I didn’t make it to Zion National Park until after we moved to Southern Utah. Red cliffs, narrow slot canyons, lush river valleys — this place almost feels otherworldly. I'd heard of hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows, providing thrilling adventure and unforgettable views, but I had no idea how family-friendly Zion is. Honestly, I wish we’d gone sooner.
We visited as a group: my husband and I, our 4-month-old baby, my brother and sister-in-law, and their two young children. I’ll admit I was a little anxious about venturing into a national park with such small kids, but Zion completely surpassed our expectations.
Stress-Free Travel with the Zion Shuttle System
One of the first things that made an impression was just how easy Zion makes it to explore, especially with little ones. During peak season, parking can be tough, but the park’s efficient shuttle system takes all the stress out of getting around. Once parked, we hopped on and rode comfortably from one scenic stop to the next—no hunting for spots or dragging kids through lots.
Each shuttle stop is thoughtfully equipped with:
- Restrooms
- Water refill stations
- Picnic tables and shaded areas
These small conveniences make a big difference for families. Having reliable places to regroup, change a diaper, or take a snack break allowed us to enjoy the day on our own terms.
Hiking Zion with Small Kids? Totally Doable
Zion surprised me most with how accessible the trails are for families. With small kids and a baby in tow, we expected to be limited—but the park offers plenty of trails for all abilities. We were able to focus on peaceful, scenic walks that let us truly take in the beauty around us.
The Most Family-Friendly Hikes in Zion National Park
If you’re planning your own visit, here are a few great family-friendly trails to consider:
Riverside Walk | 2.2 Miles Out-And-Back
The Riverside Walk in Zion National Park is one of the most family-friendly hikes in the park—perfect for kids of all ages. This easy, paved trail follows the Virgin River through a stunning slot canyon, with minimal elevation gain and plenty of spots to stop, splash, and explore. Just over 2 miles round trip, it offers shaded areas, hanging gardens, and soaring sandstone cliffs that make the walk both peaceful and visually captivating. It’s the ideal introduction to Zion’s natural beauty and a great way for families to experience the park together.
Pa'rus Trail | 3.5 Miles Out-And-Back
The Pa’rus Trail is another great family-friendly hike in Zion National Park. This flat, paved path runs about 3.5 miles round trip from the Visitor Center to Canyon Junction, making it perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. It's the only trail in the park that allows bikes and leashed dogs. Following the Virgin River, the trail offers scenic bridges, wildlife sightings, and incredible views of the surrounding cliffs. Kids will love the open space, chance to splash near the river, and fun interpretive signs along the way.
Lower Emerald Pools Trail | 1.2 Miles Out-And-Back
The Lower Emerald Pools Trail is a short, family-friendly out-and-back hike that leads you to the base of lovely waterfalls and pools beneath towering canyon walls in Zion National Park. Clocking in at just about 1.2 miles round-trip, the trail is mostly paved with gentle elevation gain, making it ideal for kids, strollers, and casual hikers. Along the way, enjoy shaded grottos, dripping springs, and photogenic views of water cascading into natural pools. It’s a peaceful and rewarding outing—perfect for introducing families to Zion’s lush side with minimal effort and maximum charm.
Weeping Rock Trail | 0.4 Miles Out-And-Back
The Weeping Rock Trail in Zion is a quick, family-friendly out-and-back hike, just 0.4 miles round trip, making it perfect for young kids or anyone looking for a quick and rewarding walk. The paved trail climbs gently to a lush alcove where water seeps through the sandstone, creating a beautiful “weeping” wall that drizzles down year-round. This constant moisture supports vibrant hanging gardens of ferns, mosses, and wildflowers—a surprising oasis in the desert. At the end, a small viewing platform offers striking views of Zion Canyon and the towering Great White Throne. While the path includes a short stair section and can be slippery near the alcove, it’s a magical and refreshing stop that showcases Zion’s unique geology and ecosystem.
Grotto Trail | 1 Mile Out-And-Back
The Grotto Trail is a wonderfully family-friendly, out-and-back path that stretches about 1 mile round trip, linking the Zion Lodge to The Grotto picnic area and shuttle stop. Mostly flat and shaded, with minimal elevation gain, the trail is ideal for kids. It winds through riverside forest and open meadows, offering opportunities to spot deer, birds, and even canyon reflections in the creek on calm days. The trail ends at The Grotto, where you’ll find restrooms, water fountains, picnic tables, and benches—along with easy shuttle access back to the lodge.
3 Tips For A Parent's First Zion Visit
1 — Ditch The Stroller
If your baby isn’t walking yet, definitely bring a carrier. While some family-friendly trails in Zion are stroller-accessible, others are much easier to navigate without one. Trust me—pushing a stroller over rocks and uneven terrain is not a good time.
2 — Enjoy The Shuttle
Seriously, the shuttle system is a lifesaver. You can hop on and off all day, and the kids treat it like a mini adventure between hikes—it’s half the fun! Not only that, the Zion Canyon Shuttle is mandatory for most of the year—typically from March through late November. During this time, private vehicles aren’t allowed in Zion Canyon beyond Canyon Junction, so the shuttle is the only way to access popular trailheads like Angels Landing, The Grotto, and Weeping Rock. In the off-season (usually late November through February), you can drive your own vehicle into the canyon, but why not sit back and enjoy the ride?
3 — Pack ALL The Snacks
Snacks truly fix everything—especially on the trail. Hungry kids can turn even the most beautiful hike into a meltdown marathon, but well-fed little adventurers? That’s where the magic happens. Keeping easy, accessible snacks on hand can turn a grumpy moment into a peaceful pause and keep energy levels steady throughout the day. Think trail mix, granola bars, fruit, or even a surprise treat—it’s amazing what a few apple slices or gummy bears can do for morale. Happy, snack-packed kids mean fewer complaints, smoother hikes, and much happier parents.
The Kind of Day You Don't Forget
We left Zion with that perfect kind of tired—the kind that only comes from a day spent outdoors, breathing in fresh canyon air, moving our bodies, and soaking in the beauty around us. It wasn’t just about the hikes or the views (though those were incredible), it was about the quiet moments in between—watching our kids marvel at waterfalls, sharing snacks under cottonwood trees, and laughing together on shuttle rides. The pace was slower than our usual routine, but that was the gift. We returned home not just refreshed, but reconnected—filled with new memories and reminded how truly special it is to unplug, explore, and spend meaningful time in nature with the people you love.
Love Zion? Live Nearby
After spending the day surrounded by red cliffs, clear skies, and accessible trails, it’s easy to understand why so many people fall in love with Southern Utah. If you find yourself dreaming of a life closer to this kind of beauty, St. George, UT offers the perfect blend of outdoor access and modern living.
With easy day trips to Zion, world-class recreation in every direction, and family-friendly neighborhoods, St. George real estate gives you the chance to make the red rock lifestyle a part of your everyday.
ExploreSt. George, UT homes for sale and discover what it means to live where you play.
