Planning a trip to Zion National Park and wondering how to make the most of your visit? For my 40th birthday, I wanted an unforgettable adventure and invited my closest friends to join me on a guys trip that was equal parts challenging and fun. We flew into Las Vegas, drove just over two hours to Hurricane, Utah, and set up the perfect base for exploring Zion. From conquering the bucket-list Angels Landing hike to eBiking through the canyon and cooking dinners together at our Airbnb, this trip had the right mix of adrenaline, scenery, and downtime. If you’re visiting Zion for the first time—or planning a group adventure—this guide covers everything you need to know, from permits and where to stay to the best hikes, shuttles, and food options.

As I approached my 40th birthday I wanted to do something that I have never done before and create an unforgettable experience. I reached out to my best friends from High School to plan a trip and the group text blew up from there. We have already done the sporting events and long nights out partying so I wanted to do something different. After many different suggestions we finally landed going to Zion National Park and doing the Angels Landing Hike (I wanted to do something hard). Zion was the perfect destination since it is only 2 hours from Vegas which allowed us all to fly in and then have a little bit of a road trip.

We booked our AirBnB in Hurricane, UT (about 40 minutes from Zion) about 9 months before the trip. I applied for our Angels Landing permit about 2 months before the trip (apply for permit here) to guarantee us the opportunity to do the last and most dangerous section of the hike (you can also apply the day before). As we got closer we also started throwing out other options in the group's chat but wanted to maintain maximum flexibility during the trip so only had the Angels Landing hike booked.

This ended up being a perfect guys trip as it allowed everyone to be together as a group but also enough options for anyone to do their own thing. The highlights of the trip were: Angel’s Landing Hike, eBiking through Zion and stopping for hikes & cooking dinner each night at the AirBnB. Below is our travel guide, we definitely have the bug to visit more National Parks.

Your Guide to Zion National Park: From Las Vegas to Hurricane

This guide is designed for first-time visitor to Zion National Park, with a focus on flying into Las Vegas and staying in the nearby town of Hurricane, Utah.

Getting There: Flying into Las Vegas and Driving to Hurricane

The closest major international airport to Zion is Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada. From there, you'll embark on a scenic drive to your base in Hurricane, Utah.

Driving Time: The drive from Las Vegas to Hurricane is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, covering about 135-140 miles.
The Route: The most direct route is via I-15 North. It's a straightforward and well-maintained highway that offers stunning desert landscapes along the way.
Time Zone Change: Be aware that Utah is in the Mountain Time Zone, which is one hour ahead of Nevada (Pacific Time). So, if you leave Las Vegas at 10:00 AM, you'll arrive in Hurricane around 1:00 PM (local time).

Where to Stay: Hurricane, Utah

Hurricane is a fantastic choice for lodging. It's a quieter and more affordable alternative to the park-adjacent town of Springdale, and it provides a great base for exploring not only Zion but also other nearby attractions like Sand Hollow State Park.

Accommodation Options: You'll find a variety of hotels and rental properties in Hurricane.
Distance to Zion: Hurricane is about a 30-40 minute drive from the main entrance of Zion National Park.

Navigating Zion National Park: The Shuttle System & eBikes

During peak season (typically March through November), private vehicles are not allowed on the scenic drive in Zion Canyon. To access the main attractions and trailheads, you must use the free shuttle system or bike.

eBikes: You can bike on the drive in Zion Canyon and we found it was the best way to see the park. We rented from Outta Here eBikes, great customer service and easy access to the park.

Zion Canyon Shuttle: This is the primary shuttle that operates inside the park. It runs from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and makes nine stops along the scenic drive, providing access to all the major trails. Shuttles typically run every 10-15 minutes.
Springdale Shuttle: If you choose to park in Springdale, this free shuttle will take you from various stops in town directly to the park's pedestrian entrance, where you can then board the Zion Canyon Shuttle.

Pro-Tip: Parking at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center often fills up by 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM. Arriving early is essential if you want to snag a spot. Otherwise, plan to park in Springdale and take the town shuttle.

Must-Do Activities: A First-Timer's Itinerary

Zion offers a wide range of activities for all skill levels. Here are some top recommendations for your first visit:

Easy Hikes: These trails are great for all ages and offer incredible views without a strenuous climb.

Riverside Walk: This paved, 2.2-mile round-trip trail follows the Virgin River into the mouth of The Narrows. It's a beautiful, flat walk that offers a preview of the famous slot canyon.
Pa'rus Trail: Starting near the visitor center, this paved, 3.5-mile round-trip path is multi-use and offers stunning views of the canyon walls. It's the only trail in the park where leashed pets are allowed.

Moderate Hikes: For those looking for a bit more of a challenge.

Lower Emerald Pools Trail: This 1.2-mile round-trip hike leads to a tranquil oasis with a picturesque waterfall (seasonal). You can also extend the hike to the Upper Emerald Pools.
Canyon Overlook Trail: Located on Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (Route 9), this 1-mile round-trip trail offers a spectacular panoramic view of Zion Canyon. Parking is very limited at the trailhead.
The Watchman Trail: Starting from the visitor center, this 3.3-mile round-trip hike provides a steady climb to a viewpoint overlooking the iconic Watchman peak.

Famous & Strenuous Hikes:

Angels Landing: This is an iconic, but very challenging, hike with steep drop-offs and a chain-assisted final ascent. A permit is required via a lottery system to hike the chain section. Even without a permit, you can hike to Scout Lookout for amazing views.

The Narrows: A world-famous hike through the Virgin River. You can hike upriver from the Temple of Sinawava (no permit needed for a day hike) or do a longer, top-down hike that requires a permit. Be prepared to get wet!

Food/Drink Options

After a long day of hiking, you'll appreciate the diverse dining options in Hurricane.

Zion Canyon Brew Pub: Location right outside the park, offers great food & drink options. Along with great views!
Canyon Coffee: The perfect spot for your caffeine fix before or after you enter the park.
Rooster Run Cafe: A popular spot known for its delicious food, generous portions, and a country diner atmosphere.
Main Street Cafe: A family-owned restaurant with a passion for good food.
Zions Premium Meats: A great butcher shop to grab steaks or burgers to cook for dinner.

Zion National Park Travel Guide: Angels Landing, eBiking & A Guys Trip from Las Vegas