Zion National Park with kids

October 19, 9:37 PMPhoenix Western US Travel ExaminerAngele Sionna

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View of Zion National Park's famous rock cliffs/Photo by: Angele Sionna

 Zion National Park is known as one of the most beautiful places in the US. While it may have a larger adult draw, there are things kids can do and enjoy.

Babies thru toddlers

• Ride the free shuttle bus on the scenic loop to learn about the area and see lots of pretty stuff with no walking at all. I'd recommend wearing your baby under 1 year old in a baby carrier as there are no seat belts or car seats and the bus can be crowded so you may have to stand for part of the trip, which you'll need your hands for to hold on. You do need to pay the park entrance fee to ride the free shuttle around. That fee is good for unlimited access to Zion for 7 days.
• Take an easy trail... Paved trail, low inclination, stroller friendly - yes they exist! Try the Pa'rus Trail or Riverside Walk.
• Check out the park's accessibility page to get an idea of where you will or won't be able to take a stroller, should you want to bring one. It may be designed for people in wheelchairs, but it is very helpful for parents with strollers too.

Young children You can do the above plus:

• Check out a movie on the giant screen theatre near the visitor center. They play 3D movies, nature films plus some Hollywood movies too.
• Take an easy hike on a trail like the Weeping Rock trail.

Older young kids You can do all the above plus:

• Take part in the Junior Ranger Program (ages 6-12 only) with fun, educational activities for kids.
• Families with children over 7 can opt for horseback rides.
• Take a little longer or more difficult hike but still doable for kids, like the Lower Emerald Pools trail.

*It is important to note that while the above trails mentioned have minor drop off areas, children should be well behaved and be able to listen to parents fully before letting them walk on their own on any trail. For the youngest walkers, you might be best suited to consider a "backpack leash." Even minor drop offs can be dangerous for a child (or adult) who wonders off the trail or tries to be adventurous.*