Last updated: July 10, 2026
Place
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
NPS Photo / Daren Reehl
Quick Facts
Location:
Zion Canyon
Significance:
Trip Planning Information
Amenities
38 listed
Accessible Rooms, Accessible Sites, Amphitheater, Automated Entrance, Automated External Defibrillator (AED), Baby Changing Station, Backcountry Permits, Benches/Seating, Bicycle - Rack, Bus/Shuttle Stop, Cellular Signal, Electric Car Charging Station, Fire Extinguisher, First Aid Kit Available, Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Information - Maps Available, Information - Park Newspaper Available, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Internet/WiFi Available, Junior Ranger Activity, Junior Ranger Booklet Available, Parking - Auto, Permits Issued, Picnic Table, Recycling, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Tactile Exhibit, Toilet - Flush, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Water - Bottle-Filling Station, Water - Drinking/Potable, Wheelchair Accessible, Wheelchairs Available
Start your visit here! Located near the South Entrance of the park, the Zion Canyon Visitor Center is an excellent place to begin your exploration of Zion Canyon. Park rangers and outdoor exhibits will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time.
Inquire at the Zion Canyon Wilderness Desk about permits for backpacking, canyoneering, and other trips into the wilderness. Visit the bookstore for maps, books, and gifts.
Shuttle Service
Zion Canyon Visitor Center is adjacent to Shuttle Stop #1. When shuttles are in service, this stop provides transport up into Zion Canyon.
To reach the Springdale Shuttle line, walk south through the Zion Canyon Visitor Center plaza towards the pedestrian entrance. Once there, cross the bridge over to the shade pavilion. The Springdale Shuttle line picks up and drops off passengers at the posted sign.
Connecting Trails
The Watchman Trail follows a somewhat steep trail up to a scenic overlook. This location provides stunning views of the surrounding canyon, able to see as far as Angel's Landing!
The Pa’rus Trail is a paved, relatively flat trail which follows along the Virgin River. This trail allows bicycles and leashed pets. The trail also features multiple connections to the river.
Parking
The Zion Canyon Visitor Center has Zion's largest parking lot, featuring over 350 parking spaces and more than a dozen accessible parking spots. Parking is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional parking is available in Springdale.
History
This visitor center sits at the lower end of Zion Canyon, the most popular canyon in Zion National Park. This deep and narrow canyon was carved by the Virgin River. The canyon was first called "Zion," meaning safety or refuge, in 1862 by Mormon settler Isaac Behunin. To learn more about the history and origins of Zion National Park, visit our Learn About the Park page.