News Release

Shuttle Service Operations Updates for Zion National Park

Date: January 29, 2021
Contact: Amanda Rowland, 435-772-0160

SPRINGDALE, UT – The following provides an overview of upcoming shuttle service operations in Zion National Park that will occur in February, March, and April 2021. The park always recommends that visitors plan ahead and check the park website before their visit at nps.gov/zion to see what activities are currently available and what facilities may be open or closed. As in any winter season, visitors should check and plan for conditions such as ice, snow, and cold temperatures.

During shuttle and non-shuttle times, parking will fill early. Once full, additional vehicles can only be allowed in that area after parking spaces become available. With high vehicular traffic expected, walkers and cyclists must adhere to safety requirements along roadways and proceed single file to reduce potential conflicts with vehicles. Likewise, motorists must pay attention to pedestrian and bicyclist safety in road corridors. If traffic becomes too congested, entry to portions of the park may be temporarily suspended until traffic clears. This ensures access to emergencies by first responders along the Park road corridors. There is additional parking in Springdale.

Visitors who can be flexible with their schedule are encouraged to visit weekdays rather than Saturday or Sunday. Consider arriving early or after 3:00 p.m. to avoid high use conditions. Visitors should have alternate plans in the region in case their intended destination or activity is not available when they arrive. Nearby communities and public lands have many options for lodging and recreational activities. Always recreate responsibly and respect private lands and facilities.

Zion National Park has adopted enhanced COVID-19 measures. Similar to the 2020 season, to ride the park shuttle into Zion Canyon tickets will be required.

COVID-19 Response: Zion Canyon Shuttle Ticket System
There are three opportunities to acquire shuttle tickets.

1. Advanced tickets ($1.00 each) will be released on a rolling two-week basis. Tickets must be purchased on-line at Recreation.gov. See below for release details for upcoming weekend shuttle service and future daily shuttle service.
2. Additional tickets ($1.00 each) will be released the day before your intended visit at 5:00 p.m. (for example, tickets for February 13, will be released at 5:00 p.m. on February 12). Tickets must be purchased on-line at Recreation.gov.
3. Afternoon walk-up tickets (no charge) will be available from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. These tickets are limited and are first come, first served.

The weekend shuttle service (Saturdays and Sunday) will resume in Zion National Park on February 13-14, 20-21, 27-28, and March 6-7, 2021.
• The weekend shuttle service will be begin operating at 8:00 a.m. at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
• Advance shuttle tickets for all weekend service will be released on January 31 at 9:00 a.m. MST. See above for details on day-before and afternoon walk-up tickets.
• The shuttle service will not be operating in Springdale during this timeframe. Parking at or near the Zion Canyon Visitor Center is limited and visitors will need to plan accordingly.

The daily shuttle service will begin March 13, 2021 in both the park and Springdale. Shuttle service will operate daily until Fall. The Park website will be routinely updated with additional information.
• The daily shuttle service will be begin operating at 7:00 a.m. at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
• Advance shuttle tickets will be released on a rolling two-week basis starting February 28 at 9:00 a.m. MST.
• The shuttle service will be operating in Springdale during this timeframe. Parking at or near the Zion Canyon Visitor Center is limited and parking is available in Springdale located near shuttle stops or within walking distance to the park’s pedestrian entrance.

When the shuttle service is not running, personal vehicles are permitted to access Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Parking is limited and it is encouraged that visitors have alternate plans if they are unable to park in the Canyon. When parking is full, the Scenic Drive may be closed until space becomes available.

The NPS requests the public’s cooperation by avoiding crowds and adhering to social distancing, wearing a face mask, and utilizing Leave No Trace practices.