Hotels in Zion

Zion: Utah's Canyon Gateway Town

Springdale, the small town at the south entrance of Zion National Park, sits at 3,900 feet elevation along the Virgin River in southwest Utah. The park itself was established in 1919 and draws roughly 4.5 million visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited national parks in the United States. Sheer Navajo sandstone walls rise up to 2,000 feet above the canyon floor, framing a narrow corridor that channels hikers toward the Angels Landing summit trail and the slot-canyon wade of The Narrows.

Where to Stay in Springdale

Accommodations cluster along Zion Park Boulevard, the main street running parallel to the park's south entrance. Hotels range from budget motels to mid-range lodges with canyon-view balconies. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive shuttle stops run from March through November, connecting lodging directly to trailheads without requiring a personal vehicle inside the park boundary.

Practical Tips

• Season: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer moderate temperatures between 60–80°F and lower crowds than summer peaks.
• Permits: Angels Landing requires an advance permit via the NPS lottery; apply at least one month ahead.
• Getting around: The free NPS shuttle is mandatory for private vehicles on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during peak season.
• Packing: Wear water shoes or grippy sandals for The Narrows wade; flash flood alerts close the slot canyon without notice.