Set beneath towering sandstone cliffs, Zion’s Emerald Pools are defined by hanging gardens, shaded alcoves, and seasonal waterfalls that feed the Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools. Although the pools may be reduced to small basins during drier periods, we still think the setting remains one of the most unique environments in Zion National Park.
There is no single way to reach the Emerald Pools. Multiple trails lead to the area, with routes starting from the Zion Lodge via the Emerald Pools Trail, or approaching from higher ground using the Kayenta Trail. Each option offers a different perspective and effort level, and you can even combine both trails to create a loop. In this Zion hiking guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit to the Emerald Pools, from trail details and route tips to the best times to go and what to expect along the way.
Emerald Pools – At a Glance
Multiple trail options – The Emerald Pools are accessible via one of several interconnected trails, including the Emerald Pools Trail from Zion Lodge and the higher-elevation Kayenta Trail that departs from the Grotto. You can choose shorter out-and-back routes to just the Lower Pool, or combine trails into a loop that includes the Grotto Trail.
Relatively easy to reach – Trails range from easy, mostly flat paths to sections with stairs, switchbacks, and rock steps. Elevation gain varies depending on the chosen route, but all trails remain manageable for those with a basic level of fitness. Sturdy shoes are recommended, especially on wet or uneven surfaces near the waterfalls.
Unique Zion water-fed environment – The pools sit in scenic alcoves shaded by cliff walls with seasonal waterfalls dropping from above. Here, a microclimate seems to create a cooler, greener contrast to the surrounding desert.
Highly popular – The Emerald Pools trails are among the park’s most visited sights, largely because they require shorter trails with less elevation gain to reach compared to more challenging popular trails, like the West Rim trail to Angels Landing and also because no technical equipment is needed, like when hiking the Narrows. You should definitely expect crowds, especially from mid-morning to midday. We highly recommend starting early to avoid congestion at trail junctions and viewpoints.
Trail Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (depending on specific trail used)
Typical Hike Duration: 45 min to 1h30 (depending on specific trail used)
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Emerald Pools: Location and Map
The Emerald Pools area is located within Zion National Park’s main canyon, in between Zion Lodge and the Grotto, and just south of the famous Angels Landing.
About Zion National Park
Utah’s Iconic Red-Rock Canyon: Zion National Park lies in southwestern Utah, where towering sandstone cliffs rise abruptly from the desert floor. The park is defined by sheer canyon walls, narrow slot canyons, and lush river corridors, creating dramatic contrasts between towering rock faces and green valley bottoms. Zion Canyon, carved by the Virgin River, is the park’s centerpiece and one of the most visually striking landscapes in the American Southwest.
A Landscape Carved by Water and Time: Zion’s cliffs are composed primarily of Navajo Sandstone, formed from ancient desert dunes over 150 million years ago. Over time, the Virgin River and seasonal flash floods sculpted these layers into steep canyon walls, alcoves, and narrow corridors. The result is a landscape of massive vertical relief, smooth rock textures, and striking color variations that shift throughout the day as the light changes.
A Park Built for Scenic Hiking: Zion is renowned for its diverse hiking opportunities, ranging from riverside walks and canyon-floor trails to exposed routes with sweeping views. Short hikes like the Canyon Overlook Trail deliver big scenery with minimal effort, while longer routes such as Angels Landing and The Narrows offer more immersive adventures. This range makes Zion accessible to casual visitors and experienced hikers alike.
Dramatic Viewpoints and Canyon Overlooks: One of Zion’s defining features is its abundance of elevated viewpoints. Trails and roadside pullouts reveal sweeping vistas over Zion Canyon, Pine Creek Canyon, and the surrounding plateaus.
Easy Access, High Demand: Zion is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S., thanks to its proximity to Springdale and easy access via Highway 9 and the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. While the park’s popularity can mean crowded trails and limited parking—especially during peak season—its shuttle system, short hikes, and well-maintained infrastructure make it possible to experience world-class scenery even on a tight schedule.
Entrance Fees for Zion National Park
Anyone visiting Zion National Park, whether to hike, take a scenic drive, or simply enjoy the views, must pay the applicable entrance fee to the National Park Service.
Entrance Fees (per vehicle, valid 7 days)
Private vehicle: $35
Motorcycle: $30
Individual (on foot, bicycle, etc.): $20
Annual Pass Options
Zion Annual Pass: $70 – unlimited entry for one year from the month of purchase.
America the Beautiful Pass: $80 – valid for one year at all U.S. National Parks and more than 2,000 federal recreation sites nationwide. This is the best value if you plan to visit multiple national parks within a year.
Passes can be purchased at the park entrance stations, the Visitor Center, or online through the USGS website or via the REI store.
—> Most visitors exploring Utah’s “Mighty 5” parks (Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion) should strongly consider the America the Beautiful Pass—it saves money and avoids the hassle of buying separate entry fees at each park.
How to Get to Zion National Park
Zion National Park is best reached by car, as there is no public transportation directly to the park. While there is a shuttle system that navigates throughout the park during Zion’s busiest months, it is not needed for the Watchman Trail, as the trailhead is less than a 2-minute walk from the Zion Canyon visitor center, which is where the shuttles depart from.
Zion National Park Entrances
South Entrance (Springdale):
This is the main access point for Zion National Park and where the majority of visitors begin their trip. It provides direct access to Zion Canyon, the shuttle system, and popular trails such as Angels Landing, The Narrows, Emerald Pools, and the West Rim Trail. If you’re spending most of your time in the main canyon, this is where you’ll enter the park.
East Entrance (via Highway 9):
The east entrance is quieter and more scenic, passing through slickrock domes and sandstone formations before reaching the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel. The Canyon Overlook Trail is located near this entrance, making it especially convenient for visitors approaching from Bryce Canyon, Page, Kanab, or Monument Valley.
All park roads, including the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, are fully paved and suitable for standard vehicles. However, traffic delays at the tunnel can occur during peak seasons, which is another reason to plan your visit carefully—something we’ll cover in more detail later in the guide.
Driving times to Zion National Park
- Las Vegas, NV: 260 km / 160 mi – about 2.5 hours
- St. George, UT: 70 km / 45 mi – about 1 hour
- Bryce Canyon National Park: 135 km / 85 mi – about 2 hours
- Page, AZ: 175 km / 110 mi – about 2.5 hours
- Flagstaff, AZ: 420 km / 260 mi – about 4.5 hours
These times assume clear weather and normal traffic conditions.
If you need to book a rental vehicle for your hiking excursion, we highly recommend using Discover Cars to get the best rates on your rental in Utah, Nevada and Arizona.
We also highly recommend Airalo (eSIM card) for your connectivity needs when travelling abroad. Airalo is the world’s first and largest eSIM store with eSIM plans for 200+ countries and regions worldwide.
Group Excursion from Vegas
Alternatively, if you don’t have a car and are staying in Las Vegas, you can still visit Zion National Park by joining an organized tour from the city. Several companies offer full-day excursions. This is the most popular tour, which allows for 6 hours of free time in the park.
How to Reach the Emerald Pools
Getting to the Emerald Pools Area
Reaching the Emerald Pools always involves a short hike, but before you set foot on the trail, you’ll need to get to one of the designated trailheads within Zion’s main canyon.
Reaching the Trailhead via Zion’s Shuttle System
During shuttle-mandatory months (typically March through late November), private vehicles are not permitted to access the trailheads. The Zion Canyon Shuttle is free, reliable, and operates roughly every 7–15 minutes, depending on the season and time of day. Early morning rides are ideal for avoiding crowds and securing a quieter hike.
Driving to the Trailheads
When the shuttle system is not in operation, visitors can drive into the park and park at one of the trailhead parking areas serving the Emerald Pools. These lots are limited and fill quickly during busy weekend periods, so arriving early is still recommended.
Trail Options
Emerald Pools Trail (Zion Lodge Shuttle Stop)
Until June 2025, this trail was inaccessible from the Zion Lodge Shuttle Stop due to a landslide that damaged the pedestrian bridge over the Virgin River. During that closure, most visitors were forced to use the Kayenta Trail instead, creating significant congestion there. Since the bridge reopened, foot traffic has become more evenly distributed, and overall crowding along the routes has improved.
The Emerald Pool Trail is the most direct and easiest route to reach the Emerald Pools. It follows a well-maintained path with minimal elevation gain. The trail details below focus on the route from the shuttle stop to the Lower Emerald Pool:
Distance: 1.3 miles (2.1 km)
Route Type: Out & Back
Elevation gain: 100 ft / 30 m (cumulative elevation gain)
Duration: Most people complete the full trail in 30-45 minutes
Kayenta Trail
For those looking for a slightly more challenging route, we recommend trying the Kayenta Trail. The route features more elevation changes, narrower sections, and a rockier, more uneven surface in places. While still accessible to most people, it requires a bit more attention to footing and effort than the Emerald Pools Trail.
Because of its added difficulty, the Kayenta Trail generally sees lighter foot traffic, especially outside peak hours. It also offers more open views of the canyon as it contours along the cliffs above the Virgin River. Between the two, Kayenta is our preferred trail. It also passes below the spectacular Angels Landing.
Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)
Route Type: Out & Back
Elevation gain: 200 ft / 60 m (cumulative elevation gain)
Duration: Most people complete the full trail in 45-60 min
Note that the map includes the portion of the trail up to the Upper Emerald Pool, which we excluded from our trail details above, to make it easier for you to compare the Emerald Pools Trail and the Kayenta Trail.
Trail Combinations and Loops Routes
You don’t have to stick to just one trail when visiting the Emerald Pools. To avoid seeing the same scenery twice, you can combine the two trails (many do), heading up to the pools via one trail (e.g., Kayenta trail), and down via another (e.g., Emerald Pools trail). During shuttle season, this works especially well since there are shuttle stops at both ends of the combined route, so you don’t need to loop back to your original starting point.
Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km)
Route Type: Out & Back
Elevation gain: 232 ft / 71 m (cumulative elevation gain)
Duration: Most people complete the full trail in 40 – 55 min
Note that the AllTrails map includes both the out and back route, which isn’t really practical given that the Emerald Pools are located in the middle of either section, so you would unnecessarily pass by them twice.
If you want to return to your starting point, we recommend instead using the Grotto Trail, which connects the Emerald Pools and the Kayenta trailheads from the other side of the Virgin River. It’s short, flat, direct, and the easiest of the trails. Below are the route details for the combined Emerald Pools – Kayenta – Grotto loop:
Distance: 2.3 miles (3.7 km)
Route Type: Out & Back
Elevation gain: 280 ft / 85 m (cumulative elevation gain)
Duration: Most people complete the full trail in 1h-1h20
Note again that the map includes the portion of the trail up to the Upper Emerald Pool, which we excluded from our trail details above, to make it easier to compare all the different trail and trail combo options.
Not an AllTrails member yet? We highly recommend signing up for either their free or paid membership plans. The free plan allows you to find new trails and plan routes but it can only be used while hiking if you have access to mobile data. The paid membership plan (AllTrails+) allows you to download trail maps for offline use and provides live progress updates and off-route notifications.
If you are still uncertain – you should know that the All Trails mobile application was voted the 2023 iPhone App of the Year by Apple.
We find that AllTrails is a great tool to have when hiking, particularly for assisting with navigation when the trail is hard to locate and to help monitor your progress along the trail, which helps estimate how much time you’ll need to complete the trail.
Trailhead Hours and Facilities
The trails are accessible year-round, 24/7, but you’ll have to walk to reach them outside of shuttle operating hours between March & November.
Restrooms are available at both shuttle stops (Zion Lodge and The Grotto).
The Emerald Pools – What to Expect
The pools do not share a single location, but are instead separated by short trail segments that are steeper and more rugged than the paths leading to the Lower Emerald Pool. Depending on water flow and time of year, the pools can range from actively dripping and lush to relatively quiet and dry, but the overall setting remains consistent: hanging gardens, damp rock walls, and sheltered canyon recesses.
The Lower Emerald Pool
The Lower Emerald Pool is the most accessible and most visited of the three. It sits in a shallow alcove beneath a broad cliff face, where water seeps and seasonal waterfalls drop from above after rain or snowmelt. The pool itself is modest in size and often more muddy green than “emerald,” especially during dry periods, but the appeal lies in the setting rather than the water pool itself.
The Middle Emerald Pool
Don’t set your expectations too high for the Middle Emerald Pool. More often than not, it’s little more than a shallow pool or wide puddle, and it’s neither especially scenic on its own nor set in a particularly photogenic location.
The Upper Emerald Pool
The Upper Emerald Pool sits at the base of a sheer sandstone wall beneath the Great White Throne. The setting here feels more stark and less garden-like, with fewer plants and a more exposed rock basin. Water flow is highly seasonal, and during dry periods, the pool may appear shallow or stagnant. While the pool itself is often less visually striking than what many expect, we found that the surrounding walls and sense of elevation give this pool a distinctly different character from the Lower Emerald Pool.
Reaching the upper pool requires a steeper climb on a rougher trail surface, which naturally limits crowds. It’s not a particularly long trail segment, but you’ll more than double your elevation gain over a very short distance from what you had already gained by the lower pool. Although you’ll first descend more than 60 feet when heading towards the upper pool from the lower pool, you’ll then climb about 400 ft (120 m) in just over a quarter mile (about 450 m).
The Emerald Pool Trails – Additional Details and Hiking Tips
Canine companions: Dogs are not permitted on either the Emerald Pools Trail or the Kayenta Trail. In Zion National Park, pets are only allowed on the Pa’rus Trail. All other hiking trails are off-limits to pets.
Trail environment: Both trails travel through a mix of open canyon terrain and shaded alcoves near the pools. Expect stretches of exposed trail with little shade, especially on the Kayenta Trail, along with cooler, damper sections as you approach the pools.
Route signage: Trail junctions are clearly signed, and both routes are easy to follow. Signs mark the Emerald Pools, Kayenta Trail connections, and the Grotto Trail, making navigation straightforward even if you’re combining routes.
Trail surface / Technical aspects: The Emerald Pools Trail is mostly paved or packed dirt, with some rocky sections closer to the pools. The Kayenta Trail is rougher overall, with uneven rock, short climbs, and more exposed footing. Sturdy footwear is recommended, especially if you plan to use Kayenta for part of your route.
Slope and effort: Neither trail is long, but effort varies. The Emerald Pools Trail gains elevation gradually and is the easier of the two. The Kayenta Trail has more ups and downs and feels more strenuous despite similar distances. Heat and sun exposure can make both routes feel harder than expected. The most challenging trail segment is the one that connects the lower and upper pool.
Previous Hiking Experience: This trail is suitable for hikers with basic fitness levels. Families with children often enjoy it, though younger hikers may tire on the return climb. Because the trail is exposed, pacing yourself and taking breaks is important, especially in warmer months.
Cell Service: Cell reception is inconsistent. You may have a signal near trailheads, but coverage often drops along the trails and near the pools. Do not rely on cell service.
Leave No Trace: Stay on established trails, especially near the pools where vegetation is fragile. Do not climb on wet rock or enter closed areas. Pack out all trash and keep noise to a minimum.
Bugs: Insects are usually limited. You may encounter flies or gnats near damp areas and streams, particularly in late spring and early summer. Mosquitoes are uncommon.
Equipment: No special gear is required. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, and carry water, sun protection, and a hat. Trekking poles can be helpful on the Kayenta Trail or on uneven sections.
Weather and Exposure: Much of both trails is exposed to the sun, with limited shade outside the pool areas.
Current Trail Conditions: Check the Zion National Park alerts page before your visit for updates on road closures, tunnel traffic controls, weather impacts, or temporary trail restrictions.
Best Time to Hike the Trail
The Emerald Pools are accessible year-round, but conditions change noticeably with the seasons. Water flow, temperature, and crowd levels all play a role in what you’ll experience, often more so here than on Zions’ drier canyon trails.
Spring (March–May):
Spring is generally the best time to visit the Emerald Pools. Snowmelt and seasonal runoff bring the waterfalls to life, with water dripping or flowing over the cliffs above the Lower and Upper Pools. Temperatures are usually comfortable, ranging from about 60–80°F (16–27°C), and the hanging gardens are at their greenest. This is also one of Zion’s busiest periods, so expect crowds, especially late morning through early afternoon. Arriving early can make a noticeable difference.
Summer (June–September):
Summer heat can be intense, but this is also when the shaded alcoves near the pools feel most refreshing. Water flow often drops off by mid to late summer, and some pools may be stagnant or nearly dry, especially in drought years. Temperatures frequently exceed 90°F (32°C), and the exposed sections of both the Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trails can feel hot. Early morning hikes are strongly recommended. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible during monsoon season and can briefly increase water flow, but conditions can change quickly.
Fall (October–November):
Fall brings cooler temperatures and more stable weather, with daytime highs typically between 65–80°F (18–27°C). Crowds begin to thin after October. Water flow is usually minimal by this time of year, but the setting remains consistent, with damp rock walls and shaded recesses near the pools. This is a good season if you’re more interested in the hike and scenery than in flowing waterfalls.
Winter (December–February):
Winter is the quietest time to visit. Water flow varies year to year, but occasional runoff or ice formations can add a different character to the pools. Daytime temperatures often sit between 40–55°F (4–13°C). Trails may be muddy or icy after storms, particularly near the pools where moisture lingers in shaded areas. Traction may be helpful, and checking conditions before you go is important.
Quick Summary – When to Visit
Spring offers the most reliable water flow and the lushest conditions, while fall and winter are better for fewer crowds and cooler hiking. Summer visits are best early in the day, with the understanding that water levels are often low. Regardless of season, timing your hike for earlier hours will improve both comfort and experience.
Hiking Packing List
All Trails subscription – This comes in really handy for areas with little or no cell reception, as the annual subscription allows you to download trail maps for offline use.
External Battery – If you are using your phone to track your progress along the trail or to help with navigation, you certainly don’t want your phone to die on you. That’s especially true in the unlikely event that you might get hurt or need assistance.
Hiking poles – These can be particularly useful in steep trails or muddy/boggy trail conditions.
Water Filter Bottle – The Life Straw bottle is an advanced water bottle with a filter that not only improves water taste but more importantly filters out bacteria and parasites, chemicals and microplastics.
Headlamp – very practical and a smart choice if you plan to start your hike before sunrise or finish it after sunset.
Are the Emerald Pools Worth It?
The answer depends partly on the pools themselves, on when you visit, and what kind of hike you’re looking for. The Emerald Pools are easy to reach and visually distinct from much of Zion’s canyon floor, but they’re also heavily visited and highly seasonal. Going in with realistic expectations can make a big difference in your appreciation of the hike to the pools.
You might enjoy the Emerald Pools if:
– You’re looking for a shorter, accessible hike from the main canyon
– You’re visiting in spring or after recent rain, when water is more likely to be flowing
– You’re hiking with family or want something less committing than West Rim or Angels Landing
You might want to skip it if:
– You’re expecting dramatic waterfalls or consistently green pools
– You’re visiting during peak hours and dislike crowded trails
– You prefer longer hikes with sustained views and fewer people
– You’re visiting late summer or fall during a dry spell
Want to Know More About Zion National Park?
We’ve put together a dedicated Zion National Park Guide that covers the park’s must-see viewpoints, iconic hikes inside the main canyon, scenic drives like the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, and practical tips for navigating shuttle season, parking, and crowds. It’s the perfect companion for building a well-balanced Zion itinerary or fitting the park smoothly into a Utah road trip. We also have individual hiking guides for some of our favorite Zion trails:
Scout Lookout & the West Rim
If you’re looking to experience Zion’s vertical scale and classic canyon views, the hike to Scout Lookout and beyond along the West Rim is one of the park’s most iconic adventures. The trail climbs steadily through a series of dramatic switchbacks, gaining elevation quickly and revealing sweeping views of Zion Canyon below. At Scout Lookout, the closest you can get to Angels Landing without a permit, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking perch high above the valley, with sheer cliffs and sandstone towers stretching in every direction. Continuing onto the West Rim opens up quieter terrain, expansive viewpoints, and far fewer crowds. It’s a challenging but immensely rewarding hike that showcases Zion at its most dramatic. For more trail details and hiking tips, see our Hiking Guide for Scouts Lookout & the West Rim.
Observation Point via East Mesa Trail
For one of the highest and most expansive viewpoints in Zion without the relentless elevation gain of other routes, the Observation Point hike via the East Mesa Trail is an excellent choice. This relatively gentle trail winds through open forest before emerging at the rim of Zion Canyon, where the view suddenly drops away to reveal Angels Landing far below and the full breadth of the main canyon stretching into the distance. With minimal exposure and a mostly level path, this route delivers jaw-dropping scenery with far less effort than the classic canyon-side approaches. It’s the perfect trail for those who want big views, fewer crowds, and a calmer hiking experience in Zion’s quieter eastern backcountry. For more trail details and hiking tips, see our Hiking Guide for Observation Point via East Mesa Trail.
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
If you want to stay close to Zion without dealing with limited parking at the Visitor Center or juggling both the Springdale shuttle and the Zion Canyon shuttle, the northern end of Springdale is one of the most practical places to base yourself. Lodging here puts you within a short walk or drive of the park entrance, allowing you to start early and simplify logistics during peak season.
Below are two solid, well-located options that balance comfort, convenience, and access. Both are within a 20-minute walk of the park’s southern entrance.
Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites
What sets it apart: Reliable comfort and one of the closest hotel locations to the park entrance.
This modern Best Western sits at the quiet northern end of Springdale, within easy walking distance of Zion’s pedestrian entrance. Rooms are clean and spacious, and amenities include an outdoor pool, hot tub, and complimentary breakfast. Its location makes it especially appealing for hikers planning early starts, as you can avoid parking constraints and step straight into the shuttle system.
Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton
What sets it apart: Riverside setting with resort-style grounds, right at the edge of the park.
Cliffrose is one of the closest properties to Zion’s entrance, offering direct access to the Virgin River and beautifully maintained gardens. While more polished than a standard mid-range hotel, it remains a practical choice thanks to its walkability, on-site amenities, and proximity to the park. It’s well suited for travellers who want a comfortable base with a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere after long hiking days.
Booking Tip: Springdale accommodations fill quickly, particularly in spring and fall. Staying near the park entrance is especially valuable during shuttle season, so booking well in advance is strongly recommended.
Emerald Pools – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you need a permit to hike to the Emerald Pools?
No permit is required to hike to the Emerald Pools. A valid Zion National Park entrance pass is sufficient.
How long does it take to hike to the Emerald Pools?
Reaching the Lower Emerald Pool typically takes 15-30 minutes one way, depending on the trail you choose and crowd levels. Visiting the Middle and Upper Pools adds additional time, roughly half an hour, depending on your fitness level.
Which trail is best for reaching the Emerald Pools?
The Emerald Pools Trail is the most direct and easiest option. The Kayenta Trail is longer and more uneven but generally quieter and offers better views along the way. Many combine the two for a one-way route or combine them both with the Grotto Trail for a full loop.
Are the Emerald Pools always green?
Unfortunately, no. The color and appearance of the pools vary with water flow, light, and season. After snowmelt or rain, they may appear greener and more active. During dry periods, they can look brown, shallow, or stagnant.
Are the waterfalls year-round?
The waterfalls are seasonal. Spring typically offers the best chance to see flowing water. By late summer and fall, waterfalls often slow to a trickle or dry up entirely.
Is the hike suitable for kids?
Yes, especially the trails to the Lower Emerald Pool. However, the trails can be crowded, uneven, and slippery near water. The climb to the Upper Pool is steeper and may be tiring for younger children.
Are dogs allowed on the Emerald Pools trails?
No. Pets are not permitted on the Emerald Pools, Kayenta, or Grotto Trails. Dogs are only allowed on the Pa’rus Trail in Zion.
Is the trail exposed to the sun?
Parts of both the Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trails are exposed, particularly between trailheads and junctions. The pool areas themselves are generally partially shaded, however.
Can you swim in the Emerald Pools?
Swimming and wading are not allowed. The pools are part of a sensitive ecosystem, and water quality can be unsafe.
Is it worth visiting if the pools are dry?
That really depends on expectations. If flowing water is your main goal, dry conditions can be disappointing. However, the hanging gardens, alcoves, and canyon setting still make the hike worthwhile, especially when combined with the Kayenta Trail.
When is the least crowded time to visit?
Early mornings are best year-round. Winter months are generally the quietest, while spring and summer see the highest visitor numbers, especially midday.
Are drones allowed?
No. Drones are strictly prohibited throughout Zion National Park. Launching, landing, or operating drones is not allowed anywhere within park boundaries, including trailheads, overlooks, and backcountry areas. This regulation helps protect wildlife, preserve the natural soundscape, and ensure visitor safety.
Explore More Utah National & State Park Guides
Continue exploring Utah with these detailed guides:
Bryce Canyon National Park Guide
Capitol Reef National Park Guide
Snow Canyon State Park Guide
Valley of Fire State Park Guide
Goblin Valley State Park Guide
Photography Gear
If you like our photography, you might be interested in some of the gear we use to shoot our travel and hiking destinations.
Camera Body – Nikon Z 6ii Fx-series Mirrorless Body
Main Lens – NIKON 24-120mm F/4G ED VR AF-S
Zoom Lens – Sigma 745-306 150-600mm f/5-6.3
Polarizing filters – Urth Circular Polarizing (CPL)
Camera Tripod – K&F Concept 64-inch Camera Tripod
Mini-tripod – Lammcou Flexible Camera Tripod
Camera/hiking backpack – Vanguard Alta Rise 48 Backpack
Universal Travel Adapter – VYLEE Universal International Power Travel Plug
Other Travel Essentials
Travel Insurance
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e-Sim cards
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eSIMS are a sustainable alternative to single-use SIM cards – they are 100% digital, require less energy to produce and be re-used rather than disposed of.
Car Rentals
Discover Cars is our go-to website for car rentals. We almost always find our preferred rate there.
Transfer from Airport
Welcome Pickups is our favourite private transfer service, which you can pre-book at a fixed price. Currently available in 220 cities all over the world (mostly in Europe, but with several major cities in Asia, the Middle East and the US).
Kiwitaxi is another private transfer service – we haven’t tried it yet, but it’s currently available in a few more countries (102 as of 2024).
Hotels and Accommodations (coming soon)
Photography Prints
If you found this blog useful, you can help support our blog by purchasing low-cost digital prints. Printed physical prints are also available for purchase.
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Well, that wraps it up! We hope you enjoyed our Zion National Park Hiking Guide for the Emerald Pools and that it will prove useful for planning your trip.
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