Zion National Park is one of the most gorgeous destinations in the United States. Planning your trip efficiently is essential.
Choosing the right airport can save you time and make your whole trip easier and more enjoyable.
This guide offers a complete overview of the closest and most convenient options for flying to Zion National Park. We’ll look at:
- Distance from the park
- Transportation options from the airport
- Nearby attractions
Knowing your options will help you make the best choice for your trip.
Closest Airports to Zion National Park: An Overview
Planning a trip to Zion? Here’s a rundown of the airports you might consider, ranked by convenience and accessibility:
St. George Regional Airport (SGU): The Most Convenient Option
St. George Regional Airport (SGU) is generally the easiest and most popular choice because it’s the closest. It’s only about 48 miles from Zion, which translates to roughly an hour and ten minutes in the car. SGU is a nice middle ground – it’s accessible without being overwhelmingly large and busy.
Plus, if you fly into SGU, you can easily check out other cool spots in the area, like the Tuacahn Outdoor Amphitheater or Snow Canyon State Park.
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS): International Access and Flight Options
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas is a major international hub, so it offers way more flight options. It’s about 170 miles from Zion, making for a drive of nearly three hours. That’s a bit of a trek, but the sheer number of flights and airlines you can choose from might make it worth it.
Other Regional Airports: Cedar City, Colorado City, and Kanab
There are a few other regional airports to consider, but they’re generally smaller and have fewer flights:
- Cedar City Regional Airport: About 80 miles from Zion (around an hour and 20 minutes driving).
- Colorado City Municipal Airport: Also about 80 miles away, but the drive is closer to an hour and 45 minutes.
- Kanab Airport: The closest airport mileage-wise (about 45 miles), with about an hour and five minutes of driving. However, shuttle options may be limited, so you’ll probably need a rental car.
How to get from the airport to Zion
So, you’ve landed at the airport. Now what? Here are your transportation options for getting to Zion National Park:
Rental Cars: Freedom on Four Wheels
If you’re flying into Cedar City, Colorado City, or Kanab, renting a car is almost a necessity, as shuttle options can be scarce. Even if you’re flying into a larger airport like Las Vegas or Salt Lake City, having your own car gives you the freedom to explore Zion and the surrounding areas whenever you want, for as long as you want.
I highly recommend booking your rental car in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Also, don’t forget to familiarize yourself with the rental car return procedures at the airport before you head out.
Shuttle Services: Sit Back and Relax
Shuttle services offer a convenient, hassle-free alternative to renting a car. Most of the airports near Zion offer shuttle services, and rates typically range from $30 to $50 per person, each way. You’ll want to check availability and rates ahead of time, as these can change with the season. Some hotels and resorts also offer shuttle service to and from the airport, so be sure to ask when you book your accommodations.
Taxis and Rideshares: On-Demand Rides
Taxis and rideshares like Uber and Lyft can provide on-demand transportation from the airports to Zion. This can be the priciest option, with rates ranging from $70 to $90 one way. Availability can also be limited, particularly at the smaller regional airports.
Planning Considerations and Tips for Airport Selection
Choosing the right airport requires some planning. Keep these things in mind as you look at your options:
- Flight Availability and Cost: Compare the cost of flights to each airport, but consider the total cost of the trip. A cheaper flight might mean a longer drive, which increases your gas costs.
- Driving Distance and Time: Be sure to factor in driving distance and time when you choose an airport. It might be worth it to drive a little further to get a cheaper flight or more convenient flight times.
- Accommodation: If your flight arrives late or leaves early, consider staying overnight near the airport. St. George and Cedar City have a variety of hotels and restaurants.
- Zion Park Shuttle: Once you’re in the park, use the Zion Park Shuttle to get around. It runs often, especially during the busy season. You can expect one to come by every 5 to 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get to Zion National Park?
The cheapest way to get to Zion often involves flying into a larger, more competitive airport like Las Vegas (LAS) and then driving. Keep an eye on flight deals and consider traveling during the off-season. Carpooling or sharing a rental car can also reduce costs.
Where do you fly into for Zion and Bryce Canyon?
For a trip combining Zion and Bryce Canyon, flying into Las Vegas (LAS) is a popular option due to its flight availability and relative proximity to both parks. From there, it’s a scenic drive of approximately 2.5 hours to Zion and another 1.5-2 hours from Zion to Bryce Canyon. Alternatively, flying into Salt Lake City (SLC) offers another option, but the drive times are longer.
What is the best airport to fly into to visit Utah national parks?
The “best” airport depends on your specific itinerary and priorities. Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is a good choice if you plan to visit multiple national parks in Utah, including Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef, as it’s centrally located. Las Vegas (LAS) is more convenient and often cheaper for Zion and Bryce Canyon. Smaller regional airports like St. George (SGU) offer closer access but have fewer flight options and can be more expensive.
Putting it all together
St. George Regional Airport (SGU) will probably be the most convenient airport for getting to Zion National Park. Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) has more flight options, but it’s a longer drive.
Think about your priorities, and you’ll be able to choose the airport that works best for your Zion National Park adventure.