Utah's Zion National Park was recently ranked the #1 National Park in the entire country.  Stunning layers of red rock, dramatic cliffs, and remarkable freestanding arches are just the beginning of the wonders you'll find at Zion National Park.  Visitors from all over the world flock to this desert oasis, and I was one of them this last weekend.  Zion National Park is approximately a 5 hour drive from Salt Lake City, a 3 hour drive from Las Vegas, or an hour's drive from St. George, UT where some regional carriers fly to.

Once you arrive at Zion it's easy to see why it was voted #1.  The awe inspiring scenery is truly breathtaking, the rangers are knowledgeable and friendly, and the activities are never ending.  Zion National Park is a perfect family, friends, or couples get away. 

When you first get to Zion National Park, you receive a map of the area including what there is to do and where you can catch the free shuttle.  There is a great visitors center, a Human History Museum where a free 22 minute video overview of Zion is played, Zion's Lodge, where you can take a quick rest and grab a delicious treat after a long day of hiking, and so much more.

When we went, our favorite hike was to the Emerald Pools.  This hiking trail has three different sections each ending at a pool.  The lower Emerald Pool is a paved, easy hike that can be done with strollers and by hikers of any level.  The middle and upper pools have steep drop offs along the paths, and are considered "moderate" on the difficulty scale.  The entire trail takes a couple of hours round trip and is a beautiful journey.  Watchman, Hidden Canyon, Angel's Landing and other popular trails offer perfect picture opportunities and views that are a photographer's dream.  One thing to remember while hiking here, is that it can get HOT.  Rangers recommend bringing one gallon of drinking water per person per day to keep hydrated.

One really nice perk about visiting Zion National Park is that you can be in the great outdoors, but still close to civilization.  Nestled up to the main entrance of the park is the quaint and eclectic town of Springdale, UT.  Here there are a number of delicious and distinctive restaurants, art galleries, gift shops, and even a ranch where visitors are free to explore and come face to face with bison, elk, longhorns, and other unique livestock.  It is the perfect place to stay for your Zion National Park vacation.

For only $25 you get unlimited access to the park for a week, or you can get an annual pass for $50.  For an even better deal, for just $80 you can get an annual pass good for all of the National Parks and get a few good trips in within the year.  We offer the best hotels in the area at the best prices.  Check out Zion National Park hotels and start planning your vacation today!