Winter is a quieter yet still exciting time to explore East Zion and Zion National Park. An East Zion winter vacation likely means fewer crowds inside the park and solitude outside the east side gates. The peak season crowds disperse, leaving behind a serene landscape and comfortable temperatures perfect for exploration during winter in East Zion.
East Zion Winter Weather: What to Expect
While Zion National Park’s main canyon sits at around 4,000 feet, elevations are higher on the upper east side plateaus. Averaging around 6,000 feet, East Zion experiences more snow and cooler weather, despite its southern Utah location. Snow isn’t frequent, however, and the daytime temperatures and sunny skies are often ideal for hiking and other outdoor adventures that may be too hot to experience in summer. Just be sure to dress in layers and be prepared to navigate potentially snowy or icy conditions.
Adventure Awaits
Winter definitely doesn’t halt adventure in East Zion. It’s a great time of year to enjoy horseback rides, Jeep tours, hiking, canyoneering, stargazing, and photography (all weather permitting, of course). Adventuring with a guide can be helpful when tackling new-to-you adventures. Here are some of the best adventures to experience during winter in East Zion.
Cold-weather Canyoneering
Canyoneering in the winter may sound a bit crazy, but it can actually be a really great time to explore the slot canyons when the conditions are right. This is, of course, a “weather permitting” adventure but exploring East Zion slot canyons during winter means experiencing some truly serene moments in nature. If you enjoy cooler temps and come prepared, winter canyoneering can be an excellent winter adventure. The Coral Sands guided canyoneering excursion is a great tour to consider for winter adventuring. This experience has five total rappels, with the highest descent over 70 feet!
Winter Jeep Tours
There are a lot of East Zion adventures out there—and some of the best ones start with a jeep! The Pink Sands Jeep Tour will take you to impressive sandstone monoliths and has incredible views of the surrounding Kanab area. Departing from Station 89 in Kanab, this guided adventure is sure to be a highlight of your East Zion winter vacation.
White Mountain Horseback Ride
One of the most unique horseback rides in East Zion combines horseback riding and slot canyon hiking. This adventure begins with a horseback ride through a beautiful sandy wash as canyon walls start to rise up next to you. Once the canyon gets too narrow, you’ll dismount from the horses and carry on by foot. You can explore this slot canyon to your heart’s content, then go back the way you came on horseback. It’s a memorable two-for-one experience with an incredibly scenic backdrop, and it’s available to book all winter long (weather permitting).
Winter Hiking in Zion National Park
With East Zion as your base camp, winter is a great time of year to also hike inside Zion National Park. Daytime temperatures are often perfect for quiet walks among the massive formations of Zion National Park’s main canyon. When the shuttles aren’t running, you can drive your own car right to trailheads on the Scenic Drive. Most trails in Zion Canyon remain open during winter. Some trails such as Weeping Rock, Emerald Pools, Riverside Walk, and Angels Landing have areas that see little sun, so be wary of icy patches. It’s a smart idea (and necessary at times) to bring traction aids. Check in with park rangers or adventure guides before hitting the trails. Snowshoeing is another great option!
East Zion’s Iconic Landmark: Checkerboard Mesa
In late winter, a light dusting of snow may highlight the horizontal and vertical lines etched in Checkerboard Mesa’s Navajo sandstone. The best way to see Checkerboard Mesa is from above, on the eastern border of the park, accessible by hike or Jeep tour. You can also bring snowshoes and trek around Checkerboard Mesa and all over the east side of Zion.
Wildlife Watching
Winter is a great opportunity for wildlife sightings in and around Zion. Lucky wildlife watchers may catch a glimpse of Bald or Golden eagles, wild turkeys, bighorn sheep and mule deer.
Photography
The contrast of the white snow against Zion’s red rock is a uniquely beautiful sight and makes for amazing photos!
Plan Your Winter Getaway
Whether you’re an avid adventure seeker or simply want a getaway during a less-crowded time of year, a winter vacation to East Zion can be just what you’re looking for. Remember that while snow doesn’t typically stick around long in Zion Canyon, elevation varies greatly from the highest to the lowest parts of the park. Be prepared for potentially snowier and colder conditions at higher elevations, including on the east side of the park. Do your research, use caution, and enjoy beautiful East Zion in winter!
Pro tip: Save money with off-season tour prices and lodging!
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