Visiting Zion National Park For the First Time, and Why I Can’t Wait to Return

Several years ago, my parents, two children, and I took a road trip from Arizona to Utah. Our destination was Zion National Park, one of Utah's revered "Mighty 5" national parks known for its narrow canyons, sandstone cliffs, and the opportunity to have the ultimate hiking adventure. None of us had been before, so it was a special time. Not only did we tackle a couple of the best hikes in Zion National Park that are suitable for kids, but we were also able to create memories.

After a six-hour drive, we spent the night at Kanab Suites, which was perfect for the five of us. It was clean and comfortable and even had a kitchenette. Best of all, it was only an hour away from Zion National Park.

The following day, my mom wasn't feeling well and opted to skip our day-long adventure, so my dad and I packed the kids into the car, and off we went. Along the way, we stopped at Moqui Cave, a roadside attraction featuring a series of caves and displays of ancient artifacts and minerals that glow under UV light. If you're traveling with kids, I highly recommend this stop—mine loved it!

When we arrived at Zion National Park's east entrance, my dad used his National Parks Pass to enter. From this end of the nearly 147,000-acre park, we were able to drive through the 1.1-mile Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, which was once the longest tunnel in the country. We were all so fascinated by the drive through the historic tunnel, especially when we saw small windows in its walls, giving us teasing glimpses of the park's enchanting beauty.

After the tunnel, we drove until we found a parking lot. It was an incredibly busy day here at Zion, so shuttle buses were provided from the lot to take visitors to other sections of the park. We hopped on one that brought us to the historic Zion National Park Lodge which has amenities like restrooms and dining options. There are also a couple of easy hikes we were able to tackle nearby with two kids, ages 1 ½ and 8 ½, in tow.

I had my daughter strapped into a hiking baby backpack, and we slowly made our way along the Kayenta Trail. While the trail is 3.2 miles long, we only completed about one mile, but we loved every bit of it. Not only was it easy for my energetic son to hike, but the trail took us behind a waterfall, and the views were just spectacular!

Our second kid-friendly hike in Zion National Park was close to the lodge. The Emerald Pools Trail is a moderate 3-mile, partially paved path, a portion of which runs alongside the Virgin River. Of course, once my son saw the river, he wanted to go and play in the water. Needless to say, we only trekked a short section of this trail, but we all had fun this first time hiking at Zion National Park, and that's all that matters! It was a great introduction to the park and I know my kids will be able to experience more of it when they are older.

I'm actually returning to Zion National Park soon, and it will be quite a different experience from my first time. Here are a few of the best hikes in Zion National Park I plan on tackling:

• Zion Narrows Bottom Up to Big Springs: This is one of the park's most notorious hikes. Why? It's one of the park's most challenging and iconic trails. But don't worry—I am taking a guided hike with a professional!
• The Watchman Trail: This moderate 3.2-mile trail is one of Zion's most popular, and the trailhead is by the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. The hike involves switchbacks and leads to an overlook. There's no shade so bringing extra water and wearing sun protection is recommended.
• Pa'rus Trail: This pretty trail is easy and has footbridges which, in my opinion, adds to the park's scenic beauty and also make for some great photo ops. It's also paved, so those who have children in strollers or use mobility equipment can enjoy it.

While the above trails are ones I know I can handle, one I don't think I can is Angels Landing, which is one of the most notorious and dangerous hikes in the park due to its narrow sections and drop-offs. If you've tackled the very technical Angels Landing trail, I would love to hear about your experience!

My first trip to Zion National Park was a memorable family vacation, but I am looking forward to the next trip by myself so I can hike the longer and more difficult trails throughout the park. And since there are over 100 hiking trails here, I'll have AllTrails+ loaded onto my phone so I'll have directions even if I'm in a remote area. Have you been to Zion? Of you have a favorite national park trail you'd like to recommend, please fill out our nomination form.

While I stayed at a hotel in Kanab, Utah, you may want to stay in a vacation rental on the other side of the park in Springdale. The Historic Rose Cottage is a lovely option with cozy nooks that will make you want to sit and read a book, and a peaceful outdoor space with views.