2 Day Zion National Park Itinerary: Best Way to Explore Zion in 48 Hours (2025 Guide)
A two-day trip to Zion National Park gives you the perfect amount of time to explore the park’s world-famous hikes, scenic viewpoints, and peaceful canyon areas without feeling rushed. With 48 hours, you can experience both of Zion’s legendary trails—Angels Landing and The Narrows—while also enjoying quieter spots, sunset viewpoints, and scenic drives that many one-day visitors miss.
This detailed 2-day Zion itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want a smart, efficient plan that hits all the park’s top highlights.
Why Two Days in Zion Is Ideal
Two days is the sweet spot for Zion. You have enough time to:
- Complete two major hikes (Angels Landing + The Narrows)
- Explore multiple scenic stops
- Enjoy sunrise and sunset views
- Hike moderate trails like Emerald Pools or Canyon Overlook
- Have time to relax and enjoy Springdale
Zion Basics at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Ideal Trip Length | 2–3 days |
| Best Months | March–May, Sept–Nov |
| Shuttle Required | Yes (most of the year) |
| Famous Hikes | Angels Landing, The Narrows |
| Best Sunrise Spot | Canyon Overlook Trail |
| Closest Town | Springdale, UT |
How to Reach Zion National Park
| Mode | Details |
|---|---|
| Closest Airport | Harry Reid International Airport (Las Vegas) – 170 miles, approx. 2.5 hours |
| Alternate Airport | St. George Regional Airport – 47 miles, approx. 1 hour |
| Taxi / Ride Services | Shuttle companies run between Las Vegas, St. George, and Springdale; Uber/Lyft limited directly to Zion |
| Bus Options | Salt Lake Express Bus to St. George, then shuttle or taxi to Springdale |
| Self-Drive | Easiest and fastest; park accessible via UT-9 |
| Car Rentals | Available at Las Vegas Airport, St. George Airport, and Springdale |
Day 1: The Heart of Zion Canyon
1. Start Early at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center (7:00 AM)
Your first day focuses on Zion Canyon—the park’s main, most visited area. Arrive early to beat crowds and catch the first wave of shuttles.
What to Bring Today
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 2+ liters of water | Angels Landing is exposed and strenuous |
| Snacks | Saves time during busy lunch hours |
| Permit (if required) | Required for Angels Landing chains section |
| Good hiking shoes | Trails are steep and rocky |
2. Hike Angels Landing (7:30 AM – 12:00 PM)
Angels Landing is Zion’s most iconic trail. If you have a permit, you can complete the chain section to the summit. If not, Scout Lookout offers spectacular views and is still a challenging hike.
Angels Landing Overview
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Distance | 5.4 miles round trip |
| Time Required | 4–5 hours |
| Permit Needed | Yes (for chains) |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Best For | Adventurous, experienced hikers |
If the chains section feels too intense, consider Observation Point (via East Mesa Trail) for equally grand canyon views.
3. Lunch at Zion Lodge (12:30–1:30 PM)
Eat at Red Rock Grill, Castle Dome Café, or enjoy your packed lunch on the shaded lawn.
4. Relaxing Afternoon: Emerald Pools Trail (1:30–3:00 PM)
A perfect midday hike—cooler, shaded, and scenic.
Emerald Pools Options
| Trail | Difficulty | Time Needed | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Emerald Pool | Easy | 45 min | Waterfall and grotto |
| Upper Emerald Pool | Moderate | 1.5 hrs | Big views and large pool |
| Kayenta Trail | Moderate | 1.5 hrs | Quiet, scenic alternative |
5. Explore Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (3:00–5:00 PM)
Use this time to explore the canyon via shuttle.
Great stops:
- Court of the Patriarchs
- Big Bend
- Temple of Sinawava
Afternoon is excellent for canyon photography.
6. Sunset on the Pa’rus Trail (5:00–6:30 PM)
This flat, paved riverside walk offers wide-open canyon views and is perfect for sunset on Day 1.
Day 2: The Narrows + East Zion
1. Morning: Hike The Narrows (7:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
Start early to beat crowds and enjoy the cool of the canyon.
The Narrows Overview
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Time Needed | 2–5 hours (short version) |
| Trail Type | River hike |
| Permit Needed | No (bottom-up) |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Notes | Always check flash flood warnings |
Even the first mile is stunning, and you can hike as far as you’re comfortable.
2. Lunch + Break in Springdale (12:30–2:00 PM)
Refuel at Oscar’s Café, Café Soleil, or Zion Pizza & Noodle Co.
3. Drive to the East Entrance via Zion–Mt. Carmel Highway (2:00–4:00 PM)
This route includes the historic Zion–Mt. Carmel Tunnel and opens to a landscape of slickrock, sandstone domes, and dramatic views.
Top stops:
- Checkerboard Mesa
- Slickrock viewpoints
- Multiple pullouts for short walks
4. Hike Canyon Overlook Trail (4:00–5:30 PM)
A short, rewarding trail ideal for afternoon or sunset.
Canyon Overlook Trail Overview
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Distance | 1 mile round trip |
| Difficulty | Easy–Moderate |
| Time Required | 45–60 minutes |
| Best Time | Sunset |
| View | Stunning overlook of Zion Canyon |
Optional Add-Ons for Day 2
- Riverside Walk
- Watchman Trail
- Kolob Canyons (quieter section of park)
- Pa’rus Trail biking
- Human History Museum
Best Time to Visit Zion for 2 Days
| Season | Conditions | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Wildflowers, ideal temps | Best overall experience |
| Summer | Hot, crowded | Longest daylight |
| Fall | Mild weather, fewer crowds | Great for hiking |
| Winter | Quiet, cool | Peaceful atmosphere |
Tips for a Smooth 2-Day Visit
- Stay in Springdale for quick park access.
- Bring more water than you expect.
- Wear proper hiking shoes—Zion is rocky.
- Start major hikes early.
- Check weather and flood warnings daily.
- Keep evening plans flexible based on sunset and conditions.
Month-by-Month Guide: What to Do in Zion National Park (January–December)
| Month | Weather Overview | Best Things to Do | Recommended Hikes | What to Avoid / Consider |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Cold, possible snow; 30–50°F | Photography, quiet sightseeing | Riverside Walk, Pa’rus Trail | Many trails icy; Angels Landing often dangerous |
| February | Cool, early spring feel | Wildlife viewing, peaceful hikes | Watchman Trail, Emerald Pools | The Narrows water very cold; bring dry gear |
| March | Mild temps; start of busy season | Early season hiking, canyon views | Canyon Overlook Trail | Shuttle system resumes (varies by year) |
| April | Perfect spring weather | Wildflower viewing, hiking | Angels Landing (permit), Emerald Pools | Crowds increase; book early |
| May | Warm but pleasant | Full trail access, The Narrows opens | The Narrows (bottom-up), West Rim | Flash floods possible during late storms |
| June | Hot days, clear skies | Early morning hikes, canyon shuttle | Angels Landing, Observation Point | Avoid midday heat; stay hydrated |
| July | Very hot; monsoon season | Riverside activities, short shaded hikes | Riverside Walk | Afternoon thunderstorms; flash flood risk |
| August | Hot + monsoon risk | The Narrows (water cools you), shady trails | The Narrows | Heavy flash flood danger; check forecasts |
| September | Cooler temps; fewer storms | Peak hiking season, scenic drives | Angels Landing, Canyon Overlook | Still busy—arrive early |
| October | Ideal weather + fall colors | Leaf-peeping, long hikes | West Rim, Watchman | Evenings turn chilly |
| November | Cool, quiet, pleasant days | Photography, moderate trails | Emerald Pools, Pa’rus Trail | Some higher trails icy |
| December | Cold, minimal crowds | Peaceful sightseeing, winter photos | Riverside Walk | Snow/ice on upper trails; short daylight hours |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is two days enough for Zion National Park?
Yes. Two days is ideal for exploring both major hikes and several additional scenic trails.
Do I need a permit for Angels Landing?
Yes, for the chain section. No permit is needed for Scout Lookout.
Can I drive inside Zion Canyon?
No, not during shuttle season. You must use the park shuttle.
Is The Narrows safe for beginners?
Yes, as long as flash flood risk is low.
Where should I stay?
Springdale is the best base with easy access and many food options.
Is this itinerary good for families?
Yes—simply swap Angels Landing for an easier option like Canyon Overlook or Riverside Walk.