Zion National Park Swimming Spots

Zion National Park Swimming Spots lies in Utah near St. George, Virgin, and Springdale. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Zion National Park State: Utah Towns: St. George, Virgin, Springdale

1. 1. Campgrounds (Watchman and South Campgrounds)

   The Virgin River flows near both Watchman and South Campgrounds, located close to the Springdale entrance of Zion National Park. These campgrounds offer convenient access to several wading and swimming. If Camping:

2. You can easily access the swimming area. A notable . If Not Camping

   Park at the Zion Visitor Center and take the Pa’rus Trail. This paved trail runs alongside the Virgin River and skirts the campgrounds, providing easy access to the swimming area. Coordinates: Latitude: 37.2007 Longitude: -112.9871 Google Maps Link 2. Canyon Junction

3. Canyon Junction is a popular swimming destination. Getting There

4. Take the Zion shuttle bus and disembark at the Canyon Junction stop. This lies north of the Visitor Center and south of the Zion Lodge, near where Route 9 turns onto the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.

   From the Shuttle Stop: Walk a short distance north to the "River Access" sign. Follow the path down to the Virgin River. The main . Coordinates: Latitude: 37.2189 Longitude: -112.9729 Google Maps Link 3. Lower Pine Creek

5. Lower Pine Creek offers a short, scenic hike with a couple of . Driving Directions

6. From Canyon Junction, drive east on the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. After a very short distance, you’ll reach the first switchback. Park just before the stone bridge over Pine Creek on the left side of the road. Hiking Directions

   From the parking area, follow the trail east into the Pine Creek area. The trail is about 0.5 miles long and requires crossing the creek at least once. You will encounter large boulders blocking the creek. Climb over these to reach the first . This spot features a small waterfall and a deep, narrow pool.

7. Additional Details

   If you continue upstream and climb over more rocks, you’ll reach Lower Pine Creek Falls, a 10-foot waterfall. However, the pool at the base of the falls is shallow and less suitable for swimming. Coordinates: Latitude: 37.21737 Longitude: -112.96039 Google Maps Link 4. The Narrows The Narrows is one of Zion’s most iconic locations, featuring a deep, narrow canyon carved by the Virgin River. Getting There:

8. Take the Zion shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava, the final stop in the valley. Hiking Directions

   From the shuttle stop, follow the paved Riverside Walk Trail north for about 1 mile. Along this trail, you’ll find several visible . After the paved trail ends, continue hiking directly in the Virgin River. Wear sturdy shoes that can get wet, as you’ll be walking in the water. About 1.5 miles upstream, you’ll reach the start of The Narrows. Optional Side Trip: At the entrance to The Narrows, Orderville Canyon joins from the right. A short 0.5-mile hike up Orderville Canyon leads to small waterfalls and additional . Coordinates: Latitude: 37.3067 Longitude: -112.945 Google Maps Link

9. 5. Virgin River Falls Park (Near the Town of Virgin)

10. This . It features a narrow slickrock slot in the Virgin River, a strong choice for swimming. Driving Directions

    Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.