8 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Zion National Park

Planning a trip to Zion National Park? You’re in for one of the most breathtaking experiences in the U.S.! But before you lace up your hiking boots, there are a few key mistakes you’ll want to avoid when visiting Zion to make the most of your visit.

As someone who just got back from visiting Zion national Park, I wanted to compile a list of eight common mistakes people can make when visiting the park.

Zion National park Visitor Center

1. Not Bringing Enough Water

Zion can get HOT, especially in the summer. With dry desert air and lots of hiking, dehydration can sneak up fast.

  • Bring at least 2–3 liters of water per person, especially if you’re tackling longer hikes like Angel’s Landing or Observation Point.
  • Bring Gatorade or electrolyte packages. It’s extremely important to replenish your electrolytes when out hiking in the desert. Gatorade and electrolyte mix is almost as, if not more essential than water

2. Skipping the Sunscreen

Even if it’s overcast, UV rays bounce off the red rocks and can leave you sunburned. Make sure you apply several times throughout the day.

  • Apply (and reapply) sunscreen, wear a hat, and consider long sleeves for sun protection. The dri-fit long sleeves are key for staying dry as they quickly absorb your sweat, keep you cool all while providing sun coverage as well.
  • Check out my guide on “What to wear when hiking in the desert”
  • Quick access to travel sunscreen here

3. Forgetting to Apply for the Angel’s Landing Lottery

Angel’s Landing is one of the most iconic hikes in the world, but you can’t just show up and hike it anymore.

  • You need to apply for a permit via the Angel’s Landing lottery system on the NPS website. Do this weeks or even months in advance to secure a spot.
  • We entered the lottery five months before our trip, this gave us the best chance to win the lottery and we did!
  • Many people got turned away because they didn’t know there was a lottery, make sure you’re not one of those people!
Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Zion National Park

4. Not Renting a Wetsuit and Dry Bag for The Narrows

Wading through the Virgin River in the Narrows is an unforgettable experience, but you are going to be trekking through waist high water. Be prepared and spend the money on a wet suit, shoes and a wet bag!

Zion Outfitter store rental for the narrows
  • Rent a wetsuit (or dry pants) and canyoneering shoes, especially in spring and fall.
    Also, rent a dry bag to protect your phone, snacks, and extra layers from getting soaked.
  • Right when you enter the park there are several stations there that rent the equipment, it’s not super expensive, but it’s very necessary to the hike.

5. Not Staying in Springdale, Utah

Parking at the park is a nightmare if you’re not staying nearby. The best way in? The Springdale shuttle, which only runs from Springdale hotels to the Zion entrance.

  • We stayed at “Under the Eaves Inn” in Springdale. It was a nice little inn, nothing fancy, but staying in Springdale is the move.
  • Book your stay in Springdale early. It’s worth it for easy access, less stress, more time in the park and tons of dining options after a long day in the park.
Springdale, Utah , best places to stay at Zion

6. Not Giving Yourself Enough Time

Zion is way bigger and more amazing than most first-time visitors realize. Most people just know the main trails like Angels’ landing and the Narrows, but there is lots to explore, and they all take a lot of time and energy, so make sure you give yourself ample time in the park.

  • Give yourself at least 2–3 full days to explore. Rushing through means you’ll miss hidden gems like Emerald Pools, Kolob Canyons, or the Canyon Overlook Trail.
  • Hiking up to Angel’s Landing will also take you several hours, as well as the Narrows.
  • You also need to account for the time it will take to get the shuttle to the entrance, then wait for the shuttle to take you to the spot you need.
  • To save time, consider a tour (Zion & Bryce Canyon Tour from Las Vegas)
  • The Narrows Private Guided Tour

7. Not Researching the Hikes Ahead of Time

Some trails are easy and family-friendly, others are steep, exposed, or require scrambling.

Angel's Landing Hike in Zion National Park

8. Trying to See Everything Midday

Here’s a bonus tip: Zion is busiest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., especially in spring and summer. That means crowded trails and packed shuttles.

  • Plan early morning hikes or later afternoon adventures to enjoy cooler temps and fewer crowds.
  • We tried to get head to the park no later than 7am. had a quick breakfast and tried to beat the crowds.

Final Thoughts

Zion is one of the best National Parks I’ve been to and people come from all over the world to experience it. Avoiding these simple mistakes will make your trip safer, smoother, and way more enjoyable.

📌 Quick Recap:

  • Bring lots of water
  • Use sunscreen
  • Apply for the Angel’s Landing lottery
  • Rent the right gear for the Narrows
  • Stay in Springdale
  • Take your time
  • Research hikes
  • Avoid peak crowds

I hope everyone has a great time when visiting Zion National Park! Stay tuned for more!