5 Must-Do Adventures Near Zion National Park

Zion National Park is the third most visited national park in the United States, drawing a staggering crowd. 4.6 million recreational visits in 2023, according to the National Park Service (NPS). With its stunning scenery and iconic locations like Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Emerald Pools, it's no wonder Zion is high on every outdoor adventure lover's bucket list.

But the adventure doesn’t stop at Zion’s borders. Just outside the park, in the Greater Zion Area, there’s a world of incredible experiences—from rappelling down 100-foot canyons to sleeping under the stars—that will make your trip to Zion National Park even more memorable.

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Here's how to continue your Zion adventure beyond the park itself.

Go off-roading through the sand dunes

Less than an hour from Zion National Park, Sand Hollow State Park offers some of the greatest off-road adventures in all of Utah. Rent a mountain bike from Rentals in Sable Hollow and prepare for some serious sand as you navigate 50,000 acres of dunes, rocky terrain, ravines and buttes. After taking on slower hikes in Zion National Park, off-roading at Sand Hollow provides a much-needed adrenaline rush, allowing you to explore vast landscapes at higher speeds. It's a must-see for anyone looking to get in touch with their wild side.

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Rappel down a water-carved slot canyon

Thirsty for more adventures around Zion? Rock Odysseys, one of the only women-owned and operated guide services in the country, brings you its guided canyoning and wine tasting experience near Zion National ParkThe journey begins with a hike on a sandy trail surrounded by towering orange cliffs. Next, you'll don a harness and rappel up to 100 feet down rock faces, an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the extraordinary landscape of southern Utah. The half-day experience includes four rappels, while the full-day tour includes seven.

After conquering the canyon, relax with a wine tasting at Water Canyon Winery. Rolling vineyards set against a backdrop of red rock formations set the scene for a well-deserved toast to your day of adventure.

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Camp in an Airstream in the wilderness

The Greater Zion area is full of glamping sites. However, one of the most unique options is AutoCamp Sion. Surrounded by the region's iconic red rock landscape, this glamping spot offers a luxurious retreat after a day of adventure near Zion National Park. It features 72 custom 31-foot Airstream Suites with every comfort, such as high-quality linens, a comfortable bed nestled under a panoramic window, a flat-screen TV, a Bluetooth sound system and a fully equipped kitchenette. Each Airstream is also equipped with its own private bathroom, complete with a walk-in rain shower, as well as an exclusive deck and fire pit.

When you're not relaxing in your Airstream, you can find tons of other things to do on AutoCamp Zion's 16-acre property. Take a dip in the in-ground pool, refuel with healthy meals at The Kitchen, and enjoy scheduled activities, like morning yoga, scenic sunset drives, and free stargazing.

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Trot on horseback in the Red Mountain Wilderness

The breathtaking beauty of Greater Zion takes center stage on a horseback excursion through the Red Mountain Wilderness with Hiking the Snow Canyon Trail. Its three-hour tours take you into a canyon on a sandstone trail for spectacular views of Snow Canyon National Park. As you trot, keep an eye out for local wildlife like mule deer and hawks. Your return journey will take you through another sandstone canyon and trails lined with pinion pines and junipers. Each ride is a unique blend of adventure and serenity in nature, providing a deep connection to the rugged landscape.

Savor gourmet camp food under the stars

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The journey to black sage at Open Sky winds 3.5 miles on a dirt road through the rugged beauty of Greater Zion, paving the way for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Executive Chef Charles Parcell awaits, ready to present dishes made with the finest local ingredients Utah has to offer. The restaurant's newly constructed dining room is a relaxing place for a meal, but the best seats in the house are on the outdoor terrace, which offers views of rugged cliffs silhouetted against a vibrant sunset.

Here, the dishes are as beautiful as they are tasty. Think of the cuisine as fine camp food infused with Southwestern flavors. The Mineral Spring beef nachos are outstanding and paired with plates of Utah smoked trout cakes and local squash fritters, they'll make for a festive starter. Entrees get more substantial, with options like smoked cauliflower steak with chimichurri, bison filet with whipped potatoes, and smoked chicken thigh with jalapeno-cheddar grits. Leave room for dessert: Chef Parcell has earned a reputation for his decadent cheesecakes that are sometimes accompanied by a dollop of cotton candy.

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