Are you looking for fun things to do with your kids at Zion National Park? There are many options to choose from. You can enjoy activities like hiking, biking, swimming, and horseback riding. Make sure not to miss out on the park’s Junior Ranger program. Your children can earn a badge by participating in it.
Hiking
Hiking with kids in Zion National Park is a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty. There are several trails with easy elevation gains and shade. You can also hike to the top of Watchman mountain, which offers some great views. The trail begins at the south campground, near the visitor center. From here, the trail follows the east bank of the Virgin River, veering off in a more shady direction. It includes some sand, but is kid-friendly.
While the shuttle wait time can be long during the busiest times of year, it’s usually short. A junior ranger program is also offered at the park that is very popular with children. To participate, you’ll need to pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the visitors center, where you’ll find a series of activities like animal bingo and answers to questions about the area.
Biking
If you are planning a family vacation with kids in tow, biking in Zion National Park may be just the activity for you. The park features a deep, winding canyon and soaring canyon walls. The park’s most famous feature is its Narrows. In 1909, the park was originally designated the Mukuntuweap National Monument. However, President Woodrow Wilson changed its name to Zion National Park in 1918. This became Utah’s first National Park.
It is also easy to bike with kids in Zion National Park. Try the Pa’rus Trail, which is paved and follows the Virgin River through the park. This is a great way to get through the park without using the crowded shuttle system. This trail can be used to connect to Springdale.
Horseback riding
Horseback riding in Zion National Park is a fun activity for all ages. The park’s trails take riders into remote areas that are less likely to be crowded with tourists. It’s a beautiful place to ride, and the mild climate makes it suitable all year long. From a different perspective, you’ll be able to see the landscape and wildlife in a new way. You’ll also be much less likely to spook the animals.
If you’re planning a family vacation in Zion, you’ll want to plan the trip around the park’s trails. There are trails that range from flat and easy to long, rocky terrain. Even younger kids can get a good workout on these trails, and the best riding companies know how to accommodate children’s special needs. Whether you’re looking for a scenic horseback ride for two or a family outing, there’s a trail for everyone!
Tubing on the Virgin River
Tubing on the Virgin River is a great way for Zion to cool off. The river flows through tall sandstone cliffs, and tall cottonwood trees. There are sections that run both fast and calm in the river. To end the tubing trip, guests can walk their tubes back to the park and catch the shuttle. For younger tubers, tubing can be a fun way to cool down on a hot day.
Family can spend an afternoon in the Virgin River tubing in the cool waters. The river is shallow in parts, but it’s not impossible to find deeper sections. The Virgin River is close to many roads, which makes it easy to launch a tubing excursion.