Uncover top February activities in Zion National Park: snowy hikes, wildlife, and starry nights in our winter adventure guide!
Get ready for a chill adventure in Zion National Park this February! We’ve scouted 9 cool activities that’ll make your winter visit a hit.
Think less-crowded trails, icy grips on Angels Landing, and silent snowy paths where the only noise is your crunching footsteps.
February’s the time to spot wildlife in their winter wear, snap Instagram-worthy frosty landscapes, or gaze at stars without the summer buzz.
And for thrill-seekers, rock climbing and snowmobiling turn the cold into an adrenaline playground. So bundle up and let’s dive into the wintry wonders of Zion!
Hike the icy Angels Landing
One of the best things to do in Zion National Park in February is to hike the Angels Landing trail. This trail is one of the most popular in the park and takes you up to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the canyon.
This iconic trail is open year-round, and the winter months offer a less crowded experience. Be prepared for icy conditions, and wear appropriate footwear with good traction.
You will get incredible views of the canyon, lush vegetation and distant mountains. Along the way, you may even spot some wildlife like mule deer or bighorn sheep. Once you reach the summit, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking panoramic view of Zion Canyon!
The Angels Landing trail is a great choice for hikers who want to experience all that Zion National Park has to offer in February.
Less crowded but beautiful The Narrows
The trail takes you through a slot canyon with towering walls on either side, and is absolutely stunning. However, because it is so popular, it can get crowded. If you want to experience the beauty of the Narrows without the crowds, the best time to go is in February
The weather is usually mild, making it perfect for hiking. And because it’s not peak season, the trails are much less crowded. The trail takes you through a slot canyon with towering walls on either side and is absolutely stunning.
The water level is usually low in February, making it easier to navigate the canyon.
You can also explore the many side trails off the main trail, allowing you to get away from the crowds and find some solitude. Along these smaller trails, you can take in the beauty of the canyon without having to dodge other hikers.
Finally, if you need a break from hiking, there are plenty of spots to stop and eat lunch or take pictures. The views of the towering walls and clear blue skies are simply breathtaking!
Incredible winter views at Observation Point
Observation Point is one of the best places to take in Zion National Park’s incredible winter views. The point is located on the east side of the park, and provides panoramic views of the main canyon and its many colorful rock formations.
In the winter, the snow-covered landscape is truly a sight to behold. Be sure to dress warmly and bring your camera, as you’ll want to capture this amazing scenery.
On a clear day, you can usually see the snow-capped peaks of the Kolob section of Zion National Park in the distance. The view is especially stunning during sunset and sunrise when the sky takes on a magnificent array of colors.
This challenging hike offers incredible views of the park, and the winter months offer a cooler and less crowded experience. Be prepared for snow and icy conditions on the upper part of the trail.
Wildlife watching in February
February is an excellent month for wildlife watching in Zion National Park! Keep your eyes peeled for mule deer, bighorn sheep, and Rocky Mountain elk.
You may also spot some of the park’s more elusive residents like cougars, bobcats, and coyotes. binoculars are essential for getting a good look at the animals.
Bird watching is also a great activity in Zion during the winter months. Look for golden eagles, hawks, and owls soaring overhead. You can also spot smaller birds like chickadees, juncos, and nuthatches searching for food in the park’s vegetation.
Stargazing
The night sky in Zion is spectacular, and February is a great time to stargaze due to the low humidity and clear skies. The air is crisp, making for ideal conditions to take in the stars. There are a few great spots to do some stargazing in the park. You can also try one of the glamping sites in Zion stargazing!
One of the best places to stargaze is at the top of Angels Landing. The hike to get there is strenuous, but it’s worth it for the incredible views. Once you reach the top, find a spot to set up your telescope or just lay out a blanket and enjoy the show.
Another great spot for stargazing is Observation Point. This spot offers sweeping views of the valley below, making it an ideal place to take in the stars. There are also several picnic tables here, so you can enjoy a snack while you’re stargazing.
Finally, another great option for stargazing in Zion National Park is at one of the many campsites throughout the park. Many of these campsites offer stunning views of the night sky and provide a great opportunity to spend some time under the stars.
Photography
February is an excellent time to photograph Zion National Park. The lighting is beautiful and the scenery is stunning. There are many different areas to explore and photograph, including the following:
The Narrows: The canyon walls are incredibly close together, making for some beautiful shots.
Angels Landing: This hike is not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are incredible. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the amazing views of the valley below.
The Emerald Pools: These pools are fed by a waterfall and are surrounded by lush greenery. They make for a tranquil and serene setting that is perfect for photography.
Canyon Overlook Trail: This trail offers breathtaking views of the canyons below. It is a short and easy hike, making it perfect for those who want to get some great photos without spending all day on a trail.
The park’s winter landscapes offer a unique and stunning backdrop for photography.
Rock climbing
Zion National Park is home to some of the best rock climbing in the world. February is the perfect time to come and test your skills on the park’s many cliffs and walls.
With routes ranging from easy to expert, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as a partner to belay you.
If you’re an experienced rock climber, Zion’s winter conditions offer a unique challenge and a chance to climb with fewer crowds.
Prodigal Sun – This climb is located in the Kolob Canyons section of the park and offers a unique challenge for experienced climbers. The south-facing aspect of the rock makes it a good choice for sunny winter days.
Monkey Finger – Located in the Zion Canyon section of the park, this climb offers challenging and technical climbing with stunning views of the canyon. The winter months offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Touchstone Wall – This classic climb is located in the East Zion section of the park and offers a range of routes suitable for all levels of climbers. The winter months offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Zion National Park is the perfect place to hone your skills and have a great time.
Horseback riding
Horseback riding is one of the best ways to see Zion National Park. The scenery is beautiful and there are plenty of places to stop and take in the views. There are also a variety of trails to choose from, so you can find one that suits your riding level.
Most horseback riding tours are guided, so the experience is even better. The guides will point out interesting facts about the park and make sure you stay safe. There are also many places to rent horses if you don’t have your own, making it easy to get into this outdoor activity.
Whether a beginner or an experienced rider, horseback riding in Zion National Park is an unforgettable experience you won’t miss!
Snowmobiling
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, consider renting a snowmobile and exploring the surrounding area. The nearby Dixie National Forest has several snowmobiling trails, including the Cedar Mountain Trail and the Brian Head Trail.
Each of these trails offers an exciting ride and spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. When snowmobiling, be sure to wear the proper safety gear and follow all signs and trail markings.
Exploring Zion National Park in February: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Is February a good time to visit Zion?
Although Zion National Park is open year-round, some activities and attractions are only available during specific seasons. If you’re planning a trip to Zion in February, here’s what you need to know before you go.
February is a great time to visit Zion National Park if you’re looking for solitude and less crowds. Since winter is the off-season at Zion, there will be fewer people visiting the park during this time. However, some trails and roads may be closed due to weather conditions. Be sure to check the park’s website for updates on closures before your visit.
Although it can get cold at night, daytime temperatures are usually pleasant enough for hiking and other outdoor activities. Keep in mind that snow and ice are possible at higher elevations, so come prepared with appropriate gear if you plan to hike in these areas.
What Weather to Expect in February?
Zion National Park during February’s average daily high temperatures increase from 53°F to 59°F and it is overcast or mostly cloudy about 43% of the time.
However, the weather can vary greatly depending on elevation. It is not uncommon for the higher elevations to receive several feet of snow while the lower elevations remain relatively dry. Regardless of where you are visiting in the park, be sure to pack appropriate clothing and footwear for the conditions.
What Should I Pack for My Trip to Zion in February?
Zion National Park in February is a great place to see the winter scenery. The average high temperature in February is 54°F and the average low is 28°F. Here are some things to pack for your trip:
-A warm coat – hats, gloves, and scarves are also recommended
-Sturdy shoes or boots – the trails can be icy in spots
-Comfortable clothes for hiking
-Layers – you may want to take some off as you hike and build up a sweat
-Sunscreen and sunglasses – even on cloudy days, the sun can reflect off of the snow
-Water and snacks – there are few places to get food or water once you’re inside the park
-A camera – the views are breathtaking!
How Much Time Do I Need to See Everything?
Assuming you have a full week to spend in Zion National Park, we recommend splitting your time up as follows:
-2 days exploring Springdale and the park’s shuttle system
-1 day hiking Angels Landing (or another strenuous hike)
-1 day canyoneering or rafting through the Narrows
-1 day biking or horseback riding
-2 days exploring other trails and attractions within the park.
Of course, this is just a loose guideline—if you want to dedicate more time to certain activities (or less time overall), feel free! Just remember that some of the park’s most popular hikes can be quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. So if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, we suggest getting an early start on your days.
What Are the Must-See Attractions of Zion National Park?
There are several must-see attractions in Zion National Park. The first is the park’s main feature, Zion Canyon. This canyon is carved out by the Virgin River and is a sight to behold. Hiking and camping are popular activities in Zion Canyon.
Another must-see attraction in Zion National Park is Angel’s Landing. This trail features a strenuous hike to the top of a rocky outcropping with stunning views of the canyon below.
The Narrows is another top attraction in Zion National Park. This slot canyon can be hiked through from bottom to top or vice versa. It is an unforgettable experience to walk through walls of rock that are only a few feet wide in places.
Finally, no visit to Zion National Park would be complete without seeing the majestic waterfalls at Emerald Pools. These falls flow over terraces of lush vegetation and into small pools below.
Tips for Enjoying Your Trip to Zion National Park in February
Assuming you’re prepared for the cold weather, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Zion National Park in February. Here are a few tips:
-First and foremost, dress warmly! Layers are your friend in winter weather.
-Second, consider bringing or renting snowshoes. Zion National Park gets an average of 10 inches of snowfall in February, so snowshoes can help you get around more easily (and avoid post-holing).
-Third, be aware of avalanche danger and take necessary precautions if you’re planning on any backcountry travel.
-Fourth, although the park is open year-round, some visitor services may be limited in winter. Be sure to check ahead for any closures before you go.
-Finally, don’t let the cold weather stop you from enjoying all that Zion has to offer! There’s something special about seeing the park blanketed in snow. Just be sure to prepare properly and stay safe.
Conclusion
Zion National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the world and an amazing destination for a winter getaway. With its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and exciting activities such as rock climbing and canyoneering, there are plenty of incredible things to do in Zion National Park every February.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or an adventure with friends, you’ll find something that fits your interests at this stunning park. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore all that Zion has to offer!
