SPRINGDALE — There is never a bad time to visit Zion, but if you plan to travel to the park during Memorial Day weekend, the National Park Service wants you to know what to expect. For one thing, in 2021, Zion recorded some 100,000 visits from Friday to Monday.
According to a news release issued by the park service, visitors to Zion should anticipate:
- Long lines at entrance stations, visitor centers, restrooms and trailheads
- Lengthy waits to board park shuttles in Springdale and Zion National Park
- Intermittent closures at the park’s east and south vehicle entrance stations
- Heavy traffic in Springdale and throughout the park
Jonathan Shafer, spokesperson for the park, said in the news release that they want visitors to enjoy their visit but also be realistic about expectations.
“If you visit this weekend, pack your patience,” Shafer said, adding, “Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is about seven miles long and has about a dozen well-known hikes to offer. Be prepared to see lots of other people, be aware that parking usually fills early in the day and remember that we may close vehicle entrance gates to reduce crowding and congestion.”
When vehicle entrances temporarily close, drivers will not be able to enter the park. If you need to travel through the park during the holiday weekend and you do not plan to stop for recreation, consider alternate routes such as:
- State Route 20
- State Route 14.
- U.S. Route 89, state Route 389, state Route 59.
According to a Tweet posted Wednesday on Zion National Park’s Twitter page, officials may decide to close the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway.
Recreate responsibly
- Be patient with rangers and other visitors. Busy weekends can be stressful, and we need your help to make sure everyone enjoys their national park.
- Be careful with fire in campgrounds or picnic areas due to hot and dry conditions.
- Drink plenty of water and watch for signs of heat stress.
- Park only in designated parking areas. Illegally parked vehicles can harm park plants and animals and may be ticketed or towed.
- Pack it in – pack it out. Take everything you bring into the park out again. This helps protect plants, animals, and history and reduces the amount of trash park service staff need to manage.
- Go before you go. Use restrooms at trailheads and shuttle stops before venturing out on trails.
Learn more about summer operations in Zion, check their social media or visit the park service website for the latest park information.