The Closest Towns & Cities to Zion National Park At A Glance
Springdale - 1 mile, 5 minute drive
Hurricane Valley - 25 miles, 30 minute drive
St. George - 40 miles, 45 minute drive
Kanab - 40 miles, 45 minute drive
Cedar City - 60 miles, 1 hour drive
Brian Head - 72 miles, 1 hour 20 minute drive
Parowan - 90 miles, 1 hour 30 minute drive
Las Vegas - 160 miles, 2.5 to 3 hours drive
Hurricane Valley - 25 miles, 30 minute drive
St. George - 40 miles, 45 minute drive
Kanab - 40 miles, 45 minute drive
Cedar City - 60 miles, 1 hour drive
Brian Head - 72 miles, 1 hour 20 minute drive
Parowan - 90 miles, 1 hour 30 minute drive
Las Vegas - 160 miles, 2.5 to 3 hours drive
What is the closest city to Zion National Park?
Springdale
The town of springdale in southern Utah is located at the southwestern entrance of Zion National Park. It is virtually adjacent to the park, making it an ideal base for visitors looking to explore Zion's stunning landscapes.
The town's proximity to the park entrance is one of its most significant features, as it is only about a mile away, allowing easy access to the park for hiking, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities.
Springdale has developed a reputation as a charming, picturesque town, with a main road lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, art galleries, grocery stores and lodging options ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to high-end hotels.
The town is perfectly situated for visitors who want to spend multiple days in Zion National Park, as it offers not only convenience but also a variety of services and amenities tailored to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and tourists.
Given its location at the gateway to Zion National Park, Springdale provides almost direct access to some of the park's most famous attractions, including the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the Zion Shuttle system (which operates seasonally to reduce traffic within the park), and trailheads for some of best hikes hikes like Upper Emerald Pools, Angels Landing and the Narrows.
The town's proximity to the park entrance is one of its most significant features, as it is only about a mile away, allowing easy access to the park for hiking, sightseeing, and other outdoor activities.
Springdale has developed a reputation as a charming, picturesque town, with a main road lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, art galleries, grocery stores and lodging options ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to high-end hotels.
The town is perfectly situated for visitors who want to spend multiple days in Zion National Park, as it offers not only convenience but also a variety of services and amenities tailored to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and tourists.
Given its location at the gateway to Zion National Park, Springdale provides almost direct access to some of the park's most famous attractions, including the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the Zion Shuttle system (which operates seasonally to reduce traffic within the park), and trailheads for some of best hikes hikes like Upper Emerald Pools, Angels Landing and the Narrows.
Springdale is an ideal place to get outfitted for adventure, serving as a gateway not just to Zion National Park but also to the myriad other parks, monuments, and recreation areas scattered across the western Colorado Plateau and the desert southwest.
Its unique combination of elevation, relative remoteness, and the dedicated dark sky preservation efforts by the local community make Springdale an excellent spot for stargazing. Here, away from the light pollution of larger cities, the night sky unveils its full glory, offering breathtaking views of the stars.
Springdale's unique setting, nestled in a valley with towering cliffs on either side, offers breathtaking views from virtually anywhere in town. This proximity to Zion National Park, combined with its own local charm and hospitality, makes Springdale the perfect place for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of southern Utah.
Best places to stay in Springdale
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St. George
St. George is a city located in the southwestern part of Utah, near the Utah-Arizona border. It is well known for its stunning natural landscapes, mild winter climate, and as a gateway to several national parks and recreational areas.
Zion National Park, one of the most famous and visited national parks in the United States, is notably close to St. George, making the city a popular base for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the park.
Zion National Park is approximately 40 miles (about 64 kilometers) northeast of St. George. The drive from St. George to Zion typically takes around an hour, depending on traffic and the specific starting point within St. George. This proximity allows for easy day trips to Zion National Park.
St. George itself offers a range of attractions and amenities, including golf courses, museums, and dining options. The city also serves as a hub for visiting other nearby natural attractions, including Bryce Canyon National Park, the Grand Canyon North Rim, and the many state parks and recreational areas including Snow Canyon State Park.
Zion National Park, one of the most famous and visited national parks in the United States, is notably close to St. George, making the city a popular base for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the park.
Zion National Park is approximately 40 miles (about 64 kilometers) northeast of St. George. The drive from St. George to Zion typically takes around an hour, depending on traffic and the specific starting point within St. George. This proximity allows for easy day trips to Zion National Park.
St. George itself offers a range of attractions and amenities, including golf courses, museums, and dining options. The city also serves as a hub for visiting other nearby natural attractions, including Bryce Canyon National Park, the Grand Canyon North Rim, and the many state parks and recreational areas including Snow Canyon State Park.
Places to stay in St George
Days Inn by Wyndham St. George
Hampton Inn & Suites St. George, UT
Staybridge Suites St George, an IHG Hotel
Hyatt Place St. George
Hampton Inn & Suites St. George, UT
Staybridge Suites St George, an IHG Hotel
Hyatt Place St. George
Click here to find more places to stay in St. George
What is the closest major city to Zion National Park?
Las Vegas
Las Vegas, Nevada, is relatively close to Zion National Park, making it a popular starting point for visitors looking to explore the park and the scenic landscapes of southern Utah.
The distance from Las Vegas to Zion National Park is approximately 160 miles (about 257 kilometers), with the drive typically taking around 2.5 to 3 hours via Interstate 15 North. This makes Zion National Park an accessible destination for a day trip or a longer stay for those visiting or residing in Las Vegas.
The route from Las Vegas to Zion offers a scenic drive through the desert landscapes of Nevada and into the stunning rock formations and canyons of southern Utah. The park's accessibility from Las Vegas adds to its appeal for tourists who are looking to experience one of America's most iconic national parks.
The distance from Las Vegas to Zion National Park is approximately 160 miles (about 257 kilometers), with the drive typically taking around 2.5 to 3 hours via Interstate 15 North. This makes Zion National Park an accessible destination for a day trip or a longer stay for those visiting or residing in Las Vegas.
The route from Las Vegas to Zion offers a scenic drive through the desert landscapes of Nevada and into the stunning rock formations and canyons of southern Utah. The park's accessibility from Las Vegas adds to its appeal for tourists who are looking to experience one of America's most iconic national parks.
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What airports do you fly into to go to Zion National Park?
The closest airport to Zion National Park is St. George Regional Airport (SGU). St. George, Utah, is a mere 50-minute short drive from Springdale. Although it is a small airport, St. George Airport has a selection of flights to US cities, including Dallas, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Denver, and Los Angeles and can be a great option for travelers connecting from international flights in these cities.
Other regional airports include Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC).
Las Vegas, the closest major airport, is roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes by car from Springdale, the entrance to Zion National Park. The city's international airport provides numerous flights with major US and international airlines to destinations across the US, Canada, and Europe.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is approximately 307 miles (about 494 kilometers) from Zion National Park. The drive typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions, via Interstate 15 South.
Rental car outlets are available at the airports in Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and St. George, providing the flexibility to pick up a vehicle at one location and return it at another.
Other regional airports include Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC).
Las Vegas, the closest major airport, is roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes by car from Springdale, the entrance to Zion National Park. The city's international airport provides numerous flights with major US and international airlines to destinations across the US, Canada, and Europe.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is approximately 307 miles (about 494 kilometers) from Zion National Park. The drive typically takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions, via Interstate 15 South.
Rental car outlets are available at the airports in Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and St. George, providing the flexibility to pick up a vehicle at one location and return it at another.
Other nearby towns and small cities close to Zion National Park
Hurricane Valley
Hurricane Valley refers to the area surrounding the city of Hurricane in southwestern Utah. It is part of Washington County and is known for its scenic landscapes, outdoor recreational activities, and proximity to several national and state parks.
It is located approximately 20 to 30 miles (about 32 to 48 kilometers) from the east entrance of Zion National Park, making it a convenient location for visitors planning to explore the park. The drive from Hurricane to Zion National Park takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific starting point within Hurricane or the surrounding valley.
Hurricane Valley is also close to other natural attractions, such as Sand Hollow State Park and Quail Creek State Park, both popular for their reservoirs that offer water sports and fishing, and it is a quieter option compared to busier places like Springdale near Zion National Park.
It is located approximately 20 to 30 miles (about 32 to 48 kilometers) from the east entrance of Zion National Park, making it a convenient location for visitors planning to explore the park. The drive from Hurricane to Zion National Park takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific starting point within Hurricane or the surrounding valley.
Hurricane Valley is also close to other natural attractions, such as Sand Hollow State Park and Quail Creek State Park, both popular for their reservoirs that offer water sports and fishing, and it is a quieter option compared to busier places like Springdale near Zion National Park.
Places to stay in Hurricane Valley
Kanab
Kanab is a small town located in southern Utah, situated within Kane County. It is well-known for its picturesque landscapes, historical significance, and as a hub for outdoor adventures, serving as a gateway to several major national parks and monuments.
Kanab is situated approximately 40 miles (about 64 kilometers) east of Zion National Park, making it relatively close and accessible for visitors looking to explore the park. The drive from Kanab to Zion National Park can take around an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions, offering a scenic route that showcases the diverse and stunning landscapes of southern Utah.
Kanab's location makes it not only a convenient base for visiting Zion National Park but also for exploring other nearby attractions, including Bryce Canyon National Park, the north rim of the Grand Canyon, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
In addition to its proximity to Zion and other natural wonders, Kanab offers access to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, canyoneering, and visiting unique natural features such as the Wave in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. The town hosts several events throughout the year, including the famous Western Legends Roundup, celebrating its western heritage.
Kanab is situated approximately 40 miles (about 64 kilometers) east of Zion National Park, making it relatively close and accessible for visitors looking to explore the park. The drive from Kanab to Zion National Park can take around an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions, offering a scenic route that showcases the diverse and stunning landscapes of southern Utah.
Kanab's location makes it not only a convenient base for visiting Zion National Park but also for exploring other nearby attractions, including Bryce Canyon National Park, the north rim of the Grand Canyon, and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
In addition to its proximity to Zion and other natural wonders, Kanab offers access to a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, canyoneering, and visiting unique natural features such as the Wave in the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. The town hosts several events throughout the year, including the famous Western Legends Roundup, celebrating its western heritage.
Places to stay in Kanab
Cedar City
Cedar City, Utah, is a vibrant community known as the "Gateway to National Parks" due to its close proximity to several of the United States' most scenic natural areas, including Zion National Park.
Located in Iron County, Cedar City is situated approximately 60 miles (about 97 kilometers) north of Zion National Park, making it a convenient base for visitors aiming to explore the park. The drive from Cedar City to Zion typically takes around an hour, offering a straightforward route to one of Utah's most iconic natural landscapes.
Cedar City itself is renowned for its cultural events, particularly the Utah Shakespeare Festival, which draws thousands of visitors annually with its performances of Shakespearean plays and other classic works.
In addition to its rich cultural scene, Cedar City is surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is close to the Dixie National Forest, Cedar Breaks National Monument, and Brian Head Resort, providing year-round activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
Cedar City offers a range of amenities, including a variety of lodging options, restaurants, and shops, catering to the needs of tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Located in Iron County, Cedar City is situated approximately 60 miles (about 97 kilometers) north of Zion National Park, making it a convenient base for visitors aiming to explore the park. The drive from Cedar City to Zion typically takes around an hour, offering a straightforward route to one of Utah's most iconic natural landscapes.
Cedar City itself is renowned for its cultural events, particularly the Utah Shakespeare Festival, which draws thousands of visitors annually with its performances of Shakespearean plays and other classic works.
In addition to its rich cultural scene, Cedar City is surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is close to the Dixie National Forest, Cedar Breaks National Monument, and Brian Head Resort, providing year-round activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
Cedar City offers a range of amenities, including a variety of lodging options, restaurants, and shops, catering to the needs of tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Places to stay in Cedar City
Brian Head
Brian Head is a small town and mountain resort located in southern Utah, known primarily for its ski resort, which is the highest elevation ski resort in Utah. It's situated in Iron County, near Cedar Breaks National Monument, and offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to mountain biking and hiking in the summer.
Brian Head is approximately 72 miles (about 116 kilometers) from Zion National Park, making it a feasible option for visitors looking to combine a trip to the park with other outdoor adventures. The drive from Brian Head to Zion National Park typically takes around 1.5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Besides its close proximity to Zion National Park, Brian Head's location also offers easy access to other nearby attractions. It's only a few miles from Cedar Breaks National Monument, known for its huge natural amphitheater and colorful rock formations.
The town is also within driving distance of Bryce Canyon National Park and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, making it an excellent base for exploring some of Utah's most beautiful landscapes.
Overall, Brian Head offers a unique combination of outdoor recreation, stunning natural beauty, and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier areas closer to Zion National Park.
Brian Head is approximately 72 miles (about 116 kilometers) from Zion National Park, making it a feasible option for visitors looking to combine a trip to the park with other outdoor adventures. The drive from Brian Head to Zion National Park typically takes around 1.5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Besides its close proximity to Zion National Park, Brian Head's location also offers easy access to other nearby attractions. It's only a few miles from Cedar Breaks National Monument, known for its huge natural amphitheater and colorful rock formations.
The town is also within driving distance of Bryce Canyon National Park and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, making it an excellent base for exploring some of Utah's most beautiful landscapes.
Overall, Brian Head offers a unique combination of outdoor recreation, stunning natural beauty, and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier areas closer to Zion National Park.
Places to stay in Brian Head
Parowan
Parowan, Utah, is a small city located in Iron County, known as "The Mother Town of Southern Utah" due to its history as the first pioneer settlement in the area.
Parowan is situated approximately 90 miles (about 145 kilometers) northwest of Zion National Park. This distance makes it a bit farther away from the park compared to other towns like Springdale or Hurricane, with a driving time of around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the park's main entrance.
Despite its distance, Parowan can still serve as a base for visitors looking to explore Zion National Park, especially those who also want to experience the broader region's natural and historical attractions.
The city's location offers convenient access to other outdoor recreational areas and scenic attractions beyond Zion National Park. It is close to Brian Head Resort, which is popular for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and mountain biking and hiking in the summer.
Parowan is also near Cedar Breaks National Monument, an amphitheater-shaped canyon known for its brilliant colors and ancient bristlecone pines.
While Parowan may not be the closest town to Zion National Park, its unique blend of historical significance, cultural attractions, and access to a variety of outdoor activities makes it an interesting destination for those looking to explore the wider region of southern Utah.
Parowan is situated approximately 90 miles (about 145 kilometers) northwest of Zion National Park. This distance makes it a bit farther away from the park compared to other towns like Springdale or Hurricane, with a driving time of around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the park's main entrance.
Despite its distance, Parowan can still serve as a base for visitors looking to explore Zion National Park, especially those who also want to experience the broader region's natural and historical attractions.
The city's location offers convenient access to other outdoor recreational areas and scenic attractions beyond Zion National Park. It is close to Brian Head Resort, which is popular for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and mountain biking and hiking in the summer.
Parowan is also near Cedar Breaks National Monument, an amphitheater-shaped canyon known for its brilliant colors and ancient bristlecone pines.
While Parowan may not be the closest town to Zion National Park, its unique blend of historical significance, cultural attractions, and access to a variety of outdoor activities makes it an interesting destination for those looking to explore the wider region of southern Utah.
Places to stay in Parowan
Why visit Zion National Park?
Zion National Park is a great place to include on your Utah road trip itinerary, offering some of the best things to see and do in the American Southwest.
As one of the most visited parks in the United States, Zion is renowned for its impressive sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and beautiful vistas. Some of the most iconic hikes in Zion National Park include Kolob Canyons, the Narrows, where hikers trek through a slot canyon with walls towering a thousand feet above, and Angels Landing, known for its stunning views and sheer drop-offs.
The park is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience its beauty in every season, though the best time to visit is during the spring and fall to avoid the peak season crowds.
For those wondering about the best way to explore the park, starting at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center is highly recommended. Here, you can speak with a park ranger, who can provide valuable insights, suggest trails, and help you plan your visit effectively.
As one of the most visited parks in the United States, Zion is renowned for its impressive sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and beautiful vistas. Some of the most iconic hikes in Zion National Park include Kolob Canyons, the Narrows, where hikers trek through a slot canyon with walls towering a thousand feet above, and Angels Landing, known for its stunning views and sheer drop-offs.
The park is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience its beauty in every season, though the best time to visit is during the spring and fall to avoid the peak season crowds.
For those wondering about the best way to explore the park, starting at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center is highly recommended. Here, you can speak with a park ranger, who can provide valuable insights, suggest trails, and help you plan your visit effectively.
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Rob is an experienced independent travel consultant and travel content creator.
His love for travel started as a child, playing travel agent with his grandparents using holiday brochures from the local travel agency. Fast forward over 40 years, and Rob has turned this passion into a career, dedicating his time to helping others plan their dream vacations. He says his happy place is in a cozy cabin by a lake in Oregon, sitting at the bar of a honky-tonk on Broadway in Nashville, or closer to home walking and cycling in the Peak District National Park. |