Crowded Conditions Anticipated at Zion National Park February 13-15

Date: February 10, 2016
Contact: David Eaker, 435-772-7811

Peak Visitation Expected for President's Day Weekend

Springdale, UT- Visitation at Zion National Park has increased dramatically over the past few years. On holidays and long weekends visitors may experience crowding and parking shortages. February 13-15, 2016, is President's Day Weekend, one of the park's historically busy times.

Individuals planning to visit the park over President's Day Weekend should be prepared for delays, limited parking and crowded conditions. Zion could see conditions, similar to November 2015, where parking inside the canyon fills by mid-morning. Visitors may also experience traffic congestion in Springdale, and up to a 45- minute wait for entrance to the park. As visitors approach Zion, they can get up-to-date parking availability information by either visiting the park's Facebook page (www.facebook.com/zionnps) or following our Twitter page (www.twitter.com/zionnps). 

"Holiday weekends can strain the park's facilities and staffing to manage crowded conditions and meet visitor expectations," said Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh. "Shuttle buses will not yet be in operation in the park and Springdale for the 2016 season;visitors should plan additional time to get to their destinations in the park." 

Here are a few tips to help you have a more enjoyable visit to Zion. Visit the park website (www.nps.gov/zion) for important information on winter conditions, trails and other facilities. It is recommended that visitors coming to Zion National Park on President's Day weekend arrive early in the day to help reduce traffic congestion and crowding, park only in designated lots or paved pullouts and avoid parking on road shoulders. Visitors may experience temporary closures of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive if parking and traffic congestion limits emergency vehicle access Visitors are encouraged to explore Zion's East side, Kolob Terrace road, and Kolob Canyons when capacity is exceeded in Zion Canyon. "Please plan ahead, take responsibility for your safety, be patient and treat others with courtesy," Bradybaugh added. "These practices are important whether you decide to visit Zion or any of the wonderful public land resources in our area."