where to stay near zion
Zion National Park, with its towering sandstone cliffs, emerald pools, and challenging hikes, is a bucket-list destination for outdoor enthusiasts. But planning your trip goes beyond just securing park entry – finding the right place to stay is crucial for a comfortable and memorable experience. This guide breaks down the best places to stay near Zion, catering to various budgets and preferences.
Choosing Your Basecamp: Understanding Zion’s Geography
Before diving into specific lodging options, it’s important to understand Zion’s layout. The park is primarily accessed through Springdale, a charming town located just outside the South Entrance. Staying in Springdale offers unparalleled convenience, with shuttle stops, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. Other options include towns further afield like Hurricane, La Verkin, and St. George, which offer more affordable rates but require a longer drive to the park.
Staying in Springdale: The Ultimate Convenience
Springdale is the most popular choice for visitors due to its proximity to the park entrance. Here’s a breakdown of lodging options within Springdale:
- Luxury Options:
- Cable Mountain Lodge: Cable Mountain Lodge – This lodge boasts spacious suites, some with kitchenettes, and is literally steps from the Zion shuttle stop. Expect premium amenities and stunning views.
- Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton: Cliffrose Springdale – A beautiful resort-style hotel with lush landscaping, a pool, and a restaurant. It’s a short walk to the park entrance.
- Mid-Range Options:
- Zion Lodge: Zion Lodge – Located inside Zion National Park, this is a unique experience. Book well in advance as it’s incredibly popular. Offers hotel rooms and cabins.
- Desert Pearl Inn: Desert Pearl Inn – A well-regarded inn with comfortable rooms, a pool, and a convenient location.
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park: SpringHill Suites – A reliable choice with spacious suites and complimentary breakfast.
- Budget-Friendly Options:
- Bumbleberry Inn: Bumbleberry Inn – A classic motel with a retro vibe and a popular restaurant serving, you guessed it, bumbleberry pie!
- Zion Canyon Lodge: Zion Canyon Lodge – Offers basic but clean rooms in a prime location.
Venturing Further: Towns Outside Springdale
If Springdale is booked or you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider these towns:
- Hurricane: Approximately 20-30 minutes from Zion’s South Entrance. Offers a wider range of hotels and vacation rentals at generally lower prices.
- Holiday Inn Express Hurricane Zion Park Area: Holiday Inn Express – A standard Holiday Inn Express with comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.
- La Verkin: About 15-20 minutes from Zion. Similar to Hurricane, it provides more affordable lodging options.
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham La Verkin at Zion Park: La Quinta Inn – A reliable budget-friendly option with a pool and free breakfast.
- St. George: Approximately 45-60 minutes from Zion. This larger city offers a wide variety of hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals, but the commute to the park is longer.
Camping: Immersing Yourself in Nature
For the adventurous, camping is a fantastic option.
- Zion National Park Campgrounds: South Campground and Watchman Campground are the two main campgrounds within the park. Reservations are essential and can be made up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov. Recreation.gov
- Private Campgrounds: Several private campgrounds are located near Springdale and Hurricane, offering amenities like showers and laundry facilities.
Comparison Table: Lodging Options at a Glance
| Feature | Springdale (Luxury) | Springdale (Mid-Range) | Hurricane | St. George | Zion Campgrounds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proximity to Park | Steps | Short Walk | 20-30 mins | 45-60 mins | Inside Park |
| Price Range | $$$$ | $$$ | $$ | $$ | $ |
| Amenities | Full Amenities, Views | Pool, Restaurant | Standard Hotel Amenities | Wide Range of Amenities | Basic (Fire Pit, Picnic Table) |
| Booking Difficulty | High | Moderate | Moderate | Easy | Very High (Reservations Essential) |
| Overall Experience | Premium, Convenient | Comfortable, Convenient | Budget-Friendly, Requires Drive | Budget-Friendly, Requires Drive | Immersive, Rustic |
(Price Range: $ = Under $100, $$ = $100-$200, $$$ = $200-$350, $$$$ = Over $350 per night)
Tips for Booking Your Stay
- Book Early: Zion is incredibly popular, especially during peak season (spring and fall). Book your lodging months in advance.
- Consider the Shuttle: If staying in Springdale, utilize the free Zion Canyon Shuttle to access the main hiking trails. Parking within the canyon is extremely limited.
- Check for Deals: Look for package deals or discounts offered by hotels and tour operators.
- Read Reviews: Before booking, read reviews from other travelers to get a sense of the hotel’s quality and service.
- Factor in Travel Time: If staying outside Springdale, account for the drive time to the park entrance, especially during peak season when traffic can be heavy.
Finding the perfect place to stay near Zion National Park is key to a successful trip. By considering your budget, desired level of convenience, and preferred amenities, you can ensure a comfortable and unforgettable experience exploring this natural wonder.
Sources:
- Zion National Park Official Website: https://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm
- Recreation.gov (for campground reservations): https://www.recreation.gov/
- Springdale Chamber of Commerce: https://www.springdale.org/
