There’s no doubt Zion National Park has become quite popular over the years. It’s a busy, bustling park during peak season. How do you make sure you experience nature’s artistry throughout Zion? A scenic drive is one way to explore the beautiful landscape and enjoy the beautiful views that Zion National Park has to offer.
Several scenic routes pass through, or lead to and from Zion, any of which make a fantastic road trip. The added bonus of a scenic drive is discovering remote areas most visitors to Zion ignore. So pack some snacks and drinks, crank the AC, and let’s roll.
Scenic Drives of Southern Utah
Sometimes a drive is the best way to see the tapestry of nature. The views are abundant with incredible red rock canyons, desert landscapes, and towering mountains. Along the scenic drives, keep an eye out for wildlife such as mountain goats and deer, which add to the park’s natural beauty. All enjoyed from the privacy of your own vehicle. A drive lets you take your time, stop when you want to, and appreciate the moment with photo ops or a short hike. So hop in the car for a road trip along some of America’s most stunning highways. If you’re traveling with your rig, a comprehensive guide to planning your RV trip to Zion can help you time your visit, navigate parking, and make the most of every mile. The views will make you feel like you’re entering another world.
Highway 9 to Zion-Mount Carmel Road
There is something undeniable and special about following a scenic route. And the one starting on Highway 9, connecting to the Zion-Mount Carmel highway is no exception. Drivers will need to navigate winding roads and the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, which requires attention and proper vehicle preparation. It’s a winding road of sweeping vistas and sandstone cliffs. This route is the perfect representation of the American West.
Springdale is a convenient starting point for this scenic drive along Highway 9 to Zion National Park. This route is appealing because it has many access points linking to other scenic roads. You’ll have plenty of choices for creating a memorable road trip to Zion.
For the best experience, use a map to plan your route and stops along the way, and review everything you need to know about driving through Zion National Park so you’re prepared for tunnels, parking, and seasonal restrictions.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is one of the main roads in Zion National Park. Towering canyon walls line the route, creating a dramatic backdrop and making this drive one of the most scenic in the region. It has several start and stop attractions throughout the eight-mile course. If you want to visit iconic sites like Weeping Rock and Zion Lodge, it’s a fantastic route. From March to late November, private vehicles are not allowed. A shuttle system runs during the busy tourist season, and visitors can jump on and off at any shuttle stop along the loop for a flexible ride through the canyon, while services like the Sun Tran Zion bus make it easier to connect without worrying about parking.
Many viewpoints and hiking trails are accessible from parking lots along the route, offering easy access to stunning scenery and outdoor adventures, including several of the best Zion National Park hikes for all skill levels.
Off-season is the best time to enjoy this surreal landscape of color from the privacy of your own car. It takes planning and waiting, but it’s worth it. There are fewer people about to inhibit your experience of the park’s natural beauty.
Mount Carmel Highway
Embark on a scenic drive hailed as one of the most spectacular in the US. The route is 40 miles long and connects the South and East entrances of Zion National Park. In its entirety, this drive links access points to Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon.
The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway takes you over bridges and along switchbacks for panoramic scenes. As you navigate the switchbacks, you’ll notice significant changes in elevation, offering unique perspectives of the park’s diverse landscape. The route also leads to the Temple of Sinawava, a notable landmark and the gateway to the famous Riverside Walk. The highlight of the drive is the mile-long Mount Carmel Tunnel. Views from both sides of the tunnel are magnificent and will leave you in awe, especially when the sun is low during sunrise or sunset, enhancing the colors and dramatic scenery. For an epic road trip, this highway route won’t disappoint.
Kolob Terrace Road
As mentioned earlier, there’s more than one way to see Zion National Park. Kolob Terrace Road is one of them. It runs through Zion and passes between Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyons. The highway is steep, but has plenty of viewpoints for savoring the natural beauty of the land.
This scenic drive will leave you mesmerized with its majestic forests, towering peaks, and rolling hills. It’s the kind of landscape that inspires paintings or stunning photographs. Along Kolob Terrace Road, you’ll find access to a variety of trails and easy walks, making it perfect for both avid hikers and those looking for a casual stroll with scenic views; for an even quieter experience, consider exploring off the beaten path in Kolob Canyons nearby. There are also springs near Kolob Reservoir, which are great spots for fishing or exploring the natural surroundings. Kolob Reservoir itself is a highlight at the end of the drive, offering recreational opportunities like fishing, boating, and enjoying the stunning views of the Kolob Plateau.
Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive
Kolob Canyons Road is the scenic drive in this area, beginning at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center, which serves as the starting point for exploring this tranquil section of Zion National Park. It’s a five-mile highway tucked away in the northwest corner of the park. The drive is beautiful and remote and worth it. Most visitors to the park miss this area, so it’s perfect for enjoying a little solitude.
At the end of Kolob Canyons Road, you’ll reach the Kolob Canyons Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of dramatic red rock formations and is especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Along the way, don’t miss Timber Creek and the Timber Creek Overlook Trail, a must-see stop for hiking and breathtaking scenery. Kolob Canyons also provides access to some of the park’s most popular hikes, and while you’re in Zion, consider the iconic Angels Landing hike for an adventurous experience and sweeping vistas.
Lava Point
If you’re searching for a truly tranquil escape within Zion National Park, Lava Point is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss. Located about an hour north of Zion Canyon via the scenic Kolob Terrace Road, Lava Point offers a peaceful retreat far from the crowds. The drive itself is a highlight, winding through forests and open meadows with sweeping views of the park’s rugged wilderness. Since the Zion shuttle doesn’t reach this area, you’ll need your own vehicle to make the trip, but the journey is well worth it.
Lava Point Overlook is typically open from May to September, making it a perfect summer or early fall destination. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the Zion wilderness—ideal for sunset watching, photography, or simply soaking in the serenity. With its elevated vantage point and quiet atmosphere, Lava Point is a favorite among visitors looking to experience the natural beauty of Zion National Park from a unique perspective. Whether you’re planning a scenic drive or seeking a peaceful spot to unwind, Lava Point is a must-see on your Zion adventure.
Checkerboard Mesa
One of Zion National Park’s most distinctive landmarks, Checkerboard Mesa, is a must-stop along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. This striking mesa is instantly recognizable by its unusual checkerboard pattern—vertical and horizontal lines etched into the creamy sandstone by centuries of wind, water, and geological forces. Located near the east entrance of the park, Checkerboard Mesa is a highlight of any scenic drive through Zion, especially for those traveling the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive or exploring the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.
Visitors can pull off at the designated viewing area to admire the mesa’s unique rock formations and vibrant colors, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. The nearby Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and the flowing Virgin River add to the dramatic landscape, creating a memorable backdrop for your road trip. For those interested in learning more about the geology and history of Checkerboard Mesa, the Zion Canyon Visitor Center offers informative exhibits and resources. Whether you’re driving through the park or planning a stop on your way to other attractions, Checkerboard Mesa is a fascinating feature that showcases the natural artistry of Zion National Park.
Gateway Luxury RV Resort: Your Hub for Exploring Zion
Zion Gateway RV Resort is the perfect place to park your RV or rent a luxury tiny home at our luxury RV sites for discerning travelers. Our resort has full RV hookups and generous amenities: bathrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Everything you need in one place. And for entertainment, we have the best options. Play pickleball or cornhole, swim in our resort-sized pool, and let the kids hang out in the play area. For your furry companion, we have an off-leash dog area.
Our luxury tiny homes brim with style and the best in modern comfort, similar to our pet-friendly luxury casitas at Gateway RV Resort. You’ll fall in love with our interiors and cozy furnishings. Each tiny home includes a kitchenette, a bathroom, and a living room area. When you’re ready to call it a night, fall into a plush bed and deep sleep. So come explore Zion National Park and enjoy the comforts of home at Zion Gateway RV Resort, your ideal Southern Utah getaway near Zion!
Book your stay today and start planning your Zion adventure, from securing RV parking options in and around Zion National Park to browsing our travel tips and Southern Utah adventure blogs for inspiration.
