How to do Zion National Park in Winter, including the Narrows.
The red rocks with a skiff of white snow contrasting on top... it's like two opposite worlds coming together.
Everything you need to know to be prepared to explore this amazing park during the off season... which I HIGHLY recommend!
Why you should go in the off season:
Here at Leaving with Lenny we are ALL about travel in the off season! At Zion it remains pretty mild weather year round (well by Utah standards...) so you really can get all the same fun in the off season, which would be Winter. A few of the perks to Zion in the Winter:
Pro's:
In the Winter you can take your car all the way in, AND find parking. The shuttle system runs from President's Day weekend in February to mid November. When the shuttle is running they often shut down certain roads and only allow the Shuttle down the roads... meaning you have to plan your day around the Shuttle Schedule... and not your own!
Did I mention you CAN actually find a spot to park???
You can avoid the crazy heat of Southern Utah that starts as early as March/April!
The hikes are way less busy! You can take your time more and not worry about who is walking in front of or behind you
Better photo opportunities without the crowds in the way
Cons:
It gets cold at night. And there is Snow in some locations. This requires extra gear to be safe and prepared
Some of the restaurants and shops have weird limited hours or aren't open at all yet
Hikes:
We like to move FAST with our travels, so we did all we could in Zion in ONE day. We were able to hike The Narrows, The Canyon Overlook, and The Middle and Top Emerald Pools. Here are details on each hike we did:
The Narrows:
I know everyone gives Angels Landing all the Hype in Zion... BUT I think the Narrows should get more hype than it does! (Granted I haven't done Angels Landing.. yet) In the Winter the water levels in the Narrows are MUCH higher than in the summer. I am 5'6" and at some points the water was up to my stomach/very low chest, but these spots were more rare. On average it was between going over my ankles to the top of my thighs. Hopefully that helps draw a mental picture of the water depth. I personally wouldn't recommend bringing kids due to the water depth, and at some points the current can be strong! (In my opinion). You will absolutely need either a dry suit or high waders and boots. We rented our dry suits (which worked AMAZING) from Zion Adventure Company. They have rubber gaskets at the ankles, wrists, and neckline that seal the water out. Just remember these are to keep you dry, not warm, so dress in layers underneath. But, you also will be hiking, so not TOO warm. Find that happy medium! You also will absolutely need a walking stick, which they provide with your rental. They may feel silly but help with the slick rocks and current pushing your feet around. The Narrows is an out and back hike, so go as far as you feel and then turn around. Because we were in a hurry, we hiked about 2 hours in, and then turned around to do the 2 hours back out. It was gorgeous, and I cannot recommend it more!! Absolutely do it! The trailhead is at the very back of the park starting with a walking trail from the parking lot.
The Canyon Overlook:
If you want the CLASSIC Zion photo, or just a short hike, this is your go to. To get to the Canyon overlook you also have to drive up the Canyon Highway 9 (also called Mount Carmel Highway) which has the BEST views of the park, and goes through the famous Zion Tunnel. The Trailhead will be right after the tunnel. We had to park about a half mile up the road and then walk to the trailhead to start. This hike is about 1 mile in and out and very easy. You can take kids, but there are a few drop offs to watch out for. The top has the most stunning views! And there is a rail in one area to keep kids safe at the top.
The Middle and Top Emerald Pools:
There are 3 trails that are all interconnected for the Emerald Pools, We did all but the bottom one. The middle and top trail connect straight into one another, so it is very easy to do both! It is pretty steep at the beginning, but then levels out. Once you are at the top of the Middle trail, there are some rocks with a stream running through them, you can head up that way upstream and see some hidden views that not many people see! If you want to continue up to the top pools, just continue on straight. The frozen waterfall at the top was amazing!
Free Camping:
Dispersed camping is an awesome way to save money on this adventure!! Here are a few good options nearby that are legal to camp for free:
Sheep Bridge Road, also known as Hurricane Cliffs Camping area. There are about 50+ camp spots along four dirt spurs off the sheep bridge county road. There is a Maverick nearby as well if that helps your decision. This is where we camped.
You technically can camp within the park, but most of the organized camp sites charge you per night. You can camp off in the "wilderness" but make sure to research beforehand.
Smithsonian Butte Road: GPS 37.15154, -113.05902. 6.2 miles from the park entrance. This is right near the Ghost town of Grafton as well if you want to stop there! (listed below). You will need a high clearance vehicle and to camp at least 150 feet from the main road.
Other Nearby stops:
Grafton Ghost Town: This ghost town is small, but a classic place to visit! There is still a church/school, and a few houses abandoned there. There is also the Grafton Cemetery on the way if you're into that. In Rockville drive on UT 9, turn right onto Bridge Rd, take a right again at the intersection, then follow the signs to the Grafton ghost town.
Gear you better bring along:
Womens Hiking Columbia Boots:
Men's Columbia snow/hiking boots:
Bluu mount Camping stove Jetboil:
Windproof High Quality Lighter:
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