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6-Day Itinerary for "Zion National Park, Least Packed Trails with Best Photography Views" in July 2023

  1. Day 1: Angels Landing
    15 minutes (6.4 miles) from Springdale

    Start your adventure with the strenuous hike to the iconic Angels Landing. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the breathtaking views of Zion Canyon. After lunch, explore the nearby Emerald Pools with its tranquil waterfalls and stunning landscapes. End the day with a scenic drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and watch the sunset at Checkerboard Mesa.

  2. Day 2: Observation Point and Weeping Rock
    10 minutes (4.5 miles) from Springdale

    Take the challenging hike to Observation Point and discover the panoramic view of Zion Canyon. Have a picnic lunch and continue to Weeping Rock, a natural amphitheater with hanging gardens and dripping springs. In the afternoon, cool off in the Virgin River and enjoy the lush scenery of Riverside Walk. Watch the stars at night in the quiet campgrounds of Zion National Park.

  3. Day 3: The Narrows
    20 minutes (9.2 miles) from Springdale

    Beat the heat with an early morning hike to The Narrows, one of Zion's most popular hikes. Wear proper gear and rent walking poles if needed, and be prepared to get wet as you hike through the cool waters of the Virgin River. Have lunch at the nearby Zion Lodge and explore the history and culture of the park at the Zion Human History Museum. End the day with a relaxing drive along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and watch the sunset at Canyon Overlook.

  4. Day 4: Kolob Canyons
    1 hour (36.9 miles) from Springdale

    Take a break from the crowds and head to the lesser-known Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park. Hike the Taylor Creek Trail, a secluded hike that takes you through a picturesque canyon with waterfalls and historical cabins. Have a picnic lunch at the Timber Creek Overlook and take in the views of the crimson canyons. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Kolob Arch, one of the world's largest freestanding natural arches. End the day with a scenic drive through the Kolob Terrace Road and watch the stars at night in the peaceful campgrounds of Kolob Canyons.

  5. Day 5: Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and Observation Point
    10 minutes (4.5 miles) from Springdale

    Embark on a scenic drive along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and stop at various viewpoints to capture the stunning landscapes of Zion Canyon. Take a break at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and watch the park's short film. In the afternoon, hike to Observation Point, this time from the east rim of the park, and witness the sweeping vistas of Zion Canyon. End the day with a delicious dinner at the Bit and Spur restaurant in Springdale.

  6. Day 6: Canyon Overlook Trail and Grafton Ghost Town
    10 minutes (6.4 miles) from Springdale

    Start the day with the easy and scenic hike to the Canyon Overlook Trail and capture the stunning views of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and Pine Creek Canyon. Have a picnic lunch at the nearby Smithsonian Butte and explore the nearby Grafton Ghost Town, a historical landmark with well-preserved buildings and artifacts from the pioneer era. In the evening, head back to Springdale and enjoy a refreshing drink at the Zion Brewery.

Recommendations

Aside from the national park, consider visiting the nearby Bryce Canyon National Park and Cedar Breaks National Monument for more stunning views of the Utah landscape. For a day trip, head to St. George and visit the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, Snow Canyon State Park, or the Tuacahn Amphitheater for live performances. For a unique experience, try the Zion Jeep Tours that take you off-road to explore the hidden gems of Zion National Park.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Angels Landing (5 hours, free)
  • Emerald Pools (2 hours, free)
  • Observation Point (6 hours, free)
  • Weeping Rock (1 hour, free)
  • The Narrows (8 hours, $15 shuttle fee)
  • Zion Lodge (1 hour, free)
  • Zion Human History Museum (1 hour, free)
  • Taylor Creek Trail (4 hours, free)
  • Kolob Arch (3 hours, free)
  • Bit and Spur restaurant ($20 - $30 per person)
  • Canyon Overlook Trail (2 hours, free)
  • Grafton Ghost Town (2 hours, free)

Total Estimated Costs: $35 - $45 (excluding lodging and transportation)

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

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