Be sure to pack plenty of snacks for your hiking adventures. Children tire quickly while hiking and will be more motivated to finish if you promise them their favorite treat. You should also consider bringing your own lunch, food options inside the park aren’t the best.
The Visitor Center offers free Junior Ranger booklets for visitors ages 4 and up. This activity booklet leads little nature explorers through Zion National Park in search of natural treasures. Upon completion, participants earn a Junior Ranger Badge. The program is tailored to different age groups. Allow several hours for older children to complete the entire program.
To avoid summer crowds, try to visit the park first thing in the morning or later in the day (about 1 ½ hours before sunset).
Going to Zion National Park in the winter versus the summer is a very different experience. Winter allows you to enjoy the park in the peace and quiet, but it can get chilly and there is less daylight. In the summer, children can play in the river but the park will be incredibly crowded. During that time of year, plan for traffic, large crowds and long lines to get on the shuttle.
Food in Springdale is a little expensive, save money by buying groceries in Hurricane or La Verkin for a picnic lunch.
Looking for easy Zion hikes for the whole family? This jam-packed day includes two family-friendly hikes. Kick off your day with an optional sunrise walk along the Pa’rus Trail that’s perfect for early risers. Then, hop on the park’s shuttle and take it to Temple of Sinawava, enjoying a scenic 40-minute ride along the way. Everyone can stretch their legs on the 2-mile (3.2-km) Riverside Walk Trail, which is relatively flat and easy for kids to handle. Once you’re finished hiking, grab the shuttle to the Zion Human History Museum and learn more about Zion National Park. End the day with dinner at Zion Canyon Brew Pub. It’s the perfect day in Zion National Park for kids hiking for the first time.