Zion National Park with Kids: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Guide

Best Kid-Friendly Hikes In Zion National Park

1. Canyon Overlook Trail (Big Views, Short Distance)

• Distance: 1 mile round trip
• Elevation Gain: Minimal
• Best for Ages 6+
• This short trail delivers massive views without a long hike.  There are some drop-offs, but sections have railings.
• Parent Tip:  Go early to avoid parking stress along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.

2. Riverside Walk (Stroller Friendly)

• Distance: 2 miles round trip
• Paved path
• Best for all ages
• This mostly flat, scenic walk follows the Virgin River and ends at the start of The Narrows.
• Perfect for: toddlers, grandparents, and kids who need space to explore (including tipping their feet and hands in the river)

3. Lower Emerald Pools (Waterfalls + Shade)

• Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
• Mild elevation
• Paved path
• Best for: 5+
• Why this is great: Kids love the small waterfalls and shady sections.  It feels adventurous without being overwhelming.

4. Pa'rus Trail (Bike-Friendly + Accessible)

• Distance: 3.5 miles one way (recommended to hike from Canyon Junction to the Human History Museum)
• Paved + bike friendly
• Pet-friendly (rare in Zion!)
• You can rent bikes in Springdale and turn this into a low-effort scenic adventure. There is also river access if you want to play in the water.

5. Taylor Creek Middle Fork (Kolob Canyons Area)

• Distance: 5 miles round trip
• Enjoy shade, creek crossings, and historic cabins
• Less crowded: Older kids love the log cabins and creek crossing.  Bonus points that the Kolob areas of the park are usually less crowded.

6. Timber Creek Overlook (Kolob Canyons Area)

• Distance: 1 mile round trip
• Incredible sunset spot
• Perfect "big payoff" stop for families who don't want another long hike.
  

Kid-Friendly Activities to Do (that aren't hiking)

Sometimes kids need a break from hiking, here are some fun kid-friendly activities to consider.

1. Horseback Riding Adventures

Several outfitters offer guided horseback rides just outside the park. Great for ages 7+ and a unique way to experience desert scenery.

2. Zion Junior Ranger Programs

Families visiting Zion National Park shouldn’t miss the Junior Ranger Program. Kids can pick up a free activity booklet at the Visitor Center, complete age-appropriate challenges, and earn an official Zion Junior Ranger badge.

3. UTV Tours

Adventurous families love exploring red rock terrain by UTVs in the area.  Outfitters are available in Kanab and St. George with guided and self-guided options.

4. Find Some Water

There is no denying that most kids love time in the water and their a variety of options after a day exploring in Zion.  Check out Jellystone Water Park, Zion Tubing, Sand Hollow State Park, or the Zion Canyon Hot Springs.

5. St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site

Step back in time at the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site, home to one of the largest and best-preserved collections of dinosaur tracks in the world. Walk along elevated pathways above real fossilized footprints and learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed this region — all indoors and air-conditioned.

Want a Stress-Free Family Experience?

Traveling with kids changes everything:

• Shuttle timing matters
  
• Bathroom logistics matter
  
• Heat management (and snacks) matters
  
• Attention spans matter

We help families:

•  Avoid crowds
• Pick the right trails
• Stay safe in desert heat
• Make it fun, not exhausting

That’s why many families choose our Zion Half Day Hiking tour or a private guided hike tailored to pace, ages, and energy levels.

Book your tour today!

Related blogpost: Planning a Trip to Zion, 10 Unique Things to Do Outside of Zion, Best Time of Year to Visit Zion National Park