Discover wildflowers during your glamping trip in Zion National Park.
Wildflowers are not normally the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Zion National Park’s colorful landscape. Zion is known for its stunning red rock canyons and Utah desert landscape. However, during the late spring and early summer months Zion Canyon is lined with colorful blooms from thousands of native plant and flower species. In fact, “Zion has the most species in Utah and has the highest density of species” according to MyUtahParks.com.
When is the best time to see Zion wildflowers?
Depending on how late the snow lasts in and around Zion, late spring or early summer are the best times to see wildflowers in Zion Canyon. With good winter snow, the canyon comes to life in late April and early May. In higher elevations, early June is also an ideal time to see wildflowers dot the landscape. With enough rain during the summer, fall brings about a second round of blooms. While peak summer months bring more heat and more predictable weather patterns, late spring and early summer is an ideal time to visit Zion National Park for fewer crowds and beautiful spring color.
Where are the best places to see wildflowers in Zion National Park?
Wildflowers line the canyon floor and green foliage dot the sides of the red rock landscape in Zion National Park during the late spring and summer, making it a picture of oasis in the American Southwest. Here are some of our favorite hikes to see wildflowers in Zion.
Zion Narrows Riverside Walk (Easy 1.8 mile trail)
This trail is a great entry hike to Zion. It follows the riverside providing many opportunities to see abundant green foliage and wildflowers. Due to the amount of plants and foliage in the area, this is one of the best trails for bird watching as well. End the hike with views of a beautiful waterfall which is best seen in late spring and early summer due to peak winter run off.
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail (Moderate 1 mile trail)
While short, this trail offers some of the most breathtaking views of Zion Canyon and it’s many wildflowers. The stone trail passes under alcoves of ferns and trees and up to an awe-inspiring cliff overlook. From the overlook you can not only see the foliage dotted canyon walls in Zion National Park but also many of its most notable features like the West Temple, Towers of the Virgins, Streaked Wall and Beehive.
Emerald Pools Trail (Easy 2.9 mile trail)
Emerald Pools Trail is an excellent choice for wildflower viewing as it follows the riverside up to multiple rock-embedded pools that flow over into waterfalls and feed the foliage throughout the park.
Due to a rock slide in 2019, the main trail is temporarily closed but you are still able to access the Upper Emerald Pool which includes a waterfall and beautiful wildflowers along the way.
Middle Fork Taylor Creek Trail (Moderate 4.9 mile trail)
Following a creek side for much of the way, this trail offers wonderful opportunities to view beautiful wildflowers and different bird species. You will cross the creek multiple times and come across an old cabin, rounded, red canyon walls and beautiful views throughout this hike.
Kayenta Trail (Moderate 3.1 mile trail)
This trail mostly stays along the riverside and leads to the Emerald Pool. While there is a slight elevation gain, this is a perfect hiking choice for all skill levels and will allow you to see native wildflowers that thrive on the riverside. From this trail you can also access multiple other Zion park trails to extend your hike.
Spring and early summer is an ideal time to visit Zion National Park. Not only are the wildflowers abundant and the waterfalls are flowing but many species of birds and wildlife will be out and about. After a day full of hiking and breathtaking views, take a load off at our upscale canvas tent accommodations, just a short drive from the entrance of the park. Enjoy individual tents with plush king-size beds, hot-water showers, wood-burning stoves and fresh and local culinary offerings.