Zion National Park – WAY More Than We Expected!
- Kris & Mike Quade
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
Zion National Park has always been on our bucket list, but nothing could’ve prepared us for just how incredible this place truly is. We expected beauty—what we got was breathtaking. From towering cliffs to river-carved canyons, Zion delivered an unforgettable experience that exceeded every expectation.
First Things First: Get There Early! ⏰🌄
We arrived around 8 AM—and we’re so glad we did! Parking fills up fast inside the park, so here’s your first pro tip: Arrive early. If the parking lots are full, you can easily park in Springdale and hop on the shuttle (they run every 10–15 minutes). Unlike some other parks, Zion doesn’t require a timed entry, so early birds definitely get the worm here!

Plan Your Day Around the Shuttle 🚌
Once you're in the park, grab the shuttle and head to your must-see stop or hike first—trust us, the crowds only grow throughout the day. Popular trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows can get packed.
Thinking About Angels Landing? 🧗♂️
Heads up! You’ll need a permit if you want to hike beyond Scout Lookout on Angels Landing. But even if you don’t have one, the hike to Scout is well worth it—amazing views and a great workout! You can apply for permits here: Angels Landing Permits
Have you conquered Angels Landing? Let us know what you thought in the comments below!
Or Maybe You’re Eyeing The Narrows? 💧
If you're planning to hike The Narrows, be ready for an adventure—you're hiking through the river! The water can get deep (and chilly), so having the right gear is crucial. Don’t worry—there are outfitters in Springdale where you can rent everything you need.
We hiked the Riverside Walk, which leads up to The Narrows and follows the peaceful Virgin River. It’s about 2 miles round trip, and the views? Absolutely stunning. We took our time, wandered beside the water, and soaked in every second of the experience. Moments like these—where the world seems to pause—are what travel is all about. 💚

Don’t Forget This App! 📱
Before you lose cell service (which happens a lot inside the park), download the NPS app and save Zion for offline use. It has everything you’ll need: trail maps, alerts, self-guided tours, and tips on what to do.
Final Thoughts: Awe-Inspiring in Every Way 🌄🦌
What truly amazed us was Zion’s scale—the cliffs are massive, the wildlife is active, and the scenery makes you feel wonderfully small. It’s a place that stirs something in your soul.
If Zion isn’t already on your must-see list, add it now. This is a park everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

🎥 Watch Our Zion Adventure!
We captured every incredible moment of our trip on video—from hopping on the shuttle to walking along the Virgin River and soaking in those jaw-dropping views.
👉 Watch our full Zion National Park adventure on YouTube here:Zion National Park – WAY More Than We Expected!
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe if you enjoy the journey!
Have you been to Zion? What was your favorite hike or view? Drop us a comment—we’d love to hear your stories!
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