Zion

Ranger-led Activities

A ranger in a tan flathat stands by a whiteboard in front of seated visitors.
Programs vary from ranger-to-ranger, so no two programs are ever the same.

NPS

Attend a free ranger program during your visit to Zion National Park. These talks highlight information about the landscapes, plants, animals, and history that make Zion special. You can check the schedule at the bottom of this page or by downloading the NPS App. Read descriptions of programs below.

For information on accessibility, you can speak with a ranger at any visitor center or visit our Accessibility page.

Summer Programs

Zion Canyon Visitor Center Patio Talks

Swing by the Zion Canyon Visitor Center Plaza for a short ranger talk to enrich your park experience! Talks take place next to the shuttle depot so plan to attend before or after riding the Zion Canyon Shuttle. Explore the resources that make Zion special! Topics may include geology, wildlife, plants, human history, and so much more. No two programs are quite the same.

Talks take place at the patio talk area at the Visitor Center Plaza. Fully accessible.

Human History Museum Patio Talks

Sit back and relax while enjoying a short ranger talk on the shaded back patio of the Zion Human History Museum! Explore the resources that make Zion special! Topics may include geology, wildlife, plants, human history, and so much more. No two programs are quite the same.

Talks take place at the back patio of the Human History Museum. Fully accessible.

Watchman Ranger-led Guided Hike

Embark on a journey through the wonders of Zion Canyon! Hike alongside a ranger on the moderate Watchman Trail to immerse yourself in the beautiful resources Zion has to offer. Along the way you may explore topics of geology, wildlife, plants, human history, and so much more.

This program requires free advanced in-person only registration at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center front desk. Make sure to reserve your spot up to 3 days in advance.

You’ll ascend an elevation change of 368 ft (112 m) on a rocky, uneven trail with moderate drop-offs along the way. The overlook at the end offers expansive views of lower Zion Canyon with high drop-offs and no guard rails. For accessibility information, visit our Trail Access Information page.

Ride with a Ranger

All aboard! Step right up and board the iconic Zion Shuttle for a 2-hour ranger-led bus ride with special stops along the way! Programs vary day-to-day, but may include geology, wildlife, plants, human history, and so much more.

This program requires free advanced in-person only registration at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center front desk. Make sure to reserve your spot up to 3 days in advance.

These shuttles are wheelchair accessible. For more information, please speak with a Ranger at the Visitor Center.


Zion Lodge Evening Program

Rest your weary feet and open your mind at the Zion Lodge Evening Program! Join us inside the historic Zion Lodge auditorium for a 45-minute ranger talk. Explore the fascinating and unique stories that make Zion special! Topics vary evening-to-evening.


Watchman Campground Evening Program

Wind down your day with us as the sun sets and stars rise over Zion Canyon! Join us at the outdoor Watchman Campground Amphitheater for a 45-minute ranger talk. Topics vary evening-to-evening, see program schedule at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center!


Kolob Canyons Ranger Talk

Beginning in June 2025, you can enjoy a 30-minute ranger talk at the scenic Kolob Canyons Viewpoint. Subjects vary, so check with Kolob Canyons Visitor Center for more information. Limited seating is available.

 
Map on a green background.
The Zion Nature Center can be accessed by walking the Pa'rus Trail or driving. Limited parking is available.

NPS

Zion Nature Center & Junior Ranger Programs

The Nature Center opens on May 23, 2025! Nature Center hours are from 12 pm to 5 pm, daily. Ranger-led programs designed for Junior Rangers were offered at the Nature Center daily at 2:00 pm and 3:30 pm.

This interactive site is a perfect place to learn about the geology, animals, and history of Zion. Explore different habitats, listen to bird songs and canyon tree frog calls, and watch flash flood videos in this historic building. The Nature Center is located near the South Campground. Limited parking in front of the Nature Center.

The Nature Center can be accessed via the Pa’rus Trail, but due to construction in South Campground, the path is not ADA compliant or stroller friendly.

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

 

Current Zion Ranger Program Calendar

 

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Last updated: May 18, 2025

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Zion National Park
1 Zion Park Blvd.

Springdale, UT 84767

Phone:

435-772-3256
If you have questions, please email zion_park_information@nps.gov. Listen to recorded information by calling anytime 24 hours a day. Rangers answer phone calls from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT, but a ranger may not answer if they are already speaking with someone else.

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