ST. GEORGE — 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 issued a news release on Wednesday to let visitors know what to expect.
Zion recorded more than 82,000 visits over Memorial Day Weekend in 2022. About one-third of all national parks – more than 150 – recorded fewer than 82,000 visits in all of 2022.
According to the news release, the park service anticipates:
- Long lines at entrance stations, visitor centers, restrooms, and at trailheads.
- Lengthy waits to board park shuttles in Springdale and Zion National Park.
- Intermittent, temporary closures at the park’s east and south vehicle entrance stations.
- Heavy traffic in Springdale and throughout the park.
“Pack your patience,” Jonathan Shafer, park spokesperson said in the press release.
“We want you to enjoy your visit, and we want to be realistic about what you can expect this year,” he added. “Be prepared to see lots of other people, be aware that parking usually fills early in the day. We may temporarily limit vehicle entry to reduce crowding and traffic congestion, but the park pedestrian and bicycle entrance will remain open throughout the weekend.”
Zion 2023 Memorial Day weekend tips
Trail bridge at Zion Lodge closed
The trail bridge over the Virgin River at Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop No. 5) is closed. Hikers can still visit Emerald Pools from the Grotto (Shuttle Stop No. 6). Check a map before you start your hike to plan accordingly. Keep in mind that you will not be able to cross the river at Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop No. 5).
Narrows and other routes closed
Due to high water, the Narrows have been closed since mid-April. Hikers should not enter the Virgin River.
Angels Landing Pilot Permit Program
Remember to apply the day before for a permit to hike to Angels Landing. Everyone needs to have a permit, and you need to bring ID to show a ranger with it. You may encounter a ranger anywhere on the trail or the route with chains. Arrive early so that you do not miss the hike start time on your permit.
Take advantage of the park shuttle
The Zion Canyon Shuttle System recently moved to its full, summer schedule. Take advantage of the free, Springdale Line Shuttle to avoid traffic inside Zion and enter through the pedestrian and bicycle entrance.
Getting around
For non-recreational drivers, the best way through the park is to go around the park. There will likely be heavy traffic all weekend, and there may be times through-travel is not possible.
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:
- Utah 20.
- Utah 14.
- US 89 – Arizona 389 – Utah 59.
Recreate responsibly
- Become a Junior Ranger! Learning about the park is always in season, and junior rangers can help plan trips with Junior Ranger Explorer materials.
- 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 our social media, and visit our website for the latest park information.