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Zion National Park, 2.5 hours northeast of Las Vegas, is one of the five most-visited national parks in America — and for good reason. The Virgin River canyon, the 2,000-foot Navajo Sandstone walls, and the Narrows slot canyon are world-class landscapes accessible as a long day trip from Las Vegas.
The Route
Take I-15 North from Las Vegas, then Highway 9 through Hurricane and Springdale directly into Zion Canyon. GPS the south entrance of Zion National Park. The Springdale shuttle system runs from the south entrance into the main canyon — private vehicles are not permitted inside the main canyon in peak season.
Best Trails for a Day Trip
- The Narrows (lower section) — Wade up the Virgin River through 1,000-foot slot canyon walls. The most unique hike in the American Southwest. Knee-deep water, no technical skills required.
- Riverside Walk — 2 miles, paved, alongside the Virgin River to the Narrows entrance. Beautiful and accessible.
- Emerald Pools — 1–3 miles depending on how high you go. Waterfall-fed pools in the canyon.
- Angels Landing — NOT for summer days. Extreme heat on exposed rock in June/July.