To escape the Sin City crowds and noise, and to soak up the most breathtaking natural landscapes that Mother Nature can conjure up, simply sign up for one of the best Zion National Park tours from Las Vegas.
Leaving behind the never-sleeps glitz and glam of Las Vegas, these outdoor adventures shine a spotlight on an untouched wilderness, where you can explore canyon after canyon, hike through stunning red rock formations (look no further than Angel’s landing), and marvel at cascading waterfalls.
Whether you’re taking a scenic drive, a helicopter flight or exploring the park’s rolling terrain on foot, this slice of nature feels worlds away from the more touristy things to do in Las Vegas.
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How to get to Zion National Park from Las Vegas?
Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah, about 140 miles northeast of Las Vegas if you were to draw a straight line. It sits just north of the Arizona border, and is next door to another popular outdoor destination, Bryce Canyon National Park.
The most common way to reach Zion from Las Vegas is by a road trip, and you typically have three options: Drive your own vehicle, book a shuttle service or a take a public bus, or if you want to avoid any of the hassle of directions and logistic, take a guided tour (these are also the best way to squeeze in a visit to Bryce Canyon as well).
Let’s take a look at those options in a little more detail.
By car
If you’re embarking on the scenic drive from Vegas to Zion, you’ll want to head east on I-15 and then up through the Arizona Strip. The journey takes around 3 hours from the Strip without stopping (or a little less if you’re leaving from Downtown), but with a few notable landmarks along the way, you’ll probably want to take a couple of breaks.
The route takes you past the Valley of Fire State Park, which is a great stop for a quick hike if you want to stretch your legs. About 45 minutes further along the I-15, you’ll also pass by Mesquite, Nevada just before entering Arizona. From there, you’ll pass through the Virgin River Gorge (worth stopping for a quick photo) before crossing the border into Utah. After passing through the quaint towns of St. George and Washington turn right onto UT-9 to reach Zion National Park.
You can either stop at the Visitor Center in Springdale, or keep driving for a few more minutes – after crossing the Virgin River, take a left and you’ll find yourself on the scenic Zion Canyon Drive, which leads straight into the heart of the park.
By bus
In terms of public transport, there aren’t many options to reach Zion from Las Vegas directly. The most viable is taking one of the buses that connect Sin City with St. George, and then taking a rideshare or taxi for the final hour of the journey.
From Vegas to St. George, you can take the Salt Lake Express 8036 from next to the Fremont Street Experience, or the St George Shuttle from Harry Reid International Airport. Both of these options will get you to St George in about 2 hours and 10 minutes.
Due to the complexity and price of getting there (and getting back) with public transport, including the taxi from St. George, most travelers prefer to book one of the best Zion National Park tours from Las Vegas instead.
Alternatively, the National Park Express shuttle is a solid option if you want to explore solo but don’t want to fully invest in a guided tour. Given the departure and return times (and need to book two one-way tickets), it is only recommended to use this option if you’re staying overnight at the park.
By organized tour
The most popular, hassle-free and convenient option to explore the wonderful Zion National Park is by joining an organized tour. With something for every budget, these tours typically cover all the transport and park entry fees, and come with expert guides that will escort you to the most stunning viewpoints and trails (as well as a few hidden gems you probably wouldn’t discover if exploring solo).
Due to the distance from Sin City, but also thanks to its proximity to a handful of otherworldly outdoor areas, some of the top Zion tours are made in combination with the likes of Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend. These multi-day adventures usually offer the best bang for your buck and are definitely worth considering if you’ve got a little extra time up your sleeve.
Take your pick from large group bus tours, which are the most budget-friendly option, or smaller group tours that allow for a more intimate experience with your guide and fellow travelers. For a little extra luxury, private tours are also on the menu, which can be customized to your interests and travel style.
Whichever option you choose, Zion National Park per-organized tours take the stress out of planning your adventure, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the jaw-dropping beauty of this part of the American Southwest.
Is camping allowed in Zion National Park?
Absolutely! And because there is so much beauty around every corner and such a wide variety of landscapes to explore, camping is an especially popular way to experience the park in all its glory.
There are three main campgrounds within the park: the Watchman Campground, the South Campground, and the Lava Point Campground (only 6 sites). All three dish up something a little different – but since they’re all popular, it’s important to reserve your campsite months in advance.
The South Campground and Watchman Campground are tucked away rather close to the park’s south entrance at Springdale. The Lava Point Campground, on the other hand, is a more remote option located in the northern part of the park on Kolob Terrace Road, about an hour’s drive from the canyon and 25 miles (45 minutes) north of the town of Virgin.
Only Watchman is open year-round; both South and Lava Point are generally only available between May through September, due to snowfall in the winter months.
If you’re lucky enough to snag a spot at any of the three sites, be prepared for an unforgettable stay beneath Zion’s star-studded sky.
How much does the entrance ticket to Zion National Park cost?
Being a National Park, entry to Zion National Park requires a small fee to enter. Compared to many of the things to do in Las Vegas, it’s very affordable. Generally speaking, the price of the tickets is not per person, but rather the method by which you enter the park.
Standard tickets
The standard entry pass for a private vehicle (holding up to 15 people) is US$35, or US$30 for a motorcycle. If you are entering on foot, on a bicycle or a snowmobile, a “personal” ticket will cost you US$20.
Personal tickets are free for anyone under 15 years of age.
Commercial vehicles
Commercial vehicles have a slightly different pricing structure compared with private vehicles. A commercial van (7-15 passengers) can enter the park for US$70, while commercial minibuses (16-25 passengers) pay US$80 and larger buses (26+ passengers) pay US$190. If you are booking a pre-organized guided tour, these fees will be covered by the tour company.
It is worth noting that these fees are valid for seven days.
Annual passes
You can also purchase one of several annual pass options. This is typically the most affordable route if you plan to visit two or more times, or if you want to check out a few different National Parks throughout the year, such as Bryce Canyon, Glen Canyon or the Grand Canyon.
The basic Annual Pass costs US$80 – in the case of Zion, this will cover the vehicle entry but in other cases, it may only cover per-person entry.
Can you visit Zion National Park for free?
Yes, you can visit Zion National Park for free!
Firstly, you can take advantage of the five different free-entry days throughout the year (public holidays). The days on which you do not require an entry pass include:
- January 16th — Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
- April 22nd — First Day of National Park Week
- August 4th — The Great American Outdoors Act
- September 23rd — National Public Lands Day
- November 11th — Veterans Day
Another great way to enter Zion National Park for free is by obtaining a National Parks Pass. This pass, also known as the America the Beautiful Pass, grants you access to all national parks and federal recreational lands for an entire year. While the up-front cost of this pass is US$80, if you visit at least 2 or 3 parks during the year, effectively every visit thereafter is free of charge.
Finally, certain groups of US citizens or permanent residents are eligible for free Interagency annual passes. This includes current military members and veterans, disabled citizens, and 4th grade students.
How to choose the best Zion National Park tour from Las Vegas?
When it comes to choosing the best Zion National Park tour from Las Vegas, we’re truly spoiled for choice. Since so many tourists make the trip to Sin City every year, the region is blessed with countless tour operators that cater to a wide variety of tastes and budgets.
Whether you’re on the hunt for thrills and adventure (hiking, helicopter rides, etc.), a multi-day excursion that shows off not only Zion but the vast and varied beauty of the surrounding national parks, or a more laid-back Zion experience that lets you take in the stunning scenery at your own pace, you’re bound to find something that takes your fancy.
For a quick in-and-out day trip, options like the small-group Zion National Park day tour from Las Vegas are popular and relatively affordable. If you want something relaxing and scenic, something like the Zion National Park photography and walking tour would be a fantastic option. On the flip side, if adventure, hiking and exploring are the top priorities, you might want to consider a tour like the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley and Zion National Park 3-day tour. Or the jam-packed, week-long tours – that are a never-ending highlight reel of canyons, rivers, hoodoos and more – might be the perfect fit for you.
As you can see, you’re not shy of options. But with dozens of companies competing for your business, how do you know which tour is truly the best option? Well, that’s where the TourScanner search engine can be a lifesaver.
Without needing to spend hours researching different companies and meticulously comparing prices and reviews, you can use TourScanner to quickly find the most popular and highly rated tours that take you from Las Vegas directly to Zion National Park without lifting a finger.
What is the classic Zion National Park tour itinerary?
With so many different Zion National Park tours available, there’s no one “classic” itinerary. Each tour company has crafted unique experiences and routes, tailored to different styles of travel. That said, if you opt for a one-day adventure (as opposed to a multi-day tour), each adventure will follow a similar overall schedule, with its own twists and surprises baked in.
The one-day Zion National Park tour typically begins early in the morning (usually before sunrise), with convenient pickup from your Las Vegas hotel – be that the Strip or Downtown. You’ll then embark on the lovely drive east through the desert towards Utah, passing by the likes of Mesquite, the Virgin River Gorge, St. George and Hurricane before arriving at the National Park itself.
To get your bearings, most tours will make a pitstop at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center before continuing along one of the most picturesque drives in the entire Southwest: Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This 7-mile journey takes you through some of the most iconic vistas in all of Zion, including the Court of the Patriarchs, the magnificent Big Bend, the Temple of Sinawava and the famous Checkerboard Mesa – a must-see for photographers (and stargazers).
More often than not, your tour will involve a hike — after all, following a few hours on the bus, you’ll need to stretch your legs a little! The most common trails include the Emerald Pools trail, the Canyon Overlook Trail, the Riverside Walk (which takes you along the Virgin River), and the trail Weeping Rock. All of these are suitable for most experience levels. If you’re after something a little more challenging, then Angel’s Landing or The Narrows might be the perfect fit.
Depending on your tour’s specific itinerary, you might also take some time to explore the less-visited Kolob Canyon, or even head up to the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. That’s the basic Zion excursion in a nutshell.
However, since it’s so close to its next-door neighbor, Bryce Canyon, 90% of tours will also take you to see this equally incredible National Park. Depending on how much time you’ve got left in the day, you might spend some time hopping between lookouts like Inspiration Point, Bryce Point, and Sunset Point; or delve into the depths of the landscape with the Navajo Loop Trail or the Queen’s Garden Trail. Either way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to admire the spectacular hoodoos that make Bryce Canyon so famous.
After checking off the highlights of both Zion and Bryce Canyon, you’ll hop in the car (or bus) and make the journey back to Las Vegas, having you back at your hotel after dark.
Alternatively, if you opt for a multi-day tour, these two parks are only the beginning. With the likes of the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley and more all within driving distance, you’ll experience the best of everything that America’s Southwest has to show without having to organize a thing.
Zion National Park day trip from Las Vegas
While not the most popular Zion excursion (that goes to the Zion and Bryce National Parks combo – scroll down to learn more), a Zion National Park day trip from Las Vegas remains a fantastic option.
As the most straightforward tour on the menu, it focuses solely on the remarkable landscapes of Zion National Park. And since you’re not rushed to cram two (or more) parks into one day, you’ll have way more time to really soak up the scenery and pack in a few extra activities.
Starting and ending in Las Vegas, this tour kickstarts at around 7 am (give or take, depending on the operator). After meeting your guide and your fellow adventurers, you’ll gear up for the roughly 3-hour journey that whisks you through the enchanting (somewhat eerie) desert landscape, passing through three different states (Nevada, Arizona and Utah) along the way.
Once you pass Springdale, the last town before the park entrance, you’ll catch your first glance of Zion towering cliffs and red-hued rocks. From here, you’ll typically jump on the Zion Shuttle, which shows off a handful of the park’s most postcard-worthy spots: Weeping Rock and the Emerald Pools, the Temple of Sinawava, and the Great White Throne, to name a few.
If your tour includes some trekking, it’ll generally be on the relatively easy and not-so-crowded Watchman Trail, which leads to a perfect lookout spot over the entire park, or the short and sweet Weeping Rock Trail. If you book one of the private tours, you can ask to tackle one of the more challenging routes — and none beat the famous Narrows hike, considered one of the world’s best canyon hikes.
After a couple of possible stops at the Visitor Center or the Human History Museum, you’ll be driven back to Sin City, dropped off at your hotel. The entire journey lasts between 11 and 14 hours and usually includes all of the transport, lunch, your own guide, and park entry fees, so all you’ll have to worry about is enjoying yourself!
Zion National Park photography and walking tour
Being a postcard-perfect landscape, it’s no wonder that Zion National Park is a photographer’s paradise.
Whether you’re a professional with a DSLR passion, or you’re simply hunting for a few scroll-stopping Instagram snaps, the park boasts countless spots to capture those stunning, eye-catching shots. Around any corner, you can spy towering red rock cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and (surprisingly) a sprinkling of lush greenery to add a touch of contrast.
Particularly at sunrise or sunset, when the light is at its most magical – whether you’re enjoying the views from the Checkerboard Mesa lookout or from the depths of the Narrows – it really is a sight to behold. And what better way to capture the beauty of this natural wonder than by embarking on a photography and walking tour? Similar to a typical Zion day trip, you’ll be escorted from Vegas to the park in the early hours of the morning.
You’ll get to stop in the Old West town of Springdale, drive along the Zion Scenic Route to the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, and get to pop into the Zion Canyon Visitor Center where you can learn all about the park’s history and geology. Of course, the main event comes when you actually set foot inside the park! Alongside a friendly, professional photographer who’ll gladly share their expert tips and insider knowledge, you’ll venture away from the most touristy spots and wander toward some of the lesser-known locations — the ones that make for stunning photo backdrops.
You’ll hear all about the Navajo sandstone cliffs, you’ll find out where to capture different angles of the Virgin River, and you’ll even learn how to make your photos come alive with some shooting tricks. And don’t worry if you’re not an experienced photographer – this tour is perfect for all levels!
If you prefer to be the subject of the photo rather than the one behind the lens, your guides will happily share all of the snaps (free of charge) they take afterward via a convenient Google Drive link. So whether you want to up your photography game or you want your own personal, VIP guide who’ll act as your paparazzi, this tour is a solid choice.
Zion National Park & Valley of Fire tour from Las Vegas
When it comes to national parks within arm’s reach of Las Vegas, there are a few major contenders. Grand Canyon National Park, the backdrop to countless old Western movies, is clearly number one. Death Valley National Park, a true testament to Mother Nature’s power and art, comes in at a close second. But there’s another that’s often overlooked, and it’s the closest of all of them to Sin City – yep, the Valley of Fire.
It may not be as big or as famous as its neighbors, but what it lacks in popularity it makes up for in natural beauty and convenience. The Valley of Fire boasts ancient petroglyphs and fiery red sandstone formations that are millions of years old.
And the best part? It’s just off Highway 15 on the way to Zion National Park, making it a perfect addition to your Zion adventure.
Lasting anywhere from 11 to 14 hours, most of the Zion & Valley of Fire combo tours start with a comfortable ride from your hotel to the first stop, Zion National Park. You’ll spend a few hours doing the quintessential tourist activities (driving along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, taking photos at famous viewpoints, seeing the Checkerboard Mesa and possibly hiking to the Emerald Pools) before hopping back on the tour bus and heading to Valley of Fire State Park, just in time for sunset.
The reason for doing it in this order is because the aptly-named Valley of Fire’s gorgeous red rocks glow even redder in the golden hour light – travelers claim it resembles life on Mars, but we’ll let you make up your own mind on that matter.
In between stops, your knowledgeable guide will point out all of the notable landmarks, answering any questions that might come to mind. Overall, expect a day full of insights, sightseeing, and photo ops. And since you’re going to be on a tour, there’s no need to worry about navigating or driving – just sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning scenery.
See also: Valley of Fire State Park – complete guide
Zion National Park & Bryce Canyon tour from Las Vegas
Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon are two of the most awe-inspiring national parks not only in the Southwest, but across all of America. And as luck would have it, they’re next-door neighbors, sitting alongside one another just north of the Utah-Arizona border, making it easy to visit both in one day.
While they might be nearby in distance (typically around an hour’s drive via the famous Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel), the two parks feel like they’re worlds away. At Zion, we’re treated to towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and the winding Virgin River below. In contrast, Bryce Canyon’s main draw is its striking, desolate landscape of hoodoos – all kinds of otherworldly rock formations that look like they’re straight out of Mars.
So why not make the most of your trip to Las Vegas by hitting both parks in one day? Tour options are aplenty if you’re hoping to ditch the bright lights and bustling city for the quiet, natural charm of Zion and Bryce Canyon.
While each tour company dishes up a slightly different experience, they generally share a relatively similar itinerary, lasting between 12 and 14 hours all up and peppering in unique stops and viewpoints along the way. The day kicks off in the wee hours of the morning (typically between 6-7 am) with a pickup from your Las Vegas hotel. From there, it’s straight to Zion National Park, where you’ll spend a few hours exploring the park’s quintessential sites — the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the Emerald Pools Trail, and the Weeping Rock Trail, to name a few of the top-sellers.
Once you’ve had your fill of Zion’s wonders, your friendly guide will zoom you off to Bryce Canyon National Park, where you’ll usually get to tuck into a picnic lunch at one of the park’s many scenic viewpoints. You’ll get to stretch your legs along parts of the Rim Trail, stop for photos at incredible viewpoints like Rainbow Point and Inspiration Point, and (depending on your specific tour) likely get to check out Thor’s Hammer and the Natural Bridge bridge structures as well.
After soaking up all that Bryce Canyon has to offer, it’s back on the bus (or car, depending on your tour) for a comfortable ride back to Vegas.
Zion National Park multi-day trips from Las Vegas
Day trips to Zion are aplenty. They manage to squeeze a bunch of fun and adventure into a single day. But the reality is, there’s only so much you can see and do in just a few hours. So, if you’re only in this part of the world once, why not go all out and opt for a multi-day tour instead?
With so many world-famous national parks in close proximity, Zion National Park serves as the perfect starting hub for a bucket-list vacation. With the likes of the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley all within a day’s drive, it’d be a shame not to venture out and experience more of what the Southwest US has to offer.
That’s why a bounty of Vegas-based tour companies offer multi-day trips from Las Vegas. If you’ve only got a couple of days to spare, the 2-day Zion and Bryce in-depth national tour with camping, or the private overnight tour to Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend & Zion are two examples of what you can do with just 48 hours.
But if you’ve got a little more time up your sleeve, 3- and 4-day tours can cover much more ground, unveiling the beauty of the Grand Canyon in deep detail as well as Zion and Antelope Canyon.
And then, and the bigger end of the spectrum, if time and money aren’t too much of an issue, you can even sign up for 5-day or even week-long adventures that shine a spotlight on Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, Arches National Park, Canyonlands, Grand Canyon, and, of course, Zion – all at a relaxed, enjoyable pace.
Regardless of which one takes your fancy, multi-day excursions are designed to take all the stress and hassle out of planning what, in reality, is a very complicated trip. With professionals taking care of transport and logistics (which, due to the remoteness, can get a little tricky on your own), all you have to do is sit back and enjoy as your friendly tour guides wax insights into the history, culture and geology of the picture-perfect parks.
The other bonus of choosing one of the multi-day trips from Las Vegas as opposed to a single-day tour is that you have extra time to try out other activities beyond just driving and hiking. Depending on your exact tour, you might get a chance to go horseback riding, river rafting, ATV riding, or even take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon!
As you can see, if time’s on your side, you can see so many diverse, undeniably breathtaking landscapes back to back. Let’s dive into each of the different options in more detail, so you can choose what’s right for you.
Zion National Park 2-day trips
The shortest of the multi-day options, 2-day Zion National Park tours usually focus on Zion and Bryce Canyon, showing off the quintessential sights of both parks. You’ll typically get to see the Virgin River, the Emerald Pools, and the Checkerboard Mesa (with a possible hike in the Narrows or Angels Landing if you’re choosing a more adventurous option) in Zion before moving onto Bryce for a sunset viewing — as the sun goes down over the Hoodoos, you’ll understand why this canyon is so referred.
After the sun goes down, it’s time for a good night’s rest. You can choose to camp in the wilderness sleeping under the stars and roasting marshmallows over a campfire, or get some z’s at a comfy hotel (usually at Ruby’s Inn near Bryce Canyon).
Depending on your tour, day two is either spent further exploring Bryce Canyon and Zion’s hiking trails and viewpoints, or heading down to Arizona where a slew of stunning landscapes await. Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are the most common stops on the way down.
Antelope Canyon is most famous for its beautiful, twisting and turning sandstone walls which, thanks to their bright orange hues, make for the perfect photoshoot location. Horseshoe Bend, on the other hand, is arguably the posterchild for the American Southwest with its immediately recognizable U-shaped bend in the Colorado River.
See also: Best Antelope Canyon tours from Las Vegas
Zion National Park 3-day trips
If you’ve got an extra day to spare, 72-hour tours open up a new world of opportunity. While 2-day tours usually only explore Zion National Park and a few other nearby spots (like Bryce Canyon and Antelope Canyon), 3-day tours allow you to squeeze in the most famous outdoor destination in the US – yep, the Grand Canyon.
With a local expert leading the way, you’ll spend three days covering the very best that Utah and Arizona have to offer. Most tours will start with Zion National Park, where you can hike the famous Narrows or Angels Landing trail. From there, it’s usually on to Bryce Canyon for a scenic drive and a possible hike through the park’s iconic hoodoos – at the very least, you’ll get to soak up the hoodoos from afar from Inspiration Point, Sunset Point, or Sunrise Point.
From the stunning red rock formations of Bryce Canyon, you’ll then make your way down to the state border where one of the Southwest’s most underrated natural landscapes awaits: Monument Valley. Covering close to 1,100 square miles, this part of the Navajo Nation is home to some of the most impressive sandstone structures in the world — The Three Sisters, John Ford’s Point, and The Mitten Buttes, to name a few. You can expect your tour guide to whisk you away to all the best viewpoints, as well as share stories and history about the Navajo people who call this area home.
After spending a night under the stars in Monument Valley, you’ll head to one of the seven wonders of the world: the Grand Canyon National Park. Take a walk along the South Rim Trail or hop on a helicopter tour for an unforgettable view from above. You can even opt
But the highlight of any 3-day tour is definitely the Grand Canyon. Whether your tour involves hiking, a ride along the Colorado River, or even a helicopter ride, expect unbelievable landscapes, unmatched views, and envy-evoking photo ops aplenty – especially if you make it over to Horseshoe Bend.
After a few days of National Park hopping, you’ll be taken back to Vegas, dropped off at your hotel’s doorstep.
Zion National Park 4-day trips
Combining adventure with relaxation, sightseeing and a fair bit of walking, 4-day Zion National Park tours from Las Vegas run on a similar-ish schedule to the 3-day cohort, with the main difference being a slower pace and more time to fully appreciate the intricacies of each national park.
During your 4-day tour, you’ll still get to check off the top Zion activities – from picturesque hikes along its famous Angels Landing Trail, to exploring the Narrows and witnessing the beauty of Emerald Pools (all depending on your tour’s specific itinerary). But with an extra day, you’ll have more time to relax in between, maybe even catch a sunset at one of the parks.
Over the course of the next couple of days, you’ll likely venture to Arches National Park, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Lake Powell, learning all about the local history and geology along the way.
And then, for the finishing touch, the final day will take you to the one and only Grand Canyon, where you’ll have stacks of time to wander around and snap photos from the lookouts.
Given the extra time up your sleeve, you can afford to sign up for one of the optional add-ons. Whether that be a boat tour through Antelope Canyon or a scenic helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon, it’ll be worth every penny.
Zion National Park 7-day trips
Make no mistake, this is the crème de la crème of Zion adventures. If you do have a full week to spare, and you’ve got the budget to match, this is the trip you’re going to want to book.
Widely considered as being the best Zion National Park tours from Las Vegas, 7-day options show off much more than just the park itself. In reality, they are deep dives into the rugged Southwest, with excursions to the likes of Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Arches, Monument Valley, and the Grand Canyon all lined up.
But it’s not all driving and gawking at the scenery. Sure, you can expect your fair share of stunning lookout points (Inspiration Point in Bryce Canyon and Mather Point in the Grand Canyon, to name a couple), but with a full week, you’ve got plenty of time for adventure activities, too.
Think hikes through red rock canyons (like The Narrows in Zion), camping under the stars in Monument Valley, taking a bird’s-eye flight over the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, or exploring Moab (Utah’s adventure capital) with a sunset Hummer ride.
With all meals included, plus your very own guide with you every step of the way who’ll share stories of the region’s Navajo and Native American history, it’s a trip that’ll leave you feeling truly immersed in the beauty and culture of the Southwest.
Zion National Park private tours
Forget about the oversized tourist buses and the crowds of people. If you crave VIP treatment and want the flexibility to tailor your experience to your own preferences – more thrilling activities, more time for relaxing, whatever your heart desires – then a private tour of Zion National Park is the way to go.
With your very own experienced guides leading the way, you’ll be able to explore the park at your own pace and discover hidden gems that are often missed by larger groups – especially those that try to cram everything into the one day. Those hidden gems could consist of the Kolob Arch (the world’s largest arch), the Human History Museum, the Virgin River Gorge (a stop en route) and Weeping Rock, to name a few.
You can choose almost any of the best Zion National Park tours from Las Vegas — single-day options like the Zion National Park – private, custom adventure tour w/ pro photography or multi-day trips like the overnight tour to Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend and Zion — and opt for the intimate, personalized options.
Besides convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, the other bonus of choosing one of the Las Vegas private tours is that you can work with the guides to tweak the itinerary. If you want to arrange a horseback riding session in Monument Valley, or want to tackle one of the harder Zion hikes like Angels Landing Trail, the Grotto Trail, or the path up to Scout Lookout, you can do it! All you have to do is chat with your guide.
What will you see in Zion National Park?
At its core, Zion is a place of stunning natural beauty. With towering red cliffs, the tranquil Virgin River running through the middle, and an abundance of wildlife, it’s no wonder that Zion has become one of the most popular national parks in the United States.
Let’s take a deeper look at some of the most iconic sights:
The Narrows
One of the most popular hikes in Zion, the Narrows is a 16-mile trek that invites you to walk between towering canyon walls and through the waters of the Virgin River. While the entire trek is considered very challenging, taking up to 12 hours of hiking, small subsections are often included in basic sightseeing trips. Overall, the Narrows is known for its immersive landscapes (you’re literally walking through a canyon) and stunning photo opportunities, making it a non-negotiable for anyone making the journey to Zion.
Angels Landing (and its lookout)
Another challenging hike, Angels Landing is renowned for its breathtaking panoramas of the park from its peak. With steep drop-offs and narrow paths along the way, it’s not a hike that should be taken lightly. However, many tours skip the hiking and head to the lookout point.
The Emerald Pools
A trio of natural pools located at different elevations (hence dubbed the Lower, Middle and Upper Pools), the Emerald Pools are a beautiful sight, and compared to the likes of The Narrows and Angels Landing, one of the easiest walks in the park.
It’s a 1.2-mile round-trip loop to the Lower Pool; 2 miles to the Middle, and 2.5 miles to hike to all three. All up, it only takes 1-2 hours, which makes this hike a common activity on day trips.
The lower pool is wheelchair accessible as well.
The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
Stretching roughly 6.5-miles long, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive seems like. a never-ending highlight reel. This road leads to some of Zion’s premier viewpoints — the Court of the Patriarchs, Weeping Rock and more.
If you’re visiting independently, there’s a handy shuttle that will take you to each stop, or it can also be enjoyed as part of a tour.
The Kolob Canyons
The path less traveled, the Kolob Canyons are tucked away at the northern section of Zion National Park. Here you’ll find towering red cliffs (some soaring 2,000 feet high), jagged rock formations and hikes where you’ll feel like you’ve got the trail all to yourself – like Taylor Creek Trail and the super easy Timber Creek Overlook walk.
Checkerboard Mesa
A standout Zion feature, Checkerboard Mesa is a large rock formation with distinct horizontal and vertical cracks that’s given it its moniker. You can see it from along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, but to get up close, you’ll need to trek along the Checkerboard Mesa Trail – a 8-mile round-trip hike that takes around 2-3 hours.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things to do in Zion National Park. Throw in the likes of the Temple of Sinawava, the tricky Subway hike, the Canyon Junction Bridge, and the insightful visitor center, and you’ve got a truly epic destination that’s perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Is one day in Zion National Park enough?
Yes, one day in Zion National Park can be enough to experience some of the park’s top attractions. With a day’s worth of daylight up your sleeve, you’ll be able to tackle a couple short hikes (like the River Walk or Emerald Pools), take in the lovely viewpoints (like Observation Point and the Court of the Patriarchs lookout), drive the scenic route, and learn all about the park’s history and geology at the Visitor Center.
However, if you do have more time, it’s highly recommended to spend at least two days here. The more time you have, the more you can explore the less-visited sections like the Kolob Canyons and Kolob Terrace, take on longer and more challenging hikes (like Angel’s Landing or the Narrows), and not feel as rushed along the way.
If you have more than 1 day available, consider a tour that also includes Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and Antelope Canyon – since they’re all relatively close, these adventures are a Southwest USA highlight reel.
How much does a Zion National Park tour from Las Vegas cost?
The prices for Zion National Park tours from Las Vegas vary depending on the type of tour, the length of the trip, and whether you take the cheaper group option or the VIP private option.
On average, a 1-day group tour from Las Vegas to Zion will cost between US$140 and US$270 per person (including the Zion + Valley of Fire combo).
When you get up to 3- and 4-day trips that show off more destinations like Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon, these can hover anywhere between US$570 and US$1,000 each.
The comprehensive 7-day tour that includes Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, and other Southwest USA highlights like Antelope Canyon and Canyonlands can cost roughly $1,800 per person. Of course, this includes all accommodation, meals, park fees, and transport.
Generally speaking, since most of the Southwest’s national parks are located in close proximity, the longer the tour you choose, the better the value for money you’ll get.
Finally, private tours are often the most expensive options on paper. For example, the private overnight tour to Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Zion from Las Vegas costs US$2,995. This is charged per group (of up to 5), not per person, making it comparable to the total cost of small group tours.
That means that if you’re traveling with a larger group (i.e. a bachelor party weekend or family getaway), private tours could wind up being the most cost-effective option – with the added bonus of being able to customize the activities to your liking.
How to book Zion National Park tours from Las Vegas?
Since Zion is such a popular destination for Vegas visitors, you’ve got a handful of options for tour providers – and then even more options for itineraries. With so many different excursions on the menu, the smartest way to book your Zion adventure is by doing a bit of research and comparing your options.
Don’t wait until you’re in Vegas to book your tour. Instead, it’s best to reserve your spot ahead of time, as tours can fill up quickly – especially during peak season. But don’t just book any tour, book the right tour for you.
How do you know which tour is best for you? That’s where the TourScanner search engine comes in handy. It compares all of the online tour deals, showing you the best prices and discounts, and allowing you to read reviews from other travelers who’ve experienced each tour first-hand. Plus, you can filter your search by private or group tours, or by day trips or multi-day adventures to help you find the perfect adventure for you and your group.
Zion National Park opening hours
Being a National Park, Zion is open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – you just need to have a valid park pass.
However, some areas may close in the winter when the weather conditions are too harsh. If you are traveling in the colder months it’s best to check the official Zion National Park website for any updates on closures before heading out.
The Zion Canyon Visitor Center is usually open from 8 am to 5 pm, likewise the Zion Forever Park Store and the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center. If you’re visiting independently, it’s good to know that the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel does not stay open 24 hours — usually, it’s only open from 8 am to 4:30 pm, but it’s recommended to check the official website before you go for the most up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Zion National Park?
Zion is a treasure year-round. The views are always stellar, and the opportunities for adventure are endless. However, depending on what you’re looking to do and see, certain times of year may be more suitable.
If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. The weather is still pleasant, but there are typically less visitors compared to the busy (and toasty) summer months. On the other hand, if you want to experience the famous Zion Narrows hike, summer is the best time as water levels are lower and more manageable. It’s a similar story if you want to tackle one of the longer hikes; daylight hours are longer in the summer, allowing you to start earlier and finish later.
Winter can also be a lovely time to visit, as the park is transformed by snow and ice. However, some areas may close if the weather gets a little worse for wear (read: snowy), and the days aren’t as long, which means less time for exploring. Still, most of the best Zion National Park tours from Las Vegas will be able to pivot to alternate activities if needed.
Travel tips
- Since Zion is just a stone’s throw away from Bryce Canyon, it’s highly recommended to plan a combined trip if you have the time. Despite being next door to one another, both parks offer completely different experiences.
- Being such a popular Vegas day-trip destination, it’s super important to make reservations well in advance if you’re thinking about booking a guided tour. The best Zion National Park tours from Las Vegas are popular for a reason, and they sell out quickly.
- If you’ve got time up your sleeve, opt for a multi-day adventure. Not only will you get to check off the likes of Zion, Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley from your bucket list, but you’ll also get much more value for money.
- The days are long – there’s a lot of sightseeing to fit in, after all. So even though lunch is included in most tours, it’s definitely recommended to bring along some extra snacks for when hunger strikes. And if you’re traveling in the summer, make sure to bring an extra water bottle.
- Most importantly, use a search engine like TourScanner to compare all the different Zion adventures. This way, you know that you’re finding the best price, and you can rest assured that you’re booking with a reputable tour company thanks to the detailed customer reviews.