Utah

Are you looking to visit Arches National Park in winter? This guide will help you plan that trip!

Arches National Park is one of the most visited US national parks and it is just as spectacular during winter as it is during the warmer months.

This travel guide will inform you of all the awesome things to do in Arches National Park during winter, including lodging, the best hikes, winter activities, park information, and more!

Are you simply seeking the best tours from Moab to see Arches (and Canyonlands) on your trip?  Here are some of the top-rated Moab tours:

• From Moab: 4×4 half-day tour of Arches National Park (from $110 per person)
• From Moab: 4×4 whole day tour of Arches NP and Canyonlands NP (from $188 per person)
• From Moab: 4×4 Arches National Park hiking tour (from $188 per person)
• From Salt Lake City: Private tour of Arches National Park (from $300 per person)

If you have any tips for an Arches National Park winter trip, please drop them in the comments to help future travelers!

Reasons to Visit Arches National Park in Winter

Arches National Park is one of the most beautiful parks to visit in winter (seriously!). The most popular time to visit Arches is during spring and fall, which are more temperate compared to the scorching summers but warmer than the depths of winter.

However, while winter weather in Arches may not be the most predictable, the sheer lack of crowds makes it one of the best times of the year to visit. 

The quietness of the park is perfect for those hoping to photograph the beauty of Arches National Park in winter. During the peak season, it is not uncommon to have to wait in line for your opportunity to take a photograph of some of the extraordinary structures and it is unlikely that your shot will be clear of people. 

Thankfully, despite its high altitude, the park rarely sees heavy snowfall and the entire park is accessible throughout the whole year.

However, because of smaller crowd numbers, some of the facilities at Arches National Park close for the offseason, but you will still find plenty to do and see within this incredible US national park. 

Quick Facts about Glacier NP

Location: Utah
Size: 76,679 acres
Annual Visitors: 1,663,557 (in 2018)
Established: April 12, 1929
Closest big city: Moah, UT
Glacier National Park Highlights: Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, Balanced Rock, Fiery Furnace, Double Arch, Corona Arch, Slickrock Bike Trail, Devil’s Garden Trail, Ute Petroglyphs

When is it Winter in Arches National Park?

Winter in Arches National Park lasts from the beginning of December until early March. While the weather is tolerable during the winter months, it is still cold. Thankfully, there is little chance that winter weather will close the park, roads, or trails. 

This alone makes Arches National Park one of the best US national parks to visit in December, January, and February.

How Cold Does it Get in Arches National Park? (Temperatures & More)

Temperatures in winter are much cooler than the oppressive summer temperatures.

Generally, between December and March, the temperatures fluctuate between 30°F (-1°C) and 50°F (10°C). During the night temperatures drop even further to lows of 18°F (-8°C), with the cloudless night skies allowing any heat built up during the day to dissipate.

Here are the average temperatures for Arches National Park in December, January, and February:

• December: Highs of 5C/41F, Lows of -7C/20F
• January: Highs of 5C/40F, Lows of -8C/18F
• February: Highs of 9C/49F, Lows of -4C/25F

Does it Snow in Arches National Park?

Yes, it does snow in Arches National Park, although not often. When it does snow, it tends to be a light covering that melts fairly quickly.

Snow is unlikely to ever close the park or any of the roads within the park. However, some trails can be a little riskier if there is snowfall, especially the parts that are shaded throughout the day.

Along with occasional Arches National Park snowfall, there is also the chance of rainfall in the park. 

What to Wear When Visiting Arches National Park in Winter

One great thing about visiting Arches in winter is that it is never extremely cold, so you can just wear layers and take them off accordingly.  However, you still need to pack some winter gear! 

Here are my recommendations for what to wear and bring to Arches National Park in winter:  

Note: I am a huge fan of REI for all of my winter gear in the US, but I also love throwing minimalistic Scandinavian brands into the mix.  I am listing an array of my favorite winter gear below.

• Waterproof shoes / hiking boots (especially if you’re hiking and the weather is not favorable… I have been using these Keen Targhees for over 10 years… no joke!)
• Hat (I have heaps but my favorites are from Libertine-Libertine and Samsøe & Samsøe)
• Fleece jacket
• Gloves or mittens (I prefer mittens but not always practical for activities)
• Neck gaiter (I love this one from Kari Traa)
• Comfortable socks (I am the blister queen)

What to Pack for Arches National Park in Winter (Gear & Miscellaneous)

There are a few non-clothing items that I highly recommend bringing with you when you visit Arches National Park: 

• Trekking poles (great for beginner hikers or those with a poor gait)
• Sunscreen (the sun shines A LOT here… even during winter! I love Sunbum sunscreens)
• Water bottle (I use this Klean Kanteen one)
• Odor-blocking storage bags (to use for food waste)
• Mosquito and insect repellent
• Mobile power bank (phone batteries deplete faster during winter)
• First-aid kit
• US National Parks Pass (saves so much money and can be used at over 2,000 sites!)

Things to Know Before Traveling to Arches National Park in Winter

Visiting Arches National Park in winter is a relatively stress-free experience, thanks to the lack of crowds and somewhat favorable weather.

However, there are still a few things that you should know before planning your winter trip to Arches National Park. 

While the weather is rarely extreme, overnight snowfall can mean that roads can be closed in the mornings, as they will need to be cleared of snow. While they do close for short periods of time due to snow, it is typically cleared quickly and all roads should be open within a few hours of heavy snowfall. 

READ ALSO:  Things to do in Zion National Park in winter

Daytime temperatures are cold but pleasant, while during the night, they can plummet well below freezing. If you are planning to camp within the park or enjoy star gazing, it is important to bring warm clothing suited for the extreme cold and to let people know you plan to visit the park at night. 

The hiking trails in Arches National Park are usually in fairly good condition but can get slippery when the snow becomes compacted or icy from other hikers.

Always keep an eye on your footing and have a Plan B ready in case you do not feel safe undertaking the hike. Although, usually the mid-day sun does a good job at melting any lingering snow and ice. 

Facilities Open In Arches National Park (Winter)

The visitor center at the park remains open nearly all year, closing only for Christmas Day. However, those visiting in winter will find that there are reduced hours during the low season.

Between November and March in Arches National Park, however, there are no ranger activities. If you wish to speak to a ranger they will be available at the visitor center and will offer up helpful advice on hikes and general information about the park. 

There is a year-round campsite within the park that offers 25 spots available on a first-come, first-served basis, so you will need to get in there early to avoid disappointment… especially toward the end of winter. 

Things to Do in Arches National Park during Winter

Thanks to Arches National Park’s desert-like climate, the park is fully accessible year-round, and pretty much everything you could want to do in the high season is available to do in the winter.

The following activities are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Arches National Park during winter.

Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch is one of the most iconic sites in the whole of Utah. People from around the world head to Arches National Park to view the stunning rock formation, and during the summer months, huge crowds make the 3-mile round trip hike to take in the site.

One of the biggest rewards of completing this Arches National Park hike in winter is the chance that you might get to enjoy Delicate Arch on your own (or at least with fewer crowds).

The lack of crowds means that you can snap photos at your leisure and take in the scenic views without the pressure of being around hundreds of people waiting for their turn to take a picture. 

If you are lucky, you will be able to see the arch covered in snow and with gorgeous views around it, creating a unique landscape where the orangey-brown rock contrasts beautifully with the white snow. 

The hike to Delicate Arch is not difficult and is about 1.5 miles each way. The middle section of the hike tends to be a little more shaded from the sun and you might need to adjust your clothing layers and attach crampons on your hiking boots, especially if it has snowed recently.

When you have finished taking in the views of Delicate Arch, you will need to follow the same path back to the beginning of the trail. 

Park Avenue View Point

Park Avenue View Point is easily reached via the short Park Avenue Trail. The mile-long trail in Arches National Park will take you past some of the fantastic monolith rock formations in a canyon.

The trail is one of the first you will encounter in the park, just 2.5 miles away from the visitor center and it is open year-round. 

Starting from the car park, there is a 320-foot path to the beautiful viewpoint that looks down through the canyon. From the viewpoint, you can carry on down into the canyon and enjoy more of the epic rock formations within the canyon itself. 

READ ALSO:  Best national parks to visit in February

If you chose to tackle the whole trail, it is a 2-mile hike that shouldn’t take much longer than an hour and 30 minutes. There are no actual arches within the canyon but the imposing monoliths are breathtaking in their own right. The hike is a good warm-up before attempting some of the more challenging ones within Arches. 

Arches Scenic Drive

Arches Scenic Drive is an amazing 36-mile drive that winds its way through the park, taking in some of the best and most fantastic landmarks in Arches National Park and some stellar viewpoints.

Take as much time as you need to complete the drive that contains some of the park’s most famous attractions such as Balanced Rock, which is easily visible from the roadside or a 0.3-mile walk from the trail start.

From the Window Section of the drive, you can reach the Double Arch, the tallest arch in the park and only a 0.7-mile walk from the road. 

While the route is only 36 miles long, it can take up a good chunk of your day as you will no doubt want to stop and take in the sublime beauty of the park. During winter, it is best to start off early as you will be limited by the amount of daylight.

If there has been heavy snowfall, you should expect road closures although normally by midday, most snow will have melted or been plowed off the road. 

Pretty much all of the trails start from the scenic drive so you will need to complete sections of the drive in order to reach the hikes. If you plan to do some of the multi-mile hikes, it is advisable to split the drive up over multiple days. 

Devils Garden Trail

For those looking for a lengthy hike that will take up most of the day, the Devils Garden Trail is the perfect option. The trail passes by 7 of the park’s most impressive arches, more than any other trail and the hike can be tailored depending on your fitness level and time available. 

Devils Garden Trail is a large 7-mile loop, with various little offshoots to explore the 7 arches along the way. The first arch along the trail is the giant Landscape Arch that miraculously suspends itself through the air.

The path to reach Landscape Arch is an easy walk that takes around an hour, but from that point onward, the rest of the loop is more challenging as you set off on the “primitive trail”. As you work your way along the primitive trail, you will need to take little detours to reach arches such as the Navajo or Pine Tree Arches. 

The hike is not for the faint-hearted and to reach the Double O Arches, you will need to cross a thin strip of rock with drops on both sides. However, the views from the trail will keep your mind off of the scarier parts of the route.

READ ALSO:  Best national parks to visit in January

The descending sections of the Arches hike can get a little messy, so I recommend wearing high-quality clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. 

During the winter months, to complete the Devils Garden Trail, you should allow yourself a whole day, and while the route is a loop, if it becomes too challenging or you feel you are losing daylight, there is no harm in just coming back the way you came. 

Photography in Arches National Park

One of the best activities to enjoy Arches National Park in winter is by photographing it. Typically during the summer months, the park is incredibly crowded and the chance of getting a clear shot without people in it is very slim.

Thankfully, in winter, you can find days when fewer than 2,000 people are visiting the park. The Delicate Arch at sunset is one of the most sought-after photos and even in winter can be a little crowded but there is a very good chance you will have ample time to take a few shots and enjoy the beauty as well. 

If you are fortunate to visit when snow is on the ground, there is a beautiful contrast between the white of the pristine snow and the bedrock, making for otherworldly photos. For the best lighting, head to the park early in the morning or for golden hour just before sunset. 

For those willing to brave the cold of a desert night, night photography in Arches NP is outstanding. It is often possible to view the Milky Way hovering just above the Delicate Arch and with the correct camera settings, you can attempt to capture both the stars lighting the night sky and the arch itself. 

Stargazing in Arches National Park

Arches National Park is home to some of the darkest skies in America and it is famous for its plentiful stargazing opportunities. The park is open 24 hours a day and there is no better night-time activity than heading into the park and venturing off the road a bit to look up into the night sky.

On clear and moonless nights, they estimate that you can see over 2,500 stars above the park. The Utah national park is one of the best places to spot and enjoy the beauty of the Milky Way. 

For the best stargazing, you will need to head north into the park away from any built-up areas, where light pollution will not reach you. From there, go on one of the shorter trails such as Balanced Rock or Panorama Viewpoint, where you will be able to enjoy both the beauty of the park and the night sky.

Once you have found your spot, it will take 20-30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. During this time, you want to avoid anything that creates light, such as flashlights or cellphone screens, as you will lose your ability to see in the dark. 

READ ALSO:  Amazing US national parks to visit in December

If you are planning to head on one of the longer trails such as the Delicate Arch Trail, it is a good idea to invest in a red-light flashlight, which will help light up the trail without impacting your night vision.

Finally, it is important to wear warm clothes because when night falls, so do the temperatures in Arches National Park… which will likely plummet below freezing. Also, take note of the clarity in the skies to ensure they are clear enough for stargazing in the first place.

Arches National Park Winter Lodging 

Hands-down, the best place to stay for a trip to Arches National Park is in Moab, Utah.  It is located close to the park and close to Canyonlands National Park.

Here are some of the best hotels in Moah to stay for a trip to Arches National Park in winter.

• Hotels in Moab: Wingate by Wyndham Moab (3-star lodging in Moab), Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton (gorgeous 4-star accommodation 2 miles from Arches NP), Red Stone Inn (2-star budget accommodation in Moab), Red Cliffs Lodge (3-star accommodation on the Scenic Byway 15 miles from Arches)

Winter Camping in Arches

There is only one campground in Arches National Park and it is called Devils Garden Campground. During the winter in Arches NP, you will need to make a reservation at the campsite, however, and you can learn more about it here.

If you’re seeking campgrounds in Moah, there are plenty to choose from!  If you’re camping and are not a member of Hipcamp, also be sure to use our code here to receive $10 off your first booking!  

Here are our favorite Hipcamp verified campgrounds in and near Moab:

• Cyrus and Atticus Getaway (from $59/night)
• Adventure Haven close to Moab (from $34/night)

Click here for a review of why you should be camping with Hipcamp! 

Airbnbs in Moab (and Nearby)

Another fantastic option of a place to stay in Moab is at the many Airbnbs that are there!  This allows you to easily come and go at your own pace and feel like you’re home in the Utah city!  Here are some of the best Airbnbs in Moab, Utah:

• Tiny house at the edge of the desert (from $125/night)
• Amazing desert sky views in Moab (from $111/night)
• One bedroom entire condo in Moab (from $97/night)
• Moonflower room in the comfy cactus (from $47/night)
• Entire townhouse in Arches East (from $144/night)
• Vintage Airstream | Moab Air Base (from $75/night) << OUR TOP PICK FOR A UNIQUE STAY!

Should You Book a Trip to Arches National Park in Winter?

In conclusion, YES, we think Arches National Park in winter is a fantastic choice and one you will also be happy with!

However, this is an incredible park to visit year-round! Click here if you’re on the hunt for other US national parks to visit in January and the other winter months!

Pin This Arches Winter Travel Guide

There is truly something magical about Zion National Park in winter.  It offers a feeling of anonymity and connection with nature that very few places in the US offer these days.

Winter in Zion National Park may not be for everybody depending on your reasons for visiting Zion.  But, if you plan your trip well, you will keep occupied and fall in love with this famous US National Park.

This guide details why you should visit Zion in winter and what you can do there, including where to stay, practical tips, and things to know before going.

Reasons to Visit Zion National Park in Winter

In my opinion, Zion National Park is one of the best US National Parks to visit in January and other winter months.

The crowds are not ever-present like during other times of the year and you can really connect with the humbling nature in a way that is just not as easy during summer or the shoulder seasons. 

During the high-season, visitor numbers at Zion NP are around 500,000 per month (May-September).  During the winter, it is around 100,000 per month (December is around 170,000 monthly).

Some of the things you can do in Zion National Park during winter are taking scenic drives, hiking and backpacking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, camping, photographing, and wildlife watching.

Zion in winter is never all that cold, either, making the trip more comfortable than expected and allowing you to enjoy activities with far less clothing, unlike Yellowstone in winter or some of the parks in the northern US.

Quick Facts about Zion NP

Location: Utah
Size: 146,597 acres
Annual Visitors: 4,488,268 (2019)
Established: November 19, 1919
Closest big city: St. George, UT (Las Vegas is a good base)
Zion National Park Highlights: Angel’s Landing hike, otherworldly red rock landscapes, The Narrows, canyoneering, Zion Canyon scenic drive

When is it Winter in Zion?

Winter in Zion National Park is relatively short, actually.  It begins in December and is usually gone by the end of February, as spring flowers tend to bloom earlier than other places in the western United States.

How Cold Does it Get in Zion? (Temperatures & More)

It definitely depends on what month you’re visiting for how cold it gets.  Here is a small breakdown of the winter months with average temperatures and the number of ‘rainy’ days.

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Does it Snow in Zion National Park?

Yes, it usually does snow in Zion National Park in winter. The park will usually see about 2.5 snowfall days and an accumulation of about 4.2in (106.7mm).

Snow tends to melt quickly in Zion and it doesn’t leave the roads dangerous and most hikes are safe with the exception of a rare patch of ice.

What to Wear When Visiting Zion National Park in Winter

One great thing about visiting Zion in winter is that it is never extremely cold, so you can just wear layers and take them off accordingly.  However, you still need to pack some winter gear! 

Here are my recommendations for what to wear and bring to Zion National Park in winter:  

Note: I am a huge fan of REI for all of my winter gear in the US, but I also love throwing minimalistic Scandinavian brands into the mix.  I am listing an array of my favorite winter gear below.

• Waterproof shoes (especially if you’re hiking The Narrows!)
• Rain jacket (I have one from Rains and one from Samsøe & Samsøe that I wear – layer this with a sweater)
• Hat (I have heaps but my favorites are from Libertine-Libertine and Samsøe & Samsøe)
• Crampons (if you plan on hiking, you should bring some spikes for grip)

What to Pack for Zion in Winter (Gear & Miscellaneous)

Packing the right clothes is always the most challenging part, but you need to consider the other things you will bring with you, too. 

Below are some items I always tote along in winter when I travel to cold places and will definitely make a great addition to your Zion trip.

Mobile Power Bank

The weather will deplete your cellphone battery.  I repeat- the weather WILL deplete your cellphone battery.  Bring a mobile power bank with you to ensure you can snap photos whenever you want!  Click here to purchase my recommended power bank on Amazon.

Extra Camera Batteries

If you’re into photography but have never photographed in a cold setting, you’re going to want to ensure you have a few extra batteries to bring along for the ride.  The camera battery will deplete quicker in subzero temperatures just like phone batteries do. 

I also travel with a USB charger for camera batteries that I can stick in my mobile power bank in case times get tough.  Click here to find a USB charger for camera batteries.

Dry Bags

It may be snowy or rainy and the weather will be a bit off-putting on certain days on your winter in Zion vacation… so don’t let it ruin your equipment or gear! 

I travel with dry bags just as an extra precaution and they have served me well all over the world.  These dry bags from the Friendly Swede are my favorite.

Things to Know Before Traveling to Zion National Park in Winter

While Zion stays pretty much open during the winter months, there are definitely a few things you need to know before visiting then.

Here are some of the important planning tips for Zion National Park that we think you should be made aware of prior to visiting the Utah park.

How Many Days in Zion National Park?

One of the most frequently asked questions is how many days does one need in Zion National Park in winter?  If you are not a hiker, you really can see most of what you will desire to see within one day.

We also recommend adding Zion National Park as a stop if you are taking a road trip from California to Arizona and have an extra day of unplanned activities.

If you enjoy hiking, I would recommend at least 3 days in Zion National Park during winter.  This will give you ample time to complete Angel’s Landing, The Narrows, and any other activities you may wish to do.  Canyoneering is also a popular activity year-round in Zion, so it will give you a chance to do that, as well.

Roads in ZNP in Winter

The main road that provides access to Zion National Park is US Highway 9. During the Zion winters, the Canyon road is rarely covered in snow because it tends to melt so rapidly.

When the highway cuts into Zion’s eastern portion, it increases in elevation and goes along ridges where snowfall is more prevalent. The highway is plowed, however, and open year-round, but just stay cognizant of things right after a major storm.

Kolob Canyons Road is usually open during the winter but can be closed temporarily during snowstorms or shortly after. This is the road that provides gorgeous vistas that are extremely beautiful during the winter months, but there are also some trails that can be treacherous during winter on this road.

Kolob Terrace Road is often closed during heavy snowfalls during the winter months. This road goes through Zion NP and then into an area of private land where you will see many cabins and accommodation.

The people living in these cabins are allowed to drive snowmobiles around in order to get to their homes but please note that snowmobiles are forbidden for recreational use in Zion National Park.

Facilities Open in Zion in Winter

Park shuttle buses tend to not run during the winter except during holidays such as the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day and on Presidents’ Day weekend.

The South Campground closes during the winter months and there is a portion of Watchman Campground that also closes during the winter.

In addition, the Human History Museum is closed during winter in Zion but the film about the park can be viewed at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center that remains open year-round.

Zion National Park Visitor Centers

There are three visitor centers in Zion National Park but only two consistently operate during the winter months.

The first is the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and the second is the Kolob Canyon Visitor Center. They are both closed on December 25, but remain open during the winters with the following hours:

Zion Canyon: 8:00am to 5:00pm
Kolob Canyon: 8:00am to 4:30pm

Click here for more information about Zion Park facilities.

Zion National Park Entrance Fee

To enter Zion National Park, it is $30 per car. This will give you 7 days in Zion National Park. 

However, I highly recommend purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for $79.99. This pass gives you access to over 2,000 US national parks and monuments all for the one-time fee! It is so worth the money!

>> Click here to purchase your National Parks Pass for $79.99!

Things to Do in Zion in Winter

One of the best reasons to visit Zion National Park is to go hiking.  And, fortunately, there are plenty of winter hikes in Zion that you can partake in during your trip there.

In addition to winter hiking in Zion, you can also enjoy several other activities from scenic drives to photography and more.  Below are some of the top things to do in Zion National Park in winter.

Angel’s Landing Hike

Hiking during winter in Zion is one of the best activities and it will give you an experience that is unparalleled to others.

Angel’s Landing is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park and it is accessible year-round.

The hike is difficult and there is a probable chance that there will be snow on the trail. The trailhead is at the Grotto Parking Lot and you’ll also find restrooms there.

The out and back trail is around 5.4 miles long and takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete.

There will likely be snow on the trail, as mentioned before, so be sure to wear proper footwear. Many parts of the trail have chains you can latch onto for support, but I recommend you bring along a pair of crampons or spikes to assist you!

This Zion hike involves a little climbing (there are chains to help!) and can be really dangerous for someone who is not experienced… so please don’t attempt tackling Angel’s Landing during winter unless you are a seasoned hiker.

Go Wildlife Watching

Another popular winter activity in Zion National Park is to go wildlife watching.  The park is renowned for its diverse array of wildlife and while the tourists keep to minimal levels during the winters, many animals are still out and about doing their thing.

It is not uncommon to see eagles, wild turkeys, deer, elk, and bighorn sheep in Zion National Park in winter (many smaller species are hibernating during the winter). 

Over 8 species of mammals, 291 bird species, 44 species of reptiles/amphibians, and 8 species of fish call wonderful Zion National Park home and you will likely get the chance to witness something while there.

Snowshoe to Observation Point

If you’re an adventurous traveler visiting Zion National Park in winter, you definitely should throw on some cross-country skis or snowshoes and make your way to Observation Point via the East Rim Trail.

This is definitely one of the most beautiful views in Utah and even though it can be a bit of a challenge to reach in winter, if you’re experienced, it should be added to your Zion bucket list!

Drive Through Zion Canyon

If you’re seeking what to do in Zion in winter, definitely consider driving Zion Canyon! During the heavy tourist season from May until September, shuttle buses take park visitors around Zion MP, stopping at trailheads and the main highlights.

However, in winter, the shuttle buses don’t run frequently (or at all) and you can drive through Zion Canyon independently.

This drive is a 6.5-mile scenic thoroughfare that goes along the Virgin River and offers insanely beautiful views of the canyon and its rock formations.

There are also designated stops along the way where you can get out, stretch your legs, and soak up Zion National Park’s beauty.

Hike The Narrows

Most people don’t think of The Narrows as a prime Zion hiking spot during winter, but if you dress properly, it is one of the most stunning spots to hike during the colder months simply for its obscure rock formations and fewer hikers around.

This is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon and the walls are a thousand feet tall with a small river running through it. It is easily one of the most popular spots in the park and it requires hiking through the Virgin River.

Your feet WILL get wet, which is uncomfortable without proper footwear in winter. The water levels are also higher during the winter months and The Narrows will likely close occasionally during spring when the snowmelt raises the river too high. So, winter is not a bad time to go if you’re dressed for it!

It is best to bring waterproof shoes and trekking poles along with you for the hike through The Narrows.

How to Get to Zion National Park in Winter

The best way to reach Zion National Park in winter is either by personal car (or rental car) or via a tour from Las Vegas.

If you are not used to driving in winter weather, I recommend getting a 4-wheel drive for the park.  While the roads are plowed frequently and snow rarely builds up, if a storm does come through, it will help you confidently drive the Rim without fear of something happening.

>> Click here to check rental car rates in the United States

Zion National Park Winter Tours from Las Vegas

Another great way to see Zion National Park in winter is via a tour from Las Vegas.  There are a couple of tours that are fantastic options for easily seeing Zion NP from Las Vegas (and it combines Zion with other amazing parks!)

Below are three options for Zion tours from Las Vegas that you will want to consider during the winter:

• Day trip from Las Vegas to Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon
• Las Vegas: Combo tour of Zion + Bryce Canyon
• 3 Day Winter tour of Zion, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon 

Zion National Park Winter Accommodation Options

There are plenty of reputable places to stay in Zion National Park and around the area.  Here are some of our top picks of places to stay in and near Zion – broken down into hotels, Airbnbs, RV, and camping/glamping options.

If you’re opting for Airbnb and are not a member, be sure to use our code here to receive $41 off of your first booking.  If you’re camping and are not a member of Hipcamp, also be sure to use our code here to receive $10 off your first booking!

Hotels near Zion National Park

Many people visit Zion as a day trip from Las Vegas, but if you’re keen to stay somewhere near the park but in a city large enough to find things to do, I recommend staying in St. George, Utah. 

Alternatively, you can stay near the entrances to Zion in Springdale, Orderville, and Cedar City (near the Kolob Canyons entrance).

• Hotels in St. George:  Best Western Plus Abbey Inn (3-star accommodation with outdoor heated pool and hot tub), Desert Garden Inn, A Trademark Collection Hotel (mid-range in St. George), The Advenire, Autograph Collection (4-star luxury in St. George)

Camping During Winter in Zion National Park

There are three campgrounds in Zion National Park. South Campground and Watchman Campground are located near the south entrance to Zion.

Lava Point Campground is an hour from Zion and is located on Kolob Terrace Road (there are no campsites in Kolob Canyons).

Availability and closures are marked and up-to-date on the National Parks’ website here.

If you’re not looking to stay at one of these designated camp areas, here are some ones outside of the park that offer campsites and glamping opportunities during the winter:

• Zion Wright Family Ranch Ecocamping (from $29/night)
• Apple Hollow tiny house (from $169/night)
• Beyond the Fence Sanctuary (from $120/night)
• Riverside Trail Park (from $28/night)

Airbnbs near Zion National Park

My favorite choice of places to stay near Zion are the variety of Airbnbs available close to the park.  The best thing about Airbnbs is that some are so quirky and unusual that it makes your stay even more memorable. 

Here are some of our top Airbnbs near Zion National Park that you can easily book in winter:

• Tiny house less than a mile from Zion (rustic cabin with all the amenities close to the park)
• Tiny Cabin #2 @ Zion West RV Park (entire home located 45 minutes away from Zion)
• R barT Ranch Rustic room #1 (half a mile from Kolob Canyon in Zion)
• B&B Entire Guest Suite (located at Canyon Vista in Springdale, UT)
• Under The Eaves Inn (surrounded by Zion on three sides!)

Renting an RV

Another unique alternative for your trip to Zion is to rent an RV.  While I definitely wouldn’t recommend doing this without feeling comfortable driving one or on roads during winter, it is a viable option for many adventurous travelers and those wanting to see more than one park in Utah.

• Family Fun Thor Chateau (2015): Located in Hurricane, Utah, this 31ft camper sleeps 8 people. The fuel tank size is 55 gallons and the water tank is 50 gallons. There is a heater inside.  Click here to check availability with Outdoorsy.

Should You Book a Winter Trip to Zion?

Truth be told, Zion is one of the best US national parks to visit in December, January, and February.  While snowfall does occur there, it is definitely a great park for those looking for little closures and many activities still taking place.

If you’re into winter hiking, visiting Zion National Park in winter is a fantastic choice.  The scenery will completely blow your mind and leave you planning a return trip!

Pin This Zion Winter Guide for Later