The Zion Canyon Visitor Center sits just inside the park's South Entrance, near Springdale. It is the starting point for the Zion Canyon Shuttle and the first stop for most trips into the canyon. Staff and volunteer rangers can tell you about trail conditions, water flow and closures, and the center has maps, a park film and outdoor exhibits on the area's geology, plants and animals. The shop stocks books, maps and locally inspired souvenirs. Stop here before you hike, even if you only collect a map.
Built in 1959 and 1960
Doty's designs for the building were handed to the Salt Lake City architectural firm of Cannon and Mullen. Construction began in April 1959. In October, a steel strike delayed the steel framework in the lobby, so the architects switched to aluminum in order to open on time. Cannon and Mullen completed the building in June 1960, and the center opened to the public that same month.
A park with its own early history
Zion was created as a national park in November 1919, after Congress approved it, and it was Utah's first national park. The Zion Human History Museum is a half-mile north of the visitor center and shows the Indigenous peoples and settlers who lived in the area. The park's other visitor center, in Kolob Canyon, is smaller and less visited.
Inside the building
The two-story center has displays on the park's geology, plants, animals and history. Staff can help you plan a hike with trail maps, camping and lodging information, and advice on what to bring. The gift shop sells field guides, maps, books and souvenirs. Restrooms are well kept, and the center sells reusable water bottles, since plastic bottles are not sold in the park. Water refill stations are available here and at several stops on the shuttle route.
Junior Ranger and ranger programs
Children aged 5 to 12 can pick up the free Junior Ranger booklet at the ranger desk. Ranger talks take place on the patio in front of the center. Evening programs often happen at the visitor center or at other designated spots, with talks on geology, astronomy, cultural history and the park's ecosystems. Ask at the information desk for the day's schedule. Program offerings change with the season and are fullest from March to September.
From the center into the canyon
The Zion Canyon Shuttle begins here. From May 21 to September 17, the first bus leaves the center at 6:00 a.m., and the last bus to the Temple of Sinawava leaves at 7:00 p.m. Private vehicles cannot go beyond Canyon Junction, so the shuttle is the way into the main canyon. Along the route, the Zion Human History Museum, Zion Lodge, The Grotto and the Temple of Sinawava have restrooms or water. From the Temple of Sinawava, the easy 2-mile round-trip Riverside Walk follows the Virgin River through a narrow canyon past hanging gardens.
Perguntas frequentes
Is there an entry fee?
Entry fees are charged at the park entrance: $35 per vehicle with up to 15 passengers, $20 per motorcycle, and $20 per person on foot. Children 15 and younger enter free. Confirm current prices on the park website before you go.
Do I need the shuttle to reach the trailheads?
Not for every trail. The Pa'rus Trail and the Watchman Trail start at the visitor center. For trailheads deeper in the canyon, such as Angels Landing and The Narrows, the shuttle is the easiest option, since private vehicles cannot go beyond Canyon Junction.
Is there parking at the visitor center?
Yes, the center has its own lot, but it fills early, often by mid-morning in summer. If it is full, you can park outside the park and walk in, or park in Springdale and take the town shuttle.
Where do I get a permit for The Narrows?
Permits are picked up in person at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center Wilderness Desk, even if you made an advance reservation. Walk-in permits are issued from 9 a.m. to closing on the day before the hike.
Is the visitor center wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entrance, restroom, seating and parking lot are all wheelchair accessible.
