Bringing your students to Zion for a field trip with you as the guide, is a great way to build on lesson material covered in your classroom. When planning your school trip there are several things to keep in mind to help you and your students have an enjoyable and safe experience. Logistics for Your Visit to the ParkPark Entrance FeesSome groups visiting for educational activities will not be charged park entrance fees, provided they are sponsored by accredited educational institutions. A fee waiver or fee exemption should be requested three weeks in advance. For forms and guidelines, visit the Academic Fee Waivers page. HikingThere are many easy trails suitable for larger groups in Zion National Park. For a map and trail descriptions, download the park newspaper. Be PreparedAny visit to Zion will include some outdoor walking and exploring. Students should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Hats and sunscreen are recommended on sunny days and rain gear on cloudy days. Each child should carry a water bottle. RestroomsSeveral of the shuttle stop in Zion Canyon have restrooms to use throughout your trip. They are available at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Zion Museum, Zion Lodge, Grotto Picnic Area, Weeping Rock, and Temple of Sinawava. Restrooms are not available along the trails. Please use the restrooms before hiking. PicnickingThe Grotto Picnic Area, on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive has picnic tables and restrooms. Please remember to search the area for litter when finished and to keep food away from wildlife. Use recycling bins for aluminum cans and plastic bottles. Zion Canyon Shuttle SystemThe Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, past Canyon Junction, is closed to private vehicles from March through late November when the shuttle system is in operation. However, school groups traveling on traditional school buses are allowed. Please refer to the Academic Fee Waiver page for additional information and parking restrictions. This special consideration is for school buses only. Anyone in a van or passenger vehicle must travel on the school bus or use the shuttle system. Help Preserve ZionEverything in a national park is protected, from the rocks to the plants and animals. To ensure the protection of Zion and a make this trip a memorable experience, please follow these guidelines.
Learn more about how you and your students can protect Zion National Park by taking the Zion Pledge. Guest SpeakersIf your class is planning a self-guided field trip to Zion, rangers may be available, based on staffing, to present an orientation or topic-based presentation to your group before you explore the park. Talks are usually 20 to 30 minutes long and typically held at the South Campground Amphitheater. Topics include human and park history, plant and animal adaptations, hydrology, geology, and ecology. For more information on any of these programs, please call (435) 772-3256 or email us. |
Last updated: October 6, 2022