Page last updated: 20 September 2024
How many people visit Zion National Park each year?
Over 4.62 million tourists visited Zion National Park in 2023.
- Zion National Park welcomed 4.48 million visitors in 2019. However, when the pandemic hit in 2020, this number dropped by 19% to 3.59 million.
- By 2021, visitor numbers began to recover, reaching 5.04 million.
- Tourist numbers dropped in 2022 and 2023, with 4.69 million and 4.62 million visits, respectively.
How much do visitors spend at Zion National Park every year?
In 2023, visitor spending at Zion National Park amounted to $676.04 million.
- In 2019, visitors to Zion National Park generated $258.36 million in expenditure. However, in 2020, visitor spending dropped by 19% to $207.91 million.
- Zion National Park recovered in 2021, with $667.49 million spent by tourists.
- In 2022, tourist spending amounted to $672.43 million, and in 2023, this increased by less than 1% to $676.04 million. This growth highlighted a steady recovery, showcasing a 162% rise compared to the spending levels in 2019.
How many people visited Zion National Park in 2023?
- In 2023, Zion National Park welcomed a total of 4.62 million visitors, with 290,237 overnight campers and 4.33 million same-day tourists. This marked a 3% increase compared to 2019.
How much did tourists spend in Zion National Park in 2023?
- Visitors to Zion National Park spent $676.04 million in 2023, exceeding the pre-pandemic spending levels by 162%.
Impact of Coronavirus
Zion National Park Tourism Statistics 2020 and 2021
- In 2020, Zion National Park visitor numbers fell to 3.59 million due to the coronavirus pandemic. This marked a decrease of 20% from the 2019 figure of 4.49 million. In 2021, there was a 40% increase compared to 2020 with 5.04 million visits.
- Tourist spending followed a similar trend. After 2019’s expenditure figure of $258.36 million, tourist spending dropped to $207.91 million in 2020, showcasing a drop of over 19%. However, in 2021, visitor spending reached $667.49 million, exceeding the 2019 tourist expenditure by 158%.
How popular is Zion National Park?
- Zion National Park, ranked 6th among the U.S. Best National Parks for 2024. Popular hikes include Angels Landing and The Narrows, a 10-mile trek through the Virgin River.
- Zion National Park ranked 3rd as the most visited national park in the U.S.A. in 2023.
Read more about the U.S. National Park Ranking.
When is the best time to visit Zion National Park?
- Fall: Ideal for serious hikers, as cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it the perfect season for exploring Zion’s trails.
- Year-Round: There is no bad time to visit Zion, with each season offering unique experiences, from winter solitude to spring blooms and summer adventures.
What were Zion National Park’s peak tourist months in 2023?
Here are the top 5 most visited months in Zion National Park for 2023, highlighting the seasonal attractions and reasons for the high number of visitors during each month:
- June had the highest number of visitors with 564,036 visits due to the peak summer season, offering long days and perfect weather for outdoor activities.
- July followed closely with 561,026 visitors, as families and vacationers took advantage of school breaks and the summer rush continued.
- With 514,283 visitors, May attracted nature enthusiasts thanks to its mild spring weather and blooming landscapes, making it ideal for hiking before the summer crowds.
- October welcomed 504,584 visitors, with cooler temperatures and stunning autumn colours creating perfect conditions for scenic exploration.
- September 2023 saw 491,799 visitors as early fall brought excellent weather and fewer crowds, offering quieter trails for hikers.
What were the most popular types of camping at Zion National Park in 2023?
- Tent Camping (100,411 visitors) was the most popular choice for those seeking a traditional camping experience.
- 95,381 visitors opted for Concessionaire Lodging within the park for more comfort.
- 85,948 visitors preferred RV Camping.
- 8,497 visitors enjoyed Backcountry Camping.
Zion National Park Facts
- Established: Zion National Park, established in 1919, is Utah’s first national park.
- Famous Features: Known for its towering sandstone cliffs in red, pink, and cream hues.
- Popular Hikes: Angels Landing and The Narrows are renowned hiking trails.
- Wildlife: Home to a wide range of unique plants and animals.
- Geology: Features dramatic canyons and narrow slot canyons, creating stunning landscapes.
What are the most common causes of death in Zion National Park?
There were 55 recorded deaths in Zion National Park between 2007 and 2023. Here are the main causes of death in the park:
- Fall (28 deaths)
- Environmental (12 deaths)
- Drowning (3 deaths)
- Medical Emergency – During Physical Activity (3 deaths)
- Medical Emergency – Not During Physical Activity (3 deaths)
- Suicide (3 deaths)
- Undetermined (3 deaths)
Zion National Park Safety Tips
When visiting Zion National Park, it’s essential to be mindful of safety precautions due to the park’s remote location and harsh conditions. Follow these guidelines:
- Stay Hydrated: Carry at least one gallon of water per person per day.
- Heat and Sun: Watch for signs of heat exhaustion and stroke, and rest in shady areas.
- Flash Floods: Be aware of changing weather conditions, especially during monsoon season.
- Cliff Safety: Stay on trails and keep away from cliff edges.
- Wildlife Danger: Keep a safe distance from animals and avoid feeding them
National Park (NP) Tourism Statistics
References
- NPS: Facts and Figures – Visitation, Ranking and Mortality Data