What To Do When It Snows In Zion National Park

Snow doesn’t fall often in Zion National Park, maybe just a couple of times each winter season. The good news is a snowy forecast doesn’t cancel your plans—it elevates them, especially if you’re staying at Zion Ponderosa. 

Here’s what to do when it snows in Zion.

Go For a Winter Hike in Zion National Park 

Winter in Zion is a great time for leisurely, less adventurous hikes. While higher-elevation trails like Angels Landing can be icy, several lower trails are often accessible depending on conditions.

Potential winter hikes include:

• Riverside Walk
• Pa’rus Trail
• Canyon Overlook
• Emerald Pools (lower sections; upper portions may close if there’s danger of falling ice)

Shady sections of any trail can be slick in winter, even if there isn’t snow, so bring traction devices and trekking poles for added stability. Always check current conditions before entering the park, and especially before heading out on hiking trails in the snow. Dress warm and in layers. Don’t forget gloves and a hat!

Snowshoe From Your Cabin at Zion Ponderosa 

Step outside your Zion Ponderosa cabin door and head out on the beautiful trail to Checkerboard Mesa. In about 45 minutes, you can reach incredible panoramic views—and just might have them all to yourself.

You can also snowshoe to Cable Mountain for a more adventurous outing when conditions allow. We recommend snowshoes, gaiters, and/or traction devices plus trekking poles and waterproof boots. 

Stop by the East Zion Adventures recreation barn when you arrive at Zion Ponderosa for updated trail recommendations from our guides.

Discover the East Rim by Jeep

East Zion Adventures’ East Rim Jeep Tour is a winter favorite and often operates in snowy conditions (weather permitting). 

Departing from Zion Ponderosa Resort, this rugged one-hour adventure takes you through pine forest to sweeping views of Checkerboard Mesa. You’ll also stop at Jolley Gulch, where you can take a short walk to view the deep sandstone slot canyon below. 

Bundle up for this winter Jeep adventure. Hats, gloves, and warm coats are essential.  

Saddle Up For the White Mountain Horseback Ride

Yes, you can horseback ride in the snow. White Mountain Horseback Ride departs from Orderville (about 20 minutes from Zion Ponderosa) and operates year-round, including winter.

This experience combines two of southern Utah’s most iconic adventures: horseback riding and slot canyon exploration. After a brief lesson you’ll ride through East Zion’s scenic terrain to the mouth of a stunning slot canyon. There, you’ll dismount and walk a short distance into narrow sandstone walls towering hundreds of feet overhead. 

If you’re lucky enough to ride on a snowy day, you’ll experience an entirely different kind of magic to this already unforgettable ride.

Explore Coral Sands Canyon

This half-day canyoneering adventure is available in winter, depending on conditions. Coral Sands Canyon includes a four-mile hike and five rappels, with the tallest descent reaching over 70 feet. A dusting of snow and filtered winter light make this adventure even more amazing. Be sure to dress for cold conditions in winter.  

Day Trip to Bryce Canyon National Park

If roads are clear, consider a day trip to Bryce Canyon National Park. The hoodoos look especially stunning capped with snow, and the park often feels even more serene this time of year. Check road conditions before heading out or book a guided day trip to Bryce Canyon with East Zion Adventures. 

Warm Up Indoors

After a snowy day outside, Zion Ponderosa also has some cozy indoor options.

Indoor climbing wall: Practice before tackling Zion’s slot canyons, challenge your family to friendly competition, or enjoy a full upper-body workout on a beginner or intermediate route.

Virtual reality adventures: Experience Southern Utah from a whole new perspective.

• Montezuma: A five-minute virtual mine cart ride through a cave in search of hidden treasure
• Soaring Utah: A 10-minute bird’s-eye virtual flight over Zion and surrounding landscapes.
  

Refuel at Ponderosa Eats

Play outside then warm up at Ponderosa Eats, our on-property dining hall. Enjoy homestyle favorites, casual eats, and sweet treats in a relaxed setting. 

Snow in Zion Doesn’t Have to Slow You Down

Think of East Zion as your winter playground. Plan your winter Zion getaway today.