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on Dec 22, 2025 | 3 minutes
Imagine the striking contrast of snow-dusted red cliffs, hiking some of the most iconic trails in the country in Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks (Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, & Canyonlands), hitting the slopes, or attending annual festivals with loved ones. There’s no better time to visit Southern Utah than when the air has turned crisp, the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way, and the summer crowds have dispersed. Visiting during the quieter season means you’ll have a more authentic experience of the culture and communities nestled in this stunning landscape and make lasting memories with the family while supporting the local economy1. You’ll find plenty of exciting things to do in Utah in the Winter when you want them and serenity when you need it. Ideas for Winter Fun in Utah The Sundance Film Festival If your travel plans are flexible in late January, you should fly into Salt Lake City and spend a few days between there and Park City before heading south. Filmmakers and fans have been traveling to the area to experience innovative storytelling at Sundance since 1984, but 2026 is the last year it’ll be held in Park City before moving to Boulder, CO. If you’ve ever wanted to see where this storied festival was born, now is the time2. Bryce Canyon National Park Being an adventurous traveler means you’ll want to rent a car and try to hit at least two of our known national parks. We recommend starting at Bryce Canyon in the winter, since the higher elevation means more snow than much of Southern Utah and more fun winter sports3. Bryce Canyon transforms into a winter fairyland of snow-covered hoodoos this time of year. You can cross country ski or snowshoe a 2.25-mile easy trail, camp at the north campground which remains open (though it can dip below 20 at night), and witness some of the most stunning night skies2. You can also lace up your skates and hit the ice at Bryce Canyon Ice Ribbon4. If you and your beloved are in town on Valentine’s Day, check out the Winter Festival held at Ruby’s Inn, with activities including races and ski archery competitions. Brian Head Lodge Less than an hour and a half west of Bryce Canyon, you’ll find one of the coziest, family-friendly ski resorts in Southern Utah. If you love outdoor winter sports, this is the place to downhill ski, snow tube, snowshoe, hop on a snowmobile tour, or go ice skating through the holiday trees. The laid-back, festive atmosphere and powdery snow will delight the whole family5. Zion National Park No trip to Southern Utah is complete without visiting Zion, particularly in winter, when you can hit some of the most epic trails in the world without the summer crowds and experience the charm of a quieter time. The weather tends to be mild with temperatures often reaching the 40s and dropping down to the 20s overnight6. We recommend the Riverside Walk & Lower Emerald Pool trails, which remain accessible in winter and offer unparalleled views of snow-covered cliffs and frozen waterfalls. You may be able to hike the two most famous trails, Angel’s Landing and The Narrows, but check conditions at the visitor’s center first. You might want to swing by Zion Adventure Co. to rent any gear needed to stay warm and safe6. Tuacahn Amphitheater From November 20 to December 23, Tuacahn Amphitheater in nearby Ivins transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland with a live nativity on Friday and Saturday nights, a production of “Elf: The Musical,” a train ride through the canyon illuminated by thousands of festive lights, paired with holiday narration and music, and Santa’s been known to set up shop there for the season, too. If you’re visiting Zion and staying nearby, this is a wonderful evening out for the family that’s sure to become a lasting memory. And if you’re visiting later in winter, Million Dollar Quartet shows January through March7. St. George About half an hour outside of Zion, you’ll find the charming town of St. George, which offers family-friendly options around the holidays and throughout winter. Here, you can ride the North Pole Express at St. George’s Thunder Junction, where you can also enjoy park access, decorate cookies, sip on hot cocoa, and create holiday crafts. Purchase your train tickets early, as they tend to sell out4. In town, you can also visit the Children’s Museum or run one of several races held in the winter months7. Zion Canyon Hot Springs After getting in a flurry of outdoor adventure and winter activities in Utah, logging miles on the slopes and experiencing Southern Utah’s iconic national parks in all their winter glory, it’s time for the reward at the end of the trail. We recommend booking some time to relax and reflect on time well spent with loved ones at Zion Canyon Hot Springs so you can return from your vacation refreshed and rejuvenated. Adults can indulge in our 32 natural geothermal hot springs, 16 globally-inspired mineral soaking pools, cold plunges, barrel saunas, delicious food, and other amenities while your bodies and minds recover. Our family-friendly area boasts 14 mineral-rich hot springs, a spacious freshwater pool heated to a comfortable 90 degrees, a cold plunge, and a barrel sauna—crafted for wellness and enjoyment the whole family can share. Book it in minutes. Soak for hours.
on Dec 17, 2025 | 3 minutes
Visiting Northern Arizona puts you in the heart of some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, with the iconic Grand Canyon standing as the ultimate showstopper. But the magic of the region goes far beyond a single sight. From winding desert trails to shimmering rivers, there are countless experiences and attractions near the Grand Canyon just waiting to be discovered. If you're planning a romantic getaway or family trip to the area, this 5-day itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable route. How to Spend 5 Days Near the Grand Canyon Day 1: Grand Canyon National Park Start your adventure at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, where the views feel almost unreal. Watch the sunrise paint the canyon gold at Mather Point or take in sweeping vistas from the Desert View Watchtower1. Walk or bike the Rim Trail for a slower, more intimate look at panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. Traveling couples can sneak away to a quiet overlook for a picnic with a view, while families will love exploring the Yavapai Geology Museum, where kids can learn how the canyon was formed and discover millions of years of history in one place2. Before leaving the park, stop at Cameron Trading Post, a historic detour full of character where you can browse Native American crafts, local art, and hearty local dishes, like frybread. Remember to snap a few fun photos with the colorful storefronts and desert backdrop. Finally, stay overnight in Tusayan, just outside the South Rim entrance, for an easy start to the next day's adventures. Day 2: Page In the morning, leave the Grand Canyon behind and cruise east along Highway 64, where the desert seems to stretch forever. Continue to Page, AZ, your home base for a day packed with red-rock views and water-side adventure. Once there, start with Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River curves in a perfect emerald loop 1,000 feet below, a jaw-dropping sight at sunrise or sunset when the cliffs glow gold and crimson. Later, join a guided tour through Antelope Canyon to step into a world of swirling sandstone and shifting light that feels more like art than stone. This is one of the most photogenic things to do near the Grand Canyon3. Day 3: Lake Powell Start your day surrounded by the surreal beauty of Page, where glowing sandstone canyons meet shimmering blue water. Spend the morning on or near the water at Lake Powell, a surreal landscape where red cliffs meet bright blue waves. Rent a kayak or a paddleboard at Wahweap Marina, take a scenic boat tour through Antelope Canyon, or find a sandy cove to swim and relax. Couples can catch the sunset from the deck of a boat, while families will love a beach picnic or an easy swim along the shore. If you like a quick hike, don't miss Hanging Garden Trail, a lush pocket of green tucked into the desert rock above Glen Canyon Dam. Both kids and adults will love spotting the unique plants and wildlife along the trail4. After a day of sun and water, enjoy a relaxed dinner in Page before driving north toward Kanab, UT, for a well-earned night's rest. Day 4: Kanab Wake up in Kanab, the cinematic desert town once dubbed “Little Hollywood” for its role in Western classics. Start your morning with a short drive to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, where rippling red sands shift with the wind and sunlight. Rent sleds for a thrill, wander the dunes barefoot, or just soak in the desert silence stretching endlessly around you. Families can spend hours here exploring, while couples might bring a picnic to enjoy against the peaceful backdrop. One of the top attractions near the Grand Canyon for animal lovers is the Best Friends Animal Society. This is the nation's largest sanctuary for homeless animals and a heartwarming refuge where you can meet adorable rescues and tour the peaceful grounds. As the sun dips low, head back to Kanab's main street for dinner and a cozy night under the glowing desert stars5. Day 5: Zion National Park Finish your journey in Zion National Park, less than 90 minutes from Kanab. Families will love the popular Narrows and Emerald Pools trails, while couples can hike the more private Chinle Trail for sweeping romantic views. Check in for your last night in Springdale, where boutique hotels and cozy cafes set the stage for your final adventure6. For the perfect finale to your Southwest escape, head to Zion Canyon Hot Springs in nearby La Verkin. After days of hiking and exploring, you'll love to unwind in mineral-rich pools surrounded by desert cliffs and warm air along the Virgin River. Couples can sink into the water at sunset, watching the sky fade to pink and gold. Families can relax together in the calm, natural pools for a serene pause before the journey home. Whether you're hiking trails solo, sneaking off on a romantic escape, or exploring with the whole crew, Zion Canyon Hot Springs gives you the chance to soak in the magic of the Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona. Book your visit today to secure your spot and treat yourself to this one-of-a-kind experience. Sources: Southwest Media Communications. Grand Canyon Top Attractions. Grand Canyon. Retrieved October 21, 2025, from https://www.grandcanyon.net/attractions U.S. Department of the Interior. (July 29, 2025). Yavapai Museum of Geology. National Parks Service. Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/yavapai-geo.htm Rivers & Oceans. Top Attractions Near Grand Canyon. Rivers & Oceans Adventure Travel Experts. Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.riversandoceans.com/top-attractions-near-grand-canyon/ U.S. Department of the Interior. (February 12, 2025). Day Hikes. National Parks Service. Retrieved October 22, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/glca/planyourvisit/day-hikes.htm Utah Office of Tourism. Kanab. Utah: Life Elevated. Retrieved October 23, 2025, from https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/cities-and-towns/kanab Utah Office of Tourism. Zion National Park. Utah: Life Elevated. Retrieved October 23, 2025, from https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/parks-outdoors/zion
on Dec 12, 2025 | 3 minutes
If you’re planning a trip to Bryce Canyon, your adventurous heart is already looking forward to the otherworldly beauty of natural amphitheaters and the largest collection of hoodoos—those towering red spires rising from the bottom of the basin—in the world1. Once you’ve done some stargazing in this dark sky designated park, witnessed a jaw-dropping sunrise, toured below the rim on horseback, and hiked the iconic Queen’s Garden/Navajo Loop Trail, you might like to branch out and add some of the other incredible and inspiring things to do near Bryce Canyon from our curated list below. Southern Utah is loaded with swoon-worthy, family-friendly sites for the history buff, the naturalist, outdoor sports lovers, and wellness enthusiasts alike. As you plan your dream trip to southern Utah, don’t forget to incorporate some relaxation and recovery time. Zion Canyon Hot Springs is your reward at the end of the trail. 7 Must-See Attractions Near Bryce Canyon Scenic Byway 12 One of the most beautiful drives in the world is located near Bryce Canyon National Park and connects Kodachrome State Park, Grand Staircase National Monument, and Capitol Reef National Park. The 122-mile drive from Panguitch to Torrey passes through twisting canyons, red rock towers, pine forests, and pioneer towns. With so much tucked along one road, you’ll want to stop often to take it all in and make lasting memories. Crank up the music, roll down the windows, unplug, and take in “the most scenic road in America” with your loved ones2. The Town of Escalante About an hour east of Bryce Canyon along stunning Byway 12, Escalante features incredible hiking and delicious farm-to-table dining3. Start your day with a visit to Petrified Forest State Park, home to large pieces of petrified wood and numerous fossils4. Then, venture over to Grand Staircase National Monument for a hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls. The strenuous 6-mile trek through often hot sand is worth the payoff, a 128-foot waterfall with a spectacular swimming hole shaded by canyon walls. It’s the ideal setting for a picnic lunch, but plan on dinner in town. Note that most of Escalante’s restaurants are open seasonally from March through October, serving tourists and locals. Fourth West Pub is open year-round. Anasazi State Park If you’re driving Byway 12, you might continue east from Escalante to nearby Boulder and visit Anasazi State Park, where you can explore the Ancient Puebloan village once home to one of the largest Anasazi communities west of the Colorado River. Check out a replica of a typical dwelling, view artifacts, and learn about life here in 1050–1200 A.D5. And since you’re already in the area, plan on dinner at Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm, which features seasonal, farm-fresh Western Range and Southwestern flavors3. Cottonwood Canyon Road If you’re looking for a hidden gem experience, take this scenic dirt road (weather permitting, avoid if there’s a chance of rain) from Kodachrome Basin State Park (a gorgeous and underrated park with colorful cliffs and buttes in hues of red, orange, and yellow) to Kanab, a town with many unique attractions of its own. In Kanab, you’ll find stunning Coral Pink Sands State Park, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, museums, and a thriving food scene. Brian Head Ski Resort If you’re visiting in winter, go downhill skiing at this premier ski resort with the highest base elevation in Utah at 9,600 feet. You can also snowboard or tube down the slopes amid some gorgeous vistas. During summer and fall, you might rest up for your next stop, hike, bike, fish, go horseback riding, and they host plenty of events, including an Oktoberfest. With restaurants and shopping on site, it’s an excellent addition to an epic southern Utah itinerary2. Zion National Park As you head west toward Las Vegas International Airport, one of the best things to do near Bryce Canyon National Park is to take the time to visit Zion National Park and the surrounding towns for a few days. With over 150 hiking trails, including two of the most iconic hikes in the world, Angel’s Landing which offers beautiful views of the park (permit required for this strenuous hike), and The Narrows, an often-wet hike through the Virgin River and a famous slot canyon, you’ll find plenty of awe-inspiring activities at one of America’s most treasured national parks. The entrance fee for Zion National Park is $35, but if you’re planning on visiting at least 3 national parks in the next year, it’s worth it to purchase an America the Beautiful Annual National Parks Pass for $802. Zion Canyon Hot Springs As your trip winds down, take some time to rest, recover, and reflect on this legendary adventure. Approximately half an hour from Zion National Park in La Verkin, you’ll find Zion Canyon Hot Springs is the ideal spot for pampering and relaxation. Boasting 32 natural geothermal hot springs with water pulled and treated from the natural hot springs of the Virgin River, 16 globally-inspired mineral soaking pools, each inspired by legendary destinations—like Iceland’s Blue Lagoon and the Dead Sea—cold plunges, barrel saunas, delectable food and drinks served poolside, Zion Canyon Hot Springs is a stellar reward at the end of the trail. We have both family-friendly and 21+ areas, so whether you’re traveling with friends or little ones, our water-rich oasis has everything you need to ease your aches and pains so you can return home not only inspired by all you’ve seen in this unforgettable part of the country, but also well-rested and rejuvenated in both body and mind. Book in minutes. Soak for hours. Sources: (10 December 2021). The Perfect 72 Hours Near Bryce Canyon National Park. Under Canvas. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.undercanvas.com/blog/72-hours-near-bryce-canyon-national-park/ (9 September 2022). 11 Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. The Wildlife Diaries. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.thewildlifediaries.com/things-to-do-near-bryce-canyon/ Bauer, A. Fun Family Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon (Plus the Best Place to Stay!). Zion Adventure Photog. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.zionadventurephotog.com/single-post/things-to-do-near-bryce-canyon Ockey, N. (22 April 2023). Things to Do Near Bryce Canyon. Utah’s Adventure Family. Retrieved September 15, 2025, from https://www.utahsadventurefamily.com/things-to-do-near-bryce-along-scenic-highway-12/ Parks and Other Tourist Attraction Spots near Bryce Canyon. Bryce Canyon. Retrieved September 16, 2025, from https://www.brycecanyon.net/parks-tourist-attraction-spots-near-bryce-canyon/
on Nov 3, 2025 | 3 minutes
Imagine slipping into a warm, mineral-rich hot spring and feeling not only your muscles relax, but your mind, too. If you've ever had this exact sense of calm wash over you during a soak, lithium may have been behind it. In the hush of a geothermal pool, this mineral has a subtle, almost soulful effect, helping to soften the mind's chatter and invite a more reflective state of mind. It's no wonder that cultures around the globe have long sought it out for both its physical renewal properties and the lightness it leaves behind. If you're intrigued, here's a comprehensive guide to lithium’s benefits and how you can experience them in a hot spring. What Is Lithium & What Does It Add to Mineral Hot Springs? Found in trace amounts in many mineral-rich waters, lithium has a clinically established connection to emotional balance and the nervous system. In the medical world, it is prescribed as a mood stabilizer, acting directly on the central nervous system to create more steadiness and control1. While soaking in small quantities isn't the same as ingesting it, it may still carry that calming effect when found in hot springs. Many bathers describe feeling more at ease, less weighed down by stress, and more open to enjoying the moment when soaking in lithium-rich springs, giving mineral water containing lithium a gentle, natural echo of its prescribed usage. Lithium also perfectly complements other minerals found in hot springs. For example, while it can help soothe your mental landscape during a soak, additional minerals like magnesium and calcium can help relax sore muscles and support recovery after exercise. This combination makes a soak in mineral hot springs a general recalibration of your well-being, giving both your physical and mental states the chance to recenter. Which of Our Pools Are Lithium Hot Springs? Chianciano Terme, Italy In Italy, bathing is about community, ritual, and health as a lifestyle. Chianciano Terme in Tuscany is one of Italy's oldest and most famous hot spring destinations. Traces of its history date back to the 5th century B.C., when the Etruscans built a temple to the god of Good Health near the Silene springs. Later, the Romans carried forward this tradition, weaving soaks into their daily lives as a means for both physical restoration and social and spiritual gathering. Over time, luxurious villas and baths sprang up around the healing pools, and Chianciano became known as the “Town of Health” thanks to its therapeutic waters, attracting visitors seeking renewal and relief from ailments2. At Zion Canyon Hot Springs, we link the old-world charm of the Italian bathing tradition with the rugged beauty of Southern Utah, creating a place where you can linger, unwind, and let the minerals do their job. The Italian pool at Zion Canyon Hot Springs captures its namesake's heritage, blending history and healing in a way that feels both grounding and luxurious. Infused with a mix of sodium, calcium chloride, sulfate, bicarbonate, magnesium, iron, and lithium, this mineral pool is designed to support the joints, reduce stress, and calm the nervous system. Soaking here feels like participating in a wellness ritual that has carried on through the centuries, a tradition in which mind and body come into balance under the influence of the heavens. Blue Lagoon, Iceland There is perhaps no hot spring in the world as iconic and instantly recognizable as Iceland's Blue Lagoon. Nestled in a landscape of black lava rock and geothermal steam, this pool's milky-blue waters draw travelers from across the world who seek both beauty and healing. As the story goes, it first gained attention in the late 20th century when locals discovered its transformative effects on the skin. From there, the pool went from hidden gem to global wellness destination, inspiring awe and fascination at first sight3. In Iceland, soaking is a commonly prescribed therapeutic treatment and way of life. For centuries, communities have gathered at naturally occurring geothermal pools not only to stay warm against the Arctic chill, but also to connect and align with the land's raw, elemental power. And in fact, it's the very presence of a unique blend of minerals that gives Blue Lagoon its iconic color, speaking to the primordial wisdom in this custom. The Iceland-inspired pool at Zion Canyon Hot Springs captures this same spirit, blending personal rejuvenation with a deep appreciation for nature's gifts. Here, you can slip into waters infused with the very minerals that give the Blue Lagoon its legendary hue, feeling your muscles release as the stress melts away. This lithium hot spring helps calm the nervous system, while silica and magnesium work to refresh and restore your skin. With each soak, you fall into a ritual that echoes generations of Icelanders who turned to geothermal waters for strength, vitality, and renewal, all in a communal bathing environment meant to reconnect you with yourself, others, and the landscape. Where Can You Get Lithium Hot Springs Benefits? Zion Canyon Hot Springs transports you around the globe right from the otherworldly Utah desert. One moment you're soaking in waters that once fascinated the mighty Ancient Romans, and in the next you're immersed in the magic of glacial thermal baths. Each pool connects to time-honed wisdom, weaving a story layered by centuries of tradition and cultural folklore. Whether you're recovering from a long hike in the mountains, craving sanctuary after days of adventure, or simply looking to add an unforgettable stop to your travel itinerary, Zion Canyon Hot Springs offers an experience that feels timeless and transformative. If you're seeking a place that inspires awe while restoring the body, Zion Canyon Hot Springs is waiting. Step into the water, let the minerals do the work, and discover why thermal soaks have always been one of nature's most enduring gifts of wellness. Sources: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (1 August 2025). Lithium (oral route). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved August 17, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lithium-oral-route/description/drg-20064603 Chianciano Terme - Thermal Baths in the Valdichiana Senese, Tuscany. Bella Toscana. Retrieved August 17, 2025, from https://www.bella-toscana.com/chianciano-terme/ (31 October 2019). Blue Lagoon Skin Care: A Brief History. Blue Lagoon. Retrieved August 20, 2025, from https://www.bluelagoon.com/stories/blue-lagoon-skin-care-or-a-brief-history
on Oct 23, 2025 | 3 minutes
To call the Las Vegas Strip popular is an understatement, as over 40 million people visited the desert destination in 20241. Sin City has it all — including crowds. Do you want to take a weekend trip from Las Vegas to escape the bustling casinos, packed concert venues, and long lines at various attractions? If so, keep reading. There are numerous places, a stone's throw away from the world-famous Strip, and in neighboring Utah, that are worth exploring for a weekend getaway. If you're unsure of where to start, buckle up for a road trip starting in Las Vegas and ending at Zion Canyon Hot Springs, a newly opened wellness destination in La Verkin, Utah (near Zion National Park). How to Get from Las Vegas to Zion Canyon Hot Springs Pack a few snacks and bottles of water for the journey, which takes roughly two hours (139 miles) via I-15 N. 3 Road Trips from Las Vegas 1. Valley of Fire State Park Approximately 45 minutes into the trek, stop near Overton, Nevada, to explore Valley of Fire State Park. This 40,000-acre2 park in the Mojave Desert is the perfect spot to fill your Instagram story with pictures of the Aztec sandstone formations and ancient, petrified trees. Work on your hamstrings, calves, and glutes on a hike. There are trails for various experience levels and abilities. The Park doesn't have dining options; however, there are picnic areas at Atlatl Rock, Seven Sisters, the Cabins, and other sites. We recommend buying an inexpensive cooler before leaving Las Vegas (yes, we know what we did there) and filling it with sandwiches and bottles of water on ice. Bringing along lunch is a convenient way to refuel while traveling. There are restrooms near the picnic areas. To stay connected to the modern world, Wi-Fi is available at the Park for a fee. 2. Mesquite Casinos, Pools, and Dining Maybe you want to enjoy resort amenities but a little farther away from the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas strip. You're in luck, as you'll reach Mesquite, Nevada, just over an hour into the drive from Las Vegas. The small city in northeast Nevada bordering Arizona is home to Virgin River Hotel & Casino and CasaBlanca Resort, both owned by Mesquite Entertainment. CasaBlanca features various amenities available to non-hotel guests, including daily pool passes to cool off in the dry heat. Whether you want to bet it all on black or get a winning combo at the slots, CasaBlanca's casino features 12 table games and 800 slot machines, including popular games like MegaBucks and Wheel of Fortune. Treat yourself to fine dining at Katherine's Steakhouse, sate your cravings for East Coast diner fare at Jersey Joe's Diner, or try guacamole made tableside and other Mexican cuisine at Ritas and Fajitas. Make sure to get ice cream for dessert at Scoops. Virgin River Hotel & Casino also boasts plenty for out-of-town visitors to do on day trips. The casino, for instance, has 14 table games and 1,000 slot machines. There's also a bowling center, where you can attempt a strike under neon lights. Conjure memories of childhood nostalgia (and make new memories with your family) at the arcade. Stop for a bite to eat at the family-friendly Virgin River Café. From rise-and-shine breakfast staples to Chinese comfort food, the menu offers something for everyone. For even more variety, fill your plate at Sierra's Buffet. It's open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. 3. Zion National Park Check a trip to Las Vegas and Zion National Park off your bucket list. The Park's south entrance is the most direct entrance from La Verkin, home to Zion Canyon Hot Springs. The Park has numerous points of interest throughout its nearly 147,000 acres3. If you're ready for a strenuous hike, Angels Landing is definitely worth exploring for its spectacular views. Note: You must enter a lottery for a chance to win a permit to visit Angels Landing. There are additional places to explore, like Emerald Pools and Riverside Walk (two trails, both approximately two miles long) that don't require permits — or that much exertion. Located inside the Park, Zion National Park Lodge offers dining options, including the Red Rock Grill, which serves American and Mexican cuisine, as well as picturesque views of Zion Canyon. Castle Dome Café is the place to go for packaged snacks and fresh meals. The 21+ crowd can grab a brew at the Beer Garden. The Final Destination: Zion Canyon Hot Springs Your weekend getaway from Las Vegas to Zion Canyon Hot Springs could include detours along the way, from taking a hike to a seat at a craps table. The wellness destination boasts over 50 mineral hot springs pools to help you recharge after a short day trip. Each pool has specific mineral compositions that promote different therapeutic benefits, from muscle recovery to joint support and stress reduction. The tranquil oasis includes two sections. The family-friendly region has 14 mineral hot springs pools as well as a large freshwater pool, a cold plunge, a barrel sauna, and a snack bar. The 21+ exclusive region features 18 mineral hot springs pools, two barrel saunas, two cold plunges, The Springs Café, and a full bar with poolside drink service. You'll also discover 16 world-inspired pools in the 21+ region. The mineral composition in each pool is inspired by the mineral-rich waters found in different parts of Europe, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific. Ready to Unwind Away from The Strip? A visit to Zion Canyon Hot Springs is a unique way to unwind during your time away from the Las Vegas Strip. To experience all that the brand new wellness destination has to offer, book your visit today. Sources: 1. Velotta, R. N. (7 April 2025). How many people visit Las Vegas each year? Las Vegas Review-Journal. Retrieved September 10, 2025, from https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/tourism/how-many-people-visit-las-vegas-each-year-3347903 2. Valley of Fire State Park. Nevada State Parks. Retrieved September 10, 2025, from https://parks.nv.gov/parks/valley-of-fire 3. Yogerst, J. (24 June 2024). Everything to know about Zion National Park. National Geographic. Retrieved September 10, 2025, from https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/national-parks/article/zion-national-park
on Oct 20, 2025 | 3 minutes
Planning a family vacation, a solo adventure, or time out of town with your sweetheart? A Southwestern road trip through the breathtaking desert is an unforgettable option. Start your adventure at the Grand Canyon in Arizona, then set your GPS northeast-bound to Zion National Park in Utah. The drive affords opportunities to enjoy exhilarating nature hikes, visit historical sites, and sample an eclectic array of cuisine. Recharge with a soothing soak at Zion Canyon Hot Springs—a newly opened wellness destination nestled near the park. Making the most out of your trip from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park is a breeze when you plan. Need ideas? Keep reading. Side note: At $80, the America the Beautiful Pass allows you to visit National Parks for an entire year. By travelling from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park, you will be close to breaking even on the cost. If you plan another Grand Canyon to Zion road trip, the pass is a smart purchase. Things to See and Do Near the Grand Canyon Venturing into the Grand Canyon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people. Listed are some of the must-see locations throughout this massive natural beauty. Mather Point Upon arrival at the Grand Canyon, head to the visitor center to learn more about the Grand Canyon's history and get up-to-date information on various trail closures. Mather Point is a five-minute walk from the visitor center and the perfect spot for awe-inspiring vistas—stretching over 30 miles to the east and over 60 miles to the west1 across the canyon. You can also spot the Colorado River and Phantom Ranch at the base. South Rim Trail A nearly 13-mile hike, the South Rim Trail offers stunning views. This moderately strenuous hike is mostly paved and accessible, but wheelchair users may still need assistance due to its elevation. You'll need to access the trail using the park shuttle. With several overlooks, there will be plenty of photo opportunities. Grand Canyon Historic Village Refuel at the Grand Canyon Historic Village with fine dining at El Tovar Hotel and quick snacks at Hermit's Rest. In addition to delicious food, the village boasts several lodging options and historical tours. At the adobe pueblo-inspired Hopi House, you can view its fascinating architecture and shop for Native American goods. Driving From Arizona to Utah After visiting the Grand Canyon, it's time to hit the road again on your way to Zion National Park. How far is the Grand Canyon from Zion National Park? The drive takes approximately four hours; however, this wouldn't be a classic road trip without some stops along the way. From the Grand Canyon, take AZ-64 for about 30 miles and then follow US-89 about 260 miles to Zion. Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona Around halfway along the route, you'll reach Page, Arizona, where you should stop for a guided tour of Antelope Canyon. Want to learn about the stunning slot canyons? Check. The Navajo land and culture? That's on the list, too. You will need to book ahead. If you plan to stay overnight, Page offers accommodations to suit all budgets—alongside beautiful views of nearby Lake Powell. The Wave The Wave, a fascinating sandstone formation, is a sight worth stopping for — should you be one of the lucky people to win a permit. To see The Wave, you do need to enter the $9 lottery for a chance. If you get a permit, you're in for an intense 6.4-mile hike with views like no other. Coral Pink Sand Dunes Numerous attractions pepper the final stretch to Zion National Park. The Coral Pink Sand Dunes are located near Kanab, Utah, approximately 30 minutes2 away from Zion. At the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, you can explore the dunes on an ATV or rush down the sandy slopes on a sandboard. Other options include thrilling rappelling tours for the adventurous and playing in the sand for a fun time with the family. The entrance fee is only $10, but you will need to pack a lunch. Things to See and Do Near Zion National Park Zion National Park has a myriad of options, from horseback riding to e-bike rental and hiking, for nature enthusiasts. Between trips to Zion National Park, relieve sore muscles and unwind at Zion Canyon Hot Springs in La Verkin. The new wellness destination caters to a diverse clientele, with both family-friendly and 21+ only zones. Below are areas to explore in Zion National Park. The Narrows This trailhead starts at the Temple of Sinawava, a naturally formed amphitheater. Aptly named, The Narrows passes through the narrowest part of the gorge in Zion National Park. Parts of the trail feature 20- to 30-foot-wide paths flanked by walls that rise 1,000 feet. You can choose from three routes with differing levels of challenge. The Riverside Walk is a two-mile, wheelchair-accessible path through the canyon. The other options include the bottom-up route, an out-and-back path, which allows you to choose how far you'd like to venture before turning around, for hikes of up to 10 miles. The top-down route is the most challenging trek. It's an all-day or overnight 17-mile hike. Taking this route requires a permit. If you're planning to take one of the latter two hikes, make sure to come prepared with water shoes and a walking stick, as you'll be wading through the Virgin River. Gear rental stations are located nearby. Angels Landing Hike One of the most strenuous hikes, Angels Landing is a 5.4-mile, round-trip journey with an elevation gain of over 1,500 feet. If this sounds exciting, keep in mind you will need a permit to access the trail. Permits are distributed through a seasonal and daily lottery system on the National Parks website, so be sure to plan ahead. However, you can still hike the first part of the trail to Scout Lookout without a permit. Emerald Pools Trail For a more leisurely hike, choose the Emerald Pools. Located near the Zion Lodge, the trail has 1.2- and 2-mile loops, which take about an hour to traverse. Following alongside a stream, you'll come across several points where the water forms pools overlooking the forest. Visit Zion Canyon Hot Springs When you're done exploring Zion National Park, or between trips, stop by Zion Canyon Hot Springs and settle in for a soak. The eco-friendly pools will cool you down after a long day of hiking in the hot sun, while still offering a gorgeous view. You'll have your choice of American, Asian & Pacific, or European-styled waters — travelling the world (without leaving Utah). After a rejuvenating soak and a bite to eat, you'll be ready to get back on the road. Sources Mather Point. National Park Service. Retrieved September 3, 2025, from https://www.nps.gov/places/000/mather-point.htm Ruland, M. (29 August 2025). Kanab is Utah's Best Kept Secret. Utah National Park Trips Powered by Outside. Retrieved September 3, 2025, from https://www.myutahparks.com/road-trips/road-trip-stops/kanab-kane-county-ut/