Massive Memorial Day weekend crowds expected to slam Zion National Park
As summer and Memorial Day approach, the National Park Service is warning visitors to plan for massive crowds if you're visiting one of the hundreds of the nation's national parks.
Zion National Park: Home to tallest sandstone cliffs in the world
Utah's Zion National Park boasts over 100 miles of hiking trails and towering rock formations that can reach 3,000 feet in height. FOX Weather's Robert Ray takes us on a tour as we celebrate National Parks Week.
SPRINGDALE, Utah—The warm weather is finally upon us, and with it comes the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors with friends and family.
As summer and Memorial Day approach, the National Park Service is warning visitors to plan for massive crowds if you're visiting one of the hundreds of the nation's national parks.
For example, according to the NPS, nearly 5 million people visited Zion National Park in 2024 – over 92,000 of those during Memorial Day weekend. So it’s safe to say that visitors should plan ahead of time.
Lines and crowding at the Temple of Sinawava during Memorial Day Weekend 2022.
(Jonathan Shafer / NPS)
The NPS says to expect long lines at entrance stations and shuttle buses, and brace for heavy traffic from Springdale throughout Zion National Park. The summer shuttle bus schedule and visitor hours will be expanded beginning May 18 ahead of the busy season.
Areas such as the Zion Nature Center will be open just in time for the holiday weekend. The NPS states that the center features interactive exhibits and ranger-led activities ideal for families with small children.
SPRINGDALE, UT - MAY 14: A sign hangs at the entrance to Zion National Park on May 14, 2020 in Springdale, Utah. Zion National Park had a limited reopening yesterday as part of its reopening plan after it was closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Photo by George Frey/Getty Images)
(George Frey / Getty Images)
NPS officials suggest that if you are passing through the area and not visiting the park, use alternate driving routes to avoid congestion and bypass the park entirely.
The NPS requires vehicles to be parked only in designated areas. Illegally parked vehicles can harm park plants and animals, and may be ticketed or towed, according to officials.
If you are planning a trip this upcoming holiday weekend, be sure to prepare by drinking plenty of water and watching out for signs of heat stress. For more trip planning tips, visit a ranger program to check the park calendar for locations and times.