Planning a trip to Zion National Park? Understanding the costs of accommodation, food and activities helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Based on 2025 data, a typical daily budget ranges from $64 for budget travelers to $279 for luxury stays, with a median average of $146 per person. For a three-day trip, most visitors spend around $438, while a full week can add up to about $1,023 per person, excluding transportation to and from the park. These figures include lodging, meals, park fees, and incidentals, making Zion accessible to a wide range of budgets with proper planning.
Accommodation
Accommodation options vary widely in price and style. Inside the park, Zion Lodge offers convenient access with rooms starting at around $192 per night, although prices increase during peak seasons. The lodge offers hotel-standard amenities and is ideal for those who want to make the most of their time on the trails. For larger groups or families looking for more space, beautiful houses for rent near Zion National Park They offer privacy, full kitchens, and amenities like private pools or hot tubs. Platforms like VRBO and Rent.com list vacation rentals from $200 to over $500 per night, depending on size, location, and season. These homes are exceptionally cost-effective when split between multiple guests, often significantly reducing per-person accommodation costs.
Outside resorts, like East Zion Resort and Zion Ponderosa, offer glamping, cabins, and vacation homes with packages that combine accommodations and activities, helping stretch your budget even further. Glamping options, including yurts and safari tents, range from $150 to $300 per night and provide a balance between comfort and outdoor immersion. Many of these accommodations include breakfast, Wi-Fi, and access to recreational facilities like hiking trails, fire pits, and game rooms, adding value beyond the base rate. Early booking is essential, especially for spring and fall, as availability sells out months in advance.
Food and dining
Food costs depend on your dining options. On average, travelers spend between $28 and $64 per day on meals. Packing food and cooking in rental kitchens can significantly reduce expenses. A family of four can save more than $100 during a four-day trip by preparing breakfast and lunch at the rental instead of eating out. Local favorites in Springdale, like Oscar’s Cafe and Zion Canyon Brew Pub, offer meals ranging from $12 to $25 per person. For snacks and supplies, the Zion Canyon store and local markets offer basics, although prices are slightly higher than in larger cities. bringing a heavy-duty 48-quart refrigerator It allows you to store perishables, keep drinks cold during hikes, and minimize daily food costs. Coolers also make it easy to pack lunches for full-day hikes, like The Narrows or Observation Point.
Adventure
Park entrance fees are $35 per private vehicle, valid for seven days. This covers all passengers and is the most cost-effective option for families or groups. Alternatively, the $80 America the Beautiful Pass grants access to all national parks for one year, ideal for frequent travelers. Guided tours, such as jeep adventures or canyoning excursions, cost between $80 and $200 per person, but offer expert information and access to restricted areas. These tours often include equipment, transportation, and park admission, simplifying logistics. Free activities like hiking Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Emerald Pools provide world-class experiences at no additional cost, although permits are required for some trails. The Zion Canyon Shuttle System, which runs seasonally from March to November, is free and reduces traffic in narrow areas of the canyon, making it easy to access major trails without parking issues.
Transport
Transportation within the park is free via the seasonal transportation system, which runs from March to November and reduces traffic in the narrow areas of the canyon. Gas and vehicle costs depend on your departure location, but nearby cities like St. George or Kanab offer affordable fueling options. Budget-conscious travelers can save by visiting during the shoulder seasons (March to April or October to November), when lodging rates are lower and crowds are thinner. Plus, packing essentials like hiking poles, first aid kits, and reusable water bottles reduces the need for last-minute purchases.
With smart planning, Zion National Park offers unforgettable adventures at a variety of price points, making it the premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking value and wonder.
