Zion National Park officials are bracing for massive crowds, full parking lots, and long lines over the upcoming Memorial Day weekend.
The park saw a record-breaking five million visitors in 2025, with over 95,000 visits during the holiday weekend alone.
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Shuttle Service and Traffic Management
Updated seasonal shuttle hours began on May 17. Buses depart the Zion Canyon Visitor Center every 10 minutes starting at 7:00 a.
m. The final daily shuttle returns from the Temple of Sinawava at 8:15 p.
m.
Springdale town shuttles run from 8:00 a. m.
to 8:00 p. m.
No ticket or reservation is required for the shuttles.
Officials advise drivers not recreating inside the park to use alternative routes: Utah State Route 20, Utah State Route 14, or US-89/Arizona 389/Utah 59 to bypass delays.
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Parking lots are expected to fill early. Vehicles parked outside designated spaces risk ticketing or towing.
Fire Restrictions and Permits
Strict Stage 2 fire restrictions take effect on May 22, banning all open campfires and charcoal fires in campgrounds and picnic areas.
Hikers targeting Angels Landing must secure a permit one day in advance. Those entering the Narrows should check weather forecasts and water flow rates beforehand.
Visitor Guidelines
The Zion Nature Center will be open daily via the P'rus Trail from 12:00 p. m.
to 5:00 p. m.
starting Friday, May 22.
Park authorities urge visitors to pack out all trash to protect wildlife. They also recommend staying hydrated and using restrooms at trailheads before hiking.
