If you’ve been wondering what the government shutdown means for your Zion getaway—don’t worry, your vacation is still on. Zion National Park remains open, thanks to dedicated support from the State of Utah and nonprofit partners like the Zion Forever Project. And just beyond the east entrance, Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort and East Zion Adventures are ready to welcome you.
With more than 4,000 acres of private land and trails for you to enjoy via horseback, jeep, UTV, and hiking, the east side of Zion is the perfect extension of your Zion getaway. It’s a great opportunity to see Zion from a different angle—the peaceful, quiet side of Zion.
What’s currently open:
- Zion National Park remains accessible to visitors
- The Zion Canyon Visitor Center is open
- Essential services such as restrooms and emergency response are being maintained
What’s limited:
- Kolob Canyons Visitor Center is closed
- Some park operations are running with reduced staffing
- Shuttle service and trash collection are limited
- Entrance fee collection is temporarily suspended
Explore Beyond Zion National Park
This is a great time to explore beyond Zion National Park’s main canyon and experience the adventures waiting on Zion’s east side.
Book an Orderville or Kanab-based tour with our sister company, East Zion Adventures for rappelling through slot canyons, horseback riding like a real Utah cowboy, and Jeep tours with s’mores and stargazing. You can even UTV ride across Coral Pink Sand Dunes, with views of Red Knoll and a stop by the Best Friends Animal Society Visitor Center.
Plus, Utah’s state parks are fully open and unaffected by the shutdown, so explore nearby favorites like Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Kodachrome Basin, Snow Canyon, and Sand Hollow State Park.
Stay, Play and Relax at Zion Ponderosa
Think of Zion Ponderosa as your basecamp for adventure. The fun doesn’t stop when the park slows down. Whether you lace up your hiking boots and trek to Observation Point for sweeping views of Zion Canyon and Angels Landing below or simply unwind in the pool or hot tubs and play a round of mini golf with the fam, you can still have your dream Zion getaway.
