If you’re planning an RV road trip through Zion National Park, one of the most important things to figure out early is whether your rig is allowed through Zion’s tunnels—especially the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. With strict size regulations and time-specific access, this is one part of the trip you don’t want to leave to chance.
Let’s break down the rules so you can hit the road fully prepared.
🚐 Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel: The Big Deal for RVs
The Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel was completed in the 1930s—long before today’s massive Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels existed. While breathtaking, the tunnel wasn’t built for wide or tall modern vehicles, which is why Zion has special permit rules in place.
📏 What Are the Size Limits for RVs in Zion?
Here’s what the National Park Service currently allows:
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Height limit: Vehicles taller than 11 feet 4 inches need a tunnel permit.
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Width limit: Vehicles wider than 7 feet 10 inches, including mirrors, also require a permit.
If your RV meets either of these dimensions, you must request a tunnel escort from the park rangers.
✅ Tunnel escort means: Rangers temporarily stop oncoming traffic so your RV can drive down the center of the tunnel (the tallest/widest part).
🕓 Tunnel Escort Hours & Fees
Tunnel escorts are only available during specific hours, and the service requires a one-time $15 fee in addition to park admission.
🔹 Current Tunnel Escort Hours (subject to seasonal change)
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Spring–Fall: Typically 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
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Winter: Limited hours; check NPS Zion Tunnel Info Page before arrival
⚠️ You cannot drive through the tunnel with an oversized RV at night or outside escort hours. Plan accordingly.
🅿️ Where to Get the Permit
Permits are available:
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At the South Entrance ranger station when entering Zion
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Valid for two trips through the tunnel within 7 days
💡 Tip: Let the ranger know your vehicle’s dimensions, and they’ll guide you through the process.
🚫 What If Your RV Is Too Big?
If your RV or trailer exceeds the maximum dimensions allowed—even with an escort—you cannot drive it through the tunnel. Instead:
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Take Highway 59 from Hurricane, UT to Kanab, UT and access Zion from the East Entrance
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Consider parking your RV at a resort like Gateway RV Resort and entering the park in a tow vehicle or shuttle
🔄 What About Trailers & Towed Vehicles?
If you’re pulling a trailer:
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You’ll be asked to disconnect and drive through separately.
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This includes fifth wheels, boat trailers, or anything towed that increases your combined length
Make sure your setup is flexible, and avoid backing up traffic by pre-unhooking if possible.
🧠 Quick Recap: RV Size Rules for Zion
| Specification | Allowed Without Permit | Requires Tunnel Escort | Not Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Width ≤ 7’10” | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Width > 7’10” | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Height ≤ 11’4″ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Height > 11’4″ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Length (Single Vehicle) | ≤ 40 feet | ✅ | ❌ |
| Combined Vehicle Length | ≤ 50 feet | ✅ | ❌ |
🌟 Pro Tips for RVers Driving Through Zion
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Plan arrival around escort hours. You don’t want to be stuck waiting or forced to reroute.
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Fuel up before entering. Services are limited within the park.
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Don’t rely on GPS routing. Many apps don’t flag tunnel restrictions. Stick to NPS recommendations.
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Know your rig’s exact height and width. Guessing can cost you time, money, or worse.
🏕️ Want a Hassle-Free Zion RV Experience?
If maneuvering tunnels and escort times isn’t your thing, stay just minutes outside the park at Gateway RV Resort. You’ll enjoy:
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Full RV hookups
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No size restrictions
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Easy shuttle access to Zion’s main attractions
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Epic red cliff views—no stress, just scenery
