When we first started RV life, we made a promise to visit every National Park, and that journey took us through towering forests, desolate deserts, unexpected snowstorms, and even a breakdown or two. After months of winding through Sequoia, Yosemite, Death Valley and beyond, we finally made our way to Utah—just in time for my birthday. I had dreamed of visiting Zion for years, and as fate would have it, the timing couldn’t have been more perfect.
A Snowy Start to the Journey
On the morning of November 12th, my birthday, we woke to a cold, rainy morning. I had checked the forecast for Zion, and it was supposed to be a beautiful day, but looking outside, I started to worry. James even asked if we should reconsider going, but I was determined. We grabbed coffee and began the drive towards Zion’s east entrance, only to find ourselves in a snowstorm! It wasn’t a full-blown blizzard, but the snow was sticking, and visibility was poor. As we drove, I second-guessed our decision, but I still wanted to go.
Then, we reached the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. I hadn’t realized we’d be driving through it, but as soon as we emerged on the other side—wow. Cue the music. Imagine the theme song to Jurassic Park swelling in the background. Nothing could have prepared me for that moment. One second, we were in a dark, confined tunnel, and the next, we had burst into a breathtaking canyon landscape bathed in golden light. The dreary winter weather instantly transformed into a stunning, sunlit paradise. The colors were brilliant, the air was crisp, and I was completely overwhelmed with awe. It felt like we had driven into heaven itself. It was a moment that made me believe in magic, in fate—maybe even in something divine.
Making the Most of One Day in Zion
We managed to find a parking spot near the Visitor’s Center (a major win), and as is our tradition, we collected our National Park passport stamp. I also picked up some postcards—one of my favorite souvenirs since they’re easy to store and display. Then, we hopped on the park shuttle and headed straight to the Grotto stop to begin our hike up the West Rim Trail toward Angel’s Landing.
I knew about the permit requirements for Angel’s Landing, but with The Wave’s lottery already costing us $12 a day, we couldn’t justify another $12 for Angel’s Landing—especially knowing that Scout Lookout would give us roughly the same stunning view. So we couldn’t complete the final ascent—but that didn’t dampen my excitement. The hike itself was spectacular, with every step offering something incredible to take in. Every turn revealed another breathtaking view, each more awe-inspiring than the last. The scenery couldn’t have been better—the towering canyon walls, the crisp autumn air, and the perfect golden sunlight filtering through the cliffs. I kept stopping, not because I was tired, but because I simply couldn’t stop staring. It was the kind of beauty that demanded to be witnessed, fully and without rush.
The first section of the hike was a scenic, steady climb, but as we ascended, the challenge intensified. Walter’s Wiggles—a series of steep, sharp switchbacks—was a true test of endurance. Step by step, I pushed forward, taking it slow and steady, my heart pounding not just from exertion but from sheer anticipation. When we finally reached Scout Lookout, all the effort became instantly worth it.
Perched on the edge, I let my legs dangle over the abyss, gazing out at the vast canyon below. The valley stretched endlessly, painted in warm hues of red and gold, the Virgin River winding through like a ribbon. The silence was profound, interrupted only by the occasional rustling of the wind. It was the most incredible reward after the relentless climb—an overwhelming sense of peace, of connection, of absolute awe. I could have stayed there forever, soaking in the beauty, breathing in the moment, imprinting it into my memory.
If you're planning your own Zion adventure, check out my One Day in Zion National Park post! It’s packed with essential info on trail distances, elevation gains, time estimates for each hike, and more. You’ll also find links to permits for Angel’s Landing, gear rental spots, and other important resources to help you make the most of your visit. It’s everything you need to know to explore Zion like a pro!
A Race Against Time
Unfortunately, James had an obligation that day, so we were on a tight schedule. After taking in the views at Scout Lookout, we descended and took the shuttle toward the Riverwalk. I had wanted to see the Narrows, but we didn’t have time for the full hike through the water. Given that it was November and the water levels were high, it wasn’t the best season for it anyway, but it’s now at the top of my list for a future visit.
While James took care of business, I wandered around and admired the towering Watchman, its silhouette growing more dramatic with each passing moment. The scenery felt timeless. As the sun started to dip lower in the sky, we made our way to the Canyon Overlook Trail. The short hike to the viewpoint was absolutely perfect for wrapping up the day. The trail snaked through rugged rock formations, each turn revealing a new leg of the hike, unique in its own way. Each stretch of the path had its own character—some parts narrow and steep, others wide and open, offering different angles of the landscape. The formations were so striking, I couldn’t help but stop and take it all in. The bright sun made it difficult to capture the full grandeur of the view in photos, but standing there, I was struck by the sheer vastness of the landscape—red and orange cliffs stretching out before me, the desert still radiating heat even as the sun sank behind the horizon. It felt like the perfect final glimpse of paradise, the kind of beauty that stays with you long after you’ve left. I knew, without a doubt, I’d be coming back here again.
Want more details to plan your own adventure in Zion? Be sure to read my One Day in Zion National Park post. It includes must-know information like the best shuttle schedules, hiking tips, and links to important park resources like permits, trail conditions, and rental gear.
Looking Ahead to Next Time
Leaving Zion that evening, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. It had been an incredible birthday—one of the most awe-inspiring days of my life. Although I didn’t get to hike the Narrows or reach the summit of Angel’s Landing, those experiences are now waiting for me on my next visit. Next time, I’ll dedicate two full days to Zion: one for Angel's Landing and another for The Narrows and to revisit the Canyon Overlook, which was too beautiful to experience just once.
Zion National Park was everything I had dreamed of and more. It’s a place that defies words, where nature’s grandeur leaves you speechless. No photo, no description can ever do it justice—you simply have to experience it for yourself. If Zion has been on your list, consider this your sign to stop waiting—go. Step into the canyon, feel the magic, and let it take your breath away. ✨
Ready to plan your own adventure in Zion? Be sure to check out my One Day in Zion National Park post for more details on hiking routes, permits, and tips for navigating the park. Whether you're there for a day or longer, it's the ultimate guide to making your visit unforgettable!
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