Ranger-led Activities

Remember to check the weather and dress accordingly. Outdoor programs can be hot or cold depending on the season!

NPS Photo

Attend a free ranger program to enhance your understanding of Zion National Park! These ranger-led walks, talks, tours, and activities highlight all the things that make Zion special. Landscapes, plants, animals, and history are all common topics of discussion.

Most programs only take place during the summer months. You can check current programs at the bottom of this page or by downloading the NPS App. Each program has a description, time, place, and other details for planning your visit. For information on accessibility, you can speak with a ranger at any visitor center or visit our accessibility page.

Make sure to read all program details before attending. "Ride with a Ranger" and Watchman Trail Hike programs require advance registration at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

Program Locations

Be sure to check the location of each program before attending. Most programs take place at one of the following locations in Zion Canyon:

• The Zion Canyon Visitor Center (Shuttle Stop #1) is located by the park's south entrance, in Springdale, Utah.
• Watchman Campground is located next to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
• The Zion Nature Center is located north of the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, next to South Campground. The nature center is a 10-20 minute walk from the visitor center.
• The Human History Museum (Shuttle Stop #2) is located north of the Zion Nature Center. The museum is also accessible via the Pa'rus Trail, about 15-25 minutes from the visitor center.
• Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop #5) is located in the heart of Zion Canyon, which is accessible by shuttle bus during the summer months.

Some programs take place in Kolob Canyons, located in the northwest corner of the park. Kolob Canyons is about 45-60 minutes away from Zion Canyon.

 

The Zion Nature Center is located right next to South Campground and the scenic Virgin River.

NPS Map

Nature Center

During the summer, rangers staff the interactive Zion Nature Center from 12 pm - 5 pm daily! This is a perfect place to learn about geology, animals, and the history of Zion. Explore different habitats, enjoy bird songs, listen to canyon tree frog calls, and participate in Junior Ranger programs — all in an air-conditioned building.

You can access the Nature Center via the Pa’rus Trail or by parking in the nearby parking lots. Limited spaces are available. If parking is full, the Nature Center is only a 10-20 minute walk from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

Junior Ranger Activity Booklets are available at the Nature Center as well as the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and Human History Museum.

Check the current hours of operations to see when the Nature Center is open.

 

Current Ranger Program Calendar

The calendar below has an up-to-date list of ranger programs and events. Sort by date to see what's happening during your visit!