The best thing about Zion National Park? It is seriously stunning. The worst? Figuring out how to get around the park! While there are several logistical options, they each have their pros and cons. Let’s take a look!
Zion Shuttle
The most popular way to get around the park is via the Zion shuttle service. The shuttle is only $1 per person and is the most affordable option on the list. The downside of the shuttle, however, is flexibility. It only runs daily during peak season (nonpeak is on weekends only), so you might be out of luck if you visit during an off-peak month. The other downside is during peak season, lines for the shuttle can get long and frustrating. While the buses are efficient, this may get frustrating for some.
Private Shuttle
Several companies also offer private or semi-private shuttle options; This is great for avoiding the shuttle hassle but can also be pricey. Additionally, it means you probably need to have your itinerary mapped out before visiting the park, as most companies will charge based on where you plan to go. While this option may work for some people, It is one that I don’t think is worth the cost cost.
Car
You might be thinking about driving your car or van into Zion. Unfortunately, there are two obstacles to this option. For starters, private vehicles are only allowed in the park during days when the shuttle is not running (weekdays during off-season). Secondly, if you are coming during the part of the year when you can bring your car, you still have to deal with the parking hassle that awaits you at many of Zion’s key attractions. The plus of this option (when available) is that you will have the flexibility to drive around and stop whenever you wish.
Bike
Another option that many people choose is to bike through Zion. This option is great for those looking for total freedom to explore Zion with minimal hassle. The two downsides of biking is one, you will move at much slower pace than the other transportation options, and two, it may wear you out prior to some of your more strenuous hikes in the park. Hikes such as Angles Landing are best done early in the morning. Biking 5-6 miles from the park’s entrance to the start of the hike and then completing a strenuous hike may not be doable for everyone.
E-Bike
You might be reading this post already feeling frustrated with your transportation options for Zion-I don’t blame you! The park is great but getting around is a nightmare. Luckily there is one option that I think by and far is the best transport option for Zion, and that is renting an e-bike. e-bikes truly have the best of every option. They are effortless and easy to ride, they can move at fast speeds, they don’t require parking hassle, and they don’t have to be shared! To top it off, they are a ton of fun to ride and provide possibly the most epic way to take in Zion’s scenery. The one downside of the e-bike is the price. An e-bike rental can range from $75-$150 for a full day. While this is a pricey option, I found that having the e-bike cut the time I needed in Zion by almost a full day. It is worth the cost in my opinion.
There are several companies that offer e-bike rentals just outside of the park’s entrance. I went with Ebikes Zion – Powered By Zionic Adventures. They were the best rated on google and provide a great cancelation policy. I rented a tandem bike from them, which allowed Anmol and I to ride together on one bike!
