Zion National Park Review: Stunning Views, Crowds Included

Zion NP Review (save this for later)⁠ ⁠ This week we are reviewing Utah's Mighty 5 National Parks, giving our honest insight and rating the parks based on our experience. We explored these parks over a 5 week period in the springtime. ⁠ ⁠ Zion has stunning views and beautiful canyons. There are many hikes available for all abilities. We were turned off by the crowds and the shuttle system required to explore Zion Canyon. ⁠ ⁠ We did explore Kolob Canyon which did not require a shuttle pass. Mt. Carmel Highway was beautiful as well but the hikes were very crowded.⁠ ⁠ While I understand the purpose of the shuttle system, it was stressful to get tickets, find parking to be able to get to the shuttle, and we waited in line for 25 minutes to board the first shuttle. Once in the canyon the shuttles ran frequently which was a very nice.⁠ ⁠ We hiked Emerald Pools Trail, Zion Canyon Overlook Trail, and part of Northgate Peaks Trail. All hikes were kid friendly but the only place we were not surrounded by others was on Northgate Peaks Trail.⁠ ⁠ We stayed near Hurricane at an RV resort. There is boondocking available closer to the park.⁠ ⁠ The park is mostly kid friendly. With the steep grades and drop offs, you definitely want to keep an extra eye on your kids. There are signs all over that state you are responsible for the your safety. ⁠ ⁠ Our ratings:⁠ Access: 4/10 ⁠ Crowds: 3/10 ⁠ Kids Friendly: 7/10⁠ Camping Near By: 7/10⁠ Overall: 5/10⁠ ⁠ While Zion is beautiful and has amazing views; the crowds, shuttle system, and limited free parking brought down our overall rating.⁠ ⁠ I would still recommend Zion to anyone that asks, just be aware that it is an extremely popular park and it might be best to visit during the off season. We do plan to go back in the future and check out some more of the hikes when it is not so crowded. ⁠ ⁠ ❓Have you been to Zion NP? What was your overall rating of the park❓⁠ ⁠ @exploringoutsidethe303⁠ @exploringoutsidethe303⁠ @exploringoutsidethe303⁠