4-Day Ultimate Zion National Park December Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Explore

Springdale, UT

8:00AM

Breakfast at Oscar's Cafe

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast at Oscar's Cafe, famous for its mouthwatering Huevos Rancheros.
Head to Oscar's Cafe from your accommodations in Springdale, UT, a short walk away.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Springdale

Stroll through the charming town of Springdale, visiting local shops and galleries that showcase Utah's unique culture.
Walk or drive along Main Street; it's all within walking distance.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Zion Pizza & Noodle Co.

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Zion Pizza & Noodle Co., where you can indulge in a variety of pizza or pasta options.
Just a short drive or walk from downtown Springdale.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Zion National Park Visitor Center

Familiarize yourself with the park's layout and obtain important information on trails and activities.
Drive approximately 5 minutes to the park entrance.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Short Hike - Riverside Walk

Experience the stunning beauty of the Riverside Walk, an easy 2-mile round trip hike that offers breathtaking views along the Virgin River.
Access the trailhead from the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Spotted Dog Cafe

Relish seasonal, locally-sourced dishes at Spotted Dog Cafe, known for its excellent atmosphere and friendly service.
Just a short walk from your accommodation in Springdale.
USD30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Hiking and Scenic Views

Zion National Park

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a quick breakfast at your hotel or grab some coffee and pastries from a local bakery.
Enjoy breakfast in your accommodation.
USD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hike the Angels Landing

Challenge yourself with the famous Angels Landing hike for spectacular panoramic views of Zion Canyon.
Drive to the Grotto parking area, then follow the well-marked trail.
Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Grotto Picnic Area

Pack a lunch to enjoy at the Grotto picnic area—perfect for refreshing after your hike.
Grab your packed lunch and find a scenic spot at the Grotto.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Drive to Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

Take a scenic drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway and stop at scenic viewpoints for photographs.
Drive north on Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Red Rock Grill

End your day with a cozy dinner at Red Rock Grill, where you can enjoy hearty American fare with views of the canyon.
Located within Zion National Park, make sure to check the hours during December.
USD35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Chasing Waterfalls

Zion National Park

7:30AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Start your day with a filling breakfast at your hotel or local café.
Enjoy breakfast in your accommodation.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Weeping Rock

Take a short hike to Weeping Rock—this brief trail leads to a dripping rock alcove that offers a unique experience.
Catch the shuttle from the Visitor Center to Weeping Rock.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hike to the Lower Emerald Pool

Enjoy a leisurely hike to the Lower Emerald Pool, where you can soak in the shimmering waters and stunning views.
Take the trail from the Zion National Park shuttle stop.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Zion Lodge

Savor a delightful lunch at the Zion Lodge, known for its picturesque dining space amidst nature.
Simply walk over from Lower Emerald Pool trail.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Cottonwood Creek Trail

Hike along Cottonwood Creek Trail to experience the serene beauty of the park and potentially spot wildlife.
Follow the trailhead from the lodge.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Bit and Spur Restaurant

Unwind with southwestern-style cuisine at the Bit and Spur Restaurant, with its lively ambiance and creative dishes.
Located back in Springdale, easily accessed by car.
USD30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Scenic Views and Departure

Springdale, UT

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Bumbleberry Inn

Enjoy breakfast at Bumbleberry Inn, where you can indulge in their famous berry pancakes.
The inn is located within Springdale.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Moqui Cave Visit

Visit Moqui Cave, a unique attraction with geological displays, Native American art, and fossils.
Just a quick drive from Springdale; follow local directions.
USD10, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Last-minute shopping in Springdale

Take the opportunity to pick up last-minute souvenirs and gifts from local shops before departure.
Easily walkable from your accommodation in Springdale.
Varies, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Zion Canyon Brew Pub

Enjoy a casual lunch at Zion Canyon Brew Pub, known for its local craft beers and tasty pub food.
Just a short trip to the brewpub which is centrally located in Springdale.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Check out and Departure

Pack up your bags, enjoy a last walk around before checking out of your hotel and heading home.
Return to your hotel and check-out process.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability