Zion Canyon Overlook   |  David Swindler

East Zion

Welcome to the east side of Utah's Zion National Park. Visitors who stay on this side of the park enjoy what is often referred to as the quiet side of the park, and they also have much closer access to other destinations such as Bryce Canyon National Park, Cedar Breaks National Monument, the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument and even the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The eastern side of Zion National Park is accessed via Utah State Route 9, a scenic highway, which passes through Zion and connects with U.S. Route 89. Elevations in East Zion range from 5,200' to over 6,500' resulting in cooler summer time temperatures than are found on the west side of Zion. Nearby communities include Mt. Carmel Junction, Orderville, Glendale and Kanab.

Zion National Park

Where to Stay

Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort and Zion Mountain Ranch are each located close to the east boundary of Zion National Park, and the Best Western Thunderbird Lodge is located in Mt. Carmel Junction (approximately 13 miles from the park). Hotel rooms, cabins, vacation rentals, glamping and camping are all lodging types that are available through these properties. Each destination offers dining services. Additional lodging services are found in the town of Orderville on U.S. 89, including East Zion Resort.

What to See

Thirty miles in length and 15 miles across (at its widest point), Zion National Park is Utah's most popular national park with elevations ranging from 4,000' to 8,700' and with diverse white and red-hued sandstone formations that have been carved over eons by the forces of wind and water. East Zion highlights include Checkerboard Mesa scenic viewpoint, Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel and hiking trails Observation Point, Cable Mountain and Canyon Overlook.

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Forever Mighty

As you plan your travels, have you considered ways you can visit more thoughtfully? There are lots of ways to minimize your impact, while maximizing your experience. This is a shared travel ethos we call Forever Mighty.

Tips For Responsible Travel

What's Nearby

Explore East Zion

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