is the Best Time to Visit Zion National Park?
Zion is open year-round, but trail accessibility varies seasonally. The shuttle system operates during peak season, while private vehicles are permitted in the park during the off-season. Snow is infrequent but winter temperatures can be very cold. Always check the weather forecast when planning and on the day of your visit.
Be sure to also check for current conditions, alerts, and closures before your visit, as some trails are susceptible to flash floods. Trail closures are usually well-marked on shuttles and within the park, but advance knowledge is helpful for planning. During our visit, two planned hikes were closed, requiring us to adjust our itinerary.
Where Can I Find the Most Up-to-Date Park Information?
Follow @zionnps on Twitter and Facebook and visit the official park website nps.gov/zion for comprehensive park information.
Do I Need a Permit for Zion Hikes?
As of April 1, 2022, Angels Landing requires a permit to hike beyond Scout’s Landing and access the cable section. No permits are currently needed for other Zion hikes.
What is the Park Entry Fee?
All Zion National Park visitors must purchase a recreational use pass upon entry. Options include a 7-day pass for $35 per vehicle or an annual pass for $70 per vehicle.
How Do I Get Around Zion Without Driving My Car?
Zion boasts an excellent shuttle system. Details are below.
Zion Shuttle System: Your Park Transportation
From April to October, private vehicles are restricted within Zion Canyon. The park operates an efficient shuttle system – it’s user-friendly and free.
Nine shuttle stops are serviced in both directions. Shuttles run frequently, every 3-10 minutes, from 6, 7, or 8 am to 6, 7, or 8 pm (seasonal schedule variations – check the schedule). Hop on and off at any stop without tickets or fees.
Zion Shuttle Stops:
- Zion Canyon Visitor Center
- Zion Human History Museum
- Canyon Junction
- Court of the Patriarchs
- Zion Lodge
- The Grotto
- Weeping Rock
- Big Bend
- Temple of Sinawava
Shuttle maps at each stop and on buses clearly indicate trailheads for each stop, simplifying navigation. Bus drivers also announce trail information for each stop.
Parking is available at Stop 1: Zion Canyon Visitor Center. The parking lot fills up very early. Arrive by 7 am to secure a spot (it was one-third full by 6 am during our visit). Alternatively, park in Springdale and take the Springdale shuttle to the Visitor Center.
Visiting Zion National Park with Intention
- Respect wildlife: Do not feed animals in the park.
- Embrace serenity: Arrive early for park tranquility.
- Document your journey: Bring a journal.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles.
- Support local: Seek out healthy and locally sourced restaurants and small businesses.
- Respect the environment: Respect the land, local culture, and community.
- Connect with nature: Take moments for stillness, breathe deeply, and appreciate the desert environment.
In Conclusion: Your Zion National Park Accommodation in 2024
Ultimately, the beauty of the Zion area is inescapable, regardless of your chosen accommodation. I highly recommend setting aside time to explore the surrounding region by car – numerous scenic pull-offs and hidden gems await.
Prioritize self-care during your visit. Stay hydrated, embrace the desert sounds and scents, and fully immerse yourself in the Zion experience.
