Maximize Your Zion National Park Fee-Free Day

Happy 110th Birthday, National Park Service! During National Park Week (Aug. 22–30, 2026), Zion National Park is celebrating with a fee-free* day on August 25.  

Here’s the Inside Scoop

National Park fee-free* days occur throughout the year, and they generate a lot of buzz, but it doesn’t need to keep you from enjoying your trip. Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth,  Zion National Park has plenty of trails that welcome you the moment you arrive, no lottery or permit required.

Angels Landing and the Narrows are definite bucket-list experiences. If you already have permits and plans, enjoy your time. Those will take the majority of your day. If you haven’t made arrangements and you’re going on a wing and a prayer, we have you. This travel plan is built to get the most out of your National Park fee-free day, with an early start in mind. 

Our advice: book a stay in Springdale the night before so you can find parking and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Private vehicles can take this route year-round, even during shuttle season. Warning: the trailhead parking lot is small, so arrive before first light to grab a spot. 

The trail is one mile round trip, and it rewards you with a canyon view that feels like a well-kept secret, even though it’s open to everyone. 

From there, drive back through the tunnel and park at the Visitor Center. Since more visitors take advantage of the fee-free day, getting there early means you might snag a great parking spot. If parking is new territory for you, this guide to parking walks you through the best times to arrive and where to go if your first-choice lot is full. 

Just beyond the Visitor Center, hop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle – it’s free. No ticket or reservation required. Ride all the way to Temple of Sinawava, the last stop on the line. 

Mid-Morning Jaunt

At Temple of Sinawava, walk the Riverside Walk, a paved, 2.2-mile round trip that follows the Virgin River right up to the beginning of the Narrows. It’s shaded and welcoming for nearly every fitness level, which makes it one of the best ways to get a true feel for the canyon. 

This is the water that carved the whole canyon. You can wade into the mouth of the Narrows without committing to the longer upstream hike. 

Afternoon Adventure

Hop back on the shuttle toward the Visitor Center and treat yourself to one or two more stops along the way. Weeping Rock is a short, steep 0.4-mile round trip, climbing about 100 feet to an alcove where water seeps through the sandstone and drips into a hanging garden below. It’s a fan-favorite for its quiet, otherworldly feel. 

If you have time, stop at the Zion Lodge for the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, an easy 1.2-mile round trip on a paved trail leading to a peaceful pool tucked beneath a rock overhang. It is entirely plausible to complete both hikes, one, or none. Pick whichever option fits your day. 

Evening

Wrap up the day with dinner in Springdale before settling in for the night. You’ve earned it after a full day of exploring.

Sitting just outside Zion National Park’s south entrance, Springdale makes it easy to spend another day with park views. If shopping isn’t your thing, rent an e-bike and take a seven-mile ride to Grafton Ghost Town. 

When you’ve spent enough time shopping or biking, make the roughly 25-minute drive to Zion Canyon Hot Springs in La Verkin. The springs draw from the historic Pah Tempe mineral springs, with pools ranging from cooler temperatures to a 104-degree soaking pool. It’s a very different way to experience the landscape after a day on your feet.

Spend a day on the water at Sand Hollow or Quail Creek, wander the trails of Snow Canyon, play a round of golf, or find space to slow down. Give the park the time it deserves, then stay another night and see where the road takes you.

When you leave with a list of things you didn’t get to, that’s okay. Greater Zion will be here, ready to impress you on your return trip.

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*Free entry covers U.S. citizens and residents only. International visitors pay the required entrance fees, and camping and backcountry permits run at their usual cost. 

Beyond Zion National Park

More Adventures Await

Visit Greaterzion.com

You will hear it before you reach the towering canyon corridor. The murmur of water rolling over stones.  While the cliffs command your attention, the water invites you to step in.

Your foot slips into the Virgin River, the current nudging at your neoprene-clad ankles. Within seconds, you understand why this hike hits different than every other trail in Zion National Park.

The Narrows isn’t simply a trail you follow. It’s an experience of wading through a force of nature capable of carving stone. But which route is best for you? And when is the best time to hike The Narrows? We can tell you.

Two Ways Into the Canyon

If you don’t get a permit, the bottom-up route covers the most famous stretch of the canyon, including Wall Street, and it’s just as striking as the full top-down journey.

A Season-by-Season Guide

The journey is never the same. Some seasons bring roaring currents. Others offer low water flow and empty canyon corridors. Knowing what to expect can help you decide the best time to hike The Narrows and make the most of one of Zion’s most unforgettable hikes.

No matter when you go, always check current river conditions and weather forecasts before entering The Narrows. The river makes the rules, and every great hike starts by respecting them. 

The Virgin River Flexes Its Muscles

As snow melts across the park’s high country, the river swells. Water temperatures often hover in the 40s, currents run strong, and conditions can change quickly. The park closes the trail when the river flows at over 140 cubic feet per second; this is most common in March and April. 

If you’re planning a spring visit, flexibility is your friend. Check current conditions the morning of your hike, and have a backup plan, like checking out the Emerald Pools trail. 

If The Narrows is open, you’ll want to dress for the river, not the weather. Neoprene socks, sturdy canyon shoes, trekking poles, and even dry suits are available to rent from outfitters.

The Classic Narrows Experience

If you’ve seen photos of hikers splashing between towering sandstone walls in short-sleeved shirts, chances are they were taken in summer.

Long days and warmer water make this the most popular season to explore The Narrows. The river is refreshing, the canyon glows as sunlight filters between the cliffs, and the adventure feels exactly like the short videos you’ve seen circulating on social media.

Summer does come with one caveat: monsoon season. Afternoon thunderstorms can develop during July and August, creating the risk of flash floods, even if the skies above you are blue. 

Fortunately, rangers post the daily forecast. Check in with them at the Visitor Center to verify that your plan for The Narrows is good for the day. 

Golden Cottonwoods and Fewer Crowds

Many experienced hikers will quietly tell you this is their favorite season.

By October, the river has settled into a gentler rhythm. Water levels are typically lower, temperatures remain comfortable, and visitor numbers begin to level out.

The canyon feels different this time of year. You notice the sound of water flowing over smooth stone, the songs of canyon wrens echoing overhead, and cottonwood trees glowing gold along the riverbanks.

It’s a season that rewards slowing down.

Winter

Snow-Dusted, Quiet Canyon

Winter transforms The Narrows into something surprisingly peaceful.

Snow sometimes dusts the canyon walls while the river continues flowing below. Crowds slow to a trickle, leaving long stretches where your feet are the only pair sloshing upriver.

Yes, the river is cold, but you barely feel it in a dry suit. With water temperatures often dipping into the 30s and 40s, a dry suit makes the experience enjoyable. Outfitters rent complete cold-weather gear, allowing many visitors to experience a side of the park that feels remarkably untouched. 

For those willing to embrace the chill, winter offers one of the park’s most memorable experiences.

When is the Best Time to Hike The Narrows?

The honest answer? It depends on the experience you want.

• Choose spring for dramatic river conditions. 
• Pick summer for the iconic Narrows adventure. 
• Visit in the fall for comfortable hiking. 
• Head out in winter for quiet solitude.

The Narrows (from the bottom up) doesn’t end at a summit or overlook. It ends whenever you decide you’ve gone far enough. Then you turn around, following the river back through the canyon, already replaying the moments that made you stop, stare, and simply stand in awe.

You’ll leave with tired legs, wet boots, and a story worth telling long after your socks have dried.

Hop on, Chill out, Explore more

Zion National Park is about 42 miles from St. George, Utah, and thanks to the SunTran Zion route, you don’t have to drive a single mile. Ten convenient stops let you hop on, relax, and take in the scenery as the bus carries you to the park. 

If you’re new to SunTran, you might be wondering which stop is closest to you, where to park, or what to do if you need a restroom break along the way. We answer these questions and more, so you can experience a smooth, car-free adventure.

The Facts

This route connects you to points of interest across Greater Zion with stops in St. George, Washington, Hurricane, La Verkin, Virgin, and Springdale. Designed with visitors in mind, the buses are clean and comfortable. Each shuttle has 31 seats plus standing room, is fully wheelchair accessible, and includes space for folded strollers and two bicycles.

To keep the ride smooth for everyone, SunTran allows small lap bags and water on the ride. There are no bathrooms, Wi-Fi, or snacks on board, but the trip makes up for it with its beautiful views of the surrounding desert landscapes in Greater Zion.

(Note: SunTran city passes are not valid on the Zion Route.)

There will be NO bus service on Sunday or on the following Holidays:

• July 4, 2026 – Independence Day
• July 24, 2026 – Utah Pioneer Day
• September 7, 2026 – Labor Day
• November 26, 2026 – Thanksgiving Day
• December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
• January 1, 2027 – New Year’s Day
• May 31, 2027 – Memorial Day

What’s at That SunTran Zion Route Bus Stop?

This is a convenient spot to hop on the shuttle at Barnes and Nobel while enjoying nearby shopping and dining options like Benjas Thai Garden & Sushi, Arctic Circle, Street Eats, Jay Birds Nashville Hot Chicken, Ronis Mac Bar, Galbi Grille, ShareTea, See’s Candy, Hot Dog on a Stick, Pretzel Maker, Sixteen Soda and Sweets, and the Barnes and Noble Café. The mall’s events plaza features events and live music, making it a lively place to begin or end your journey.

This stop is located near The Boilers Park, one of Greater Zion’s natural and recreational highlights. Here you have convenient access to nearby trails, a natural spring, pickleball courts, and a picnic pavilion. With parking and restrooms available, it’s an easy place to hop on the shuttle and continue your adventure through the region.

 

Located at Walmart, this stop is perfect for a quick shopping trip or a bite to eat nearby. You’ll find shopping, food options, restrooms inside Walmart, and plenty of parking—making it an easy and convenient stop to gear up for adventure.

Right in the heart of Hurricane, this stop is surrounded by local shops, coffee spots, and tasty food options. You’ll also find hotels, shopping, restrooms, and parking, making it a vital hub for visitors exploring Greater Zion.

Conveniently located near the Maverik gas station, this stop offers easy access to a grocery store, restaurants, hotels, and a nearby RV resort. Restrooms are available in Maverick and the surrounding businesses. This is a popular stop for travelers heading toward Zion National Park.

This stop features the convenient Zion Corridor Park & Ride, where you can park for free and hop on SunTran to the park entrance. Before boarding or after stepping off the bus, take a moment to view the rare white bison herd nearby. This stop also offers lodging, public restrooms, and a mercantile store for light shopping.

This stop marks the turnoff to scenic Kolob Terrace Road, leading to some of Greater Zion’s most stunning backcountry views. Nearby, you’ll find cozy hotels, Zion River Resort RV,  and unique glamping options like AutoCamp Virgin and Zion Wildflower, offering a stylish stay surrounded by red rock beauty.

Springdale Town Shuttle

If it’s your first time visiting, the Springdale Shuttle (AKA the Town Shuttle) is a free and convenient way to get around the gateway town of Springdale, just outside Zion National Park. The shuttle has nine stops along Zion Park Boulevard, giving easy access to a variety of dining, lodging, and shopping options.

The line stretches nearly three miles, from the first stop at Zion Canyon Village, the pedestrian entrance to Zion National Park, up to Hotel De Novo. Shuttles arrive approximately every 10 – 15 minutes, with schedules varying by season. 

The final stop on this route places you .4 miles from the Zion National Park South Entrance. You can enjoy the walk or board the free Springdale Town Shuttle and exit in Zion Canyon Village. This area offers nearby lodging, dining, shops, and outfitters for hiking gear. It’s an excellent starting point for last-minute essentials before exploring the park. 

From here, walk into the park and connect with the Zion Canyon Shuttle for stops deeper inside the canyon.

NOTE: To enter the park, you will need to show an America the Beautiful Pass with your ID or pay the entrance fee.