Ahead of one of its busiest winter weekends, Zion National Park issued a news release Friday urging visitors to plan ahead for Presidents Day, warning of heavy crowds and congestion — especially along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
Visitors to Zion National Park can enjoy free admission Monday in honor of Presidents Day. The fee-free day also applies to the state’s other four national parks, coinciding with the Bryce Canyon Winter Festival this weekend.
Free admission is available only to U.S. citizens and residents; nonresidents must pay the regular entrance fee.
No shuttle service; limited parking
Shuttle buses will not operate during Presidents Day weekend. Instead, visitors may drive personal vehicles, but parking inside the canyon is limited and typically fills quickly on holiday weekends.
Rangers recommend arriving early and carpooling when possible. Vehicles parked outside designated spaces may be cited or towed, and the scenic drive may temporarily close if parking reaches capacity.
If canyon parking is full, visitors can park near the Zion Canyon Visitor Center at the park’s South Entrance. The visitor center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Winter hiking conditions vary
Hiking conditions may range from dry and pleasant to icy and challenging. Park officials advise checking before heading out and bringing appropriate gear.
Those planning to hike the Virgin River Narrows should be prepared for near-freezing water temperatures and limited sunlight. Waterproof gear is recommended. Hikers should also remain aware of flash flood risks.
Other busy areas
The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway on the park’s east side and Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive, located off I-15 at Exit 40, are also expected to see increased traffic. Parking in these areas is limited to paved pullouts.
The Kolob Canyons Visitor Center is open daily from 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m.
Park officials encourage visitors to make backup plans in case preferred destinations are full and consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds.
More information about visiting Zion National Park is available here.