Zion National Park: Day Trips and Tours from Las Vegas

The plunging red cliffs and emerald river valleys of Zion National Park make this dramatic wilderness area a popular playground for adventurous travelers. There are hiking trails to explore, slot canyons to admire, and a whole host of outdoor activities to enjoy.

A Zion National Park day trip from Las Vegas is easy to arrange with a guided tour direct from the door of your hotel.

Below is everything you need to know before heading out to Zion National Park, one of the most incredible destinations for excursions from Las Vegas.

How to get to Zion National Park from Las Vegas?

Zion National Park is in Utah, about 164 miles northeast of Las Vegas. The easiest way to reach Zion is by car or guided tour.

From Las Vegas to Zion National Park by car

It takes around 2.5 hours to drive between Las Vegas and Zion, which means the park can be visited in a day. The route is simple to navigate - just take the I-15 and then the UT-9 heading north out of Las Vegas.

From Las Vegas to Zion National Park by bus

There are no direct buses to Zion National Park from Las Vegas. Instead, take a bus to St. George and then continue by taxi to Zion.

Guided tour to Zion National Park from Las Vegas

Guided day trips to Zion National Park are a stress-free way of exploring this beautiful wilderness, and they include hotel pick-ups.

To make the most of your visit, these Zion day trips last up to 15 hours. Multi-day tours are also available if you wish to take in other national parks and canyons in the area.

What's the price for the entrance ticket to Zion National Park?

All visitors to Zion National Park must buy a recreational pass to enter. If you are on a guided tour, this fee will usually be included in the trip cost. Passes can be purchased at the entry gate and are valid for seven days.

Zion passes cost $35 for a vehicle (with up to 15 passengers) and $30 for a motorcycle. Visitors on foot like hikers and bicyclists will need to pay $20 each for access into the park. Under 15s are free.

What should you expect on a day tour to Zion National Park from Las Vegas?

Hotel pickups are usually included in day trips to Zion National Park from Las Vegas, to help your tour run smoothly. Travel is by SUV or minivan, with snacks, lunch, and water often provided.

Day tours can last up to 15 hours so plan for an early start. Expect to be out from around 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM.  On arrival at Zion, you will explore hiking trails and visit some of the famous viewpoints on foot.

Multi-day jaunts take in other sights such as Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon, with accommodation and most meals included.

What kinds of tours go to Zion National Park?

You have several options when it comes to tours of Zion National Park from Las Vegas. Hotel transfers are generally included in the price.

Guided day tour to Zion National Park from Las Vegas

The most popular Zion National Park day trip is the small-group tour. It will be a long day out but worth every second! You will stop at breath-taking viewpoints and learn about the unique geology and wildlife of the area.

Private day tour to Zion National Park from Las Vegas

For an exclusive day out, choose a fully customizable private tour of Zion National Park. Travel is by air-conditioned luxury vehicle, with a delicious lunch and bottled water included.

Day tour to Zion National Park plus Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas

Combine Zion and Bryce Canyon, two of the most beautiful national parks near Las Vegas for a day discovering world-class desert landscapes. This is one of the best small-group tours for those who want to take in as many sights as they can in a short amount of time.

Guided walking tour to Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas

Experience mother nature first-hand on a small-group walking tour along established trails. Transfers and a professional guide are included.

2-day tour to Zion National Park plus Bryce Canyon and Valley of Fire from Las Vegas

Experience the colorful Valley of Fire and the strange sandstone formations in Bryce Canyon on this overnight Zion guided tour from Las Vegas. Choose from campsite or hotel accommodation.

Private 2-day tour to Zion National Park plus Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

Multi-day private tours are the best way to explore these diverse landscapes of Zion and Antelope Canyon in style, with transport, accommodation, and meals included. Trips can be personalized to suit your requirements.

3-Day tour to Zion National Park plus Bryce, Antelope, and Grand Canyon with Monument Valley from Las Vegas

Embark on a multi-day camping adventure that takes in some of the top parks and canyons in the west. On this small-group tour you will travel by 4x4 through wild and remote terrain, stopping at famous viewpoints along the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Bryce Canyon and Monument Valley. Hotel upgrades are available.

7-day tour to Zion National Park plus Bryce, Monument Valley, Arches, Canyonlands, and the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas

This epic journey in a small-group setting explores some of the most popular national parks in the US! Accommodation and some meals are included, while optional activities like helicopter flights are available.

What's the price range for tours to Zion National Park from Las Vegas?

Most day trips to Zion National Park offer lunch, while overnight tours include accommodation in tents or hotels, as well as some meals. Upgrades are often available.

Day tours to Zion National Park from Las Vegas start at US$139 per person for a small-group trip, or US$1385 for a private excursion. A specialized walking tour is US$276 for the day which includes an experienced guide.

Multi-day tours to Zion and other places of interest cost from US$330 for 2 days, US$508 for 3 days, and US$964 for a week-long adventure. Overnight private tours which are fully customizable are priced from US$666 per person.  

What are the popular sites in Zion National Park?

Zion is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with some of the most inspiring scenery in the world. Here are some of the sights you will discover on your Zion day trip.

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

To appreciate the true majesty of Zion, take a scenic drive along the canyon floor. Towering red cliffs that glint in the sun loom on both sides, and there are spectacular views of Angel’s Landing and the Zion Narrows. Most of the park’s major attractions are located along this route.

Checkerboard Mesa

Checkerboard Mesa takes its name from the swirling red and white ridges that make this iconic mountainside so prominent. Seeing this unusual weathering pattern is a real Zion highlight.

Weeping Rock

This colossal overhanging cliff is carpeted with foliage clinging precariously to its rocky face. After rainy periods, the rock becomes a waterfall, and standing at the base gives you a real appreciation of the canyon height.

Emerald Pools

This series of pools have formed at the foot of giant cliffs, fed by the water that trickles down from the rock. A small trail leads to this hidden desert oasis, which is one of the most iconic sights in the park.

The Virgin River

Snaking through Zion canyon, the Virgin River is the lifeblood of the park. It winds its way alongside forest trails, making for enviable photos. One of the most famous sections is Zion Narrows, where you can hike through the water at certain times of year.

When is Zion National Park open over the year?

Zion National Park is open 24-7 all year round. The visitor center operates between 8 AM and 7 PM, but vehicles can enter at any time with a permit.

Some hiking trails may be closed during the height of winter.

What time of year should you visit Zion National Park?

Spring and Fall are the best times to visit Zion National Park when the weather is sunny and warm. Meanwhile, during summer, visitor numbers are at their peak and so are the temperatures.

Winter can be cold but landscapes remain beautiful and trails are much quieter. Just bear in mind that some areas of the park will close during heavy snowfall.

Are there any tours to Zion National Park from other cities in United States?

Yes, there are tours to Zion National Park departing from Los Angeles.

Travel tips

• If you visit between May and September, make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen and water to combat the heat.
• Book your day tour to Zion National Park from Las Vegas in advance to avoid disappointment – these trips do sell out!
• Some Zion wilderness trails require permits so do check beforehand if you intend to go hiking.
• Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for an outdoor adventure.
• Consider combining your excursion with a visit to Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and the Valley of Fire among others.
• Charge your smartphone so you can take hundreds of incredible photos.