Southern Utah is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. With iconic landscapes ranging from towering sandstone cliffs to sprawling canyons, this region offers families a chance to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, and even lesser-known gems like Horseshoe Bend and Vermilion Cliffs. These parks are ideal for family trips, with a mix of easy-to-navigate trails, stunning views, and educational opportunities that will captivate both kids and adults alike.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best family-friendly experiences across Southern Utah’s most popular national parks and surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking to hike, picnic, or just take in some of the best scenery in the world, these destinations will not disappoint.
Zion National Park: A Family Favorite in the Heart of Southern Utah
Located just an hour from Hurricane, Utah, Zion National Park is one of the most famous parks in the world and is an ideal destination for families. It offers a variety of scenic viewpoints, accessible trails, and an abundance of wildlife that make it perfect for kids and parents alike.
The Iconic Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
Zion’s main attraction is the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, a 6-mile stretch through the park that takes visitors past towering rock formations, meandering rivers, and vibrant desert flora. The scenic drive itself is perfect for families who want to experience Zion’s beauty without hiking. There are plenty of pull-outs where you can stop and snap photos, making it an excellent option for families with younger kids or those who need a bit more flexibility.
Family-Friendly Hikes
If you’re up for some light hiking, Zion has plenty of family-friendly trails. The Riverside Walk is a paved, easy 2.2-mile trail that follows the Virgin River, offering shade and beautiful views of Zion Canyon. It’s perfect for families with younger children or strollers.
Another great option is the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, a relatively short 1.2-mile round trip with a moderate incline. This trail leads to a beautiful waterfall and a great spot for a picnic. The hike is easy enough for children but still offers a rewarding view.
For families with older kids who enjoy more challenging hikes, the Angels Landing hike provides a thrilling experience. Though it’s not recommended for young children, older kids and teens can enjoy the challenge of reaching the top, where the view is absolutely spectacular. Be sure to check current trail conditions and restrictions before embarking on this hike, as the route is steep and requires some scrambling.
Zion’s Junior Ranger Program
Zion offers a Junior Ranger Program, which is a great way to engage kids while learning about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. The program provides activity booklets for children to complete, and after finishing the activities, kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge.
Bryce Canyon National Park: Hoodoos and Family Adventures
Bryce Canyon is located about two hours from Hurricane, and though it may not be as well-known as Zion, it’s a must-visit for families looking for unique landscapes and great hiking. Bryce is famous for its distinctive rock formations, known as hoodoos, which look like giant stone spires rising from the earth.
Scenic Drives and Lookouts
Bryce Canyon offers a 20-mile scenic drive that takes you to a variety of viewpoints overlooking the hoodoos and the Bryce Amphitheater. Some of the most popular spots include Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, and Inspiration Point, where you can capture some incredible family photos.
For families who prefer not to hike, this drive is an excellent way to explore the park. There are also short, paved trails around the viewpoints that make for a simple and enjoyable stroll.
The Best Family-Friendly Hikes
Bryce Canyon also has a number of short, accessible hikes that are perfect for families. The Navajo Loop Trail is one of the park’s most popular hikes and takes you down into the Bryce Amphitheater, where you can walk among the hoodoos. It’s a 1.3-mile loop, but it’s a bit steeper in parts, so it’s better suited for families with older children or those who are in good physical condition.
If you’re looking for something even more relaxed, the Queens Garden Trail is a gentle, 1.8-mile route that’s great for younger hikers. It’s often considered the easiest hike into the Bryce Amphitheater, and it provides amazing views of the hoodoos from below.
Bryce Canyon’s Night Sky Program
Bryce Canyon is also famous for its night skies. In fact, it’s one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing. Families can participate in the Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival, where rangers and astronomers teach visitors about the stars, planets, and constellations visible from the park. This program is fun for kids of all ages and a perfect way to end a day at the park.
Horseshoe Bend: A Quick Detour for Stunning Views
While not technically a national park, Horseshoe Bend is a famous natural landmark located just outside Page, Arizona, about two hours from Hurricane. The iconic image of the Colorado River winding through a canyon is a must-see for anyone visiting Southern Utah.
The Hike to Horseshoe Bend
The hike to Horseshoe Bend is short and relatively easy, making it perfect for families. The trail is just 1.5 miles round trip, with only a slight incline. The views at the end of the trail are absolutely breathtaking, and it’s the perfect spot for family photos.
While the trail is easy, it’s important to remember that it can get very hot in the summer months, so plan your visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat.
Vermilion Cliffs National Monument: A Hidden Gem for Families
If you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten path, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument is a great option for families who want to explore a lesser-visited area with stunning scenery. Located about two and a half hours from Hurricane, this monument is known for its colorful cliffs, rock formations, and unique desert landscapes.
The Wave and Paria Canyon
The most famous feature of Vermilion Cliffs is The Wave, a colorful sandstone rock formation that looks like a wave frozen in time. While access to The Wave requires a permit, families can still explore the surrounding Paria Canyon, which offers great hiking opportunities.
For families who enjoy outdoor adventures, the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness offers a variety of trails that are perfect for hiking and photography. While the hikes are more challenging than those in Zion or Bryce, they’re rewarding for those who are up for the adventure.
Tips for Visiting Southern Utah’s National Parks with Kids
- Plan Ahead: These parks can get very crowded, especially in peak seasons. Make sure to arrive early or plan your visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the busiest times.
- Stay Hydrated: Southern Utah’s desert climate can be harsh, so make sure to carry plenty of water for your family, especially if you’re hiking.
- Pack Snacks and Meals: Many of the trails and scenic spots in these parks don’t have food vendors nearby, so pack enough snacks and meals to keep your family fueled throughout the day.
- Check Weather Conditions: Temperatures can vary dramatically depending on the season and the time of day. Always check the forecast and be prepared for both hot and cold weather.
- Bring Sun Protection: The sun in Southern Utah can be intense, so make sure to pack sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and light clothing that will protect you from the sun.
- Engage Your Kids: Many parks offer Junior Ranger Programs, which are a great way to get kids involved in learning about the park and earn badges along the way.
A Family Adventure Awaits in Southern Utah
Southern Utah is home to some of the most beautiful and family-friendly national parks in the country. Whether you’re exploring the towering cliffs of Zion, hiking through the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, or enjoying the peaceful solitude of Vermilion Cliffs, there’s something for everyone in this stunning region. With a little planning and preparation, your family can enjoy an unforgettable outdoor adventure, filled with exploration, education, and fun.
Be sure to check park websites for updated information on trail conditions, visitor services, and events, as conditions can change seasonally. Southern Utah’s national parks are waiting for you—so get ready to make some lasting memories with your family in one of the most scenic corners of the U.S.!
