Zion National Park

Zion is a breathtaking sanctuary of soaring cream, pink, and red sandstone cliffs that tower 2,000 feet above the canyon floor. While certain parts of the park can only be accessed using the park's free shuttle buses, the views riding the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway might leave you speechless.

At a Glance

Distance: 6 hours, 325 miles from Salt Lake City

Time Budget: 3–5 hours for the through-ride and canyon shuttle

Best Riding: April to May, or September to October

Fees: $30 for up to two motorcycles riding together (or an Annual Park Pass). Fee is required for Zion-Mt. Carmel Hwy, even if just passing through.

The Ride

The highlight for any rider is the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (Hwy 9). This road connects the South Entrance (Springdale) to the East Entrance near Mt. Carmel Junction. It features a series of intense switchbacks that climb the canyon wall, offering views that will make it hard to keep your eyes on the road. There are numerous pull-offs for photo opportunities.

The 1.1-mile tunnel is pitch black and several degrees cooler than ambient temperatures. Starting in 2026, excessively long or large vehicles will be prohibited from taking this road, marking the end of escort delays at the tunnel. You cannot stop your bike in the tunnel for photos! We strongly suggest planning your route so that you enter Zion from the East near golden hour - the setting sun paints the canyon with an awe-inspiring color palette.

We suggest bringing walking shoes and doing some hikes in the canyon. There are several options that aren't difficult and do not require advance reservations. Popular hikes like Angels Landing do require advance permit reservations. The park shuttle is a free service that runs frequently - feel free to hop on and off during its loop. Keep your eyes peeled on the canyon walls for rock climbers!

Zion was the #2 most visited National Park in the country in 2024, with nearly 5 million visitors. This means roads get crowded, parking lots fill up, and advance planning is required during summer months.
From March through November, Zion Canyon Scenic Drive Road is closed to private vehicles. You must park your bike at the Visitor Center and use the free shuttle to see the Temple of Sinawava and the Narrows. If you reserve a room at the Zion National Park Lodge, you are permitted to ride to that parking lot.
There is dedicated motorcycle parking at the Visitor's Center main lot, follow signage to access.
Zion has one in-park hotel and three established campgrounds that require reservations. Hike-in dispersed camping is allowed with a permit.

Tips

Itinerary

Depart Salt Lake City early to reach Zion before dark
Take I-15 South to Spanish Fork
At Spanish Fork Canyon, turn south on to State Street (UT-89) to avoid I-15
Lunch break in Salina
Continue on UT-89 South to Mt. Carmel Junction, turn west on Rt 9
Enjoy the incredible views of the park at golden hour, particularly after the Mt. Carmel Tunnel
Stay in Springdale, Virgin, or Hurricane for the night
Spend your second day off the bike exploring Zion National Park