How To Plan a Summer Trip To Zion: What’s New in 2025

Every time I have been to Zion National Park, adventures, stunning landscapes, and thrilling outdoor activities have made me make a promise to come back. 

A summer trip to Zion National Park is always special, and 2025 is no exception. In 2024, Zion National Park had 5 million visitors, the second-highest number among the country’s national parks. 

Furthermore, during the Memorial Day Weekend in 2024, 92000 people visited this national park. 

So, as we approach the Memorial Day Weekend in 2025 and the summer season in Zion is about to start in full swing, the park authorities have taken several measures. 

Also, there are a few changes and additions in the park attractions to make your summer trip to Zion more enjoyable.

Whether you’re into rock climbing, exploring the breathtaking views, or hiking in Zion National Park, you can be ready for a mesmerizing experience.

Also, don’t forget to consider accommodations like The Riv At Zion, which provides comfort and convenience near the park’s entrance. 

Moreover, this season, you can explore many features and additions in the park and in this Tour and Travel Guide, we are going to talk about them. 

A Summer Trip To Zion National Park: Know The Quick Facts Before Packing Your Bags

A Summer Trip To Zion National Park
  • Established: 1919
  • Area: 148,016 Acres
  • Elevation: 1117 to 2660 Meters
  • Standard Pass: $20-35
  • Pet Safety: The water of the Virgin River in the park has cyanotoxins and cyanobacteria. Cyanotoxins are very harmful to dogs and other pets. So, keep them on a leash during a summer visit to Zion National Park. 
  • Hours Open: 24/7 (All the facilities in the park have different opening and closing hours.)

Know About The Operating Hours Of Various Facilities In The Park 

Have a look at the table below to know the operation hours of the facilities in the park. The data here is updated on 7th May 2025. 

Park Facilities Hours Of Operation
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
Information Desk
8 AM to 5 PM
Zion Forever Park Store8 AM to 7 PM
Zion Canyon Wilderness Desk
Allow at least 20 minutes to get a permit
8 AM to 5 PM
Zion Human History Museum10 AM to 5 PM
Kolob Canyons Visitor Center8 AM to 12 PM and 1 PM to 5 PM

Furthemore, before planning your summer trip to Zion National Park, you must note that the Zion Nature Center Junior Ranger Station is closed for the season. The Kolob Canyons Wilderness Desk also remains closed. 

Moreover, oversized vehicles can pass through the Zion Mountain Carmel Tunnel between 8 AM and 4:30 PM. 

How To Reach Zion National Park And Where To Stay?

Zion National Park is situated in southwestern Utah, and the closest airport is St. George Regional Airport, about 50 miles away. 

You can rent a car or take a shuttle to the park from there. 

Furthemore, you can fly into Las Vegas, Nevada, or Salt Lake City, Utah, and enjoy a scenic drive to Zion.

Talking about accommodations, nearby resorts offer a blend of comfort and convenience, and they are just a short drive from the park entrance. 

Do you want your stay to be more adventurous? You can give the luxury hotels and resorts a miss and choose camping or staying in cozy log cabins. 

Exploring Zion National Park: Things To Do During A Summer Trip To Zion National Park

The first thing you can do is hike to Angels Landing. This is my favorite route for breathtaking views. Furthermore, the Narrows will allow you to wade through the Virgin River between steep canyon walls.

  • You can join a ranger-led hike, take a photography tour, or even try rock climbing with experienced guides. 
  • If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider scenic drives or shuttle tours to take in the beauty of Zion without strenuous effort. 
  • Additionally, the park has recently upgraded facilities and expanded shuttle services, making it easier to navigate its popular areas. 

What’s New In 2025? Your Summer Trip To Zion Will Now Be More Exciting

In 2025, Zion National Park unveils several exciting updates to enhance your visit.

  • Noteworthy upgrades include improved facilities and expanded shuttle services, making it easier to access popular park areas. 
  • New interactive exhibits at the Zion Human History Museum offer fresh insights into the park’s rich cultural and geological background, providing a more immersive experience for visitors.
  • Additionally, the park introduces a range of events and programs like stargazing and nature workshops to engage and educate visitors. 

Things You May Have To Face During A Summer Trip To Zion National Park

Considering the record number of visitors to Zion National Park in 2024, you must be ready to face the following situations during your summer trip to Zion National Park in 2025. 

  • Heavy traffic congestion in the Zion National Park, and especially in the Springdale Area
  • Temporary and intermittent closures of the vehicle entrance station in the east and south of the park
  • Long waiting time while boarding the shuttle from Zion Canyon and Springdale
  • Long queues at the visitor center, trailheads, and park entrances

Tips For A Successful Summer Trip To Zion National Park

Tips For A Successful Summer Trip To Zion National Park

To maximize your enjoyment in Zion, avoid peak times by visiting on weekdays or early mornings, especially during the summer. 

Spring in Zion National Park is beautiful, and the fall season also offers pleasant weather and fewer visitors, providing a more serene experience. 

1. Pack The Right Gear For Your Summer Trip To Zion National Park

    Make sure to pack the right gear for your activities. Sturdy hiking shoes, ample water, sun protection, and layered clothing for fluctuating temperatures are essential. 

    If you plan to hike, the Narrows, water shoes, and a walking stick will be necessary to navigate the riverbed. 

    A camera is also a must to capture the park’s stunning landscapes.

    2. Stay Hydrated And Stay Updated About The Weather During Your Summer Trip To Zion

      Stay hydrated and take breaks in shaded areas to avoid heat exhaustion. 

      Familiarize yourself with the park’s shuttle schedule and routes to streamline your travel within the park. 

      Keep a map handy and know your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

      Lastly, check for any trail updates or weather advisories from park rangers before heading out daily. 

      It’s The Right Time To Plan A Summer Trip To Zion National Park

      With the latest upgrades and new activities, there’s never been a better time to visit. 

      From exhilarating hikes to serene drives and educational programs, every moment in this remarkable national park will contribute to a memorable and fulfilling trip.

      Share on Social Media

      Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

      Leave a Reply

      Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

      title-img Related

      READ MORE adventure lagoon

      Best Things To Do In The Adventure Lagoon Waterpark In Anaheim 

      BY  Sibashree Oct 29, 2022

      Hey there! Are you a fan of adventure parks? How about water parks? If you’re excited by the idea of an adventure water park, then you’re in for a treat! Today, I’m diving into a review of the popular Adventure Lagoon Waterpark in sunny Anaheim, California.  If you’re ready for some fun under the sun, keep reading! I’ve got all the details you need to make the most of your visit to this awesome waterpark. Let’s jump right in!  Exploring The Adventure Lagoon Waterpark In Anaheim: Things To Do  Before you can find out all the crazy things to do in Adventure Lagoon Anaheim, check out the table below for all the details you need to know about this place!  Official Website theadventurelagoonRun By Orange County Water District (Brainchild Of David Wabiszewski) Location Anaheim, California Address 3255 E Miraloma Ave, Anaheim, CA 92806 Phone (714) 983-7314 Google Rating 4.2 Stars (110 Google Reviews) Opening Hours Monday – Friday: 4 pm – 9 pm | Saturday & Sunday: 12 pm – 9 pm Activities Aqua Park, Kaos, Thunderdome, Freefall Extreme, Freefall Supreme, Jungle Joe 2, Monkey Dome Other Activities Floating obstacle course, Paddleboarding, Pedal & bumper boats, Kayaks, Water volleyball Food & Beverage Food, Drinks, Treats, Retail  Now that you have a fair idea about the Adventure Lagoon water park, let’s check out specific details for more information, especially if you are planning to head out to this crazy location soon! Aqua Park: The best part of visiting the adventure lagoon in anaheim is there are so many activities that you can try out. If you want to know the best things to do in the Adventure Lagoon Waterpark in Anaheim, then you have come to the right place.  Check out the table below for details on all the fun activities you can check out here! ActivityDetailsAqua ParkThe park boasts a crystal-clear freshwater lake - the Aquaglide Ring Monsoon XXL sits on the top of this lake!KaosMove over conventional trampolines because it’s time for the unique bouncing dome to take charge.ThunderdomeFeaturing ten mesh panels and 32 mesh panels, Thunderdome is a massive and versatile arena.Freefall ExtremeA zero-entry slide featuring a 10 ft tall climbing wall in ladder style accompanied by a huge enclosed splash zone.Freefall SupremeA zero-entry slide featuring a mid-level loft, an internal splash zone, three external ladder walls, and a mesh shade. Jungle Joe 2The Jungle Joe 2 features pyramidal walls accompanied by internal mesh floors, splash Zones, and multi-level terraces.Monkey DomeMove over land-based monkey bars because the Monkey Dome provides visitors with the ultimate challenge of crossing the area without falling into the water. Other Activities: Absolutely! The Adventure Lagoon waterpark has so much to offer beyond just the Aqua Park. Why spend your time on anything else when you can dive into a world of fun activities? Take a look at the table below for an overview of all the exciting things you can experience during your visit!  What Is The Pricing Of All The Activities In The Adventure Lagoon?  If you're planning a visit to the park, everyone is required to pay general admission, no matter what activities you want to enjoy. Here’s a breakdown of the admission prices and offerings: For visitors aged 6 and up, the entry fee is $35 on weekdays (Monday to Thursday) and $40 on weekends (Friday to Sunday). This gets you all-day access to the lagoon.  If you're 65 or older, your admission is just $10.  Kids aged 3 to 5 can also enter for $10.  Children aged 0 to 2 can join in for free! If you're celebrating a special occasion, you might want to consider renting out the VIP or Birthday Section. It’s $150 on weekdays and $250 on weekends.  For some extra fun, you can try out activities like the Obstacle Course for $10, or rent equipment like paddle boards, kayaks, or aqua bikes, with prices starting at $10 to $15 per hour. And don't forget, the pedal boats in the Kids Zone are free for little ones aged 0 to 5. Enjoy your time at the park!  Rules You Must Follow For The Adventure Lagoon  Even though it is a great way to experience adventure and fun, you must be careful, especially when you visit the adventure lagoon. There are certain rules that you must follow to make your experience safe and sound.  You can bring life vests, and the Coast Guard will love you.  Additionally, please bring beach chairs, as they will make for a more comfortable experience.  You must not carry alcohol as they have a zero tolerance policy for that; hence, you will be removed from the premises, and you will not receive any refund. Outside food or drinks are not allowed, so it is better if you do not carry any outside products.  The flasks or water bottles are non-useable; hence, try to be careful when carrying these products.  You cannot smoke or vape in the parking lot.  Once you check out, you cannot re-enter the park.  You will not get any refunds, exchanges, or returns once you have obtained the entry tickets.  An important rule to maintain is that if you visit the amusement lagoon, you must have the basic capabilities of swimming.  All the sales that are made with credit card purchases must be carried with valid ID.  If you have children going with you at the Amusement lagoon, make sure they are 6 years old and above.  Things To Take With You: While the adventure lagoon Anaheim can have been ruling hearts with its crazy features and unique adventure activities, there are certain things that visitors can carry for the best experience.  Here’s what you must take with you if you are planning a trip to this adventurous waterpark!  Identification, Bathing Suit, Beach Towel, Hat, shirt, towels, Sunscreen, and Cash or Debit/Credit Cards. Visiting The Adventure Lagoon Waterpark In Anaheim: Tourist Reviews! Image Source: blogger.googleusercontent.com Exploring The Adventure Lagoon Waterpark in Anaheim can be a crazy experience. Still, at the same time, it’s always best to check some user reviews before you can visit the location.  Review By Melissa Hunter: 4/5 Stars “All my kids had THE BEST time! The obstacles are so much fun and lots to do. However, the extra $10 an hr is a bit much. I think you should pay admission and have access to it all day. Rules are not enforced…people brought food in their backpacks, and no one checked, so I’ll be bringing food next time. The water is a little Murky but not disgusting, in my opinion.” Review By Mary Flow: 5/5 Stars “I would definitely recommend this place. Super kid friendly. I love that they have a little Play water area for the toddlers. Workers are kind. Alejandra was really help anything. She was there to assist. Also, the party planner, Jennifer, coordinates our event for our son. She was kind and sweet as well as helpful, happy, and pleased. Everything was set up super nice spacious and clean.” Review By Nikita Wheaton: 1/4 Stars “Where do I start? Went here today for my nephews birthday and it was ok. Staff was nice, no issues there. The issues was they have all these rules online but when you go inside the rules are not enforced whatsoever. They said No outside food but people did. They have food trucks about 3 of them and it’s pricey. It’s like 90 degree weather and the food truck serves warm drinks. The obstacle course was fun but it’s very dangerous that’s why they have you sign waivers.” Review By Kristen Bromley: 3/5 Stars “The actual obstacle course is very fun.. it'll leave you with bruises.. but the water has little chunks of green stuff floating in it from the algae. Know that when you pay for the "basic part," you only get access to two little plastic baby slides and two volleyball courts. The bucket did not work when we went. Nothing else is included. Everything else is something you have to rent. The food truck is pricey but yummy.” Review By Mark Allen: 3/5 Stars “Lots of rules on the website but very relaxed on enforcement while we were there. When asked staff questions about the facility's amenities. We received answers of, "I don't know." But you do work here, right?? So we did make the best out of it, and the ten kids we brought enjoyed it.” Our Verdict: You Can Add The Adventure Lagoon Waterpark To Your Bucketlist If you are already googling ‘adventure lagoon anaheim address,’ then you are absolutely doing the right thing! This place has a fairly good rating, and moreover, visitors have mostly good things to say about this place! So what are you waiting for? Plan your weekend today and check out this water park as soon as possible. Meanwhile, don’t forget to let us know your thoughts about this waterpark and your experiences related to the same in the comments below. Raed Also: What Are The Unique Things To Do In Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic? Unique Things To Do In Tuscany: What Is A Must-See In Tuscany? The BEST Things To Do In Indiana Dunes National Park In 2025!

      READ MORE Surfing

      Beginners Guide To Surfing: What You Need To Know

      BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 27, 2022

      Surfing is one of the best ways to enjoy spending time in the sea. Learning how to surf may not be as easy as you may think. It will take some time, regular practice, and commitment to perfect your technique. So, you will need to know the basics first, learn how to keep yourself safe and dedicate your time to the waves. Learning how to surf can be fun. So, let's learn about the basics of surfing. What to Wear in the Water While Surfing? Before you hit the water, you need to choose the right wetsuit. There are plenty of wetsuits to choose from, in all shapes, sizing, for summer and winter use, for both cold water and warm water. First, think about where you want to surf – is it somewhere warm or cold? Then, think about how much money you want to spend on your wetsuit. Some wetsuits offer a lot of comforts, while others offer a lot of mobility. The thickness of the neoprene is crucial for a wetsuit. It affects the temperature, comfort, and flexibility of the wetsuit. Then you have various types of wetsuits – full suits, long john, top, bottom, and more. So, try to find the best wetsuit that suits your needs. Which Surfboard is Best Learning to Surf? Now that you have something to wear, which type of surfboard should you opt for in the beginning? Longer surfboards are recommended for beginners instead of opting for a shorter surfboard. Short surfboards may look cool, but they lack the volume and length for beginners to catch the waves without more advanced surfing skills. Longboards are easy to ride and paddle and can help you to learn how to ride the waves much easier. There are many surfboards that are shorter than 8ft in length. These surfboards can often be referred to by names like Mini Tanker, Funboard, Fish, Egg, Mini Mal, and Bonzer. Surfboards like these are easy to paddle into smaller waves and swells. How to Catch a Wave and Ride it Catching the wave and riding it is the goal of any surfer. There are seven basic steps that you can take to start. Here are the steps: 1. Practice popping up. You can do this on dry land or on the beach beforehand to develop your technique. Do this by pressing your hands into the ground or board beneath your chest. Try to do this swiftly until you can jump to your feet in one swift movement.            Consider Going Through: Top 10 Best Beaches In Florida For Families 2. In the water, paddle out to the lineup of incoming waves. 3. When you see the wave, you would like to catch, turn your surfboard around and point your board toward the shoreline. Lay down and start paddling to gain speed. Try to keep the tip of your board above the water, but not too high. 4. Look behind you to see where the wave is and continue paddling forward. Try to stay not too far in front of the water and not too far outside. Understanding where you need to be to catch a wave may take some time and regular practice to perfect your technique. 5. Keep looking forward and sense where the wave is. When you feel your momentum is increasing, it’s time to stand up. Use the technique you practiced on dry land to transition from laying to standing on the surfboard. 6. Hop in one motion and ride the wave. A moment of hesitation could disrupt your stability. When you manage to stand up on your board and start riding the wave, stay calm, look ahead and watch where your feet are. 7. Keep bending your knees and put more weight on your back foot. Use your arms to balance yourself. Now you are surfing. Final thoughts Training how to surf can be tiring during your first few times. Don't be surprised if you feel tired after the first few sessions. Surfing is a unique physical sport and requires a lot of energy for paddling and balancing the board. But with the right equipment and techniques, you will become a proficient surfer. Read Also: 10 Best Places To Travel In May – Travel Guide 2022 10 Best Places To Travel In April – Travel Guide 2022 10 Best Places To Travel In January – Travel Guide 2022

      READ MORE Packing Essentials For Your Next Adventure

      On The Go: Packing Essentials For Your Next Adventure

      BY  Ankita Nov 21, 2023

      For those who love venturing off the beaten path to experience the wonders that Mother Nature has to offer, your success and your safety in enjoying your next adventure will depend on the essentials you pack to carry with you. While enjoying the wind and sun or exploring a new destination can be exciting, gratifying, and even relaxing, these emotions can quickly turn into worry, fear, and exhaustion if you’re unprepared. Selecting what is essential to your well-being on the move can be challenging, whether planning a six-month, six-day, or six-hour adventure, mainly if you have limited packing space. Planning is the key to your success. Phone  It’s impossible nowadays to even think of going somewhere without your smartphone. You don’t want to leave home without yours. Consider including a universal travel adapter depending on your destination and acquiring a local SIM card to remain connected in the event of an emergency or if you want to enjoy a bit of entertainment while on the go. Portable Charger While a charger and power bank may be among your best options if you’ll be off the grid for a while, carrying an extra battery is one of the top tips to follow when adventuring. A spare battery can be beneficial, especially for your phone as well as a camera or laptop, if you bring these along. Lots of things can go wrong, and the unexpected is always to be expected. You may become lost, need help, contact your family, or request medical assistance, and your phone may be your only lifeline to civilization. Pack that extra battery. Maps If you travel to a remote location, a phone or the internet may not be viable tools. Include physical maps, a GPS device, or even a basic compass among your adventure essentials to keep you on track. Water And Snacks Snacks like nuts and seeds, granola bars, or chocolate, along with a variety of pop tart flavors, can help maintain energy levels, and hydration is essential to general health and well-being. Reusable water bottles or boxed water aid in preventing dehydration and protect the environment as well. If you are refilling your water bottle, include water disinfection tablets. Carry extra snacks if you are embarking on an active trip. First Aid Kit Traveling can be an exhilarating experience, but especially when selecting a natural destination, bumps, bruises, bites, and scrapes are to be expected. A fall, unwelcome insect, thorny vegetation, or an upset stomach can leave you miserable and, in some cases, susceptible to infection. A compact first aid kit with band-aids, gauze, tape, antiseptic cream or wipes, painkillers, antihistamine pills, eyewash, ibuprofen, a small pair of scissors, tweezers, hand sanitizer, and even some electrolyte tablets needs to be among your travel gear. Consider packing some bug spray, moisturizer, and sunscreen if the climate warrants them, and don’t forget prescription medicines and a copy of prescriptions, just in case. A pair of protective sunglasses and a hat will complete your protective gear. Eco-Friendly Essentials If traveling off the beaten path, consider bringing reusable items such as cutlery sets, plates, containers, and a reusable shopping bag. A portable knife or pocket multi-tool is an excellent item to carry. If you’re traveling by plane, place it in checked luggage. Use solid hygiene products like soap or shampoo that require less space in your backpack or suitcase and are environment-friendly. Don’t forget a towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, nail clippers, and glasses if you wear them. A small sewing kit with needles may prove handy, too. Toilet Paper Roll A toilet paper roll may not seem obvious, but depending on where you are headed, you’ll be happy you thought to bring a roll along. Some cultures will not use toilet paper; wilderness destinations can be challenging when nature calls. Add in some tissues and wet wipes if you don’t have a place to wash up. Flashlight/Torch A flashlight is an essential tool to always have on hand. You don’t want to wander about in the darkness in a location you are unfamiliar with, especially should you lose track of time or your way. Flashlight torches and headlamps will reduce the risk of getting lost as well as bodily harm because you’ll be able to see where you are heading. Bring along an extra set of batteries and a lighter or matches, just in case. Comfortable Shoes And Clothing If you plan on walking a lot or hiking, comfortable footwear can make or break your overall experience. Plan for local weather conditions as well. You may be better prepared with waterproof shoes or boots. Don’t forget the proper type of socks, especially in colder climates. Choose the correct type of clothing, such as swimwear, goggles, and flip-flops for a warm beach destination, breathable fabrics for the tropics,  or heavier clothing for winter climates. Waterproof instruments may be called for if you’re visiting rainy locations. You may want an extra blanket or two as well. Portable Shelter If the wilderness is your final destination, portable emergency shelters are suitable to carry along. Reflective thermal shelters can be packed or attached to your backpack. Don’t Forget Your Documents! Regardless of where you are headed, you’ll need your documents. Necessary papers might include a driver’s license, vehicle registration, proof of insurance, passport, and perhaps a visa. Carry photocopies of these documents in a separate location in the event of loss or theft. Prepare a mix of credit cards and local currency, as not all places may accept your plastic, and use a money belt or anti-theft bag if possible. Final Considerations Finally, bring a lock to keep your things safe during hostel visits or overnight train trips. If you use a backpack, have a rain cover so your items don’t become drenched in a downpour. Include a whistle among your packed essentials. You never know when you may need to call for help or fend off a critter! Read Also: A First-Hand Experience Of Taking A Red Eye Flight! The Ultimate Guide To Finding Cheap Flights To Chicago Using Google Flights Momondo Flights: Should You Try This Platform For Booking Flights In 2023?