If you’re looking to explore the beauty of Southern Utah with little ones in tow, never fear — there are plenty of family friendly hikes Zion National Park to consider.
Dubbed one of the “big five” national parks in the region and among the most popular national park destinations in the nation, Zion National Park offers awe-inspiring views, scenic vistas and, in some cases, stroller and kid-friendly trails.
A few family friendly hikes Zion National Park
Riverwalk Trail
Take the shuttle all the way to the end of the line and exit at the Temple of Sinawa. From here, follow the paved trail for a family friendly hikes in Zion National Park.
The trail is approximately 2.2 miles round trip. Depending on the time of year, this family friendly hikes Zion National Park showcases the Virgin River at its full capacity, tearing out of The Narrows slot canyon at more than 150 cubic feet per second, or a gentle trickle. Children may enjoy throwing rocks into this river along this path, or the occasional encounter with some rather bold squirrels. These animals are clearly used to the heavy people traffic. Still, parents should keep a close eye on their children so as to avoid unintentional squirrel-child interaction. And please, do not feed the animals.
This family friendly hikes Zion National Park trail ends where the Zion Narrows trail emerges from the canyon. For younger visitors, this is an excellent way to get a glimpse of some of the more challenging hikes available in Zion — and maybe set some goals for future outdoor adventures.
Weeping Rock
One of the shortest family friendly hikes Zion National Park is also one of the most well known landmarks. Weeping Rock. This popular trail is just 0.4 miles and is paved making it a great family friendly hikes Zion National Park.
Emerald Pools – lower pool
Part of a network of three trails — lower, middle and upper — for this family friendly hikes Zion National Park it is best to stick to the lower pool if you have a stroller or very young children. The middle pool is easily reachable by older children.
The trail is 1.2 to 2.5 miles, depending on your final pool destination. Meandering through an often shaded trail, the path to the lower pool is relatively smooth and may offer more glimpses of the area’s wild life. With some of the spectacular views of Zion to the hikers’ backs and the promise of the cool water in front, this is a popular family friendly hikes Zion National Park for people of all ages.
Canyon Overlook Trail
If you’re looking for family friendly hikes Zion National Park but want to come at it from another direction, the Canyon Overlook Trail is located near the east entrance. This 1-mile out and back trail gives visitors a view of lower Zion Canyon.
Pa’rus Trail
Pa’rus Trail is another family friendly hikes Zion National Park, thanks to its paved trail that is open to dogs on-leash, cyclists, wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly. The trail is 3.5 miles out and back. It is considered one of the park’s most pleasant strolls.
Shuttle service helps with family friendly hikes Zion National Park
As a result of the incredible popularity of the family friendly hikes Zion National Park, and the park as a whole, certain times of year are simply too crowded to allow cars to drive and park inside the park. Even during the off seasons, patrons may find it more convenient to park their vehicles just outside the park and ride the shuttle toward their family friendly hikes Zion National Park destination.
The shuttle is free and operating from March 11 through late November. During shuttle season the Zion Canyon scenic drive is closed to private vehicles.
Shuttle stops are clearly marked and shuttles arrive at every stop in Zion Canyon and Springdale every 10 to 15 minutes.
Safety first for family friendly hikes Zion National Park
Whether you are seeking family friendly hikes in Zion National Park, or enjoying the many other aspects of this amazing national park, there are a few safety tips to keep in mind.
- Always stay on the trail
- Stay hydrated by carrying plenty of water
- Do not drink untreated water
- Stay back from cliff edges
- Always watch children
- Be aware of symptoms of heat stroke, heat exhaustion and hypothermia
- Observe posted warnings
If living near a beautiful place filled with family friendly hikes Zion National Park is your dream, you should check out some of the home listings in the area. There are places in Springdale and nearby Toquerville.