Planning a road trip from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon? This guide covers everything you need to know, from the best route and stops to travel tips and must-see sights.
Zion National Park and Grand Canyon National Park are two of the most popular national parks in the United States—and for good reason. Both offer unique landscapes and unforgettable experiences, making them must-visit destinations if you’re in the area.
Many people have both Zion and the Grand Canyon on their bucket lists and often visit them during the same trip. This brings up many questions: What is the best way to visit both parks? How can you travel from one to the other? What are the best places to stop along the way? How can you plan your trip to make the most of your time?
Whether you’re planning a one-day visit or a multi-day journey between Zion and the Grand Canyon, this guide has everything you need. We’ll cover the best routes, scenic stops, a quick overview of both parks, and recommendations for accommodations and dining. You’ll also find practical travel tips to make the journey between these two amazing destinations as smooth as possible.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about traveling from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon National Park—or vice versa.
How far is Zion National Park from Grand Canyon?
The distance between Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon South Rim on the shortest driving route is 249 miles (401 km). This drive usually takes about 4 hours 40 minutes by car.
We recommend a slightly longer route of 254 miles (409 km), which passes several attractions worth stopping for along the way. Without stops, the drive also takes around 4.5 to 5 hours.
There are other routes, but this one is the best option. It’s simple, relatively fast, and offers interesting stops, whether you have a little time or more time to explore places along the way.
Best route from Zion to Grand Canyon
The best route from Zion to the Grand Canyon South Rim is shown on the map, and we followed this route during our own Southwest road trip.
If you’re driving from Zion National Park to Grand Canyon Village, here’s what you need to know:
- Start at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and head northeast on Route 9.
- After crossing the Virgin River, you’ll enter the winding section known as Zion Park Blvd, which offers some of the most stunning scenery. Take your time to enjoy the views and snap plenty of photos. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and see landmarks like Pine Creek Gorge Slot Canyon and Pine Creek Canyon Overlook.
- A few miles later, you’ll reach the East Entrance Ranger Station, where you might need to show your park pass upon leaving.
- Continue on Route 9 for 13 more miles until you arrive at Mount Carmel Junction, where you’ll turn right onto Route 89.
- This road will take you through Kanab and Page, all the way to Cameron, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy beautiful viewpoints along the way.
- After Cameron, take the right exit at the roundabout onto Route 64.
- This road leads to Grand Canyon Village, following the Little Colorado River and the edge of the Grand Canyon. On Route 64, you’ll find several viewpoints worth visiting, including the Little Colorado River Gorge Overlook, Desert View Watchtower, and Grandview Point.
- As you continue, you’ll pass Pipe Creek Vista and reach a junction. Turn right, and shortly after, you’ll arrive at Grand Canyon Village.
- If you want to explore the western parts of the Grand Canyon, you’ll need to use the free shuttle buses. It’s best to park your car near the Bright Angel Lodge Shuttle Stop for convenient access to the shuttle system.
Best stops between Zion and Grand Canyon
Along the road between Zion and Grand Canyon National Park, or with a few short detours, there are some interesting spots worth stopping at.
The Wave
The Wave is a stunning and unique sandstone rock formation located in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, near the Arizona-Utah border. It is famous for its surreal, wave-like patterns and bright colors, making it one of the most photographed natural landmarks in the USA.
To visit The Wave, you need a special permit, which is very hard to get because the number of daily visitors is strictly limited. You must enter a lottery a few days before your planned visit, and there is a fee to apply. Unfortunately, getting a permit is not guaranteed.
If you are lucky enough to get a permit, the hike to The Wave is 6.4 miles (10.3 km) round trip and has challenging terrain, so good preparation is essential.
Visiting The Wave is a one-of-a-kind experience and well worth the effort.
Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a huge reservoir on the Colorado River, stretching across the Utah-Arizona border. It is known for its dramatic desert landscape, with red rock cliffs, canyons, and deep blue water.
One of the best viewpoints of Lake Powell is Alstrom Point, which we have written a separate article about. While this viewpoint is not easy to reach and requires a 4×4 vehicle or a guided tour, it is worth the effort because the view is absolutely breathtaking.
If you are looking for an easier spot to access, we recommend Lone Rock Beach, a popular place for camping along the lake’s shore.
Lake Powell is also a great place for water activities such as boating, kayaking, and jet skiing. There are plenty of options if you want to spend a few hours on the water, although prices can be quite high. The most well-known marinas are Wahweap Marina and Antelope Point Marina, both near Page.
It’s definitely worth spending some time exploring Lake Powell.
Glen Canyon Dam
The Glen Canyon Dam is a massive concrete dam on the Colorado River, located near Page, Arizona.
It was completed in the 1960s, creating Lake Powell to provide hydroelectric power and water storage for the region.
If you’re traveling on Highway 89, it’s worth stopping at the Carl Hayden Visitor Center, located right next to the dam. Here, you can find exhibits about the dam’s history, construction, and environmental impact.
This visitor center also offers the best viewpoint of the dam, making it a great place for a quick stop.
Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon, located in Page, Arizona, is about a 2.5-hour drive from both Zion and the Grand Canyon, making it a great choice for a day trip.
This famous slot canyon has two sections: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon. Our favorite is the Lower Antelope Canyon, but both are very popular and worth visiting.
A guided tour is required for both sections, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance.
Horseshoe Bend
The world-famous Horseshoe Bend is also located near Page, Arizona.
This iconic, horseshoe-shaped canyon is easy to reach with a one-time parking fee and a short walk along a dusty trail to the viewpoint.
It is one of the most photographed natural formations in the USA, making it a must-see if you’re in the area.
Don’t forget to bring a wide-angle camera, as the canyon is much bigger than it looks in photos.
Best places to visit in Zion National Park
Here’s a quick list of Zion’s best spots. Don’t miss these if you spend a day or two in Zion National Park:
1. Zion Canyon Visitor Center
Located near the park entrance, the Zion Visitor Center is the ideal starting point for your trip. Learn about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history, get hiking trail information, and explore the gift shop for souvenirs.
2. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
This scenic road takes you through the heart of Zion Canyon, with incredible views of towering red cliffs.
You can only travel this road by shuttle, so it’s best to leave your car at the Visitor Center. The shuttle takes you to many of the canyon’s popular hikes and viewpoints.
3. Best hikes in Zion Canyon
- The Narrows: One of Zion’s most iconic hikes, where you walk through the Virgin River between steep canyon walls. Starting at the Temple of Sinawava, this hike is an unforgettable experience.
- Angel’s Landing: A challenging but rewarding hike with panoramic views of Zion Canyon. Known for its steep switchbacks and narrow ridges, it’s a bucket-list trail for many visitors. Note: A permit is required!
- Emerald Pools: A relaxing trail leading to waterfalls and pools, with options for all skill levels. You can visit the Lower, Middle, or Upper Pools depending on your energy and time.
- Observation Point: Another top viewpoint offering panoramic views of Zion Canyon. However, due to the difficulty of the hike, we recommend it only for those in good physical condition. If you’re an experienced hiker, the breathtaking scenery makes the effort well worth it.
4. Pine Creek Canyon Overlook
Our favorite viewpoint of Zion is the Pine Creek Canyon Overlook, which you can reach via the Canyon Overlook Trail. In our experience, this spot offers the easiest way to enjoy the most stunning views of the canyon.
The Canyon Overlook Trail is a short and easy hike, just 0.3 miles (500 meters) from the nearest parking area. At the end of the trail, you’ll find yourself atop a rock ledge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Zion from hundreds of feet above.
Where to stay near Zion National Park
The closest towns to Zion National Park are Springdale and Rockville, and these are the best places to stay.
We think the best choice here is:
- Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites: A three-star hotel in Springdale, located among the stunning mountains near the park. It offers great views, excellent reviews, and many amenities. The downside is the higher price, but it’s one of the closest options to Zion Canyon.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider staying in nearby La Verkin, Hurricane, or St. George, all within a short drive of Zion National Park.
Accommodations worth considering:
- The Dwellings: Our personal choice for staying near Zion. Modern, three-star studio apartments in a peaceful setting, ideal for families or those looking for a quiet retreat.
- Wingate by Wyndham Hurricane Zion National Park: Another three-star hotel, often at a very good price. A budget-friendly option if you want to be a short drive from Zion.
You can also stay halfway between Zion and Bryce Canyon, which can be convenient for visiting both parks.
Here are our recommendations for accommodations between the two parks:
- Zion Mountain Ranch: Western-style cabins along Route 9, close to Zion. A practical choice for its location and a unique place to stay.
- The Riverside Ranch Motel and RV Park: An affordable motel along Route 89 in Hatch, closer to Bryce Canyon. It’s a simpler option, but worth considering for its price and location.
Best places to visit in Grand Canyon National Park
Just like Zion, Grand Canyon is also filled with amazing viewpoints and hiking trails. It’s worth spending a day or two here to explore the best spots.
1. Grand Canyon Visitor Center
The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is one of the best places to start your visit to Grand Canyon National Park. It is located in Grand Canyon Village and offers useful information about the park, including maps, trail guides, and exhibits about the canyon’s history and geology.
At the visitor center, you can watch a short film about the Grand Canyon, learn about different hiking trails, and check the shuttle bus schedules.
Just a short walk from the visitor center, you’ll find Mather Point, one of the most popular viewpoints of the Grand Canyon, offering stunning panoramic views.
If you plan to use the park’s free shuttle system, this is a good place to park your car before exploring the canyon.
2. Best viewpoints of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim
Some viewpoints can only be reached by shuttle (along Hermit Road):
- Bright Angel Trailhead
- Powell Point
- Hopi Point
- Mohave Point
- Pima Point
Viewpoints you can reach by car:
- Pipe Creek Vista
- Duck on a Rock Viewpoint
- Moran Point
- Lipan Point
- Desert View Watchtower
3. Grand Canyon Skywalk
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is in a more remote area, but if you have enough time in the region, it might be worth a visit.
It is almost a 4-hour drive from Grand Canyon Village but only about 2 hours from Las Vegas, located in Grand Canyon West.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that extends 70 feet over the rim of the Grand Canyon, offering incredible views of the canyon below.
Nearby, you can visit Eagle Point, which offers similar views for free, and a bit further, Guano Point, where you can see the Colorado River from a relatively close distance.
There is an entrance fee to access the Skywalk. Since tickets are not cheap (starting at over $50 per person), it is an option worth considering only if you are looking for extra activities in the area.
4. Grand Canyon North Rim
If you are traveling from Zion National Park to the Grand Canyon on Highway 89A, by turning onto State Route 67 at Jacob Lake, you can reach the Grand Canyon North Rim.
However, this road is usually open only from May to October and is closed during the colder months.
So if you’re traveling between May and October, it might be worth considering a detour to see the North Rim as well.
The most famous viewpoint is Bright Angel Point, which can be reached by a short half-mile (800-meter) hike from the nearest parking area.
The view is stunning, though it is quite similar to the South Rim’s scenery. Because of this, we only recommend the detour if you have plenty of time in the area.
Where to stay near Grand Canyon
For accommodation near the Grand Canyon South Rim, we recommend the following places, which are the closest to the canyon’s viewpoints:
- Holiday Inn Resort The Squire at Grand Canyon by IHG: One of the nearest hotel options, located in Tusayan, close to Grand Canyon Village. It is open year-round and offers relatively affordable stays.
- Under Canvas Grand Canyon: A unique glamping accommodation with stylish tents, located a short drive from the canyon in Grand Canyon Junction. It is only open during the warmer months and has excellent reviews.
Travel tips for the Zion to Grand Canyon road trip
Best time to visit Zion and Grand Canyon
The best time to visit Zion and Grand Canyon is during spring (April to May) and fall (September to October).
In spring, pleasant temperatures make hiking enjoyable, wildflowers may bloom, and Zion’s waterfalls are at their fullest. You can also enjoy longer days, giving you more time to explore. However, prices can be higher during this season.
Summer is less ideal due to the heat and crowds, so consider this only if no other time is possible.
Winter offers a peaceful experience with fewer visitors, but some places may be closed due to snow.
Overall, we recommend visiting Zion and Grand Canyon in spring or fall for the best experience.
Packing tips
If you’re planning to visit both canyons, consider bringing these items with you:
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Layered clothing to adjust to changing temperatures
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Plenty of water and snacks for the drive and hikes
- A camera or phone with a wide-angle lens for capturing scenic views
- A backpack to carry your essential items
- A paper map or offline navigation app for routes, as you may not have mobile internet in many areas.
Park passes
We recommend buying the America the Beautiful Pass (called Interagency Annual Pass on signs). It offers great value as it gives you access to most U.S. national parks for a year without additional entrance fees.
If you plan to visit both Zion and Grand Canyon, the pass is worth considering. The cost is similar to buying tickets for both parks separately, but with the pass, you get unlimited entry for a whole year.
The pass covers one car and its passengers, up to four adults.
You can buy it at park entrances, online in advance, or at designated locations.
If you don’t choose this option, you can still buy regular tickets just for the two parks. This might be a better choice if you’re not planning to visit other national parks included in the America the Beautiful Pass.
FAQs about the Zion National Park to Grand Canyon road trip
Which is better: Grand Canyon or Zion National Park?
Both parks offer an amazing experience, but they have different landscapes and atmospheres.
Zion National Park features vibrant red, orange, and green landscapes with rich wildlife and some of the most popular hiking trails in the USA. It feels a bit “softer” and more accessible, providing stunning scenery without necessarily being a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Grand Canyon, on the other hand, is America’s largest canyon and a world-famous landmark. It is a must-see for anyone visiting the USA, offering an unforgettable experience. However, most of its hiking trails are long, difficult, and require preparation. For most visitors, a trip to the Grand Canyon involves exploring viewpoints, which often provide similar views from different angles.
If we had to choose, here’s what we’d consider:
- If you are a first-time visitor to the USA or rarely visit, choose the Grand Canyon because it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- If you have more time in the area, love hiking or prefer a more relaxed destination, Zion National Park is a great choice.
Overall, both parks are incredible and offer unique experiences. If possible, visit both!
Is there a scenic drive between Zion and Grand Canyon?
Yes, the drive between the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park is incredibly scenic. You can expect stunning red rock landscapes with unique rock formations, and in some areas, views of the Colorado River and Little Colorado River.
As mentioned earlier, there are many interesting places to stop along the way, such as Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend, which make the journey even more enjoyable.
Although the drive between the two national parks is a bit long, it is absolutely worth it.
Which place is the best to visit along the way?
We recommend Horseshoe Bend for the best balance of time and experience.
It is easy to reach from the main road, requires only a short walk, and is not too expensive. The view is stunning, and it does not take much time. You only need to stop for 1-2 hours to explore it.
What other places are worth visiting on a longer road trip?
If you are planning a Southwest USA itinerary or a Utah-Arizona-Nevada road trip, we recommend visiting the following places in addition to those mentioned earlier:
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Capitol Reef National Park
- Painted Hills
- Arches National Park
- Canyonlands National Park
- Salt Lake City
- Monument Valley
- Las Vegas
- Valley of Fire State Park
These are just a few of the top spots to add to your list if you’re planning a bigger adventure in the area.
Conclusion
Whether you’re planning a short visit or an extended road trip, the journey between Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon National Park is an unforgettable experience. It is full of beautiful landscapes, great stops, amazing hikes, and interesting landmarks.
Both Zion and the Grand Canyon are special in their own way. Zion has stunning hikes and green canyon views, while the Grand Canyon offers huge, breathtaking views and famous lookout points.
If you can, visiting both is the best way to enjoy the beautiful nature of the Southwest.
We hope this guide helps you plan your trip from Zion to the Grand Canyon. No matter which way you go or how much time you have, you will make great memories on this journey. Enjoy your trip!
