Zion National Park Airport: 4 Best Gateways for Your Epic Adventure

Zion National Park Airport: Your Gateway to Adventure

Hey there, fellow adventurers and national park enthusiasts! Are you itching to explore the breathtaking red rock cliffs, emerald pools, and scenic hiking trails of Zion National Park? Well, you’ve landed in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the best airports for visiting Zion, how to get to the park, and some insider tips to make your trip unforgettable.

While St. George Regional Airport (SGU) is generally the most convenient option for travelers visiting Zion National Park, it’s worth noting that Kanab Airport is actually theclosest, located approximately 45 miles from the park. However, Kanab Airport is a small general aviation facility with limited services.

Find out all the details on Zion National Park’s entrance fee and get ready for your visit.

Best Airports for Visiting Zion National Park

When it comes to flying to Zion, you’ve got a few options. Let’s break them down and help you choose the best one for your Utah adventure.

Choose the best time to visit Zion National Park by checking out this guide.

1. St. George Regional Airport (SGU): Your Closest Bet

If you’re looking for the nearest airport to Zion National Park, St. George Regional Airport is your go-to option.

• Location: Just 45 miles southwest of Zion’s main entrance (about a 1-hour drive)
• Airlines: United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines
• Pros:
  • Shortest drive to Zion
  • Less crowded than major airports
  • Beautiful scenic drive to the park
• Cons:
  • Limited flight options
  • Potentially higher fares
  • Smaller aircraft

St. George Regional Airport (SGU) offers flight services via Delta, United, and American Airlines. Direct flights or connections are available year-round through Phoenix, Denver, and Salt Lake City. The airport provides shuttle services, taxis, and rental car options for visitors heading to Zion National Park.

Pro tip: Book your SGU flights well in advance, especially during peak season (March to October), to snag the best deals and ensure availability.

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2. Harry Reid International Airport (LAS): The Big City Option

For more flight options and potentially lower fares, consider flying into Las Vegas.

• Location: 170 miles from Zion (about a 2.5-3-hour drive)
• Airlines: All major domestic and many international airlines
• Pros:
  • Wide range of flight options and competitive prices
  • 24/7 operation with numerous amenities
  • Opportunity to combine Zion trip with Las Vegas visit
• Cons:
  • Longer drive to Zion
  • Busier airport experience
  • Desert heat during summer months

Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is the closest international airport to Zion National Park, located about 170 miles away

Travel hack: Consider renting an electric vehicle in Las Vegas for an eco-friendly road trip to Zion.

3. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): The Northern Route

If you’re planning to explore more of Utah, flying into Salt Lake City could be a great option.

• Location: About 310 miles from Zion (4.5-hour drive)
• Airlines: Major domestic and international carriers
• Pros:
  • Excellent flight connections
  • Opportunity to visit other Utah attractions (like Arches or Canyonlands)
  • Modern airport facilities
• Cons:
  • Longest drive to Zion
  • Winter weather can affect travel plans

Road trip idea: Turn your Zion visit into a Utah national parks tour by stopping at Bryce Canyon on your way from Salt Lake City.

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4. Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC): The Hidden Gem

For a quieter airport experience, consider this small regional option.

• Location: About 60 miles from Zion (1-hour drive)
• Airlines: Limited service, usually connecting through Salt Lake City
• Pros:
  • Closer to Zion than Las Vegas
  • Less crowded airport experience
  • Scenic drive to the park
• Cons:
  • Very limited flight options
  • Potential for higher fares
  • Smaller aircraft

Located approximately 80 miles from Zion National Park, Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) is another option for visitors

Local secret: Cedar City hosts the Utah Shakespeare Festival, making it a great stop for culture enthusiasts on their way to Zion.

5. Kanab Airport

Kanab Airport (KNZ) is the closest airport to Zion National Park, located about 45 miles south of the park1. Address: 2378 S Hwy 89a, Kanab, UT 84741, United States Phone: +1 435 644 2299 Website: https://kanab.utah.gov/2151/Airport

While it’s a small general aviation airport with no commercial flights, it can be a convenient option for private pilots or chartered flights.

Zion Park Shuttle and Zion Rock Canyon Shuttle offer private/shared shuttle van transportation between KNZ and Zion National Park for around $40-50 per person each way1.

Transportation Options from Airports to Zion National Park

Now that you’ve landed, how do you get to those famous red rocks? Here are your best bets:

1. Rental Cars: Available at all airports. Perfect for flexibility and exploring beyond Zion.
   • Pro tip: Book in advance for better rates and vehicle choices.
2. Shuttle Services: Several companies offer door-to-door service from airports to Zion.
   • Popular options: St. George Shuttle, Zion Guru, Red Rock Shuttle
3. Taxis and Rideshares: Available at larger airports (LAS, SLC), but can be pricey for long distances.
4. Private Tours: Some companies offer airport pickup as part of Zion tour packages.
   • Bonus: Get insider knowledge from local guides.

Planning Your Trip to Zion National Park

Best Routes from Each Airport

• From SGU: Take I-15 North to UT-9 East. Enjoy views of the Pine Valley Mountains.
• From LAS: Take I-15 North through the Virgin River Gorge. Stop at Mesquite for a break.
• From SLC: Head south on I-15. Consider a detour to Bryce Canyon National Park.
• From CDC: Take UT-14 West to US-89 South, then UT-9 West. A scenic drive through color country.

Nearby Attractions and Other National Parks

• Bryce Canyon National Park (1.5 hours from Zion)
• Grand Canyon North Rim (2.5 hours)
• Valley of Fire State Park (2 hours from Las Vegas)
• Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park (1 hour)

Lodging Options Near Zion

1. Springdale: The gateway town to Zion
   • Zion Lodge (inside the park)
   • Cable Mountain Lodge
   • Flanigan’s Inn
2. St. George: Great base for exploring Zion and beyond
   • Red Mountain Resort
   • The Inn at Entrada
3. East Zion: For a quieter stay
   • Zion Mountain Ranch
   • Under Canvas Zion (luxury glamping)

Essential Tips for Zion National Park Visitors

Park Entrance Fees and Passes

• 7-day vehicle pass: $35
• Annual Zion Pass: $70
• America the Beautiful Pass (all national parks): $80/year

Best Times to Visit Zion National Park

• Spring (March-May): Mild weather, wildflowers blooming
• Fall (September-November): Cooler temperatures, stunning foliage
• Winter (December-February): Least crowded, potential for snow
• Summer (June-August): Busiest season, hot temperatures

Popular Hikes and Activities in Zion

Discover everything you need to know about camping in Zion National Park.

1. Angels Landing: Thrilling hike with chain sections (permit required)
2. The Narrows: Wade through the Virgin River in a narrow canyon
3. Emerald Pools: Family-friendly trail to serene pools
4. Canyon Overlook Trail: Short hike with big views
5. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: Take the shuttle for stunning vistas

Outdoor enthusiast tip: Try canyoneering or rock climbing for an adrenaline rush in Zion’s unique landscape.

Current Events and Alerts

For travelers planning a visit to Zion National Park, the St. George Regional Airport (SGU) remains the closest and most convenient airport, located approximately 45 miles from the park.

This airport offers flights from major cities such as Denver, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City, primarily through airlines like United, Delta, and American Airlines. Additionally, McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, now known as Harry Reid International Airport, is another popular option, situated about 170 miles from Zion.

It provides a wide variety of flight options, making it a convenient choice for international travelers or those coming from further afield.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the closest airport to Zion National Park?

Kanab Airport (KNZ) is technically the closest airport to Zion National Park, located about 45 miles south of the park. However, it’s a small general aviation facility with no commercial flights, so it’s not typically used by most visitors.

2. Which airport is most convenient for visiting Zion National Park?

St. George Regional Airport (SGU) is generally the most convenient option for most travelers visiting Zion National Park. It’s located about 49 miles from the park and offers commercial flights with major airlines, as well as various ground transportation options to reach the park.

3. Are there shuttle services from the airports to Zion National Park?

Yes, shuttle services are available from several airports to Zion National Park. St. George Regional Airport offers shuttle services directly to the park. From Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, you can book shuttle services that will take you to Springdale, the gateway town to Zion.

Cedar City Regional Airport also has shuttle options available, though they may need to be arranged in advance.

4. How long does it take to drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park?

The drive from Las Vegas (Harry Reid International Airport) to Zion National Park typically takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 160 miles. The route takes you through the scenic Virgin River Gorge, making for an enjoyable journey.

5. Can I rent a car at the airports near Zion National Park?

Yes, car rental services are available at all the major airports serving Zion National Park. St. George Regional Airport, Harry Reid International Airport, Salt Lake City International Airport, and Cedar City Regional Airport all offer on-site car rental facilities.

It’s recommended to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and potentially better rates.These FAQs provide concise, useful information for visitors planning their trip to Zion National Park, addressing common concerns about transportation and accessibility.

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Ready for Your Zion Adventure?

There you have it, folks – your complete guide to accessing Zion National Park by air and making the most of your visit. From choosing the right airport to hitting the trails, you’re now equipped with all the info you need for an unforgettable Zion experience.

Learn about the incredible wildlife in Zion National Park before your trip.

Remember, whether you’re soaring into St. George or road-tripping from Las Vegas, the journey to Zion is part of the adventure. So pack your hiking boots, charge your camera, and get ready to make some incredible memories in one of America’s most stunning national parks.

Safe travels, and happy trails!