News Release
NPS Image / Wil Marischen
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Contact: zion_newsdesk@nps.gov, 435-772-0162
SPRINGDALE, Utah – There’s never a bad time to visit Zion National Park, but if you’re visiting this Independence Day Weekend, plan for heat and crowds as much as you’re planning to have fun. The National Park Service anticipates:
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Long lines at entrance stations, visitor centers, restrooms, and at trailheads.
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Lengthy waits to board park shuttles in Springdale and Zion National Park.
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Intermittent closures at the park’s east and south vehicle entrance stations.
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Heavy traffic in Springdale and throughout the park.
Prepare for Potential Triple-Digit Heat
Weather forecasts for Zion predict hot temperatures will persist with multiple days over 100° F. No one wants to be struck down by a heat related illness during their hike. Beat the heat and:
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Pack three liters of water, salty snacks, and sun protection.
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Start hikes before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
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Rest often and in the shade.
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Avoid overextending yourself on strenuous hikes.
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Check the weather before heading out.
Independence Day Parade
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Zion staff are participating in the Town of Springdale’s Independence Day Parade.
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The parade will close State Route 9 from about 8:30 a.m. until mid-morning on Friday, July 4.
Traffic
When parking is full, vehicle entry may be temporarily suspended and drivers will not be able to enter the park. This is to avoid traffic congestion and keep shuttle buses running efficiently. Visitors can always ride the free Springdale Shuttle to the park’s pedestrian/bicycle entrance after parking in Springdale. If you need to travel to communities on either side of the park during the holiday weekend and you do not plan to visit Zion for recreation, you may avoid heavy traffic by considering alternate routes such as:
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Utah 20.
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Utah 14.
US 89 – Arizona 389 – Utah 59.
Fire Restrictions
Zion National Park is under stage 1 fire restrictions. Restrictions include:
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No smoking near vegetation or outside of a developed recreation site, personal vehicle, or building.
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No open fires of any kind are allowed in Zion National Park’s Watchman Campground (Stage 2 Fire Restrictions).
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Stoves fueled by petroleum or liquid Propane Gas (LPG) fuels for meal preparation only, are allowed.
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Campfires are allowed in improved and maintained campgrounds at Lava Point in Zion National Park.
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No fireworks are allowed at any time
Cyanobacteria
Cyanobacteria are naturally occurring but can harm humans or animals because some produce toxins called cyanotoxins. Zion National Park monitors for the presence of toxic cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins in water throughout the park. We share information so you can make informed decisions about how to recreate.
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Don’t drink the water in the Virgin River
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Don’t allow pets to drink water in the Virgin River
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Avoid submerging your head underwater
Recreate responsibly
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Be patient with rangers and other visitors. Busy weekends can be stressful, and we need your help to make sure everyone enjoys their national park visit.
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Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and watch for signs of heat stress. Eat salty snacks.
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Avoid flash floods & lightning by checking the forecast. Your safety is your responsibility.
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Park only in designated parking areas. Illegally parked vehicles can harm park plants and animals and may be ticketed or towed.
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Pack it In – Pack it Out. Take everything you bring into the park, out again. This helps protect plants, animals, and historic resources and reduces the amount of trash NPS staff need to manage.
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Go Before You Go. Use restrooms at trailheads and shuttle stops before venturing out on trails.
www.nps.gov/zion
About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America's national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov, and on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube
Last updated: July 1, 2025