.png)
Zion National Park is one of those places that instantly sweeps you into awe—massive sandstone cliffs, vibrant canyons, and adventures around every bend. But visiting with kids comes with its own set of challenges and joys. With some creative planning, Zion can be one of the most memorable family trips you’ll ever take.
Here’s how we made the most of our Zion experience—by ditching the shuttle, hitting some incredible hikes, and discovering hidden gems both inside and outside the park.
Getting Around: Why We Skipped the Shuttle
From spring through fall, Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles. Instead, visitors must use a shuttle system to access major trailheads. While the shuttle is reliable, it limits flexibility—something that’s key when traveling with kids. Click here to view the shuttle stops and schedule.
We decided to rent a tandem e-bike, and it turned out to be a total game changer. Not only could we move at our own pace, but we also got to enjoy the park in a way that felt adventurous and fun. One major perk: with the e-bike, you can cruise down the Pa’rus Trail, a scenic paved path that’s closed to both shuttles and cars. It winds along the Virgin River and is perfect for families—smooth, quiet, and incredibly beautiful.
This was hands-down one of the highlights of our trip. We loved the independence and excitement of biking through the canyon, and it allowed us to avoid the shuttle lines entirely.
Family-Friendly Hikes: Scout Lookout and More
One of our favorite hikes was up the West Rim Trail to Scout Lookout—a challenging but doable 4-mile round-trip hike (mostly uphill) that ends with incredible views over Zion Canyon. The trail can be access at the Grotto, which is stop #6 on the shuttle, and includes Walter’s Wiggles, a series of 21 steep switchbacks that are as iconic as they are tiring. This part of the trail will get your heart and thighs pumping as you gain an elevation of 250 feet over a relatively short distance. But reaching the top? Totally worth it.
At Scout Lookout, you’ll reach the start of the Angels Landing trail—famous for its narrow ridge and chains bolted into the rock. This adds an additional 1 mile round trip to the hike. You can apply for a permit to continue on, but we opted out of this portion. With steep drop-offs and serious exposure, it’s not recommended for young children or inexperienced hikers, and honestly, Scout Lookout offered more than enough reward.
A Ride on Horseback: Virgin River Trail
To mix things up, we booked a horseback riding trip along the Virgin River—an activity that felt straight out of a western movie. It’s a peaceful, guided ride that gives you a whole new perspective on the landscape. You can book it directly through the National Park’s official site. It was a hit with both the adults and kids, and a nice change from hiking.
Canyon Overlook Trail: Sunrise Worth the Early Wake-Up
We also made it to the Canyon Overlook Trail at sunrise. It’s a relatively short trail with massive payoff—stunning views bathed in morning light. But take note: the drive to the trailhead involves sharp turns and limited parking, so you’ll want to arrive early. There are also steep drop-offs, making this trail more suitable for older children or very closely supervised younger ones.
Other Notable Hikes and Considerations
Watchman Trail: A moderate hike with great views, perfect for families.
Emerald Pools: Popular for good reason. The lower pools are great for kids, while upper pools involve more elevation.
The Narrows: One of Zion’s most iconic hikes, where you walk through the Virgin River between towering canyon walls. However, be aware that spring runoff from snowmelt often closes this trail due to flash flood risk. Always check current trail conditions before heading out.
Exploring Kolob Canyons: Zion’s Hidden Gem
If you have time, don’t miss the Kolob Canyons section of Zion. It’s located about 40 minutes from the main canyon and offers a quieter, less crowded experience. The scenic drive is absolutely beautiful, and there are several short, kid-friendly hikes along the way.
We especially loved the Timber Creek Overlook—a short trail with panoramic views that feel much bigger than the effort it takes to get there. It’s a peaceful way to experience Zion’s grandeur without the crowds.
Refueling & Relaxing: Springdale Eats and Shops
After a full day of hiking and biking, Springdale, the town just outside the park entrance, is a perfect spot to wind down. It’s packed with great restaurants and cute local shops.
I highly recommend:
Oscar’s Café – Great for breakfast or a post-hike burger.
Bit & Spur – Delicious Southwestern food in a relaxed setting.
There’s also plenty of shopping, from outdoor gear and souvenirs to local art and handmade goods—great for browsing with the kids or picking up something unique to remember your trip by.
Final Thoughts
Zion with kids is 100% worth the planning. Whether you’re biking down quiet trails, gazing over the canyon from Scout Lookout, or horseback riding by the river, there’s no shortage of adventure. Just remember to tailor your activities to your kids’ ages and energy levels, check trail conditions in advance, and embrace the magic of Zion—on your own terms.
With its mix of iconic sights and hidden treasures, Zion is more than just a national park—it’s a family memory waiting to be made.
