Zion National Park was Utah’s first national park, and it’s one of the best places to explore by campervan. Just 2.5 hours from Viva Las Vegas, it’s packed with incredible hiking, climbing, and canyoneering. We’ve put together a 3-day itinerary that covers the highlights, from hidden pools in the desert to towering Navajo sandstone walls and cliffside trails (Angel’s Landing!) that aren’t for the faint of heart.
After picking up your campervan, you’ll want to head to the grocery store for staples, snacks, and brews before the exciting weekend in Zion National Park. From there you’ll head north on I-15 toward Salt Lake City then UT-9 E to Zion.
Once you get to the park check out a desert oasis, the Emerald Pools. The trail follows along the Virgin River leading to 3 levels of pools. With lots of lush greenery that is a drastic contrast to the rock surroundings this 2-mile hike is easy and a great initiation into Zion National Park.
The Watchman Campground, the most popular in the park, has 200 sites that can be reserved up to 6 months in advance. It’s near the south park entrance and Visitor Center. No showers here, but they do have restrooms and drinking water.
Rise and shine early and head on a day hike to the Narrows! This stunning slot canyon carved by the Virgin River offers both hiking and canyoneering opportunities. If hiking from the bottom, after just 1 mile your hike goes aquatic and the Virgin River is the trail. I hope you don’t mind getting wet because you’ll treck through the water as you take in the towering, narrow walls of the gorge. This strenuous hike will excite all your senses!
After this hike, you deserve some grub and stars! The dark sky and dry climate of Zion National Park provide an excellent backdrop. Best viewing is typically 1.5 hours after sunset with the aid of a red light headlamp and beer in hand.
South Campground is the smaller campground in Zion just north of the Visitor Center. It is comparable to Watchman Campground with restrooms, drinking water, and fire grates. Luckily, sites can be reserved up to 2 weeks in advance.
If you’re up for a drive and experiencing real vanlife off the grip you can go west for free, dispersed camping off La Verkin Overlook Road. There are 10 sites on a dirt road that are surrounded by nothing but gorgeous scenic views. If you are looking for some solitude and privacy this will be your best bet closest to the main attractions of the park.
You’ll want to get moving early to head to Angels Landing! This is one of the most popular and recognizable hikes of the park, and although there might be more crowds here, the views are worth it. Mid-afternoon is the busiest time of day, so we recommend going early. This moderate 2.5-mile hike takes 3-6 hours. Though this is a paved trail, the last portion of the summit is not. It is exposed to a steep drop-off but accommodated with chain handrails. Angels Landing definitely takes you closer to heaven.
Take your time enjoying the afternoon drive back to Las Vegas to catch an unforgettable sunset – vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples blend together against the mountains with the contrasting Vegas lights. If you’re staying in Vegas you can do almost anything, at any time. Even if the city lights aren’t really your scene but you love to people-watch, the Strip is worth visiting.
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