Zion or Grand Canyon: Where Should You Explore Nature's Grandeur?

Although it won’t take you long to travel between Zion and the Grand Canyon – around a two-hour drive in total – they are found in different states. Situated in Arizona, the Grand Canyon is carved up by the Colorado River into two rims – the north and the south. And it’s important to note that it’s roughly a four-hour drive from one side to the other. The Grand Canyon north rim is closed to vehicles from mid-October and throughout the winter months, due to snowfall. For this reason, the rustic and less populated north rim attracts fewer visitors. It's also worth noting that, Arizona doesn't observe Daylight Savings time, so you will need to keep a close eye on your time zones!

When it comes to Zion, no vehicles are allowed into the canyon from March to mid-November. If you’re looking to access popular trails including Angels Landing and the Emerald Pools, you will need to board the free shuttle bus from Zion Visitor Center. We recommend arriving at the bus stop early during peak seasons, as this southern Utah national park tops many travel wish lists.

Spontaneous travellers, take note – when it comes to visiting Zion or the Grand Canyon National Park, making a plan ahead of time will ensure your trip runs more smoothly.  From being aware that Zion is accessible via three entrances – the South Entrance, the East Entrance and Kolob Canyons – to knowing that the Grand Canyon’s South Rim is around a four-hour drive from Zion Canyon, planning your route ahead of time is key. And don’t forget to check any potential road closures for your trip, based on the time of year you are travelling. Our trusted Travel Experts are always on hand to assist with this.

Picture the scene – you’re behind the wheel, cruising around the Grand Canyon’s striking Desert View Drive at sunset, surrounded by undulating cliffs illuminated in rainbow hues of orange, red and crimson. As far as jaw-dropping views go, the Grand Canyon South Rim is hard to beat. The 23-mile-long Desert View Drive promises panoramic views of this bucket list destination; the Colorado River shimmering in the sunlight as it snakes through the cliffs. Prefer not to drive? Hop onboard a shuttle instead.

Zion Canyon is the headline scenic drive at Zion National Park – it’s worth remembering that personal vehicles are not permitted when shuttles are in operation throughout the summer months. Take in those epic landscapes onboard the shuttle, which features nine stops for optimum viewing opportunities. Keen to explore under your own steam? Personal vehicles are allowed along the five-mile Kolob Canyons scenic drive, which begins at the visitor centre.

Keen to recreate one of those iconic national park images? Back to the camera, hands in the air, a jaw-dropping vista stretching out in front? Us too. If you’re searching for the perfect spot to hike amidst some of the most spellbinding locations nature has to offer, look no further than America’s national parks. Catch the sunrise over the Grand Canyon at Mather Point (a short walk from the visitor centre – we recommend getting there early to secure the best spot), before heading for the Bright Angel Trail. This route hugs the towering canyon wall from the rim to the Colorado River; take in sweeping views of the inner canyon and distant rock formations, but remember to pack plenty of water and snacks – especially for the hike back up! Short on time? Try the South Kaibab Trail on the South Rim, which takes around half a day and promises jaw-dropping views. The nearby 13-mile Rim Trail features spellbinding scenery stretching down into the lower canyon, plus some much-needed shade.

Much like the Grand Canyon, there are spectacular hiking trails at every turn in Zion. Make for the Emerald Pools trail, where you can choose the length and difficulty of your hike – with the promise that all routes lead to shimmering pools and towering waterfalls, carved into the jaw-dropping landscape. Looking for a short and not especially steep hike? The Zion Canyon Overlook is a 1-mile loop, passing through shady alcoves, before opening up to a cliff edge revealing the expanse of Zion Canyon below. Or why not try The Narrows? Arguably one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park, this trail follows the Virgin River as it winds through towering rockfalls reaching up into the clouds. Just prepare to get wet! Back on dry land, avid hikers can take on Angels Landing – its steep switchbacks and sheer drop-offs make it a challenging route, but those views are so worth it. Remember, you will need to make advanced reservations to secure a permit (US$6pp) for Angels Landing. For tips on the best hiking experience for you, chat to one of our Travel Experts.

Keen to combine your trip with some wildlife-spotting? America’s national parks are a wildlife lover’s haven, and there are plenty of creatures to look out for across Zion and the Grand Canyon. Though beavers, mule deer and squirrels will be almost daily sightings at the canyon, keep your eyes on the skies and you could spot the California condor – the largest bird in North America, with an impressive wingspan of 9.5 feet. Back on firm ground, gray fox, bighorn sheep and mountain lion roam the vast landscapes of the canyon, while lizards, salamanders and toads can be spotted on many hiking trails. To fully immerse yourself in the wildlife of this spectacular destination, why not join a guided tour? And it’s a similar story in Zion National Park – from the Mexican spotted owl to the desert tortoise and ringtail cat, the opportunities for close proximity to these magnificent creatures are endless.

When it comes to the Grand Canyon and Zion, they are both kind of a big deal – which makes knowing what not to miss on your trip all the more important. Desperate to explore the Grand Canyon, but short on time? One of the best ways to experience it is via a helicopter tour from Las Vegas. Soar over the famous Las Vegas strip and on to Hoover Dam and Death Valley, before landing amidst the undulating cliffs of the Grand Canyon national park – a travel experience not to be missed. 

If you find yourself swapping the skies for the highway on a road trip from the Grand Canyon to Zion, why not take a detour to Antelope Canyon? Situated in Arizona, around two hours from Zion, this awe-inspiring destination is defined by its slot canyons and swirling red rocks, carved out of the crimson sandstone. To increase your chances of seeing Antelope Canyon at its best, make sure you visit in summer from late morning to early afternoon, when the sun illuminates the red rock in all its glory. As the canyon sits within the Navajo Nation, its significance in Navajo culture means it is only accessible with a permit and tour guide.

Made a choice on which national park to go for, but unsure where to stay? That’s where our Travel Experts come in. When it comes to lodging options, our Experts have it covered – from the perfect nature retreat, to a hideaway inside the Grand Canyon village or Zion National Park.

Inspired by these two epic destinations? Why not extend your trip to take in more of the USA's dazzling national parks? From Bryce Canyon and Monument Valley to Arches National Park, there is so much to explore. So, what are you waiting for? Check out our USA National Parks holiday packages today!