Zion National Park Trip Costs: What to Expect for Lodging, Food, and Activities
Planning a trip to Zion National Park? Understanding the costs of lodging, food, and activities helps ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience. Based on 2025 data, a typical daily budget ranges from £64 for budget travelers to £279 for luxury stays, with a mid-range average of £146 per person. For a three-day trip, most visitors spend around £438, while a full week can total approximately £1,023 per person, excluding transportation to and from the park. These figures include lodging, meals, park fees, and incidentals, making Zion accessible for a wide range of budgets with proper planning.
Lodging
Lodging options vary widely in price and style. Inside the park, Zion Lodge offers convenient access with rooms starting around £192 per night, though prices rise during peak seasons. The lodge offers standard hotel amenities and is ideal for those who want to make the most of their time on the trails. For larger groups or families seeking more space, beautiful homes for rent near Zion National Park offer privacy, full kitchens, and amenities such as 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 among multiple guests, often significantly reducing per-person lodging costs.
Off-site resorts such as East Zion Resort and Zion Ponderosa offer glamping, cabins, and vacation homes with packages that bundle lodging and activities, helping stretch your budget further. Glamping options, including yurts and safari tents, range from £150 to £300 per night and provide a balance of 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. Booking early—especially for spring and fall—is essential, as availability fills up months in advance.
Food and Dining
Food costs depend on your dining choices. On average, travelers spend £28 to £64 per day on meals. Packing groceries and cooking in rental kitchens can significantly reduce expenses. A family of four can save over £100 during a four-day trip by preparing breakfast and lunch at their 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 provide essentials, though prices are slightly higher than in larger towns. Bringing a rugged 48-quart cooler lets you store perishables, keep drinks cold on hikes, and minimize daily food costs. Coolers also make it easier to pack lunches for full-day excursions, such as The Narrows or Observation Point.
Adventures
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 a year, ideal for frequent travelers. Guided tours, such as jeep adventures or canyoneering excursions, range from £80 to £200 per person but offer expert insights and access to restricted areas. These tours often include gear, transportation, and park entry, simplifying logistics. Free activities like hiking Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Emerald Pools provide world-class experiences without additional cost, though 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 canyon areas, making it easy to access major trailheads without parking hassles.
Transportation
Transportation within the park is free via the seasonal shuttle system, which runs from March to November and reduces traffic in narrow canyon areas. Gas and vehicle costs depend on your starting location, but nearby towns like St. George or Kanab offer affordable refueling options. Budget-conscious travelers can save by visiting during shoulder seasons—March to April or October to November—when lodging rates are lower and crowds are thinner. Additionally, 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 delivers unforgettable adventures at a range of price points, making it a top destination for outdoor lovers seeking both value and wonder.
