Plan Ahead for Heavy Crowds at Zion National Park Over Presidents Day

The National Park Service issued a Feb. 13, 2026 news release urging visitors to plan ahead for Presidents Day weekend, calling it “one of Zion National Park’s busiest winter weekends.” The release included the caution that “Visitors should expect long waits in and around the park,” and listed the Zion News Desk phone for questions: (435) 772-0162. NPS photo credit reads NPS Photo / Wil Marischen.

Traffic and parking congestion centered on Springdale, park entrances, entrance stations, parking lots, visitor centers, and restrooms. The park reminded drivers that Zion Canyon Scenic Drive north of Canyon Junction connects to Emerald Pools Trail, Riverside Walk, the Temple of Sinawava, and the Narrows, and that canyon parking is limited and “fills up early on holiday weekends.” If canyon parking is full, park staff may partially or fully close Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and direct visitors to park near the Zion Canyon Visitor Center at the South Entrance.

Shuttle buses did not operate for the holiday weekend; the park blog noted shuttle services will not run until March, leaving visitors to use personal vehicles on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. NPS guidance repeated practical advice: “Arrive early for the best chance at finding a spot. Parking fills up quickly, especially on holiday weekends.” Rangers were on hand to direct traffic, notify drivers where parking might be available, and enforce parking rules; vehicles parked outside designated spaces are subject to citation or towing.

South Entrance operations were affected by a drainage improvement project intended to reduce flooding. The park blog advised that one lane is open for vehicles in and out of the park and that “Wait times at the South entrance could be up to an hour depending on traffic to the park.” Zion Canyon Visitor Center hours remained 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, while Kolob Canyons Visitor Center was open 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m. daily. Drivers using Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive off I-15 at Exit 40 were reminded that parking is limited to paved pullouts.

Camping status and facility notes included that Watchman Campground is the only campground open year-round and accepts reservations online. South Campground remained closed until further notice while the National Park Service works on improvements, with a final design slated to be shared in the fall. Winter camping and trail conditions vary; the park urged visitors to check current conditions before arrival.

Trail-specific safety guidance highlighted the Virgin River Narrows, where water temperatures can be near freezing and daylight is limited; waterproof gear is recommended and hikers should remain aware of flash flood risk. The release also advised practical preparation: download maps and guides before arrival, make backup plans if your intended destination is full, consider carpooling, and follow posted signs and ranger instructions. The NPS guidance concluded with a reminder that “Remember that weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends, especially in winter. If possible, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds.”

For updates and current park conditions call the Zion News Desk at (435) 772-0162 or check Zion National Park’s official website and park blog before traveling.