News Release

Holiday Visitor Expectations

Date: December 22, 2017
Contact: John Marciano, [phone]

SPRINGDALE, UT – Holidays are always busy at Zion National Park. However, this upcoming holiday week may be especially challenging due to the road construction on State Route 9 in Springdale, just outside Zion’s main entrance. One-way traffic, portable traffic lights, and flaggers are being used to help vehicles negotiate the construction. Visitors should expect to be stopped up to 25 minutes. Due to the construction, many of the road side parking spaces will no longer be accessible, and both in-town, and in-Park shuttle services will not be running.

Parking inside the Park usually fills up by 10 a.m. on most days during busy weekends, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early or come later in the afternoon. Please be reminded that once all designated parking spaces along the Scenic Drive are full, the Scenic Drive will close to vehicle traffic until spaces open.

With colder weather here, be advised that trails can be icy and slippery. Traction devises for shoes, and warm weather clothing are recommended. The Park often closes some of the most popular trails, including Emerald Pools and Riverside Walk, when there is a the threat of over-head falling ice. Remember to hydrate before and during your visit to the Park, regardless of season.

The Visitor Center will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, and closed Christmas Day, December 25, 2017. The Watchman Campground will be open to fist come first served visitors. The Nature Center, and the Zion Human History Museum are closed for the winter season.