Zion National Park is one of the most well-known parks in the United States. With its towering sandstone cliffs, verdant canyons, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder that it has become a major destination for both domestic and international travelers. But does visiting this one-of-a-kind park cost money?
The answer is yes, Zion National Park does cost money to visit. According to the official website, there are two admission fees for the park – a vehicle fee and a person fee. The vehicle fee is $35, and is valid for seven days for up to a maximum of four people. The person fee is $20 per person and is also valid for seven days. The park also offers a variety of discounts, including one for active-duty military members and their dependents, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
The cost of visiting Zion National Park isn’t necessarily prohibitive for most people. According to a 2019 survey by the National Park Service, the average visitor to Zion National Park spends around $27.20 per person per visit. This money goes to help preserve and maintain the park, including staffing for trails, campgrounds, and visitor centers. It also helps to offset the costs of providing services like water, restrooms, and trash removal.
In addition to the admission fee, visitors may choose to purchase a Zion Park Annual Pass for $80. This pass helps to cover the cost of admission to the park and provides access for one year. Annual passes are valid at any of the five entrances to the park, making them an excellent option for visitors who plan on making multiple trips during the year.
Visitors who are interested in exploring further afield may also consider purchasing a Zion Backcountry Permit. These permits cost $15 per person, and are valid for seven days. The permits allow visitors to hike and camp in the backcountry, providing access to some of the most remote and stunning parts of the park. Visitors are encouraged to apply for a backcountry permit in advance of their visit as availability is limited during peak times.
When planning a trip to Zion National Park, it’s important to keep in mind the cost associated with visiting the park. While admission fees help to cover the costs of keeping the park safe and well-maintained, they also provide an important source of revenue for continued preservation efforts. By investing in a Zion National Park Annual Pass or applying for a Zion Backcountry Permit, visitors can enjoy the beauty of the park while helping to ensure its ongoing health and vibrancy.
What impact do the fees have on the park?
The fees for visiting Zion National Park go towards preserving the beauty and rich wildlife of the park, providing many opportunities for visitors to experience firsthand what makes it so special. The fees are used to help fund projects such as trail repairs and maintenance, building and restoring campground facilities, and providing important support for research and educational programs. The money is also used to help fund the park’s ranger and other staff programs, which serve to ensure the safety of visitors and protect the park’s resources.
In addition to the fees contributed by park visitors, the park also receives funding from the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund. This fund is used for projects that improve, protect, and restore lands and waterways, which helps to ensure the continued health of the park for future generations.
The funding for Zion National Park is essential for its continued preservation. The fees that visitors pay to access the park go towards providing staff and resources that help to protect its resources, while also enabling visitors to enjoy its majestic beauty.
What other activities can visitors take part in?
Visitors to Zion National Park have the opportunity to partake in a wide variety of activities, both within the park and in the surrounding area. In Zion National Park, visitors can explore the trails, take part in ranger programs, or take a scenic drive along the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway. Outside of the park, visitors can explore nearby hiking trails, take a rafting tour of the Virgin River, or take a guided ATV tour.
For those interested in a more unique experience, the park also offers overnight camping and lodging options. Visitors can stay in a cabin, tent camp within the park’s boundaries, or explore the backcountry and camp overnight in one of the many designated wilderness areas. Regardless of whether visitors are looking for relaxation or thrills, Zion National Park has something for everyone.
A visit to Zion National Park is more than just a place to explore and take in the natural beauty of the area. It provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities, explore different areas of the park, and discover the history of the area. By taking part in the activities and conserving the resources of the park, visitors help to protect the park for future generations.
What types of discounts are available?
Zion National Park offers several discounts and special rates for visitors. Seniors are eligible for a reduced admission rate of $20 per person, while active-duty military members and their dependents, and individuals with disabilities receive free admission. American Indian tribes, groups of fifteen or more, and students with valid ID all qualify for discounted rates as well.
In addition to reduced admission rates, visitors who are members of the National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass program are eligible for a free Annual Pass which is valid for one year. The America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass program also offers passes that provide access to federal lands and park sites in the United States.
In order to support conservation efforts, Zion National Park also offers an Adopt-A-Vista program. Through this program, visitors can donate to help support programs such as habitat restoration, trail maintenance, and other conservation efforts. Donations are accepted in any amount, and are tax-deductible.
Whether visitors are looking for a discounted admission fee or simply wish to support the environment through a donation, Zion National Park offers a variety of ways to help support the park and its conservation efforts.
What other fees are associated with visiting Zion National Park?
In addition to admission fees, there are a few other costs associated with visiting Zion National Park. First and foremost, visitors should make sure to plan for food and other supplies, such as fuel, firewood, or ice. It’s also important to keep in mind that the park may occasionally close trails or roads due to weather or safety concerns, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Also, while visitors to the park are not required to pay any sort of fee for using the trails, it’s wise to obtain a Trails & Rocks Access Permit. This permit allows visitors to access the park’s more strenuous and often secluded trails, and ensures that the park remains safe and well-maintained. The permit is available for free on the park’s website or in the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
Finally, when visiting Zion National Park, visitors should consider the associated costs of lodging and transportation. The park’s five main entrances provide easy access to the interior of the park, but there are limited lodging options in and around the park. Fortunately, there are a few nearby hotels where visitors can stay, as well as a variety of campgrounds and RV parks that are located within a short distance of the park.
How can I save money when visiting Zion National Park?
To save money when visiting Zion National Park, visitors should consider purchasing a Zion National Park Annual Pass. These passes provide access to the park for a full year, and can be purchased for just $80. Another way to save money is by carpooling, as the park’s vehicle fee covers up to four people per trip.
Visitors who are looking for an even deeper discount should consider applying for a Zion Backcountry Permit, which allows visitors to camp in the backcountry and explore some of the most remote parts of the park. The permits cost $15 per person and are valid for seven days.
For those planning an extended visit or those who will be visiting often throughout the year, it may be worth considering staying in one of the many lodging options near the park, such as cabins or campsites, as opposed to staying in a hotel. There are also several tour companies which offer discounted rates for groups or individuals.
By making smart planning decisions and taking advantage of discounts and special offers, visitors can make the most out of their visit to Zion National Park without breaking the bank.
How can I help support Zion National Park?
In addition to paying admission fees and taking part in the activities offered by the park, visitors may also choose to take part in the many volunteer opportunities offered by Zion National Park. These opportunities range from removing invasive species to helping maintain trails to teaching visitors about the park’s history and ecology.
In addition to volunteering, visitors can also
