16 Amazing Things To Do In Zion National Park Besides Hiking
When most people think of Zion National Park, they picture themselves trekking through narrow slot canyons or scaling Angel’s Landing. But what if you’re not a big hiker, are traveling with small children, or just want a more relaxed visit? Don’t worry, there’s a whole other side to this Southern Utah masterpiece waiting to be discovered with lots of things to do in Zion National Park besides hiking.
Here’s the truth: Zion offers incredible experiences that don’t require lacing up hiking boots. From scenic drives with jaw-dropping views to cultural experiences that connect you with the park’s rich history, there’s plenty to discover without breaking a sweat.
Whether you’re traveling with family members who have mobility concerns, recovering from an injury, or just prefer a more relaxed pace, Zion offers many ways to enjoy its magnificent landscape beyond the trails. This guide will show you the best things to do in Zion National Park besides hiking, ensuring your trip is packed with memorable moments beyond the beaten path. Let’s explore the adventures that don’t require hiking boots.
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16 BEST Things To Do In Zion National Park Besides Hiking
Ready to explore Zion from a fresh perspective? Here are our top picks for non-hiking adventures that showcase the park’s stunning beauty and unique character.
1. Take a Scenic Drive Through Zion Canyon
One of the best ways to soak in the park’s grandeur is by taking the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This road winds through the main canyon, offering spectacular views of towering canyon walls and iconic rock formations.
From April through October, private vehicles aren’t allowed on this route, but the free shuttle system makes it even better. You can hop on and off at any of the nine stops, taking in views from Court of the Patriarchs, the Sentinel, and the Great White Throne from the comfort of paved viewpoints.
During the peak season (typically March through November), access to this road is restricted to the park’s free shuttle bus service. This is actually a blessing, as you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving or finding a parking space. The Zion Canyon Shuttle makes several stops at key viewpoints and trailheads, allowing you to hop on and off as you please.
When we visited Zion, we stayed at Bauer’s Canyon Ranch RV Park in Glendale, Utah. This let us enjoy the scenic drive from east to west each morning when we drove into the park.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Pro Tip: Grab a seat on the right side of the shuttle heading into the canyon for the best views.
2. Explore the Zion Human History Museum
Discover the fascinating stories of the people who have called Zion home for thousands of years. Located just past the south entrance near Springdale, the Zion Human History Museum features exhibits on Native American cultures, early Mormon settlers, and the park’s development.
The 22-minute orientation film, “Zion Canyon: Treasure of the Gods,” provides stunning aerial footage of the park and sets the stage for your visit. Interactive displays showcase ancient artifacts, pioneer tools, and geological specimens that bring the park’s past to life.
It’s a great place to gain a deeper appreciation for Zion’s rich past and provides a cool escape during the hot summer months.
Hours: Check the National Park Service website for current operating hours, as they vary by season.
Admission: Included with your park entrance fee.
3. Enjoy Stargazing at Night
Zion National Park has been designated an International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in the country for stargazing. Far from city lights, the night sky comes alive with a dazzling display of stars, planets, and the Milky Way.
On a clear, moonless night, the view is simply unforgettable. Find a dark spot away from the lights of Zion Lodge or the town of Springdale, lie back, and look up. Popular spots for stargazing include the Pa’rus Trail and any of the pullouts along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.
The park hosts astronomy programs during peak season, where rangers provide telescopes and share insights about the night sky. Even without a formal program, simply looking up from any viewpoint reveals a celestial display that’s increasingly rare in our light-polluted world.
Best Locations: Canyon Junction, the Watchman Campground area, or any of the main viewpoints after dark.
What to Bring: A red flashlight (to preserve night vision), warm layers, and a blanket or camping chair.
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4. Ride Horses at East Zion Checkerboard
Experience Zion the way early visitors did—on horseback. Experience the magic of Zion National Park like never before with the East Zion Checkerboard Evening Shadow Horseback Ride, where you’ll escape the crowds and discover breathtaking panoramic views from horseback.
This intimate small-group adventure (limited to eight riders) takes you along scenic trails away from the bustling park areas to a spectacular viewpoint, where you’ll witness the sky transform into brilliant shades of orange and red as the sun sets behind Zion’s majestic cliffs. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about the area’s unique landscapes and geological features, making this sunset horseback ride an unforgettable way to connect with the natural beauty of one of America’s most stunning national parks.
Reservations: Required. Book in advance.
Requirements: Riders must weigh less than 220 pounds. Not recommended for people with back problems or serious medical conditions.
➡️ Book your East Zion Checkerboard Evening Shadow Horseback Ride
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5. Visit the Zion Nature Center
Perfect for families with children, the Zion Nature Center offers hands-on educational programs during summer months. Kids can become Junior Rangers by completing activity books and attending ranger-led programs.
The center features interactive exhibits about Zion’s ecosystems, wildlife, and geology. Children can touch real animal pelts, examine fossils, and learn about the plants and creatures that call Zion home.
Location: South Campground
Operating Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day
Cost: Free with park admission
6. Photograph the Court of the Patriarchs
This iconic viewpoint offers one of Zion’s most photographed scenes without requiring any hiking. The Court of the Patriarchs features three towering peaks—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—rising dramatically above the canyon floor.
The short, accessible path from the shuttle stop to the viewpoint is paved and manageable for wheelchairs and strollers. Morning light illuminates the peaks beautifully, while afternoon shadows create dramatic contrast.
Photography Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to capture all three peaks. Visit during golden hour for warm, glowing light on the sandstone.
Alex Proimos from Sydney, Australia, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
7. Explore Kolob Canyons
For a less crowded but equally stunning experience, head to the Kolob Canyons section of the park. Located about a 40-mile drive north of the main canyon near Cedar City, this area has its own visitor center and a five-mile scenic drive. The five-mile scenic drive offers incredible views of the finger canyons and deep red rock formations. It’s a great spot for a picnic and some quiet contemplation away from the hustle and bustle of the main canyon.
To get to Kolob Canyons from Zion National Park, start by heading out of the park’s main entrance and drive west on Route 9 through Springdale. Continue until you reach La Verkin, where you’ll turn north onto Route 17. Follow this road until it merges with I-15 North. Stay on I-15 North for about 20 miles, and you will see a well-marked exit for the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center, where your adventure begins. Note that this route does not include Kolob Terrace Road, which leads to other areas of Zion but does not connect directly to Kolob Canyons. Enjoy the breathtaking views and unique landscapes that Kolob Canyons has to offer!
What Makes It Special: Far fewer crowds than the main canyon, with equally impressive scenery.
Accessibility: All viewpoints are reached via short walks from paved parking areas.
8. Attend a Ranger Program
Zion’s rangers offer free educational programs throughout the year, covering topics from geology and wildlife to photography and park history. These programs provide deeper insights into what makes Zion special.
Evening programs at the Zion Lodge and amphitheaters often include slide shows and talks that enhance your understanding of the park. Rangers are passionate educators who bring Zion’s stories to life through engaging presentations.
Schedule: Check the park newspaper or visitor center for current program times and topics.
Pro Tip: Arrive early for popular programs as seating is limited.
9. Relax at the Emerald Pools
While the Emerald Pools are typically accessed via hiking trails, you can still enjoy views of the waterfalls from various points along the shuttle route and from the Zion Lodge area. During spring runoff, the waterfalls are visible from the road and create beautiful photo opportunities.
The lower pool area is accessible via a paved trail that’s relatively short and gentle, making it one of the easier walking options in the park for those who want just a taste of the trail experience without committing to a full hike.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) when snowmelt creates the most dramatic waterfalls.
10. Shop and Dine at Zion Lodge
Built in the 1920s, Zion Lodge provides a historic setting for lunch or dinner with views of the canyon walls. The Red Rock Grill serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with outdoor seating that offers prime people-watching and scenery.
The lodge also features a gift shop with unique items, books about Zion, and locally made crafts. Simply sitting on the lodge’s expansive lawn with a coffee or snack makes for a peaceful afternoon.
Dining Tip: Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially during peak season.
Historic Feature: The original lodge burned down in 1966, but the current structure maintains the rustic charm of the original design.
11. Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
For those who prefer to explore in their private vehicles, the Zion Mount Carmel Highway is a must-do. This engineering marvel features 1.1 miles of tunnels carved through solid rock in the 1920s, and offers access to some of Zion’s most unique landscapes. This historic road connects the park’s south and east entrances, passing through dramatically different terrain.
Large windows in the tunnel provide brief glimpses of the canyon below. Beyond the tunnel, the landscape transitions to slickrock domes and white and cream-colored Navajo sandstone formations.
Along the way, you’ll see incredible landscapes, including the famous Checkerboard Mesa, a unique sandstone mountain with a distinctive cross-hatch pattern. There are numerous pullouts where you can stop for photos and admire the beautiful scenery.
Vehicle Restrictions: Large vehicles (over 11’4″ tall or 7’10” wide) require a tunnel permit and escort. Check with rangers for current requirements.
Notable Stops: The Canyon Overlook Trail parking area offers stunning views (though the trail itself involves some walking).
Grafton Ghost Town – inkknife_2000 CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
12. Visit Grafton Ghost Town
Just outside Zion near Rockville, Grafton Ghost Town preserves remnants of a 19th-century Mormon settlement. The weathered buildings and old cemetery provide a glimpse into pioneer life in southern Utah.
This historic site has been featured in several films, including “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” The scenic location, with the mountains as a backdrop, makes it a popular photography spot.
Location: About 20 minutes from Springdale via Rockville and Bridge Road
Cost: Donations appreciated for site preservation
Accessibility: Unpaved roads require a high-clearance vehicle; standard cars can access with caution.
13. Experience a Scenic Flight or Helicopter Tour
See Zion from a perspective few visitors experience—from the air. Several companies offer helicopter and small plane tours that provide bird’s-eye views of the canyon, surrounding plateaus, and geological formations.
These tours typically last 30-60 minutes and offer unforgettable views of Zion, the Kolob Canyons area, and sometimes even Bryce Canyon or the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
Booking: Reserve in advance, especially during peak season.
Cost: Tours typically range from $150-$300 per person depending on duration.
➡️ Book a 55 Mile – Helicopter Tour Around Zion National Park Tour
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Virgin River view from Pa’rus Trail in Zion National Park
14. Stroll Along the Pa’rus Trail
If you’re looking for an easy, paved walk, the Pa’rus Trail is the perfect choice. This is the only trail in Zion National Park that allows both pets (on a leash) and bicycles. The path follows the Virgin River from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to Canyon Junction. It’s a relatively flat, 3.5-mile roundtrip walk that offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding canyon walls. It’s a great way to experience the park’s beauty at a leisurely pace and is perfect for families, strollers, and wheelchair users. Keep an eye out for mule deer, which often graze near the river.
15. Go for a Scenic Bike Ride
Biking is a fantastic way to explore Zion Canyon. You can rent bikes in the nearby town of Springdale and ride along the Pa’rus Trail or, for a bigger adventure, the entire Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. While cars aren’t allowed on the scenic drive for much of the year, bikes are. This means you can pedal the road at your own pace, stopping wherever you like to take in the best views without being tied to the shuttle bus schedule. The park shuttle has bike racks, so you can even ride one way and take the shuttle back.
16. Enjoy the Riverside Walk
While often considered the gateway to the famous Narrows hike, the Riverside Walk is a destination in itself. This paved, 2.2-mile roundtrip trail starts at the last shuttle stop, the Temple of Sinawava. It’s a mostly flat and accessible path that follows the Virgin River deep into the canyon. You’ll be surrounded by hanging gardens, weeping walls, and the sounds of the river. It’s a short walk that offers a big reward with some of the best scenery in the park.
❤️ Couples Tip
For couples seeking a romantic experience in Zion National Park without the exertion of hiking, consider planning a delightful picnic by the Virgin River.
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll along the Pa’rus Trail, which offers stunning views of Zion’s iconic red rock cliffs. Afterward, find a serene spot by the river, spread out a cozy blanket, and indulge in a selection of local cheeses, fresh fruits, and a bottle of wine. As you savor your meal, let the soothing sounds of the flowing river set the ambiance, complemented by the breathtaking backdrop of towering canyons.
Conclude your day with a scenic drive along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive at sunset, where the changing hues of the sky paint a picture-perfect ending to your romantic adventure.
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Where To Stay Near Zion
Finding the right accommodation can make or break your Zion experience. Here are our top picks across different budget ranges, all conveniently located near the park.
Springdale, the gateway town to Zion, offers the most convenient access to the park entrance. You’ll find a range of accommodations from budget-friendly motels to upscale resorts, most within walking distance of restaurants and shops.
📍 Budget Option: Zion Canyon Campground & RV Resort
offers clean facilities with full hookups for RVs and tent sites. The property includes a pool, playground, and is just minutes from the park entrance. Perfect for families looking to save money while enjoying the outdoors.
📍 Mid-Range Option: Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites
provides comfortable rooms with stunning red rock views, complimentary breakfast, and a seasonal pool. Located in Springdale with free shuttle service to the park entrance, it offers great value for the location.
📍 Luxury Option: Cable Mountain Lodge
features boutique accommodations with private balconies, a heated pool, and sophisticated mountain decor. The on-site restaurant serves farm-to-table cuisine, and you can walk to the park entrance in about 10 minutes.
Explore more lodging options for Zion National Park with our interactive hotel map below:
Explore Top Zion Tours
Photography Tip
If you’re planning a visit to Zion National Park and can only bring one camera lens, I highly recommend opting for a versatile zoom lens, such as a 24-70mm f/2.8. This lens offers a great balance of wide-angle capabilities for capturing the stunning landscapes and dramatic vistas, while also allowing for some zoom to focus on interesting details in the rock formations and wildlife. Its fast aperture of f/2.8 is beneficial for shooting in varying light conditions, like the early morning or late evening when the park looks especially magical. With this lens, you’ll be well-equipped to document the diverse beauty of Zion National Park without the need to switch lenses.
Visiting Zion National Park: FAQs
Before you finalize your non-hiking Zion adventure, here are answers to the most common questions visitors ask about experiencing the park without hitting the trails.
Can you enjoy Zion without hiking?
Absolutely! Zion National Park offers numerous ways to experience its beauty without hiking. The scenic drive through Zion Canyon, viewpoints accessible by shuttle, the Zion Human History Museum, and ranger programs all provide incredible experiences without requiring any significant walking.
The park’s free shuttle system makes it easy to access the most stunning vistas from paved, accessible viewpoints. Many visitors with mobility concerns, young children, or those who simply prefer a more relaxed pace find that Zion’s non-hiking options provide a fulfilling park experience.
Do you have to walk a lot in Zion National Park?
The amount of walking required depends entirely on how you choose to experience the park. You can enjoy Zion with minimal walking by staying on the shuttle and viewing the canyon from your seat, then stepping off at viewpoints that are just steps from the bus stops.
Most major viewpoints are accessible via short, paved paths from shuttle stops or parking areas. If you’re comfortable with short walks on paved surfaces (think 100-300 feet), you’ll be able to access the best non-hiking viewpoints without difficulty.
Can you see the Narrows without hiking?
While you cannot reach the heart of the Narrows without hiking and wading through the Virgin River, you can see where the Narrows begins from the Temple of Sinawava shuttle stop. This paved area at the end of the scenic drive offers views of the towering canyon walls that define the Narrows.
The first section of the Riverside Walk (a paved trail) allows you to walk about a mile along the Virgin River with minimal elevation gain, getting progressively closer to whcaere the canyon walls narrow. While not the same as hiking through the Narrows itself, this provides a taste of the experience without committing to a full water hike.
Does it cost money to enter Zion National Park?
Yes, it costs money to enter Zion National Park. Visitors are required to purchase an entrance pass. The fees help support park maintenance, conservation efforts, and visitor services. The cost for a private vehicle pass is typically around $35, which is valid for seven consecutive days. Alternatively, individuals entering on foot or by bicycle can expect to pay approximately $20 per person, also valid for seven days. We recommend the annual National Park Pass especially if you plan to visit multiple National Parks within a year. Always check the official Zion National Park website for the most current pricing and pass options.
What other National Parks are close to Zion National Park?
Zion National Park is surrounded by several other notable national parks that nature enthusiasts may wish to explore. Bryce Canyon National Park is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive northeast of Zion and is renowned for its unique geological structures called hoodoos. Capitol Reef National Park is a bit further, about a 3 to 3.5-hour drive to the east, offering stunning sandstone formations and historical petroglyphs. Additionally, the Grand Canyon’s North Rim is roughly a 2.5-hour drive south of Zion, providing breathtaking views and extensive hiking opportunities. Travelers might also consider visiting Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, which are located farther east but offer spectacular landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Listen to our Introduction to Zion National Park Podcast
Get a sense of what to expect as we introduce you to Zion National Park on The Places Where We Go Podcast.
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Your Zion Adventure Awaits—No Hiking Boots Required
Zion National Park reveals its wonders in countless ways beyond hiking trails. From scenic drives that showcase towering sandstone cliffs to educational programs that illuminate the park’s rich history, you can create an unforgettable experience in the greater Zion area without taking a single step on a hiking trail.
Whether you’re watching the sunset paint the canyon walls in brilliant shades of orange and red, photographing the Court of the Patriarchs from an accessible viewpoint, or learning about ancient peoples at the Human History Museum, Zion offers depth and beauty for every type of visitor.
Your adventure in one of America’s most spectacular national parks doesn’t require hiking boots—just curiosity, a sense of wonder, and the willingness to see this magnificent landscape from a different perspective.
Ready to start planning? Check current park conditions, shuttle schedules, and program offerings on the National Park Service Zion website before your visit.
Thanks for reading our article about things to do in Zion National Park besides hiking. Happy travels!
Julie & Art
The Places Where We Go
Related Reading
Exploring Zion National Park – An Introduction for New Visitors
Two Day Itinerary For Zion National Park
Hiking The Narrows
Over 25 Amazing Things To Do Near Zion National Park
Zion vs. Bryce Canyon National Park Comparison
