News Release
NPS Image / Ally O'Rullian
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Contact: zion_newsdesk@nps.gov, 435-772-0162
SPRINGDALE, Utah – On June 12, Zion National Park marked a major milestone: the 100 millionth boarding on the Zion Canyon Shuttle System since service began in 2000.
“I had no idea this was going to happen,” said Alex Wiest, the lucky 100 millionth rider. “I was just trying to make the bus. It’s amazing.”
To commemorate the occasion, Wiest received a custom t-shirt and a gift bag provided by the Zion National Park Forever Project, the park’s official nonprofit partner.
A Solution to Growth
The Zion Canyon Shuttle System was launched in 2000 to address rising visitation, traffic congestion, and resource impacts in Zion Canyon. The system was developed in close collaboration with the Town of Springdale, the Federal Highway Administration, the Utah Department of Transportation, and numerous state, county, municipal, and nonprofit partners.
Since then, the shuttle system has provided seasonal service from spring through late fall, carrying millions of riders annually while protecting Zion’s iconic resources and improving the visitor experience.
When the shuttle system began operations, Zion welcomed approximately 2.4 million visitors annually. In 2024, visitation approached 5 million. Throughout this growth, the shuttle has remained a cornerstone of the park's management strategy.
A Lasting Commitment to Stewardship
In September 2024, Zion National Park became the first unit in the National Park System to fully transition its shuttle fleet to zero-emission electric vehicles. This fleet replacement was made possible through a $33 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, with additional support from the National Park Service, General Services Administration, Iron and Washington Counties, the Zion National Park Forever Project, and other partners.
As the National Park Service looks for new ways to improve visitor experience and protect park resources, Zion’s 100 millionth boarding highlights how innovation and strong partnerships can create a model for parks nationwide.
“For 25 years, the Zion Canyon Shuttle System has been central to preserving the remarkable resources of Zion Canyon while providing millions of visitors with safe, reliable transportation,” said Zion National Park Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh. “This 100 millionth boarding reflects not only the popularity of Zion, but also the commitment of our shuttle operators, partners, and staff who help protect this special place.”
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: June 18, 2025