Planning a Trip to Zion National Park? Here's Where to Stay
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Zion National Park—with its jaw-dropping 146,000 acres of towering cliffs, impressive canyons, and plentiful wildlife—is an awe-inspiring sight that should be near the top of anyone's travel bucket list. As one of America's most popular national parks, it's little wonder that there are several hotels and glamping (and good old-fashioned camping) spots close to the park.
As a bit of cursory research will probably tell you, though, not all nearby lodging is created equal. So how is even an experienced traveler supposed to decipher a must-book property from an avoid-at-all-costs one? That's where we come in. We've consulted locals and thoroughly researched the area's resorts, hotels, and glamping spots to find 10 of the absolute best places to stay near Zion National Park.
As to which is the best for you, consider factors like how far you're willing to drive, the age of everyone in your party, your budget, and what sorts of creature comforts are must-haves (like, you know, indoor plumbing). Are you looking for a luxe, desert escape, a family-friendly property with tons of pools, or a boutique hotel where each room is unique? We've found all of those and more.
Read on to discover the best hotels near Zion National Park.
Cable Mountain Lodge (Springdale)
Distance From Zion National Park: Under 2 miles
Located across the street from Zion National Park's entrance, it's hard to stay anywhere closer than Cable Mountain Lodge—unless you're actually inside the park, but more on that below. The hotel's proximity is not the only reason it earns a place on our list: Its large suites with jetted soaking tubs and spacious outdoor pool with a stunning view of the mountains make it one of the best options in Springdale. If you want a taste of camping without committing, the hotel also features a riverside picnic area complete with grills.
Zion Lodge (Springdale)
The only property actually inside the park is Zion Lodge. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the hotel offers both rooms and 40 charming historic cabins. Of course, since you're already in the heart of the beauty here, there's no need to wake up early to grab a coveted, close-to-the-park parking spot. But if you want to book a room at the lodge, it's best to plan ahead: Reservations open up 13 months in advance and can go quickly.
Desert Pearl Inn (Springdale)
Distance From Zion National Park: 2 miles
A property that's equally suited for families or couples is Desert Pearl Inn, located next to the Virgin River and a short drive from the park. It also wins points for design, thanks to its native stone walkways, private balconies, and construction made partially from reclaimed 100-year-old railroad trestles. Other amenities include a park shuttle stop, local favorite restaurant Camp Outpost Co., and beautiful views of West Temple: the highest peak in Zion Canyon.
Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton (Springdale)
Distance From Zion National Park: Under 2 miles
Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton is our Goldilocks property: It's not right in the heart of the action, nor is it an annoyingly far drive (just half a mile) from the park. And you actually don't even need to drive yourself, because the hotel has a free local shuttle for hassle-free exploring. Other perks include year-round heated outdoor pools and hot tubs, an on-site restaurant and fitness center, and a spa with views of Zion Canyon.
AutoCamp Zion (Virgin)
Distance From Zion National Park: 14 miles
Glamping can take many forms, but there may be no more stylish place to do it than AutoCamp Zion, where accommodations are no mere tents, but kitted-out Airstream trailers and cabins. Each one boasts a kitchenette and full bathroom (and, crucially, heat and AC), but common spaces at the property also include an on-site restaurant and general store. Activity-wise, you can hop into complimentary yoga classes in the morning before you set off for a hike, or AutoCamp can help arrange for guided hiking tours, canyoneering experiences, or stargazing.
Amangiri (Canyon Point)
Distance From Zion National Park: 106 miles
For a special occasion, like a milestone birthday or anniversary, there's nowhere you'll feel more pampered than at Amangiri. While the property, located deep in the heart of the Utah desert, is quite a drive away from Zion (the farthest on our list), the high-touch staff can arrange for a private air tour. Other selling points include suites with outdoor lounge areas, sun roofs, and private pools—plus a 25,000 square-foot spa and tasty American Southwest-inspired cuisine at the guests-only restaurants.
Inn Santa Clara (Santa Clara)
Distance From Zion National Park: 37 miles
If you're looking for more of a boutique feel, book a room at Inn Santa Clara, located on the charming main street of Santa Clara, about 40 minutes from the park. The distance is worth it for the beautifully and uniquely decorated rooms that feel like you're staying at your chic artist aunt's home. We also love that you can rent e-bikes from the hotel, which you can use in nearby Snow Canyon State Park.
Open Sky Zion (Virgin)
Distance from Zion National Park: 16 miles
In recent years, glamping spots have proliferated near Zion, but few do it as well as Open Sky Zion. We love the safari-style tents (they're shipped from South Africa), each of which is positioned for maximum views; the private outdoor showers and soaker tubs, perfect for late-night stargazing; and the elevated takes on farm-to-table cuisine served at on-site restaurant Black Sage. Open Sky can also help guests book adventures from via ferrata climbs and e-bike tours to professional photoshoots of you and your family.
Under Canvas Zion (Virgin)
Distance from Zion National Park: 20 miles
There may be no more stunning location for a hotel in the Zion area than Under Canvas Zion. Located in Virgin, the glamping resort is surrounded by stunning red rocks and sandstone cliffs, all under a vast sky that's perfect for stargazing. The tents here all have ensuite bathrooms stocked with organic bath products, ultra-comfortable beds, and some come with a stargazing window, so you can see the constellations right before you drift off to sleep. Other perks include complimentary coffee and tea, tasty seasonal breakfasts and dinners, and nightly s'mores around the fire pit.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (Kanab)
Distance from Zion National Park: 26 miles
Animal lovers, this one's for you. While Best Friends Animal Sanctuary may be a little farther afield from Zion, it's worth the trip for the chance to hang with the sanctuary's adorable roster of dogs, cats, horses, pigs, rabbits, and more. Plus, dog and cat residents of the sanctuary are also available for sleepovers, which means even if you leave your pets at home, you still get a chance to cuddle furry friends. There are also plenty of on-site volunteering opportunities, so consider extending your Zion trip to take part.
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