SPRINGDALE – Visitors to Zion National Park can expect crowded conditions this Presidents Day weekend with delays, limited parking and possible road closures.
The number of visitors to Zion National Park has increased dramatically over the past few years and holidays and long weekends are especially busy; Presidents Day Weekend is historically one of the park’s busy times.
Visitors to the park this weekend may experience crowding and parking shortages similar to November 2015, when parking in Zion Canyon filled up by midmorning.
Visitors may also experience traffic congestion in Springdale and up to a 45-minute wait for entrance to the park.
“Holiday weekends can strain the park’s facilities and staffing to manage crowded conditions and meet visitor expectations,” Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh said. “Shuttle buses will not yet be in operation in the park and Springdale for the 2016 season; visitors should plan additional time to get to their destinations in the park.”
Here are a few tips to help park visitors have a more enjoyable time in Zion:
- As visitors approach the park, up-to-date parking availability information can be had on the park’s Facebook page or on Twitter.
- Information about winter conditions, trails and other facilities is available on the park’s website
- Arrive early in the day to help reduce traffic congestion and crowding, park only in designated lots or paved pullouts and avoid parking on road shoulders
- Visitors may experience temporary closures of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive if parking and traffic congestion limits emergency vehicle access
- Park visitors are encouraged to explore Zion’s east side, Kolob Terrace road, and Kolob Canyons when capacity is exceeded in Zion Canyon
“Please plan ahead, take responsibility for your safety, be patient and treat others with courtesy,” Bradybaugh said. “These practices are important whether you decide to visit Zion or any of the wonderful public land resources in our area.”
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It’s simple: If you’re fortunate enough to live in Southwest Utah in the first place, don’t go to Zion this weekend. I appreciate the info, however.