Zion National Park, a jewel of Utah, captivates visitors with its majestic canyons and towering cliffs, creating an unparalleled haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Planning a trip to this natural wonderland often begins with the crucial question: Where Do You Fly Into For Zion National Park? Strategically located in southwestern Utah, Zion is accessible from several airports, each offering different conveniences and travel times. This guide will help you navigate your travel plans by detailing the best airport options and driving directions to Zion National Park, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.
Key Airports for Zion National Park
While Zion National Park may feel remote in its stunning natural beauty, it’s surprisingly well-connected to several major airports. The closest and most convenient options are detailed below, ranging from major international hubs to regional airports offering a quicker final leg to your destination.
McCarran International Airport (LAS), Las Vegas, Nevada
Distance to Zion National Park: Approximately 170 miles (2.5 – 3 hours driving time)
McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas is often considered the most convenient major airport for Zion National Park. As a large international airport, LAS offers a wide range of flight options and competitive prices from numerous airlines. The drive from Las Vegas to Zion is primarily along Interstate 15, making it straightforward and relatively quick.
Pros:
- Wide range of flights and airlines: Likely to find the best deals and flight times.
- Direct and easy drive: Mostly interstate driving, simple navigation.
- Las Vegas amenities: Option to enjoy Las Vegas before or after your Zion trip.
Cons:
- Can be a busy airport: May experience longer security lines and airport congestion.
- Further drive than regional options: While convenient, it’s still a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), Salt Lake City, Utah
Distance to Zion National Park: Approximately 311 miles (4.5 – 5 hours driving time)
Salt Lake City International Airport is another major airport option, though further from Zion than Las Vegas. SLC is a Delta Air Lines hub, offering extensive domestic and some international flights. The drive from Salt Lake City to Zion is scenic, passing through diverse Utah landscapes, but it is a longer journey.
Pros:
- Hub airport with many flights: Good flight options, especially if flying Delta.
- Potentially cheaper flights: Flights to Salt Lake City may sometimes be more economical than to Las Vegas.
- Scenic drive through Utah: Experience more of Utah’s diverse scenery.
- Option to explore Salt Lake City: Combine your Zion trip with a visit to Utah’s capital.
Cons:
- Longer driving distance: Significantly longer drive than from Las Vegas.
- Less direct route: Involves more varied roads than the straightforward interstate from Las Vegas.
Regional Airports: St. George Regional Airport (SGU) & Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC)
For those looking to minimize driving time, regional airports closer to Zion offer a quicker final approach.
- St. George Regional Airport (SGU): Approximately 50 miles from Zion (1 – 1.5 hours driving time). Offers flights primarily from Delta and United, connecting through Salt Lake City and Denver respectively.
- Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC): Approximately 60 miles from Zion (1.5 – 2 hours driving time). Primarily serviced by Delta Connection flights via Salt Lake City.
Pros of Regional Airports:
- Significantly shorter drive to Zion: Maximize your time in the park, minimize travel.
- Smaller, less crowded airports: Easier navigation, quicker security.
Cons of Regional Airports:
- Fewer flight options and potentially higher prices: Limited airlines and routes may lead to less competitive pricing and less convenient flight times.
- Usually requires connecting flights: Likely need to connect through Salt Lake City or Denver.
Driving Directions from Major Airports
Once you’ve landed, here are straightforward driving directions to Zion National Park from the major airports:
From McCarran International Airport (LAS), Las Vegas:
- Take I-15 North towards Salt Lake City.
- Take Exit 16 for Highway 9 East towards Hurricane/Zion National Park.
- Stay on Highway 9 East for approximately 33 miles through Hurricane and La Verkin.
- Continue on Highway 9 East to enter Zion National Park’s South Entrance.
From Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), Salt Lake City:
- Take I-15 South towards Las Vegas.
- Take Exit 27 for Highway 17 towards Toquerville/Hurricane.
- Turn left onto Highway 9 East in La Verkin.
- Continue on Highway 9 East to enter Zion National Park’s South Entrance.
Zion National Park Visitor Centers
Upon arrival at Zion, you can orient yourself and gather essential information at the park’s visitor centers:
- Zion Canyon Visitor Center: Located at the South Entrance, near Springdale. This is the main visitor center for most park activities.
- Kolob Canyon Visitor Center: Located at the park’s western section off I-15 (Exit 40), for exploring the Kolob Canyons area.
Both visitor centers provide permits, park information, activity details, and transportation schedules to help you make the most of your Zion National Park visit.
Choosing the right airport to fly into for Zion National Park depends on your priorities – flight convenience and cost versus driving time. McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas offers a balance of accessibility and a manageable drive, making it a popular choice for many visitors. However, Salt Lake City and regional airports provide alternative options depending on your travel preferences and itinerary. No matter which airport you choose, the breathtaking landscapes of Zion National Park await, promising an unforgettable adventure.
