Day One: Traverse Zion Canyon

Morning

You’re here! Wake up in the peaceful surrounds of AutoCamp Zion, then kickstart your explorations with complimentary granola and coffee on your way out the door.

Today is all about conquering the Zion classics. Hop on the Zion Canyon shuttle (they start running at 7am daily), and you’re off. Descend at The Grotto (stop #6) to begin the West Rim Trail to Scout Lookout—a heart-pounding climb that rewards you with sweeping views of Angels Landing (no permit required if you end here).

If you’d rather avoid Walter’s Wiggles (IYKYK), you can also start the Kayenta Trail from The Grotto stop, transitioning to the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, where shaded alcoves and trickling waterfalls show a softer side of the park.

Day One

Afternoon

Back on the shuttle you go, this time down to Big Bend (stop #8)—an aptly named curve in the Virgin River. Here, tuck into the sandwich you picked up earlier from Deep Creek Coffee Co. and find a spot to gaze at the sandstone cliffs. If you’re lucky, you might spot a California Condor gliding above the Great White Throne.

Day One

Evening

When you thought the adventure couldn’t get any better, it’s time for the second-to-last stop: Zion Canyon Hot Springs. Sink into the depths of relaxation at this unique mineral springs experience outside the park, featuring 32 natural geothermal hot springs and 16 mineral soaking pools. Body already aching? Enjoy the cold plunges, therapeutic waters, and barrel saunas, all designed to heal what ails you.

After all that, a night back at AutoCamp is just what the doctor ordered. Our delicious grill kits make the perfect post-park dinner spread to enjoy under the stars. Pour yourself a glass of wine or crack a beer, and relax around our cozy fire pit to end the evening.

Day Two: Explore Kolob Terrace

Morning

Second day means solitude and open skies. Just north of AutoCamp Zion, Kolob Terrace Road leads to a different side of the park—higher elevation, fewer people, and endless views. Start with a scenic drive past desert scrub that slowly gives way to ponderosa pines and aspen groves.

For an easy start, take the Northgate Peaks Trail from the Wildcat Canyon Trailhead, about 2.5 miles round trip, with high-reward sights and minimal elevation gain.

Day Two

Afternoon

Unpack the lunch provisions from our General Store to enjoy at one of the roadside pull-offs, then continue up toward Lava Point Overlook for panoramic vistas across the Kolob Plateau.

If the sun is shining and it’s a gem of an afternoon, head to Kolob Reservoir, a local favorite for swimming, paddleboarding, and lounging by the water.

Day Two

Evening

Tonight, hit nearby Springdale for dinner. You’ll want to check out Whiptail Grill, a quirky, converted gas station serving up modern Mexican dishes and fabulous margaritas. Order the chile relleno or mahi tacos, and enjoy the friendly vibe.

Day Three: Check out The Narrows

Morning

It’s your final day, so choose your own adventure. For a cool, immersive activity, hike The Narrows, Zion’s most famous slot canyon, where the Virgin River becomes your trail.

One of our favorite ways to do this is on a guided tour with our friends over at Zion Adventures. From guided canyoneering trips and slot canyon tours, to Angels Landing and Narrows hikes, and much more, they’ve shown seasoned explorers and curious travelers around Zion for almost three decades. The best part–their tours include all the gear you need to trek safely.

Rather stay dry? Drive to the east side of the park for the East Mesa Trail to Observation Point, a moderate hike with an awe-inspiring aerial view of Zion Canyon.

Day Three

Afternoon

Following your final park adventure, make your way back to AutoCamp Zion for a well-earned evening hang. Cool off with a swim in the pool (weather permitting), challenge your travel crew to a few rounds of lawn games, or grab a seat by the fire as the sun sinks behind the cliffs. Kids can explore the play area while adults unwind with a drink on the clubhouse patio, a fitting end to three unforgettable days in Zion.

Day Three

Evening

Looking for something special on your last night of an unforgettable trip to Zion? Take our advice and experience a dinner with añu (pronounced “AHN-you”) where they tell a regional New American food story, shaped by the rich Chinese and Japanese influences that make South American cuisine so distinctive. Reservations are recommended!

Still have room for a sweet treat? S’mores kits are calling your name back at AutoCamp Zion. Who can resist an ooey, gooey, perfectly toasted marshmallow? Not us.