Updated Guidelines for COVID-19 in Zion National Park

The National Park Service at Zion recently updated their guidelines for visitors, employees, volunteers and partners. Health and safety is a top priority for the Park. The CDC has posted guidelines for the coronavirus pandemic which include social distancing. Recent Park visitation patterns have caused concern that CDC guidelines on social distancing are not being met in Zion.

Zion Remains Open

In light of these concerns, Zion National Park will remain open, however, it is of great importance that Park visitors follow CDC guidelines while here. The Park Service is asking that all visitors act responsibly during this time and do their part to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. This includes social distancing, which in this case means staying 6 feet away from others. Please consider visiting other, less-crowded areas of the Park. The West Rim Trail, Upper Emerald Pools and Riverside Walk are some of Zion’s busiest trails, but they’re not the only ones.

Alternative Recommendations

One of Zion’s busiest hikes, Angels Landing, was already closed due to safety and health concerns. But Zion has many other things to do and now is a great time to try something new and see the Park in a different light. Here are a few recommended alternative ideas for your trip to Zion.

• Stop for a picnic lunch at one of Zion’s community parks or on numerous roadside pullouts.
• Drive Zion’s scenic roads and enjoy the Park’s beauty from inside your car.
• Hike or bike the Zion Canyon scenic drive. This is a great way to see the Park, get some fresh air and keep your distance from other visitors. Remember to be safe as there is little to no shoulder on most of the road.
• Check out the Kolob Canyons side of Zion, just off Interstate-15.

Please be Mindful

Services in the Park are currently limited. The National Park Service urges visitors to:

• Pack out everything you bring into the Park.
• Maintain social distance from other visitors.
• Plan around busier hours.
• Park only in designated areas.
• If you encounter an overcrowded trailhead, please go elsewhere.
• Be courteous and kind to other visitors.

It’s important that we all do our part during the coronavirus outbreak. The National Park Service is closely monitoring COVID-19 with the federal, state, and local authorities. Most outdoor areas remain open to the public in accordance with the latest health guidance. Visitors are strongly encouraged to adhere to guidance from the CDC and state and local public health officials to protect each other, especially more vulnerable populations during this time. For more information, check with The National Park Service.