Winter in Zion
A great way to beat the crowds and the heat at Zion National Park is to come in the winter. Zion National Park’s winters are generally mild, allowing visitors to experience the beauty and solitude of Zion without the throngs of tourists that fill the park from March through October.

The pleasant daytime temperatures are perfect for short walks or hikes, and visitors are just beginning to appreciate the number of winter activities that are available. Temperatures are frequently in the high 50's and low to mid 60's (shirt-sleeve weather), but take a few layers of clothing for times when you venture into the shadowed sections of trails or side canyons. You can gear up for a half-day or full-day hike or pack your binoculars for some bird watching, which is best during this cooler time of the year. You may even spot some Bald Eagles that are spending their winter in the park. Often you may see some wild turkeys foraging on the ground in the valleys.

Trails: One of the best hikes during the winter months is the Sand Bench Trail. During the summer this trail is used by horses, but in the winter the operations shuts down making it a pleasant winter hike. Other trails that are good in the wintertime include: Watchman Trail, Chinle Trail, Coalpits Wash Trail, Huber Wash Trail, and Scoggins Wash Trail. These trails are located farther to the south and exposed to the sun making them free from ice.

The Zion Canyon Shuttle does not run from mid October through early April, so you are allowed to drive your vehicle into the canyon during these months. All roads in the main part of Zion National Park are open throughout the year. Highway 9 (Zion Mt. Carmel Highway) through Zion National Park is a major highway and is always open.

Just outside the park you can enjoy horseback riding, ATV rides and other guided adventures. The zion Canyon Cinemax films are running each day.

Please Note: While the cooler temperatures make walking and hiking more pleasant, some of the hiking trails get little sun and may be icy in the wintertime so remember to check with the Zion Canyon Visitors Center before heading out to the trails. The visitors Center will have current trail conditions each day in the winter.