Ranger-led Programs - Spring 2019
Enhance your understanding and enjoyment of Zion National Park by taking part in a ranger program. Limited programming may be offered throughout the year, but the full program schedule in Zion Canyon is from mid-April to mid-October. Topics include geology, plants, animals, human history, and more. All ranger-led programs are free and for all ages. Check the current Map and Guide, or at visitor centers and bulletin boards throughout the park for times, places, and subjects. Ranger led programs are required to earn a Junior Ranger Badge.
Youth Programs
Youth programs are designed specifically for families and children. Children must be accompanied by an adult while attending the programs. Youth programs are offered intermittently through March and April, from Memorial Day through mid-August, and during Labor Day Weekend. Programs take place throughout the park at the Zion Nature Center and at the Zion Lodge.
Types of Programs
Walks
Ranger-led hikes occur daily in summer on the Watchman Trail. Meet the ranger at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center for an 8:00 am departure. Be prepared to walk two miles on a moderate, rocky trail with a 368 foot elevation gain (112 m). Wear sturdy footwear and bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water.
Talks
Enjoy a 20-30 minute talk on the patio at the Zion Human History Museum. The Museum is at shuttle stop 2. Limited parking is available.
Evening Programs
Discover what makes Zion such a special place. Forty-five minute programs addressing a myriad of topics are offered every evening May through September at Zion Lodge and Watchman Campground. Parking is available at Watchman Campground for non-campers. Ride the shuttle to the Lodge at shuttle stop 5.
Ride with a Ranger Shuttle Tours
Conducted daily from Memorial Day to the end of September and starting at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. These tours last approximately 90 minutes. Seats are limited - make free reservations, in person, up to three days in advance at the information desk at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. No telephone reservations accepted. Note: Because large groups can impact the availability of seats for other visitors, group size is limited to 8. This includes people sharing the same affiliation (school, club, scout troop, family, friends) on any one tour.
Nature Center Youth Programs
These programs are offered daily from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. The Zion Nature Center is located next to the South Campground. The shuttle does not stop here, but it can be accessed from the Pa'rus Trail. Limited parking is available. Programs are designed specifically for children and families and are 30-45 minutes long.
Nature Center Drop-In Programs
Stop by anytime between the times listed in the guide. Stay for a minute or stay for an hour. Held at the Big Bend Shuttle Stop, the Temple of Sinawava, Weeping Rock Trailhead, and the Emerald Pools Trailhead. Dates are from mid May to Labor Day.