Outside the park: Zion National Park

St. George, Springdale, Glendale, and Rockville are the main towns outside of Zion National Park. There are a variety of lodging, shopping and dining options in each one. Try dinner in St. George at the Painted Pony or in Springdale at Zion Pizza & Noodle. If you're feeling really adventuresome, head 30 miles southeast to the town of Hilldale and stop at the Merry Wives Café in to sample yummy food and and "alternative" lifestyle—it's run by polygamist wives.

Although not nearly as large as St. George, Springdale is the closest and offers the most readily accessible answers to your needs, including beer, gas, and sack lunches to take on a hike from such places as Oscar's Deli and Zion Park Gift & Deli. The Virgin River (which flows right through the Park), Dixie National Forest and Bryce Canyon National Park make for excellent day trips. If you head out the east entrance, go directly toward the Red Canyon natural area in the Dixie National Forest for some stellar mountain biking trails. The highway will then naturally lead you to Bryce Canyon National Park and yet more adventures.

Looking for upscale? Try the Red Mountain Spa & Resort in St. George to pamper your weary bones after hiking. Budget? Super 8 St. George might meet your needs. If golf is your must-do even while seeing Zion National Park, you're in luck! You can swing your way through a couple of rounds at Dixie Red Hills before you fly out of Las Vegas or Salt Lake City.

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