Things to do with kids in Zion National Park

Famous for its swirling sandstone formations, red rock cliffs and magnificent, ever-changing light, the wilderness of Zion National Park holds the promise of some of Utah's wildest adventures.

Hiking is high on the agenda here, but it doesn't have to be a challenging, adults-only activity. There are plenty of hiking trails in Zion National Park which are paved, wide and gentle, making them accessible for small children and strollers.

Kids can also get hands-on in the park with the Junior Ranger Program, which involves self-guided exploration and immersive walks and talks with enthusiastic, expert rangers.

That spirit of fun and education extends to museums within the park and around. Dinosaur tracks and fossils are certain to stir the imaginations of children and adults alike, while St. George has some great museums aimed at younger kids.

Hiking Trails for Kids

  • Follow the gentle, mile-long Emerald Pools trail past lush vegetation, picturesque waterfalls and serene natural pools - a real oasis in the desert.
  • Another photogenic, paved trail is the Riverside Walk, which is also stroller-accessible and gives you the chance to cool off in the Virgin River.
  • If you're an adventurous family with older kids, try the Weeping Rock Trail. Paved and short, but steep, it's a rewarding cliffside hike.

Junior Ranger Programs

  • Your kids can explore Zion as part of the Junior Ranger Program, with activities aimed at children aged 6-12.
  • They'll learn all about the park's geology, flora and fauna, and long human history, with guided walks and talks from expert rangers.
  • You can also pick up a Junior Ranger booklet from the park's visitor centers. Help your kids complete the pages to earn their ranger badge.

Museums for Kids

  • Kids of all ages will love the interactive exhibits at the Zion Nature Center, which focus on the park's geology, animals and natural habitats.
  • All children are enchanted by dinosaurs, and the Dinosaur Track Museum at Johnson Farm showcases dino tracks, bones and fossils unearthed in the area.
  • Learn how to milk a cow, sit in a replica Oval Office and brush up on the Southern Utah deserts - all at the St. George Children's Museum.

Created in partnership with Washington County Tourism Office