Having filmed and hiked throughout Zion, we can tell you the park consistently rewards those who venture beyond the shuttle stops. Yes, it’s popular. It’s popular because it’s extraordinary. Here’s our honest breakdown of fees, permits, and policy changes heading into 2026.
Zion Entrance Fees in 2026
The standard entrance fee at Zion National Park is $35 per vehicle (valid for seven days). Motorcycle entry is $30, and individuals entering on foot or bicycle pay $20. If you visit three or more parks in a year, the $80 America the Beautiful Annual Pass pays for itself fast.
Zion National Park Map
Interactive park map — click a pin to learn more
Zion National Park at a Glance
6 alertsAngels Landing Permit
Since 2022, all hikers heading to Angels Landing need a permit through a lottery system on Recreation.gov. There are two lottery windows. The seasonal lottery opens months in advance, and the day-before lottery gives you a last-minute shot. The permit costs $6 per person (plus a $1 reservation fee). This system replaced the free-for-all crowds that used to stack up on the chains section, and honestly, it makes the hike safer and more enjoyable.
Zion Canyon Shuttle
The Zion Canyon shuttle remains mandatory during peak season (typically March through November). Private vehicles cannot drive Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during shuttle operations. The shuttle is free with park admission and runs frequently, but expect lines during midday in summer.
Campground Fee Increases (Effective July 1, 2026)
Reservations for frontcountry camping at Zion are done through Recreation.gov.
Visitation increased by 29% since the last fee increase in 2015. Looking back further, Zion National Park experienced a 58% increase in visitors since 2012.
“Rising visitation has increased demand for campsites and increased need for facility maintenance services such as cleaning restrooms, removing recyclables and trash, and servicing roads and campsites,” the news release stated.
Here’s a breakdown of the Zion campground fee increases starting July 1, 2026.
| Location | Services | Previous Price | 2026 Price | Effective Date |
| Watchman Campground | Electric | $30/night | $45/night | July 1, 2026 |
| Watchman Campground | Non-Electric | $20/night | $35/night | July 1, 2026 |
| South Campground | Non-Electric | $20/night | $35/night | Spring 2026 Reopening (Early June) |
| Lava Point Campground (Kolob Terrace Road) | Non-Electric | $20/night | $25/night | Spring 2026 Reopening (When Snow Melts) |
| (Dump Station Fee) Watchman/South | Non-camper Fee | $0 | $5 | Spring 2026 Reopening |
Reservations for Watchman Campground can be made six months ahead of time.
Wilderness Permit Changes
As of January 5, 2026, Wilderness Recreation Permits and lotteries shifted to Recreation.gov. Visitors can choose between a day-use or overnight-use Wilderness Recreation Permit. The new system allows a more streamlined experience while building itineraries and setting preferred dates. It also allows Zion National Park officials easier contact with permit seekers.
Day-Use Wilderness Permit Fees
Starting January 5, 2026, all day-use wilderness categories (reservations, lotteries, and walk-ups) cost $6. Previously, reservations and lotteries were $5 per application and walk-ups were free.
An example of a day-use trip would be doing the top-down Narrows hike or The Subway trek.
Group day-use Wilderness Permits also changed. Previously, groups of two to 12 people paid between $15-$25 under a tiered structure. Now the price is $10 per person per day.
In the news release, Zion National Park officials noted that “Rising visitation has also resulted in increased stress on the plants, animals, and historic sites in Zion Wilderness. Rangers who issue Wilderness permits provide guidance so that visitors complete their trips safely and use techniques to conserve these areas. That guidance is essential to ensuring the park’s least developed areas remain wild.”
Overnight Wilderness Permit Fees
For overnight Wilderness Recreation Permits, advance reservations are now $20 per booking. Walk-up permits are also $20 per booking. Previously, advance reservations were $5 and walk-ups were free.
For groups, the previous $15 to $25 tiered rate was replaced with a flat $7 per person per night.
Public Comment and Feedback
These price adjustments came after a public comment period. You can read through the public comments and the Zion National Park responses to learn how this decision was made.
At the same time, park officials are working to improve South Campground and the South Entrance. More details should be coming on that topic soon.
Helpful Zion National Park Links
Zion National Park Guide – Ultimate Guide to Zion National Park
Things to Do in Zion – 18 EPIC Things to Do in Zion National Park
Best Hikes in Zion – 16 EPIC Hikes in Zion National Park
Utah National Parks Guide – 5 MIGHTY Utah National Parks Guide
Utah National Parks Road Trips – 5 Best Utah National Park Road Trips
Frequently Asked Questions About Zion National Park
When is the best time to visit Zion?
The best time to visit Zion National Park is April through October. Conditions vary significantly by season, so plan accordingly and check current conditions before your trip.
How much does it cost to enter Zion National Park?
The entrance fee for Zion National Park is $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days). An America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all 63 national parks and 2,000+ federal recreation sites.
What is Zion known for?
Zion National Park is known for Angels Landing, The Narrows, Emerald Pools, and Canyon Overlook Trail. The park spans 147,243 acres and was established in 1919.
What are the best things to do at Zion National Park?
The top activities at Zion include Hiking, Canyoneering, Rock climbing, Scenic drives, and Stargazing. Check our Zion guide for detailed recommendations.
Where is Zion National Park located?
Zion National Park is located in Utah. Visit our complete Zion guide for directions, nearby airports, and getting-there tips.
What to Bring to Zion
Gear we recommend for Zion. Affiliate links support our work at no cost to you.
Affiliate disclosure: Some links on this page earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend gear we actually use.
