Best Airport for Zion National Park (Closest & Provides Shuttle)

Zion National Park is among the top destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts in the United States. Nothing compares to the beautiful and unique trails at Zion National Park once you finally get there, that is. So, what is the best airport for Zion National Park?

St. George Regional Airport is the best airport for Zion National Park because it’s only 55 minutes away. The airport is 45 miles from Zion National park and you can find affordable shuttles between the two. Las Vegas Airport (LAS) is only 3 hours away from Zion National Park and you can easily get there if you drive along Highway I-15 South from the airport.

You need at least 2-3 days at Zion National Park because there are 113 trails to explore. Some visitors go to both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park on the same day. Follow along as we explore the best airport for Zion National Park and the ideal routes for new visitors.

Can You Fly to Zion National Park?

Credit: Wilson44691 / Wikipedia

You can’t fly directly near Zion National Park, but you can find flights that land 45 miles away. The best airport for Zion National Park is St. George Regional Airport. It only takes 55-60 minutes to get from St. George Regional Airport to Zion National Park.

This airport is located in Utah and although it is small, it is convenient to fly into if you want to be as close to the park as possible. Granted, you may have a harder time flying into St. George Regional Airport because it is smaller and offers fewer flights than major airports.

St. George, Utah is a fun destination if you want to see some beautiful sights and enjoy the small-town vibe. It is worth it to explore fun destinations like Snow Canyon State Park and the Red Hills Desert Garden if you fly into St. George Regional Airport. Take the St. George Shuttle to Zion National Park if you don’t want to rent a car when you land.

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

How Far is LAS Airport From Zion National Park?

It takes just under 3 hours to get from Las Vegas Airport (LAS) to Zion National Park. LAS is 177 miles away from Zion National Park and it is an easy and scenic drive. The drive rarely takes more than 3 hours and 20 minutes and typically takes roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes depending on traffic.

Many Las Vegas residents do a day trip to Zion National Park because of the proximity and easy route. The route is scenic, relaxing, and easy as long as the highway isn’t congested. You simply take Highway I-15 South for the majority of the way when you go to Zion from Las Vegas.

The Las Vegas Airport is the best airport for Zion if you don’t want to fly directly to Utah. You can find countless flights to LAS year-round because it is a major airport. It also gives you the chance to explore Las Vegas before you visit Zion National Park.

What is the Closest Major City to Zion National Park?

Springdale, Utah is the closest major city to Zion National Park and it’s only 1.1 miles away. It typically takes between 5 and 10 minutes to drive to Zion National Park from Springdale depending on where you leave.

Springdale offers shuttles to and from Zion National Park which is a major convenience if you want to save money. You can have as much fun in nature in Springdale as you can at Zion National Park itself.

There are many campsites, horse stables, and hiking trails throughout Springdale, Utah. Springdale has even been ranked among the most charming towns in America in recent years because of its unique personality.

Driving through Springdale is beautiful because of the idyllic Zion Mount Carmel Highway. You can find everything from spas and general stores to scenic overlooks and comfortable hotels in Springdale.

Related Read: 70 Best Things To Do in Utah

Is Zion or Bryce Closer to Las Vegas?

Zion National Park is closer to Las Vegas than Bryce Canyon National Park. It takes just over 4 hours to drive from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park, but it can take longer with heavy traffic. You can expect it to take at least an hour longer to drive to Bryce Canyon National Park from Las Vegas than Zion.

With that said, many travelers visit both Bryce and Zion National Park on the same day. Zion National Park is only 1 hour and 20 minutes away from Bryce Canyon which makes it doable for a day trip. Otherwise, you can plan a trip for a few days and set aside an extra day for Bryce Canyon National Park.

You can easily do Zion and Bryce in one day, but it will limit how many trails you can hike. There are over 150 trails to explore between both parks, so it’s nice to have at least one day in each.

St. George Airport to Zion National Park

Credit: Zion National Park

You can get to Zion National Park from St. George Airport in less than an hour. It’s a fairly easy drive as long as you stick to UT-7 E Southern Parkway and UT-9E the whole way there. The shuttle from St. George Airport to Zion National Park operates 13 times per average calendar day which is essential for many travelers.

You can also take a taxi to Zion National Park from St. George Airport, but that will cost well over $200. Rent a car or take the shuttle to save the most money and enjoy the scenic route along the way. The best option is to rent a car if you plan to spend several days in the area and get the most out of your trip.

Related Read: 15 Best National Parks, Monuments, and Trails in Utah

Best Time to Visit Zion National Park

Fall is the best time to visit Zion National Park if you want to get the most out of the trails. The weather is the most idyllic during the fall and won’t limit how much time you can spend outdoors. Avoid Zion National Park if you want to stay away from large crowds and escape the extreme heat.

Temperatures often exceed 100 degrees during the summer at Zion National Park which makes it difficult to hike. Luckily, it drops back down to between 54 and 83 degrees throughout September at Zion National Park which is much more pleasant. Spring is a great time to visit Zion as well because the temperatures are timid compared to the summer.

High temperatures fluctuate between 58 and 78 degrees during the spring at Zion National Park. The only downside to visiting Zion during the spring is that it can get as cool as 36 degrees on some days.

How Many Days Do You Need in Zion National Park?

You need between 3 and 5 days or more in Zion National Park to get the full experience. Zion National Park is home to 113 trails that are impossible to cover in a short trip. Some of the trails, such as Angel’s Landing take over 3 hours for the average hiker depending on their experience.

You can enjoy a day trip to Zion National Park, but it is ideal to have at least 2 days to see as many trails as possible. Even simple trails such as Water Canyon take 1 and ½ hours, so you’d need a full day to experience 3 trails or more at Zion.

There are plenty of sights to see around Zion National Park that warrant an extra day or two on your vacation. For example, you can easily visit Bryce Canyon National Park and even the Grand Canyon from Zion National Park.

Other destinations like Lake Powell and Snow Canyon Park are worth the drive when you visit Zion. That is why it’s worth it to plan at least 1-2 extra days when you go to Zion National Park so that you can explore the fun destinations around it.

How Difficult Is It To Hike Zion National Park?

Zion National Park is easy to hike for beginners and families, but it varies based on the trails. Some trails, such as The Narrows and Angel’s Landing are too difficult for amateurs and families. That is why it’s important to get a map and research the trails before your trip to avoid problems.

Check out the Canyon Overlook Trail and Lower Emerald Pool Trail if you want an easy, family-friendly experience. Your hike will be much easier if you visit Zion National Park from 9:00-10:00 in the morning to avoid congested paths. Some of the trails at Zion National Park such as the Riverside Walk are handicap-accessible.

The Pa’rus Trail is rated as one of the best trails for families and beginners because it is easy and short. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks when you hike Zion National Park, especially if you visit during the summer.

Things To Do in Zion National Park

The Narrows and Canyon Overlook Trail are the most essential things to do in Zion National Park. If you rent a car, you can’t miss out on the Zion Mount Carmel Highway which is just as breathtaking as the hike itself.

You can also ride your bike through certain parts of Zion National Park which is among the most unique ways to experience the landscape. Experienced hikers will enjoy rock climbing at Zion National Park, but it’s not ideal for beginners.

Canyoneering is popular amongst returning visitors to Zion National Park because it can be somewhat difficult if you are unfamiliar. Take a guided tour through Zion if you want to learn as much about the area and soak in your surroundings on your trip.