The Wonders of Zion: Your Long Weekend Getaway in Utah

Sometimes you just need to get away and get lost in adventure and nature, and Zion National Park can bring you exactly that. It is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and nature lovers. Upon entering Zion National Park, I was literally jaw-dropped. The uniqueness of the terrain and mountains was unlike any scene I have witnessed before. You can find below what we did on our long weekend in Zion, and I hope it encourages you to go and check it out for yourself!

A Quick Overview

Zion National Park, nestled in the heart of Utah, is a geological wonderland that I think will leave you awe-inspired. Its towering red rock formations, dramatic canyons, and lush valleys are a testament to the Earth's incredible artistry. For adventurous souls, this park is a playground of exploration, offering a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels, and I will share which hikes we did later in this post. But if you are looking for more of a relaxed vibe, you can book a massage treatment in Springdale or take a yoga class amongst the mountains.

How to Get There & Where to Stay

We flew into Las Vegas and rented a car for the 2.5 hours drive to the Springdale area of Utah. The drive itself from Las Vegas was beautiful through the desert.

We wanted to stay in the Springdale area, if you do too, then I highly recommend the Desert Pearl Inn. The views are absolutely gorgeous from any of the rooms. If you book a room on the back of the Inn (like we did) you will get a view of the mountains and the Virgin River that runs through the park.

If you are looking for more camping or glamping accommodations, here is what I recommend:

• Campgrounds within the park can be found on the NPS site

• For those who want a touch of luxury without sacrificing proximity to nature, the Zion Lodge is an ideal option. Nestled within the park, it offers comfortable accommodations and a chance to wake up to stunning views of the surrounding red cliffs. From here, you can easily access some of the park's most popular trails, making it a convenient base for your explorations.

• Glamping: Under Canvas (we stayed with Under Canvas in Montana and loved it)

Our Favorite Hikes

Zion boasts an array of trails that range from easy strolls to heart-pounding adventures, and we opted to do a bit of both. My favorite hikes are below:

• East Mesa Trail: 3.5 hours | Moderate - This trail is a 45 min drive from Springdale, and I would recommend you have a car with 4-wheel drive. I know this is an unpopular opinion, but I liked this hike more than Angel's Landing. I would consider this a moderate hike; however, it is a longer hike lasting about 3.5 hours, so if it is hot (like it was when we were there), it can teeter on the strenuous side. The views are spectacular and you actually look down on Angel's Landing. I would pack a snack or two to enjoy when you find shade. Trailhead Note: You have to drive out of the East Entrance of Zion about 15 miles to get to this trail but it was well worth it. Look for "North Fork Road" on the left-hand side and turn there then follow the signs, but also plug trailhead into GPS using All Trails to help.

• The Narrows: 8 hours | Moderate - This was my favorite hike in the park! We got up at 6am to get there early (they have an easy bus system throughout the park that you should use). I would recommend water shoes and a hiking stick to help you wade through the waters and rocks. Trailhead note - Board one of the shuttle buses early in the morning and ride it to the last stop and the Temple of Sinawava monument.

• Angel's Landing Hike: 4.5 hours | Strenuous - This is the hike that many people come to Zion to conquer - and I can see why! It is a thrilling challenge that rewards brave climbers with panoramic vistas of the entire park - not for those afraid of heights. You will need to hold onto ropes to get to the top.
  

• Zion Canyon Overlook: 1 hour | Easy - This one is the perfect option at sunrise! You can take it as slow or fast as you would like. I loved watching the sun creep over the red rocks early in the morning.

• Pa'rus Trail: Easy - This is a beautiful walk through the front of the national park. We strolled on this trail during sunset and it was phenomenal! You can bring a bathing suit if you want to wade in the river to cool down.

• The Watchman: Easy - This is a wonderful hike option to do early in the morning or later in the day because there is zero shade coverage. This is an easy hike to find as the trailhead is walking distance from the Desert Rose Inn area.

Restaurants & Relaxation

While Zion is a paradise for adventurers, it also caters to those seeking tranquility.

I loved my day spa experience at the Cable Mountain Spa followed by a picnic to unwind by the Virgin River in Springdale.

Here are my picks of local restaurants if you want a change from packed sandwiches on your hike:

• Casual and fun Mexican cuisine: Oscar's Cafe

• Favorite pick for a nicer dinner (with a view): Moki

• Bit & Spur

• Favorite breakfast spot: Cafe Solei

• We got some groceries at Sol Foods Market

Whether you're an avid hiker, a camping enthusiast, or simply someone looking to reconnect with the beauty of the natural world, Zion offers something truly special.

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Travel far, sip deeply, and live purposefully,

Cassie Ann