ZION NATIONAL PARK — People planning to visit Zion National Park for Presidents Day Weekend should be prepared for delays, limited parking and crowded conditions, according to a news release from the park.
“Holiday weekends can strain the park’s facilities and staffing to manage crowded conditions and meet visitor expectations,” said Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh in the news release. “Shuttle buses will not yet be in operation in the park and Springdale for the 2016 season; visitors should plan additional time to get to their destinations in the park.”
Presidents Day Weekend has historically been a busy one for the park. Visitors could see parking spaces filling up mid-morning, a 45-minute wait at the entrance gate and traffic congestion between the park and Springdale, the news release said.
Zion National Park officials recommend arriving early in the day to help reduce traffic congestion and crowding. Visitors are reminded to park only in designated spots and paved pullouts, not on road shoulders.
The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive may be temporarily closed if parking and traffic congestion limits emergency vehicle access.
Park visitors are encouraged to visit athe east side of the park, including Kolob Terrace road and Kolob Canyons, when capacity is exceeded in Zion Canyon.
“Please plan ahead, take responsibility for your safety, be patient and treat others with courtesy,” Bradybaugh said in the news release. “These practices are important whether you decide to visit Zion or any of the wonderful public land resources in our area.”
