Zion National Park Adventures: A Day of Hiking, Tubing, and Dining

Enjoy some of the best Zion National Park adventures with this full-day itinerary. Whether you’re a local looking to make the most of where you live or are a tourist visiting Zion for the first time, this guide is set up for the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure and enjoying some of the best food in town. From hiking the most popular trails before the crowds, to tubing down the Virgin River during the heat of the day, Zion offers something for everyone.

Make the Most of Your Morning: Zion National Park Adventures

Start the day off bright and early in Zion and beat the crowds by enjoying golden hour in the national park. The morning light is perfect for taking photos of the red rocks and shadows from the towering cliffs. Heading out early also provides cooler temperatures for hiking, making it a much more enjoyable experience by avoiding the hottest part of the day.

Fuel Up at Deep Creek Coffee

Your first stop should be at Deep Creek Coffee, a local favorite for coffee and breakfast in Springdale, Utah. They have the best coffee in town and open at the crack of dawn, 6am, so you can have plenty of time to enjoy a relaxing breakfast before you head into Zion to hike.

Pack a Lunch to Go from Sol Foods

After you finish breakfast at Deep Creek Coffee, walk across the street to Sol Foods, a local grocery store and deli, to purchase a lunch to go. They conveniently open at 7am, which will be perfect timing once you finish your breakfast and their variety of grab-and-go options make it easy to pack a picnic lunch.

Hike Zion’s Most Popular Trails

Once you are all fueled up and have your lunch and drinks packed for the day, it’s time to hit the trails in Zion-some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world!

Angels Landing: If you are seeking an adrenaline rush or are up for a challenge, Angels’ Landing is known for steep switchbacks and breathtaking views. A permit is required to hike Angel’s Landing, so plan ahead.
The Narrows: The most epic Zion National Park adventure is trekking up the Virgin River through a towering slot canyon for a unique and serene experience. Rent water shoes, neoprene socks and a walking stick from a local outfitter before you embark on this hike through the Narrows.
Emerald Pools: If you have the extra energy or are hiking with small children, another one of the best hikes in Zion is the Emerald Pools. This quick and scenic hike is an excellent option for enjoying some small waterfalls in the harsh desert environment.

Afternoons in Zion: Escaping the Heat

After working hard all morning, the afternoon is a time to slow down and take in the views in a more relaxed setting. The temperatures are hot, so it’s a good time to take it easy and cool off in the Virgin River.

Picnic at the Temple of Sinawava

The last stop in Zion National Park will take you to the natural cliff formation, the Temple of Sinawava and the start of the Riverside Walk. This is a great location to enjoy your picnic lunch in the shade of the cliffs of Zion Canyon and splashing in the Virgin River. After lunch, take a relaxing stroll along the Riverside Walk trail and cool off in the river.

Float the Virgin River with Zion Tubing

After lunch, it’s time to head out of the park to the nearby town of Virgin, Utah, for the ultimate relaxing afternoon activity, tubing in the Virgin River! Just a few miles from Springdale, Zion Tubing provides rental tubing equipment for a lazy river float in Virgin and a shuttle back to your car after your tubing adventure. This mellow section of the river is the best way to cool off and kick back after hiking in Zion all morning.

Relax or Explore Springdale

After tubing the Virgin River, head back to Springdale to check out the quaint shops or relax at your accommodation/home for a few hours and rest. If you’re looking for a place to stay, we recommend Zion River Resort for camping and our favorite hotel in town is the Fairfield Inn.

Enjoying the Evenings Near Zion National Park

Evenings in Zion are a great time to unwind, end your day with a delicious meal and enjoy the stars in this world renowned stargazing destination.

Best Restaurants in Springdale and Virgin

King’s Landing Bistro (Springdale): If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, King’s Landing Bistro offers seasonal specials and breathtaking views. This is the place to enjoy dinner near Zion for a fine-dining experience.
Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon (Springdale): If you want a more laid-back atmosphere, Bit & Spur is another local favorite. They offer creative southwestern cuisine and in the summers they open a backyard taco shack and a seasonal farmers market on Monday evenings with live music.
River Rock Roasting Company (La Verkin): Located near Zion Tubing, River Rock Roasting Company is an excellent spot for breakfast, but they also serve fantastic wood-fired pizzas until 8pm every day! This cozy vibe is perfect for relaxing after a big day of adventures in Zion National Park.

Stargazing with Stargazing Zion

After dinner, cap off your day by going on a tour with Stargazing Zion. Southern Utah has some of the darkest skies in the country and the professional astronomers will help you find the milky way and the constellations, educating you on the wonders of the universe. Cozy up under the stars and unwind in this relaxing and unique nighttime activity near Zion.

Enjoy Your Adventures in Zion!

Here at Zion Tubing, these are some of our favorite Zion national park adventures for enjoying the wonders of Southern Utah. Whether you’re hiking angels landing, tubing on the Virgin River or dining at the best restaurants near Zion, this guide can help you make the most of your day in this magical paradise in the Utah desert.