Accessible Ranger-Led Activities

Interpretive and educational programs seek to accommodate all ages and abilities.

NPS Photo

Ranger Programs in Zion

Enhance your understanding and enjoyment of Zion National Park by participating in a ranger program! Programs are offered throughout the year, with most programs taking place in Zion Canyon in summer. Topics include geology, plants, animals, human history, and more.

Check the Calendar

Ranger-led programs are free, and visitors of all ages are welcome to attend. Check the park calendar for a list of all upcoming programs. Program listings include time, place, and other important planning information. Attending a ranger-led program is required to earn a Junior Ranger Badge.

 

Program Accessibility

Nearly all park programs are held in accessible locations. A few programs, such as the Morning Watchman Trail Hike, are not accessible due to the natural terrain of the park. Details about each program can be found on our park calendar. A summary of accessible programs can be found below.

If you have specific questions about program accessibility, or if you need an American Sign Language interpreter, contact the park as long before your visit as possible. You can e-mail us or call us at [phone] for program and accessibility details.

Visitor Center Programs

Programs at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center amphitheater are great for visitors of all ages. The program amphitheater has stone benches alongside flat, paved spaces for wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility devices. These programs take place outdoors on a partially-shaded patio. Even in the shade, summer temperatures can be high — please check the weather before visiting.

The visitor center plaza is flat, paved, and overall accessible. Accessible restrooms, water filling stations, and exhibits are located in the plaza. Reserved parking is available in nearby parking lots. Rangers at the visitor center are available for any additional questions.

Ride with a Ranger

This ranger-led shuttle bus tour offers a unique two-hour experience along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. You will get an up-close look at the geology, nature, or history of the park through several special stops.

Shuttles are accessible for wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The shuttle lift has a combined weight limit of 600 lbs and cannot accommodate chairs larger than 45" long or 25" wide. If you are unable to ride the shuttle, visit our accessibility page for other ways to explore Zion Canyon.

There are typically no restrooms or drinking water along the route. However, each ranger's route is slightly different. Ask a ranger at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center for details or possible accommodations.

Nature Center Youth Programs

The Zion Nature Center is an accessible building with a paved wheelchair ramp and reserved parking spaces out front. Programs last 30-45 minutes and typically take place in the air-conditioned building. The ranger program area has a mix of seating options. Outdoor activities may take place on a sunny, flat, grassy lawn.

Exhibits inside have navigable space around them with a mix of visual, tactile, and some audio elements. Accessible restrooms are also available inside.

Museum Programs

The Human History Museum is an accessible building with a shaded outdoor patio. The patio has wooden benches alongside flat, paved spaces for wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility devices. Even in the shade, summer temperatures can be high — please check the weather before visiting.

Accessible parking is available, and shuttle busses stop regularly during program hours. The Pa'rus Trail connects to the museum, but it is not considered accessible due to stairs and sandy terrain. Restrooms are located at the end of the parking lot, about 200 feet away.

Zion Lodge Programs

Reserved parking spaces and a nearby shuttle stop allow easy access to Zion Lodge during summer. The lodge and surrounding area are accessible with multiple restrooms, water-filling stations, and dining options throughout the year.

Junior Ranger programs take place on the lodge lawn, directly in front of the lodge. The lawn is a large, grassy, relatively flat space surrounded by sidewalks. Mobility devices may require assistance on the uneven grass.

Evening programs take place in the lodge's auditorium, located on the ground floor. The auditorium is flat, carpeted, and accessible to wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility devices. Chairs are also provided for seating.

Watchman Ampitheater Evening Programs

The Watchman amphitheater is fully accessible with spaces for wheelchairs and mobility devices. There are accessible restrooms and water a short distance from the amphitheater. This program is outside, so please dress for the weather.

Reserved parking is available. A paved pathway from the visitor center may be accessible with assistance.