Thinking about joining those who’ve navigated Zion’s majestic slot canyons, teetered across Angel’s Landing, or climbed the 2,800 feet to Observation Point? The below reasons to go to Zion right now might just have you booking tickets within the next hour. And next, don’t miss 10 U.S. Islands to Add to Your Bucket List—No Passport Required. With over 100 hikes to choose from, hitting the trails is easily the most popular activity in Zion National Park. Best of all, there’s a variety of trails to choose from ranging from very simple—perfect for families or those who don’t want to sweat too much—to more strenuous options.ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb “If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime hiking experience, Zion is the place for you. With some of the most iconic hiking trails and one of the most picturesque canyon views in America, this natural wonder is sure worth a visit,” says Naveen Dittakavi, founder and CEO of Next Vacay. Some of the most popular trails include Canyon Overlook, Lower Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock, and Observation Point. If you want something more challenging, you can’t go wrong with Zion’s signature hike, Angels Landing. Pro Tip: To beat the heat, start early in the day to beat the heat, use a water backpack, wear a hat, and slather plenty of sunscreen. RELATED: For more up-to-date information, sign up for our daily newsletter. Slot canyons are narrow gorges surrounded by tall sandstone formations, and there are only a handful in the world. Most of them are on the border of Arizona and Utah, with Zion offering some truly premiere slot canyon hiking via its famous Narrows. What makes Zion’s slot canyons particularly special is that they’re filled with shallow water, which makes for a nice reprieve on a hot summer day. “As you wade through this hike, you will be surrounded by thousand-foot walls of Navaja sandstone that have been eroded into spectacular shapes and zebra-striped textures,” says Woody Sears, CEO and co-founder of HearHere, an audio app that tells stories about places around the world. Pro Tip: Pack quality water shoes, as nearly all of this hike will have you partially submerged in water. You’ll also thank yourself for having a change of socks and dry shoes for after the hike. Because Zion has very little light pollution, it’s considered one of the best stargazing spots in the world. “Not only will you be mesmerized by jaw-dropping canyon views and natural rock formations, but when the sun goes down you’ll enjoy the night sky in its full glory with views of planets and the milky way,” notes Dittakavi. “The best time for a stargazing adventure is during spring or fall, when you can enjoy fewer crowds than in the summer months.” Pro Tip: Kolob Terrace is one of the best spots to stargaze since it’s a less-visited area of the park. That means fewer car headlights and flashlights, which makes for stunning dark sky views with endless stars. READ THIS NEXT: The 8 Best Ways to Display Your Travel Memories. Take your trip up a notch—and really immerse yourself in the great wild—via glamping experiences near Zion. For instance, there’s Wander Camp—which offers twin, triple, king, and family tent options complete with cozy beds. Picturesque Zion Glamping Adventures and Zion Wildflower Resort also feature both glamping and bungalow options. Perhaps one of the most spectacular glamping stays, though, is at Under Canvas Zion. Sears says, “Take advantage of the opportunity to spend more time in nature but with the comforts of tent suites that are as accommodating as a hotel. The views are incredible and pair well with the locally sourced menu at the on-site restaurant that goes way beyond your typical camping fare.” Pro Tip: You can also camp within the park, though it won’t be quite as “glam” as some of the above experiences. Make sure to reserve a spot and pack all the essentials with you, including plenty of water. READ THIS NEXT: The 7 Best Glamping Destinations in the U.S. There’s a reason that Zion is on so many bucket lists and remains one of the most popular national parks in the world year after year. It truly immerses you in some of the world’s most breathtakingly beautiful vistas, star maps, and sunsets. “One of the most rewarding experiences Zion has to offer is its breathtaking sunset views,” Dittakavi says. “Prepare to be amazed and capture astonishing photos of the jagged silhouette of the cliffs as the sun fades.” Pro Tip: Lava Point is probably the best spot in Zion National Park to catch the sunset. Located in Kolob Terrace, one of the lesser-visited areas in the park, it’s the perfect hidden gem that will make your trip to Zion a memorable experience. With other iconic parks in all directions, it’s super easy to build an epic Southwest road trip around your visit to Zion. Moab, Utah—home to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands—is only five hours away, and you’ll pass through cinema-famous Monument Valley on the way there. Those wanting to stay closer can drop by the majestic Grand Canyon, which is an easy two-hour drive. Zion’s also about an hour away from both Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and Bryce Canyon. Pro Tip: If you’re not keen on driving, let Amtrak come to the rescue. America’s iconic railroad service offers 18 national park tours that pass through Zion. For more travel tips, check out The 10 Best U.S. Cities Every Traveler Should See.
