Grand Canyon National Park vs Zion National Park
Grand Canyon and Zion represent two different ways to experience canyon country. Grand Canyon offers expansive views looking into a mile-deep chasm, while Zion puts you at the bottom looking up at towering sandstone walls. Both are Utah/Arizona must-sees.
Arizona
1919
1.2 million acres
6.4 million
$35/vehicle
2,400 - 9,200 ft
Very High (South Rim)
Utah
1919
147,243 acres
4.5 million
$35/vehicle
3,666 - 8,726 ft
Very High
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Grand Canyon National Park | Zion National Park |
|---|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | March-May, September-November | April-May, September-October |
| Top Highlights | South Rim views, Bright Angel Trail, Desert View Watchtower | Angels Landing, The Narrows, Canyon Overlook Trail |
| Main Activities | Rim walking, Hiking, Mule rides | Hiking, Canyoneering, Rock climbing |
| Crowd Level | Very High (South Rim) | Very High |
| Entry Fee | $35/vehicle | $35/vehicle |
| Nearest Airport | Phoenix (PHX) - 230 miles | Las Vegas (LAS) - 160 miles |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- + Unmatched scale and views
- + Accessible rim viewpoints
- + Historic lodges
- + Colorado River rafting
Cons
- - Extreme heat in summer
- - Crowded South Rim
- - Difficult inner canyon hikes
- - North Rim closed in winter
Pros
- + Immersive canyon experience
- + Incredible hiking trails
- + Less extreme temperatures
- + Shuttle system works well
Cons
- - Very crowded trails
- - Permit required for Angels Landing
- - The Narrows can flash flood
- - Limited parking
Best For
Grand Canyon National Park is Best For:
Zion National Park is Best For:
Grand Canyon is about the view - standing on the rim and comprehending immense scale. Zion is about the experience - hiking through slot canyons and climbing to dramatic viewpoints. Most visitors prefer Zion for hiking, Grand Canyon for sheer awe.
Choose Grand Canyon National Park if...
Choose Grand Canyon if you want to witness one of Earth's most dramatic landscapes, prefer overlook-style viewing, or are bringing visitors who may have mobility limitations.
Choose Zion National Park if...
Choose Zion if you love hiking and want to be immersed in the landscape rather than viewing from above. Angels Landing and The Narrows are bucket-list adventures.
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