Summer is almost here, which means that the busy season in Zion National Park is on its way. It also means that the Zion Shuttle System is back in operation.

From March to November each year, the Zion Shuttle System ferries guests to many of the park’s most popular trails and overlooks. When the shuttle is in operation, the Lower Canyon is closed to personal vehicles. This means that if you want to hike Angels Landing, visit the Zion Lodge, or enjoy other trails like Weeping Rock or Riverside Walk, you’ll need to hop on the shuttle.

If you’ll be utilizing the Zion Shuttle System during your stay at The Bungalows, keep reading. We’re breaking down some tips to make navigating the shuttles a breeze.

Aim to Arrive Early

One important tip for navigating the Zion Shuttle System is to arrive early. Before you hop on the shuttle, you’ll need to find parking. Limited parking is available at the entrance to Zion National Park, just behind the Visitor Center. But this parking lot often fills early in the day. After the lot is full, you’ll need to find parking elsewhere in Springdale. Parking is available in several places in Springdale. However, this parking does cost and is still limited.

If you don’t want to struggle to find parking or have to pay for a space, one great way to avoid both is to choose Springdale vacation homes that are located close to a shuttle stop. That way, you can roll out of bed and walk right on the shuttle without ever worrying about moving your car. Some of the best lodging Zion has to offer is The Bungalows. 

Our resort is located less than two miles from the entrance to the park. It’s also located just a short walk from Stop #6 on the Springdale Shuttle line. This means that you can leave your car parked at your resort and ride the shuttle right to the entrance to the park. No directions to Zion or directions to Springdale required!

Know the Zion Canyon Shuttle Stops

Another great way to make the most of your time in the park while relying on the Zion Shuttle System is to make sure that you know which stop you’re headed to. That way, you can head straight to the top destination on your list each day, and hit the trails before the crowds arrive. 

Knowing the Zion Canyon Shuttle’s nine stops ahead of time can help with this. These nine stops include:

1. The Zion Canyon Visitor Center

The shuttle loop begins and ends at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, where the park’s main parking lot is also located. This is also the most convenient shuttle for those wishing to hike the popular Pa’rus Trail.

2. Zion Human History Museum

Open from March through November, the Zion Human History Museum is a great spot to learn not only about the park but also the region and the people who settled it. 

3. Canyon Junction

This small stop provides access to the end of Pa’rus Trail and the Virgin River. Located at the junction of Route 9 and the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, this stop marks the last spot cars can get to on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive if drivers aren’t staying in the Zion Lodge.

4. Court of Patriarchs

Another smaller stop, here you can get a great view of the Court of the Patriarchs and access to the Sandbench Loop trail.

5. Zion Lodge

Even if you are staying at Springdale vacation homes and not the Zion Lodge, this stop is worth your time. Besides indoor restrooms, you can grab lunch, shop in the gift shop, and relax on the Lodge’s green lawn. Across the road from the Lodge, you’ll find the start of the Emerald Pools Trail.

6. The Grotto

This popular stop is a great place to enjoy a picnic, fill your water bottle, or head to one of the park’s most popular trails, including Angels Landing, West Rim Trail, and the Kayenta Trail.

7. Weeping Rock

Another great stop for hiking, the Weeping Rock shuttle stop provides access to Weeping Rock, Observation Point, East Rim Trail, Hidden Canyon, Cable Mountain, and Deertrap Mountain. There is also a primitive toilet on this stop.

8. Big Bend

Home to more overlooks than trails, Big Bend is a great spot to get pictures of the Great White Throne and Angels Landing.

9. Temple of Sinawava

The last stop before the shuttle turns around to start back through the canyon, this is a great spot to take a stroll along the Virgin River on the Riverside Walk. If you’re headed to The Narrows for a short hike, this is also where you’ll want to hop off the shuttle. This stop features a restroom and a spot to fill your water bottles.

The Springdale Shuttle Also Makes 9 Stops

The shuttle running through the town of Springdale also makes 9 stops. Along the route are restaurants, hotels, shopping, and more. Our Springdale vacation homes are located between stops #6 and #7 in the Springdale loop.

Navigating the Zion Shuttle System During Your Visit

If you plan to visit the park from March to November, you’ll need to rely on the Zion Shuttle System during your stay in our Springdale vacation homes. Riding it for the first time can be intimidating. But with these simple tips, the shuttle can become a great tool for making the most of your time in the park during your stay at The Bungalows.

Planning a visit to our Springdale vacation homes this summer? Now is a great time to book your next stay! Right now, when you book a stay of four or more nights before June 30, you’ll enjoy a 25 percent discount on your booking. Book today to take advantage of these savings!