Zion Canyon Scenic Drive -- How to Use the Shuttle + Can't-Miss Stops!

[@nogatram17]

Thanks for this, I'm planning a trip with kids so the insights that you shared are really valuable.

[@DirtInMyShoes]

It's a really fun park to visit with kids, I hope you have a good time!

[@rlp1963]

Me and my wife went to Zion back in July of 2022. It was freaking awesome. Jaw Dropping beautiful cliffs. I also found out you better get there early. I had to park in Springdale. Their Shuttle System is slow. If you get there early and get a parking spot at the visitor center you will have it made. The Zion Shuttle system is great.

[@DirtInMyShoes]

Yeah, we had to wait for the Springdale Shuttle for 45 minutes once, and ever since then, we try to avoid using it haha.

[@rlp1963]

@@DirtInMyShoes I waited 2 hours to get out. Hour and a half to get in

[@rlp1963]

@@DirtInMyShoes I enjoyed the drive from Kanab to Springfield. Mount Carmel Highway was awesome

[@lisawhitneyscott5824]

This was so helpful. Thanks for taking the time to create it and clearly explain each stop.

[@DirtInMyShoes]

Of course!

[@rayross997]

Thanks very much. This was really helpful info. I hope to get there in the not too distant future.

[@DirtInMyShoes]

I'm excited for you!

[@DennisD619]

Thanks for the info, we are heading there next week.

[@DirtInMyShoes]

Have fun!

[@lenntuazon2277]

Thank You.. you’re a big help😊

[@DirtInMyShoes]

I'm glad this video was helpful!

[@Steven-qi4gm]

So disappointed I can’t hike to observation point now. I’m doing a road trip from SF to Tucson starting next week and visiting all the national parks along the way. Your videos have been super helpful, thank you.

[@DirtInMyShoes]

You can, there's a back way to Observation Point via the Zion Ponderosa!

[@Steven-qi4gm]

Oh thanks, I’ll look it up. I did see there was a way via east mesa but it looks difficult to get to.

[@SabrinaZeidman]

do you recommend taking the shuttle up all the way to stop 9, do the riverwalk then head down to 5th stop to do emerald pools .

[@DirtInMyShoes]

Yeah, I usually like to ride it all the way up first and then work my way back down the canyon after that.

[@tpc1223]

Hi, thanks for the tips on the shuttle. I am planning to go with my mom but she could only walk 15 mins at most each stop. Do you think we will be able to see the park well without hiking?

[@DirtInMyShoes]

Yeah, it's really beautiful back there in the canyon, even if you don't hike!

[@annwilkens2066]

Thank you for the video! I'm curious... what do you think of biking the scenic drive instead of doing the shuttle?

[@DirtInMyShoes]

I think it's a great alternative option!

[@mh-sif]

Hi! Just wanted to confirm a query : the printed time mention in the permit, is that when I have to be at the trailhead at Grotto or at the Scout’s Lookout before the chained section starts? Thanks!

[@DirtInMyShoes]

Grotto!

[@ChrisPost-p6d]

Hi Ash. The day we arrive in Springdale (September 6th) we will get there around 1-2 in the afternoon and might try to get in an afternoon hike. What does parking and the shuttle situation look like in the afternoon?

[@DirtInMyShoes]

It's very busy! You'll probably just want to park in Springdale and take the shuttle in, unless it's later in the afternoon/closer to dinnertime.

[@doccalvin]

If the shuttle in not running, can you drive into the canyon to get to Angels Landing? If so, is there parking?

[@DirtInMyShoes]

Yes, if you go during the off-season and the shuttle isn't running, there is a small parking lot you can park at to hike Angels Landing. However, they do close down Zion Canyon when there are more cars than parking spaces.

[@robhamilton8993]

I am a Disabled Veteran & I have a service dog & we are stopping in Zion for day and would like to use the shuttle. Are Service dogs allowed on shuttle?

[@DirtInMyShoes]

Yes, service dogs are allowed :) If you have any documentation, I would bring it just in case. They do not allow emotional support animals or service dogs in training on the shuttles, but if your service dog is fully trained, you should be good to go!

[@maureena9611]

Are there any benches to stop and sit along any of these trails? My 87 year old mom and I are visiting in October and we don't expect to do the Narrows or Angels Landing but some of the shorter hikes but she might need to stop occasionally. Thank you!

[@DirtInMyShoes]

Not really benches on most trails, but often you'll find bigger rocks to rest on :)

[@PhilipC-oj1wj]

I will stay at Hurricane, usually when will be parking lot be full? Plan to visit on sept 28. Any parking lot you recommend if we need to park outside the Park?

[@DirtInMyShoes]

I cover all of that, including where to park, when to be there, how to use the shuttle, etc. in the Zion Itinerary here: www.dirtinmyshoes.com/zion-itinerary/

[@hbarwick1]

Im going the end of September. What has been your experience in terms of crowds? I plan on beig at parking lot very earlt

[@DirtInMyShoes]

I love visiting Zion in September...the end of the month is probably my favorite time to be there. It will still be crowded though :)

[@everettcox-m8i]

@@DirtInMyShoes What about April/May?

[@DirtInMyShoes]

@@everettcox-m8i very busy, and the Narrows is usually closed at that time of year because of high water/spring run off.

[@kaybyrd8500]

If I’m traveling with my puppy how can I se the park? I don’t hike!

[@DirtInMyShoes]

You will be extremely limited in what you can do in this park if you have a dog with you. I would stick to the areas where you can drive your car and look at the overlooks.

[@kaybyrd8500]

@@DirtInMyShoes thank you for the reply. I’m sure my entire trip will be limited, but I’m a widow and I can’t leave my puppy behind! We keep each other going. This will be my first trip alone!

[@DirtInMyShoes]

@@kaybyrd8500 the views from your car will not disappoint. Enjoy!