Best of Zion: Coolest Summer Things to Do

Our Local Expert Says:

Beautiful and worth it

Description:

Ah, cool and lovely, these pools make a great trek. Consisting of Lower, Middle, and Upper, the Emerald Pools can get crowded, so consider an early start. Sheer drop-offs on the trail make it iffy if you suffer from vertigo or have little children. If you want shade and ease of access, stick to the Lower Pools trail. When to see the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools at their best: after a storm. Mind slippery edges and enjoy the cool gorgeousness of this signature hike.

Our Local Expert Says:

Showcases the most classic Zion scenery: intricately carved slot canyon, towering sandstone walls, nature's grand presence.

Description:

The most famous hike in Zion, the Narrows are world-famous for water, stunning gorgeous cliff walls, and the feeling of hiking deep in the belly of Mother Earth. The Virgin River carved a ridiculously narrow trench through the Navajo rock formations, creating what today beckons to fit adventurers. Bring your trekking poles, water shoes, and waterproof camera for this experience. Stepping into the cool, rocky pull of the Virgin River as you make your way upstream leads you into another world, far from the gaggles of people attracted to Zion every year. The Zion Narrows is an unforgettable hike, designed for permanent capture in breath-taking pictures. If you can hack it, don't miss it.

Our Local Expert Says:

A fairly simple hike for most people, from the very young to senior citizens. Shaded during the popular summer months.

Description:

It's cool, it's shaded, it's short, it's flat, it's gorgeous. What's not to like? Well, it can be a bit crowded, so pick your time of travel with care. Early mornings are always best, of course, although an evening stroll might also afford more solitude. Take the time to skirt off-trail and find a nice spot to sit by the river and contemplate the beauty, as well as the splashing coolness of the water. In wintertime, the trail can be iced over and closed due to safety concerns, so check at the visitor's center before attempting the Riverside Walk in questionable weather.

Description:

Along the trail, there are drop-offs a la Angels Landing that afford great views, if viewed from a safe distance! This is a wonderful summer hike, since it's sheltered from that crazy hot sun. Try to avoid winter or spring, because you'll be slogging through wet muck from snow or snow melt. The trick of this hike is to explore up-canyon when you reach the Hidden Canyon itself to find even more treasures...such as a sweet natural arch. Another bonus is that the further you explore, the fewer people you run into. Ahh....

Description:

Too hot for you during your visit? Head into the cool, dark recesses of the Zion Canyon Theatre and sit back for a mind-blowing experience as you watch a really big movie! Go ahead, bribe your kids with a cool afternoon option if they've been whining all day. It'll be fun and still educational if you catch the always-playing Treasure of the Gods, which is all about the Park itself. Tip: Check the website for specials and deals that might shave a buck or two off the ticket price.

Description:

A great mixture of live music graces the stage during Tanner Amphitheater's Twilight Series. Country, Rock, Jazz, Gospel, and other styles fill the night sky during the summer, with space for two thousand music devotees. There is not alcohol permitted on site, but there is a concession. Check out the website before planning a trip, and know that the lack of cover of the stage will mean weather delays if necessary.