Travel Budget for Zion National Park Visit Zion National Park on a Budget or Travel in Style

Zion National Park, Utah, United States of America
North America / United States of America / The West /
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Zion National Park is a world-renowned park known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're hiking in nature or taking in the beauty, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Zion National Park, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Zion National Park?

You should plan to spend around $146 per day on your vacation in Zion National Park. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $64 on meals
  • $30 on local transportation
  • $121 on hotels

A one week trip to Zion National Park for two people costs, on average, $2,044. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $146
  • One Week Per person
    $1,022
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,044
  • One Month Per person
    $4,380
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,044
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $4,088
  • One Month For a couple
    $8,760
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Zion National Park cost?

A one week trip to Zion National Park usually costs around $1,022 for one person and $2,044 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Zion National Park on average costs around $2,044 for one person and $4,088 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Zion National Park will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Zion National Park on average costs around $4,380 for one person and $8,760 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Zion National Park expensive to visit?

Zion National Park is a terrific park that brings in many travelers, showcasing a range of travel styles and spending choices. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.

You may find Zion National Park to be expensive in some places, but there are ways to keep your budget in check, like taking public transit and enjoying the free hiking trails.

On average, budget travelers spend $64 per day, mid-range travelers spend $146 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $279 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Zion National Park.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Zion National Park is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Hope, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Key West.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Zion National Park Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Zion National Park?

The average Zion National Park trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Zion National Park travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Zion National Park cost?

Zion National Park on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$26 $60 $115
Local Transportation 1 $13 $30 $57
Food 2 $28 $64 $123
Entertainment 1 $12 $26 $51
Alcohol 2 $2-5 $4-12 $8-24

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations for your budget when visiting Zion National Park is important. While it's tempting to aim for a shoestring budget, most travelers don't find that style of travel to be enjoyable. Think about your priorities and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer staying in budget accommodations or enjoying more luxurious options? Do you like to explore attractions and dine out at local restaurants? These choices will influence your travel costs and itinerary.

Who are Budget Travelers?

Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $64 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.

For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.

Could You Be an Average Traveler?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. When visiting Zion National Park, most people will want to check out the major attractions, museums, and iconic landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $146 per person, per day.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $279 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the park, prepare for a pricier experience. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Sunset Sandboarding Peekaboo Slot Canyon UTV Adventure - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Zion National Park

The cost of hotels in Zion National Park can be surprisingly wide-ranging. Some hotels charge a lot more because they offer extra luxury and amenities. Prices are also much higher during peak season. Off-season rooms average $294, but the demand in peak summer season pushes that average to around $549. Budget hotels range from $222 to $924, and hostels provide a cheaper option, especially in dorms. Booking early, traveling off-season, or finding special deals can help save money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Zion National Park for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $121. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $60 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $60
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $121

Hotels in Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Zion National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Zion National Park

The average hotel room price in Zion National Park based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $294 in the low season and $549 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Zion National Park include:

  • Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort starting at $155
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Zion National Park

Zion National Park's public transportation allows you to stay further away from the park for cheaper lodging, but commuting might add extra transportation costs and eat up your time.

If you're traveling to Zion National Park with kids, you'll want to choose an apartment or accommodation with more space to enjoy.

Many visitors stay in Zion National Park for a week, and if you're here for a longer time, renting a place with a kitchen could be a smart way to handle your own meals.

Traveling in the low or shoulder season (and not in summer) means you'll enjoy lower accommodation prices and fewer tourists around.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Zion National Park

The public transit in Zion National Park is quite good and serves many major spots. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months. Public transportation is a great money-saving choice if it's accessible to where you're headed. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available in town.

Regrettably, the park lacks walkability. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (poor)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $30 per person, per day, on local transportation in Zion National Park. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Zion National Park is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $30

Transportation Tips

Make sure your hotel provides easy parking options if you're driving.



Flights to Zion National Park
How much does it cost to go to Zion National Park? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Zion National Park
The price of renting a car in Zion National Park will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Zion National Park

The available food options in Zion National Park are not extensive, and the quality could be better. It's best to limit your spending on meals in favor of more rewarding experiences. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Zion National Park can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Zion National Park is $64 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $64

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Zion National Park is around $64 ($64) per person, with previous travelers spending from $28 to $123. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Zion National Park are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $6 to $19
  • Lunch: $10 to $26
  • Dinner: $19 to $45
  • Coffee: $5
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $10

There are a variety of restaurants around the park entrances, but the only food sold in the park is at the Zion Lodge. The restaurant offers spectacular views of the park, but expect all the dishes to be very typically American. You can enjoy burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and salads.

Food & Dining Tips

When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.

Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.

By packing a picnic, you can enjoy the scenery and save money. Visit a local grocery store or market, select some fresh food, and find a lovely park or scenic spot for your meal.

Carry a reusable water bottle with you to avoid spending on drinks. It's also a win for the environment.

While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Zion National Park

It's understandable that travelers choose Zion National Park, as it is famous for hiking, budget-friendly accommodations, family-friendly activities, and romance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Zion National Park typically cost an average of $26 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $26

The entire park is a sight to see in itself. Really you could just get lost driving around this park and taking in the most gorgeous, natural sights in the country.

Start your trip at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. It's the main access to the shuttle and is home to very interesting exhibits and plenty of rangers to help you plan your time in the park.

The most obvious way to spend your time is by enjoying the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The canyons on this path have been created by 13 million years of erosion from the Virgin River. Running 6-miles through the Zion Canyon, this path passes some of the most marvelous rock formations including colorful sandstone cliffs rising 3,000 feet into the air.

If you have a bit more time, travel the Zion Mt. Carmel Highway. The 14 miles road connects east and south entrances of the park. One of the most stunning highlights of the drive is a 1.1-mile long tunnel constructed in 1930. It's packed with stunning rock formations including the colorful Checkerboard Mesa.

For a less crowded area of the park, travel over to the Kolob Canyons. These red rock canyons are breathtaking and there are incredible overlooks for the best photo opportunities.

And if you're looking for a more extensive trip, read this 2-day itinerary for Zion National Park.



The Zion National Park is a hiker's dream come true. With trails of varying lengths and difficulties, there is a walk meant for every visitor. The park information desk can provide you with maps and advice for where to go.

One of the most beautiful hikes you can take is almost definitely Angels Landing. This 2.5-mile rigorous climb leads to a stunning view of the canyons. If you're not up for the challenging climb, though, there are easier treks including Weeping Rock and Emerald Pools.

For the more experienced hikers The Narrows path begins on the east side of Zion and ends at the Zion Canyon. This popular off-trail hike follows the Virgin River along its incredibly high walls of colorful sandstone. The full hike is a one-way 16-mile journey. Bear in mind, wading is probably involved in certain areas so this hike is not for beginners.

Many activities are available at the Zion National Park including horseback riding, rock climbing or canyoneering. Be warned, the appropriate hardware and skills are necessary. Be sure to check at the visitor center as some areas may be closed at certain times of the year.

For more information on the area, you can participate in one of the ranger programs. They offer talks, shuttle tours, evening programs and junior ranger programs for kids to earn badges as they explore the park.

Sightseeing Tips

Hiking:
Get ready for some great hiking adventures near Zion National Park. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Zion National Park. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Sand Boarding and Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon UTV Adventure for $135 details
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon Tour UTV and Hiking Adventure (Private) for $128 details
  • UTV Ride Climb and Rappel "Window to the Dunes" Experience for $114 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Zion National Park

In Zion National Park, you won't find much of a nightlife scene at all. Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $8.28 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Zion National Park per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $8.28
Nightlife Tips

The nightlife is always tempting, but cutting down on drinks is an effective way to manage your travel spending.



Budgeting and Travel Tips for Zion National Park

  • During summer, the park can get crowded and prices can rise significantly. To save money and enjoy a quieter experience, consider planning your visit for the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Slowing down while you travel can lead to significant savings, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. If you overload your itinerary with activities, you'll likely spend a lot more. However, embracing a slower pace can help you enjoy your trip and cut costs.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Bringing young children along on your travels? You might want to consider a private vehicle or taxi. It can often save you from the headache of public transit, although it may cost a bit extra.
  • Zion National Park isn't a major hub for hostels, so if you're expecting to stay in a cheap dorm, you might need to rethink your plans. Opting for a budget hotel or an apartment rental could be a smarter choice.
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Grab your backpack, water bottle and protein bar and prepare yourself for the most humbling and awe-inspiring sights you'll likely ever see. Zion National Park in southern Utah is a favorite for hikers, backpackers and climbers around the world. With the red and white cliffs of Zion Canyon rising high over the Virgin River, meadows of wildflowers, hanging gardens and high plateaus, you'll be hard pressed to find more breathtaking views in the US.

First settled when Mormon pioneer Isaac Behuni built his log cabin in 1863, today the park welcomes 2.7 million visitors a year. The weather in this area can vary greatly based on your elevation. Bare in mind, summers are very hot, reaching nearly 100 Fahrenheit during the day, and in the winter you mat expect a bit of snow. Also, pack your bug spray in the spring and summer months. The mosquitoes are in full bloom.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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