Cosmic Flow’s Guide to Zion National Park & Beyond - Expert Tips for the Best Southwest Trip
I was born and raised in the magical southwest desert of Utah, just minutes from Zion National Park. After spending decades exploring the area, these are a few of my favorite places to stay, eat, hike and more!
THINGS TO DO IN ZION
Cosmic Flow - Yoga + Meditation + Sound + Nature: Experience the yoga session of a lifetime surrounded by the majestic cliffs of Zion National Park. Far above and beyond your average yoga class, this experience is about so much more than stretching your body - it’s about stretching your heart, mind and soul. Book a session under the summer stars for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget.
Book a Photoshoot with Zion Canyon Light Photography: Whether you’re seeking to commemorate a special occasion like an engagement or a honeymoon, create a lasting record of your family’s vacation or capture the adventures of your friend group, don’t miss the opportunity to schedule a photoshoot with a professional photographer who can skillfully capture your favorite memories for you to cherish forever.
East Canyon Drive: Avoid the shuttle that is required to visit Zion’s main canyon and drive your own car up the lesser known, yet absolutely remarkable, east canyon - boasting stunning views and a mile long tunnel through the middle of Zion’s towering sandstone cliffs. Be sure to keep your eyes out for big horn sheep! From Springdale, just put “Checkerboard Mesa” into Google Maps and it will guide you on the drive!
Take e-bikes up Zion Canyon: The best way to see Zion Canyon! Avoid the crowded shuttles and enjoy the freedom of riding an e-bike instead!
Hikes in Zion
Canyon Overlook: This short trail takes you to one of Zion’s best overlooks. Drive up Zion’s east canyon and through the famous Mount-Carmel tunnel to reach this relatively easy hike with a huge reward at the end - just be prepared for crowds. Beautiful for sunrise. 1 mile. Easy.
Scout’s Lookout/Angel’s Landing: Arguably the most famous/infamous hike in Zion. Be sure to look into the permit process for Angel’s Landing before your trip but if you’re unable to get a permit to go all the way to the top, Scout’s Lookout does not require a permit and still takes you to an absolutely breathtaking view of the park. 3.4 miles to Scout’s Lookout. 4.8 miles to Angel’s Landing. Strenuous and exposed. Not recommended for children or those with a fear of heights.
The Narrows: One of Zion’s - and America’s - most iconic hikes. Ideal to escape the heat of the summertime, but be prepared for crowds unless you start very early in the day. Visit a local outfitter to rent proper gear that will make the experience a lot more comfortable. 5 miles to Temple of Sinawava. 9 Miles to Big Springs. Strenuous hike through water, but you can turn around whenever you like.
The Watchman: A lesser traveled hike with beautiful views right at the entrance to Zion. Great for sunset. 3 miles. Easy but exposed.
North Gates Peak: Located in the Kolob Terrace section of Zion, this easy trail is mostly surrounded by ponderosa forest until you reach the viewpoint at the end. It offers a lovely escape from the crowds of Zion Canyon and an incredibly scenic drive. 4 miles. Easy.
BIG ADVENTURES
White Pocket: Get a guide and take a trip to Mars. A full day adventure to a magical desert wonderland.
Lake Powell: Visit the awe-inspiring Lake Powell, located less than 3 hours from Zion National Park.
Grand Canyon National Park: Visit the most iconic desert landscape of all, The Grand Canyon. The North Rim is located less than 3 hours from Zion National Park!
NATIONAL PARKS
Zion National Park: Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is a breathtaking natural wonder known for its towering red rock cliffs, deep canyons and diverse wildlife. Home to iconic landmarks like Angels Landing and The Narrows, the park offers world-class hiking, rock climbing and scenic drives. Its unique geography, shaped by the Virgin River over millions of years, creates a striking contrast of lush greenery against rugged sandstone formations. With its stunning landscapes and abundant outdoor activities, Zion is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Bryce Canyon National Park: Located only a short drive from Zion, Bryce Canyon National Park is a stunning natural wonder known for its unique geological formations called hoodoos. These tall, spire-shaped rock structures, carved by millions of years of erosion, create a surreal and otherworldly landscape. Visitors to Bryce Canyon can explore a series of natural amphitheaters and canyons filled with these colorful, fantastical rock formations, which range in hue from vibrant reds and oranges to soft pinks and whites. The park offers a network of hiking trails that wind through the hoodoos, providing visitors with up-close views of the intricate geology. Bryce Canyon is also renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities due to its remote location and minimal light pollution.
Capitol Reef National Park: Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem in the heart of Utah's red rock country. Carved by the Waterpocket Fold, a dramatic wrinkle in the earth's crust, the park features towering cliffs, narrow canyons and unique geological formations. Hiking trails lead adventurers past petroglyphs and natural bridges, and if you’re up for a big 4WD adventure, you can explore the iconic Cathedral Valley, where towering sandstone monoliths rise from the desert floor. Capitol Reef offers a quieter but equally stunning alternative to Utah’s more well-known national parks.
Arches National Park: Arches National Park is a geological wonder located in Moab, Utah that is renowned for its remarkable concentration of natural stone arches. Carved over millions of years by the elements, the park's landscape is dotted with over 2,000 of these gravity-defying rock formations, ranging from the famous Delicate Arch to smaller, lesser-known arches hidden among the park's labyrinth of canyons and fins. Visitors can hike to panoramic viewpoints, wander through the surreal landscapes of the Devil's Garden and marvel at the park's diverse array of sandstone towers, pinnacles, and balanced rocks.
Canyonlands National Park: Canyonlands National Park is a vast and rugged landscape in southeastern Utah carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. Divided into distinct districts, the park showcases the power of erosion, with towering mesas, deep canyons and surreal rock formations dominating the horizon. The Island in the Sky district offers panoramic vistas of the park's sprawling canyons, while the Needles district features a maze of colorful rock spires and intricate rock art left by ancient Puebloan peoples. Adventurous visitors can explore the remote Maze district or raft through the class III-IV rapids of the Colorado River in the heart of the park.
STATE PARKS
Snow Canyon State Park: Carved by ancient lava flows and erosion, Snow Canyon State Park features a dramatic landscape of towering cliffs, volcanic cones, lava tubes and petrified sand dunes…. And it gets major bonus points for being dog-friendly! Please just remember to be responsible and keep your pups safe.
Gunlock State Park: Enjoy a hot summer day fishing or paddle boarding at Gunlock Reservoir. Catch it at the right time of year and you’ll be blessed with magical desert waterfalls from snow melt in the early spring. If you do choose to visit during waterfall season, please remember to use extreme caution. This force of nature is not something to mess around with.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN ZION
Open Sky: Open Sky offers serene, private and luxurious glamping just outside of Zion… Think luxury tents with heated floors, private decks, starlit desert skies and an amazing farm-to-table restaurant. It’s the perfect blend of rugged wilderness and refined comfort for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. (Located in Virgin, UT.)
Cliffrose Lodge: Sitting right on the banks of the Virgin River, just steps from the entrance of Zion National Park, Cliffrose Lodge makes an incredible base camp for exploring the canyon. With lush gardens and amenities like a spa and heated pool, it’s ideal for a laid-back stay after big days of hiking. (Located in Springdale, Utah.)
My Zion Vacation Rentals: Looking for a beautiful, big cabin for a family reunion or bachelorette party getaway? My Zion Vacation offers a variety of gorgeous accommodations in Orderville, Utah - a cute and quaint town on the east side of Zion.
Lazalu: Lazalu is a secluded, off-grid retreat on the quiet western edge of Zion - perfect for those craving solitude, wilderness and a real escape from the crowds. With just a couple of rustic-chic guest houses nestled among red rocks and quiet desert terrain, it’s especially suited for romantic getaways, small elopements or intimate group escapes under open skies.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN ZION
Black Sage: A local farm-to-table restaurant offering a delightful culinary experience. Reservation only. (Located in Virgin, UT.)
Desert Smoothie: A super cute food truck serving delicious smoothies on the way to Zion. (Located in Virgin, UT.)
Whiptail Grill: The Chili Relleno is truly a work of art. Don’t miss it. (Located in Springdale, UT.)
Bonrue Bakery: Stop by Bonrue Bakery on your way into the park to grab a selection of amazing pastries and a coffee to take along on your morning hike. (Located in Springdale, Hurricane & St. George, UT.)
Deep Creek Coffee: A great local coffee shop just outside of Zion National Park. (Located in Springdale, UT.)
River Rock Roasting Co: A bustling local coffee shop with epic views of the Virgin River. Try the Beetza Pizza or you’ll regret it! (Located in La Verkin, UT.)
Red Fort: Delicious, authentic and incredibly flavorful Indian food. (Located in La Verkin & St. George, UT.)
SPAS IN ZION
Five Petals Spa: Located just outside of the entrance to Zion National Park, Five Petals Spa offers a variety of spa services to help you balance out a trip full of long hiking days.
WEDDINGS & EVENTS
Wild at Heart | Officiant Services: Wild at Heart Officiant Services specializes in crafting personalized elopements and micro-weddings surrounded by Southern Utah’s iconic desert scenery. Angelee brings warmth, intention and a deep respect for each couple’s story, ensuring every ceremony is unforgettable.
The Wild Within Us | Planning & Photography: As a Zion local with over a decade of experience, Kate guides you every step of the way. From personalized planning to soulful elopement photography, she curates an experience that’s effortless, luxurious and rooted in meaning. You’ll feel held, seen, and completely at home in the wild.
Rising Moon Ranch | Event Space: Set on 23 acres of open desert, Rising Moon Ranch offers a dreamy, secluded backdrop for intimate weddings and events of all kinds near Zion. It has a Wild West vibe that includes starlit skies, wide-open views and a warm, rustic charm ideal for unforgettable gatherings. Located in Orderville, Utah.
The Springs Weddings and Events | Event Space: The Springs offers a beautiful indoor–outdoor wedding and event venue just minutes from Zion, surrounded by lovely mountain views. With flexible packages and onsite lodging, it’s a convenient and scenic event space for celebrations of any kind. Located in Toquerville, Utah.
GEAR
Zion Outdoor: What's more important than being prepared? When you immerse yourself into Zion's great outdoors, make sure you're ready for whatever the elements can throw your way. You can find everything you need for your big adventure at Zion Outdoor.
OUTFITTING
Zion Outfitter: Looking to rent gear for your Narrows hike? This is the place! Zion Outfitter offers all the equipment you need to make your Narrows hike easier and more enjoyable!
MOUNTAIN BIKES
Wild Mesa: Wild Mesa offers guided mountain bike trips to any group size, from the spontaneous solo traveler to families with kids and large groups. Every trip is customized and their guides can accommodate all skill and experience levels.
E-BIKES
Zion Peddler: Located feet from the entrance to Zion, this is the perfect place to rent e-bikes for a ride up Zion Canyon. Avoid the crowded shuttles and enjoy the freedom of an e-bike instead!
SHOPPING
Zion Prospector: Looking for a beautiful rock, gem, crystal, mineral or fossil to take home with you? Zion Prospector specializes in collecting, cutting and polishing many minerals from the beautiful state of Utah.