Why You Need to Visit
Zion National Park at Night
Zion National Park is a gem of an experience no matter the time of day you choose to explore it. By day, you’ll be able to experience the lovely geological formations and thrilling hikes in the sunny southern Utah weather. If you choose to visit the park after the sun goes down, you’re in for a wholly unique experience.
Here are some of the wonderful experiences you can have when you visit Zion at dusk.
Zion Stargazing Tours
In an incredibly plugged-in world, it’s becoming more difficult to get a glimpse of the cosmos. Sure, you might see some stars where you live, but if you want a full picture of the Milky Way, you need to seek out a remote area with little light pollution. Zion National Park and the surrounding area is one of the best places to do this.
A couple of places to stargaze are at the following places:
Pa'Rus trail at the Zion Canyon bridge
Grafton Ghost Town
Take Bridge Rd in Rockville and follow the signs to the ghost town of Grafton. There are no restrooms there and there is no electricity, therefore, there are no lights to contend with your stargazing.
Kolob Canyons off of I-15, Exit 40
Sit in the parking lot and watch the sun set off of the canyon walls and then enjoy the amazing stars on a clear night. In an incredibly plugged-in world, it’s becoming more difficult to get a glimpse of the cosmos. Sure, you might see some stars where you live, but if you want a full picture of the Milky Way, you need to seek out a remote area with little light pollution. Zion National Park is one of the best places to do this.
Zion Astrophotography
Zion is a picture-taking paradise. It’s not uncommon to see amateur photographers hiking with their favorite trails camera in tow. While photography during the day encompasses the red rock formations and vastness of the land below, the night brings the camera’s focus to the skies.
Are you a photographer looking to expand your portfolio? Do you just want to capture some excellent photos that you’ll never forget? Attending a nighttime photography workshop is a great way to do both.
You can rent equipment and don’t need to have a prominent background in photography to enjoy this excursion. Sign up and take some stunning pictures on your Zion vacation!
Watch the Sunset at Zion
The only thing that can make the attractions at Zion even more beautiful is a tinge of sunset. Arguably the trail with the best horizon view is the Canyon Overlook Trail.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1 mile
This is one of the most popular hikes in the park. It starts at the entrance to Zion and gradually ascends to a mountain peak where you’ll gaze at the sandy cliff sides from up above. It’s popular because it provides a great scenic experience without needing to delve too far into the park itself.
If you are aiming to see the sunset (or sunrise), then this is the trail to walk. Not only does it offer one of the best views, but it’s conveniently located and a short trail. This makes it perfect for spur-of-the-moment sunset sightings compared to other hikes that you would have to plan in advance.
Book with the Tyler Inn at Zion
If you’re staying up late looking at the stars, you’ll want somewhere conveniently located to crash after your magical excursion. The Tyler Inn at Zion is in Rockville, which is just a short drive from the entrance to Zion and many of the best night hikes and nighttime experiences. Book one of our rooms now.
