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Typically when people think of visiting Utah, one of the first destinations that comes to mind is Zion National Park. However there is so much more to do in the Southern Utah area than just visiting this park. Whether you did not get shuttle tickets to visit the main Zion Canyon or you are looking for more off the beaten path ideas to complete your itinerary, check out these fun things to do near Zion National Park.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored and includes affiliate links. All opinions and stories are my own.

Not sure 😕 what to do while in Zion? Then book this East Zion: Crimson Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour now! It’s a great way to experience all the park has to offer in a truly unique way! 🌵

Map of the Destinations near Zion National Park Included in this Post:

Places to Visit around Zion National Park

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is arguably the best national park in Utah. This is probably the main reason you are even reading this blog post, so I don’t have to tell you how amazing Zion National Park is. Zion National Park charges $35 per vehicle to enter and is covered under the America the Beautiful Annual National Parks pass that costs $80. If you plan to visit 3 national parks in a 12 month period, it is worth it to get one of these passes. They are sold at the entrance of most parks (credit card preferred) or you can purchase an annual pass online.

What to do in Zion National Park

There are so many amazing hikes to do while in this park. Keep in mind, many of the slot canyons require a permit (The Subway, The Narrows from the top down, Mystery Canyon, etc.), so plan ahead. The most iconic of the hikes is Angel’s Landing and it now requires a permit that is obtained via lottery.

• Angel’s Landing – 4.1 miles, 1617 feet of elevation gain – has very narrow dropoffs on each side with chains and cables to help support you. You can get an idea of how this trail is by watching this Instagram Reel. If you want to make this hike even more challenging, you can add in The West Rim Trail. Please note this hike now requires a permit that is obtained via lottery. To learn more, check out this link. And for suggestions on what to do if you do not get an Angel’s Landing permit, check out this post.
• The Narrows – can be as long as you want it to be as you start and end at the same place so you decide when you turn around, this hike is in/through water – In the winter I rented Narrows gear from a local outfitter. In the summer I did it with Keen’s and neoprene socks, regardless of if you purchase alternate hiking apparel or rent it, you want something other than your main hiking shoe as you will be wet and you want don’t want to do any other hikes in wet shoes, for more details read this post on hiking the Narrows in Zion National Park
• The Subway – So cool it got its own dedicated post here

How to get to the Trail Heads in Zion Canyon

For most of the year, the scenic drive/upper canyon is *closed* to private vehicles. So how can you access hikes like Angels Landing, The Narrows and Emerald Pools? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
You have a few options:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

1. Zion National Park Shuttle
2. Rent/Bring Bikes: You can rent or bring bikes to ride up the canyon. (e-Bikes are available at some locations too). You must yield to shuttles when on bikes by pulling over to the side of the road and putting one foot down.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
3. Hike (least recommended option): It is about 5 miles from the visitor center to The Grotto (start of Angel’s Landing) and 8 miles from the visitor center to the Temple of Sinewava (start of The Narrows). If you walk up (and back down) the canyon, it will make for a longgg day.⠀⠀

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Zion National Park East Side

If you didn’t get Zion National Park shuttle tickets, or don’t want to deal with the Disney-like crowd experience, consider visiting the east side of Zion National Park. This side of the park does not require shuttle tickets. The east side of Zion National Park is also closer to Cane Beds Corral.

Zion National Park charges $35 per vehicle to enter and is covered under the America the Beautiful Annual National Parks pass that costs $80. If you plan to visit 3 national parks in a 12 month period, it is worth it to get one of these passes. They are sold at the entrance of most parks (credit card preferred) or you can purchase an annual pass online.

If you are looking for an adventure but nothing too crazy, check out the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail. This is 1 mile with 442 ft of elevation gain. There is not much parking near this trail so keep that in mind as you plan. Due to the shuttle system, there are now more people than ever doing the Canyon Overlook Trail because no ticket is required. Keep this in mind for your planning.

There are also other trails that are not on the park map that are still maintained by Zion National Park. You can find some of these by researching on AllTrails. One of my favorite trails not on the map is the Many Pools Trail in East Zion.

If you are looking for a little more adventure than just a hike, East Zion Adventures does guided hikes and canyoneering trips, Jeep Tours, and horseback riding. They are based out of the Zion Ponderosa Ranch which is a great place to stay if you plan to explore this area. You can check out my Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort Review here.

East Zion: Crimson Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5.0 (310 Reviews) Price: $109 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Check in at the register inside the Sinclair gas station Operator: East Zion Adventures Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Looking for some high-adrenaline fun while enjoying some of the best things to do near Zion National Park?

If so then this well-reviewed East Zion: Crimson Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour is 110% for you.

See, during this incredible tour your expert guide will take you on an awe-inspiring journey through the gorgeous slot canyons of East Zion as you ride along on a UTV.

So, sit back and relax as your guide drives you through the remote canyons of this awesome park.

Then, once at the mouth of the slot canyon, you’ll hike your way through red canyon walls that stand at a height of 100 feet but that are only about 6-10 feet wide.

“We had a great time. Just the right amount of walking and riding. Our guide Megan was great. Very relaxed and low key with plenty of time for each stop. The guides took beautiful pics for each of us. Make sure you’re up to a UTV ride down the trail with a few bumps and can hike and climb a bit. Cant over exaggerate the great scenery and awe.”

Ray (read more reviews now)

Along the way, your pro guide will teach you all about the natural history of the area. Just be aware that large rocks routinely block the route and require you to do a bit of climbing.

However, it’s all in good fun as you pass by park icons like Kolob Canyons, the Altar of Sacrifice, the Temple of Sinawava natural amphitheater, and the Angels Landing.

Just don’t forget to bring your camera and take stunning photos of your almost otherworldly journey before returning the way you came.

East Zion: 1-Hour White Mountain Horseback Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (62 Reviews) Price: $69 per person Duration: 1 hour 📍Meeting Point: Sinclair gas station Operator: East Zion Adventures Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you want to enjoy the best things to do near Zion National Park but are not really into motorized vehicles then give this 1-hour Horseback ride tour through the White Mountains a shot.

Not only is horseback riding through Zion National Park a once-in-a-lifetime experience but you’ll get to make your way through some of the immortal slot canyons that made this park famous.

You’ll also have a pro guide on-hand who will teach you the fine art of horse rangling and who will saddle you up as you depart from the stables.

Also, no need to worry if you’re a beginner because this tour is designed for novice and experienced riders alike.

“Blake and Jenna was very great Horseback Riding Tour Guide! Blake did a great job pairing us with our Horses, he knows them well to pair it with each and one of us! i got dolly and my bf got buddy… We had a great first time experience to horseback ride on a trail. we also did a small trail walk between these two big reddish rocks. Definitely a great experience to do. Ps don’t forget to tip! and be kind with the horses. and listen to Blake and Jenna!”

Elaine (read more reviews now)

Then, once at the slot canyon you’ll dismount from your trusty steer so that you can explore the canyon on foot before returning the way you came.

And while this tour is incredible just know that it is not designed for riders over 220 pounds (100 kg). Water is also NOT included (so be sure to bring plenty) and the tour will not operate in bad weather.

Book Your Tour Now

Bryce Canyon National Park

Surprisingly, Bryce Canyon often gets overlooked when people are planning a trip to Zion National Park. However, Bryce Canyon National Park looks quite different than Zion National Park and it is definitely worth a visit. Unlike Zion, Bryce Canyon does not require shuttles. Keep in mind that Bryce Canyon is at higher elevation than Zion National Park and quite often it will be much colder in Bryce.

Bryce Canyon charges $35 per vehicle to enter and is covered under the America the Beautiful Annual National Parks pass that costs $80. If you plan to visit 3 national parks in a 12 month period, it is worth it to get one of these passes. They are sold at the entrance of most parks (credit card preferred) or you can purchase an annual pass online.

For things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park, consider horseback riding or hiking. Some of my favorite hikes are:

• Mossy Cave – 1 mile, 118 ft elevation gain, this hike is not located in the gated area although it is technically within the park boundaries. This trail is popular and heavily-trafficked because it is on the easier side.
• Queens Garden Loop – 3.2 miles, 643 ft elevation gain, this hike is rated moderate and it can also be made longer by adding the Peekaboo Loop
• Fairyland Loop – 7.8 miles, 1,545 ft elevation gain, this hike is a little harder than Queens Garden Loop but still rated moderate, if short on time, you could also consider going out and back

Bryce Canyon National Park Sightseeing Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (404 Reviews) Price: $59 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Bryce Canyon Scenic Tours office Operator: Bryce Canyon Scenic Tours And Shuttle Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you’re short on time but want to experience all that Bryce Canyon National Park has to offer then this Bryce Canyon National Park sightseeing tour will be perfect for you.

See, your local guide will introduce you to all of the park’s major highlights while educating you about the wealth of incredible flora and fauna that make up this unique ecosystem.

So, start your day at Fairyland Canyon and go on a short stroll to see a Bristlecone Pine Tree, a plant that is known for being one of the most ancient living organisms on the planet.

Next, journey into the heart of the park as you experience the Natural Bridge and admire sweeping views of the north rim of the Grand Canyon.

“I am so glad we took this tour and didn’t just rely on the free on/off park shuttle busses! Jennifer our tour guide has to much passion and knowledge about the area it was fantastic! Thank you for a wonderful 3 hour adventure! We hit all the popular spots!”

Jo (read more reviews now)

Finally, check out the cathedral and conglomerate sections, before admiring the many Hoodoos near Inspiration Point.

Finally, after another quick trek, you’ll see Wall Street and various local landmarks like Silent City, Thors Hammer, the Great Serpent, and Queen Victoria.

All in all, this tour is an efficient and informative way to enjoy all of the natural landmarks this park is famous for.

Book Your Tour Now

Kanarraville Falls

Popularized from Instagram, Kanarra Falls in Kanarraville, Utah is a beautiful hike. Because of its popularity, this hike now requires a permit which you can get online here. We visited in the off-season a weekday and only saw one other couple. The hike is 4.3 miles long with 743 ft elevation gain. Because it is in and through a creek, you should be prepared to get wet on this hike.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Cedar Breaks National Monument looks strikingly similar to Bryce Canyon National Park. Depending on the time of year will depend on how much of this national monument you can explore and how much of the road is closed. I have only been in the winter myself where you can go to one overlook and that is it. However, it was quite beautiful.

Red Canyon

Red Canyon is located right outside of Bryce Canyon National Park. There you will see two infamous tunnels over the road that look like arches. Be careful if you plan to get out and take a picture on the road as the road curves so it can be dangerous. There are also hikes and camping available in Red Canyon as well.

Belly of the Dragon

If you are looking for a quick thing to do near Zion National Park, consider a visit to Belly of the Dragon. It’s basically right in Mt Carmel Junction (in between Zion and Bryce) making it the perfect stop while on a national parks road trip.

It is best to think of it more as an excursion than a hike. There is a small scramble (about 5 ft) to get down into the Belly of the Dragon and that’s the most challenging part.

It is MUCH cooler in the tunnel so depending on how long you plan to hang out and the time of year you’re visiting, extra layers might be a good idea. The tunnel is manmade and built as water drainage.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Coral Pink Sand Dunes is one of the best state parks in Utah and costs $10 per vehicle to enter or is covered under the Utah State Parks Annual Pass. I want to set the expectations appropriately. The sand is orange. It does turn pink(ish) with sunset but don’t picture pink in your head.

There is a campground and beautiful expansive sand dunes where you can hike, ATV, or go sandboarding. Dogs are allowed in this park. The sand gets quite hot midday in the summer so keep that in mind for your feet and pets.

Kanab, UT

There are so many fun things to do in Kanab. One of my favorite activities is a tour with All Ways Adventure and explored Peekaboo Slot Canyon and Cutler Cove. Both of these could potentially be accessible without a guide if you have extensive deep sand driving experience and an appropriate 4×4 high clearance vehicle. Our F-350 is 4×4 and high clearance but there is no way it would have navigated the tight turns. We were very grateful to explore these places with All Ways Adventure.

All Ways Adventure offers custom guided experiences including canyoneering – which should be on everyone’s Utah bucket list. If you are interested in an extremely professional and fun guided experience, definitely get in touch with them (435-899-9745).

Note: There are several “Peekaboo” Canyons, this is the one in Kanab.

Red Canyon (Peek-a-Boo Canyon): Off-Road Jeep Tour & Hike

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (16 Reviews) Price: $90 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Peek-a-Boo Trailhead’s parking lot Operator: East Zion Experiences Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you’re searching for something cool to do while in Kanab, Utah then check out this Red Canyon (Peek-a-Boo Canyon): Off-Road Jeep Tour & Hike.

See, you’ll start your journey at the Peek-a-Boo Trailhead as you travel by Jeep for between 10 and 15 minutes to the one and only, Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon.

Once here you’ll explore one of the most famous slot canyons in Southern Utah during this guided off-road tour.

“This was a great trip! Jerry was an amazing guide. Gave us a lot of information about peek a boo and surrounding. And he didn’t get tired of taking many many pictures of us ☺️ Thank you for this great experience. I would definitely recommend this tour to everyone.”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

Learn about the fascinating natural history of this red sand area from your epic guide before taking in sweeping panoramas of your surroundings.

Just be sure to bring your camera so that you can capture this moment forever during an easy hike that is suitable for anyone of any fitness level.

Book Your Tour Now!

Colorado City, AZ

This former polygamist town has a lot of interesting history. However, you can also see the town’s evolution with places like the Edge of the World Brewery opening up in town. Essential Coffee was also the perfect spot to get that morning burst of energy.

In the nearby town of Hilldale, AZ you can also explore Water Canyon with a beautiful waterfall, small reservoir and creek. The trail beyond the waterfall requires a significant amount of scrambling so definitely make sure you are prepared if you plan to continue. If you are interested in staying close to Colorado City, AZ, check out the Cane Beds Corral glamping site. You can learn more about glamping near Zion National Park here.

Snow Canyon State Park

Snow Canyon State Park is another one of the best state parks in Utah. It is a little over an hour from Zion National Park and costs $10-15 to enter based on if you are a Utah resident. This state park is home to one of the most accessible slot canyons – Jenny’s Canyon.

I am convinced that Snow Canyon State Park would be a national park if it wasn’t located just an hour from Zion National Park. It is absolutely stunning.

Despite the name “Snow Canyon”, it’s not often you will actually see snow there. Instead the park was actually originally named Dixie State Park. Later it was renamed for Lorenzo and Erastus Snow, prominent pioneering Utah leaders.

Fun Things to do around Zion National Park

There are so many fun things to do around Zion National Park. Just covering the activities listed here alone, you could spend at least 2 weeks and not get it all done. Have you been to Zion or are you planning a trip? What’s your favorite activity in the area? Let me know in the comments.

Not sure 😕 what to do while in Zion? Then book this East Zion: Crimson Slot Canyon Exploration and UTV Tour now! It’s a great way to experience all the park has to offer in a truly unique way! 🌵

You May Also Enjoy These Posts:

• Best Hikes in Utah
• 21 Places to Visit in Utah that aren’t National Parks
• Epic Things to do in Utah
• Easy Hikes near Salt Lake City
• 11 Things to do in Kanab
• What to do in Midway Utah
• Visiting the Utah Mighty 5 National Parks
• Best Scenic Drives in Utah
• Top Southwestern Utah Historical Sites

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