United States, North America

Zion in February

Still quiet and cheap. Snow on the red cliffs is a real possibility and a real highlight.

Quiet valueCool, highs near 57F (14C)

Zion Canyon, United States — ZionPhoto: Michael Gäbler, CC BY 3.0

The straight answer

February is a quiet, good-value month to visit Zion. Still quiet and cheap. Snow on the red cliffs is a real possibility and a real highlight.

Weather: Cool, highs near 57F (14C)
Crowds: 2 of 5
Prices: 1 of 5

What February is like in Zion

February stays cool, with highs near 57F (14C) and cold nights. Zion is still quiet and cheap, and snow on the red cliffs is a real possibility, which makes for a striking sight. The Scenic Drive is usually open to private cars. Some upper trails can be icy after storms.

It suits photographers, couples and families happy with easy walks and short hikes. It is not the month for The Narrows or long climbs. If you want warm hiking weather with waterfalls running, plan for April. Late February days are often mild enough for longer walks.

Make the most of February

What is especially good about Zion this month.

Snow on the red cliffs

A dusting of snow on the canyon walls is one of the park's prettiest sights.

Canyon Overlook Trail

A short hike with a big view, and the tiny parking area is easier to get in winter.

Kolob Canyons scenic drive

The quieter northwest section has its own entrance off Interstate 15 and views of red finger canyons.

What to pack for February

Warm layers and a windproof jacket
Traction devices for icy trails
Waterproof hiking shoes
Sunglasses for bright winter light

Our timing tip

Check the forecast for a clear day after a storm, then head in early to catch snow on the cliffs before it melts.

Book Zion for February.

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Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in Zion
Opens a hotel search for Zion in February, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
Hotels for February
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in Zion
Whole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
Rentals on Vrbo
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in Zion
Timed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Zion for February. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Tours and tickets

Things to do in Zion

Full guide

The Narrows from the bottom

No permit is needed to hike upstream from the Temple of Sinawava. Rent canyoneering shoes and a pole in Springdale; check the flash flood forecast first.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Angels Landing

Permits are required, through seasonal lotteries and a day-before lottery on Recreation.gov. Without one, hike to Scout Lookout for a strong consolation view.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive by shuttle

The free shuttle runs most of the year; get on at the visitor center early to beat the lines.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Canyon Overlook Trail

A short hike off the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway with a big view. Parking is tiny, so go early or late.

Tickets and tours →

Kolob Canyons

The park's quieter northwest section, with its own entrance off Interstate 15 and a scenic drive to red finger canyons.

Official site ↗Tickets and tours →

Emerald Pools

An easy family trail to pools and seasonal waterfalls, best in spring.

Tickets and tours →

Beat the crowds

Ride the first shuttles of the morning. By mid morning in spring, summer, and fall, lines at the visitor center shuttle stop can run long.
Stay in Springdale and walk or take the town shuttle to the park entrance; the park lots often fill by 8am in busy seasons.
Hike The Narrows at first light and turn around before midday, when the crowds peak.
Head to Kolob Canyons or Kolob Terrace Road for the same red rock with a fraction of the visitors.

Know before you go

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles during shuttle season, which typically runs from about March through late November and briefly over the winter holidays. Outside those periods, you can usually drive it.
The Narrows closes when the Virgin River flow is too high or flash floods threaten; spring snowmelt and summer monsoon storms both cause closures.
Angels Landing requires a permit year-round through seasonal and day-before lotteries. The rules and application windows can change, so check the park's current permit page.
Large vehicles need a paid tunnel escort through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, and some oversized vehicles are not allowed at all. Check size limits before towing or driving an RV.