things to do in Zion National Park with kids under 10

Many families search for things to do in Zion National Park with kids under 10 that are safe and fun. Zion offers familyfriendly activities like easy hiking trails, wildlife observation, and nature exploration.

This guide shares the best kidfriendly adventures, including scenic walks, waterfalls, outdoor recreation, and educational stops nearby. Discover how your trip to Zion can become a memorable outdoor adventure for the whole family.

Key Takeaways

• Zion National Park offers several easy and safe hikes for kids under 10, including Riverside Walk (2.2 miles), Lower Emerald Pools Trail (1.2 miles), Canyon Overlook Trail (1 mile), and The Narrows, where children can wade in shallow water.
• Family-friendly activities include wildlife observation, waterfalls viewing, photo ops, nature exploration on the Pa’rus Trail, and hands-on learning at the Zion Nature Center with Junior Ranger programs.
• Nearby attractions like Springdale’s Western-themed shops, Grafton Ghost Town from 1859, and the Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm with over 1,500 real dinosaur footprints add extra fun to your family trip.
• Parks close to Zion—like Jellystone Park™ Zion (with splash pads and mini-golf), Sand Hollow State Park (swimming and kayaking), Quail Creek State Park (fishing and picnicking), and Snow Canyon State Park (volcanic trails)—offer more outdoor recreation for young kids.
• All mentioned trails are suitable for strollers or young children; paved paths make access easier for families seeking both adventure and safety during their visit.

Best Hikes for Kids in Zion National Park

Zion National Park offers amazing hikes for kids to enjoy. These trails provide fun and safe experiences while exploring stunning landscapes.

Riverside Walk

Riverside Walk offers a fantastic outdoor adventure for families visiting Zion National Park. This easy trail spans 2.2 miles round trip, making it perfect for kids under 10. Stroll along the Virgin River and enjoy the stunning views of towering cliffs and lush vegetation.

Wildlife observation is common here; look out for birds and other critters as you walk.

The paved path ensures accessibility for everyone, allowing all family members to join in on the fun. Along the way, you can discover beautiful waterfalls and take breaks at scenic viewpoints to snap photos or have a picnic.

Many families rate Riverside Walk as one of their top kid-friendly excursions in the park.

This trail highlights nature exploration at its best.

Lower Emerald Pools Trail

Lower Emerald Pools Trail offers a fantastic hike for families with kids. This easy trail spans about 1.2 miles round trip. It leads you through beautiful scenery filled with lush vegetation and stunning rock formations.

Kids will love the gentle slopes and the chance to see small waterfalls along the way.

The main highlight is reaching the emerald pools at the end of the trail. These vibrant waters are inviting, making it a perfect spot for a family photo or a short break. Wildlife observation opportunities abound here too, as families might spot birds and other animals in their natural habitat.

The Lower Emerald Pools Trail ensures an enjoyable experience for young adventurers while allowing parents to appreciate nature’s beauty all around them.

Other kid-friendly activities await nearby, including exploring Pa’rus Trail and visiting Zion Nature Center.

Canyon Overlook Trail

Canyon Overlook Trail offers a stunning view of Zion Canyon. This easy hike spans one mile and is perfect for families with kids under 10. The trailhead sits just east of the Mount Carmel Tunnel, making it easily accessible.

Most hikers take about an hour to reach the overlook.

Along the way, kids will encounter rock formations and unique landscapes. Wildlife observation adds excitement to the journey; small mammals often peek from their hiding spots. To enjoy this adventure fully, stay close to your little ones near edges or steep sections.

This scenic walk makes for great family-friendly activities in Zion National Park.

The Narrows

The Narrows offers a unique adventure in Zion National Park. This hike takes you through the Virgin River. Kids will love splashing in the shallow water and walking on smooth stones.

The trail is easy, making it ideal for families with children under 10.

Bring sturdy shoes and be ready to get wet. Along the way, enjoy towering canyon walls that create a stunning backdrop. Watch for wildlife like fish and birds while exploring this scenic area.

Families can take breaks at various spots to soak up nature’s beauty or have a picnic along the riverbank.

Other Kid-Friendly Activities

Zion National Park offers plenty of kid-friendly activities that keep your little ones engaged and active. Kids can explore the Pa’rus Trail, where they can enjoy a scenic walk alongside the Virgin River.

The Zion Nature Center provides hands-on learning experiences about local wildlife and plants. For some extra fun, check out Springdale’s Western-style activities or visit Grafton Ghost Town for a taste of history.

Don’t miss the Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm, where kids can learn about prehistoric creatures through interactive exhibits and fossil tracks. These activities promise to create lasting memories for families visiting Zion National Park!

Pa’rus Trail

Pa’rus Trail offers a fantastic experience for families with kids under 10. This paved path stretches about three miles round trip and is perfect for strollers or younger hikers. Along the trail, visitors can enjoy scenic views of Zion Canyon and observe local wildlife.

Kids will love spotting birds and maybe even deer in the area.

The gentle slopes make this easy trail accessible for everyone. Families often stop to rest by the Virgin River, where they can have a picnic or simply relax while taking in nature’s beauty.

Pa’rus Trail is also excellent for bike rides, providing another fun way to explore Zion National Park together.

Zion Nature Center

From the Pa’rus Trail, head to the Zion Nature Center. This spot offers fun and learning for kids under 10. The center features interactive exhibits about local wildlife and plants.

Children can explore nature while engaging in hands-on activities.

Parents appreciate the educational programs available at the center. These programs focus on wildlife observation and nature exploration. Kids can also earn badges through Junior Ranger programs, making their visit even more exciting.

With easy trails nearby and plenty of picnic spots, families will enjoy a full day of outdoor recreation in this beautiful setting.

Springdale Western-Style Fun

Springdale offers a taste of the Old West for families. Kids will love exploring this charming town, filled with western-style shops and fun activities. They can ride horses or take part in cowboy-themed events.

The local shops have unique souvenirs that kids enjoy picking out.

Families should also check out seasonal festivals and rodeos. These events showcase local culture and provide plenty of entertainment for young ones. Springdale perfectly complements your visit to Zion National Park, making it easy to transition into other kid-friendly attractions nearby.

Grafton Ghost Town

After enjoying the Western-style fun in Springdale, visit Grafton Ghost Town. This abandoned town offers a glimpse into Zion’s history. Founded in 1859, Grafton once housed farmers and ranchers.

Today, visitors can walk among its old buildings and learn about pioneer life.

Kids will enjoy exploring the remains of homes and shops. The setting provides great opportunities for wildlife observation. Kids can spot lizards and various birds while wandering around.

Easy trails lead through the area, making it accessible for families with young children under ten looking for outdoor adventures. Grafton also serves as a backdrop for memorable family photos with scenic views of Zion’s red cliffs in the distance.

Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm

The Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm provides a thrilling experience for families. Kids can explore real dinosaur tracks and learn about the fascinating creatures that once roamed this area.

The site highlights over 1,500 dinosaur footprints embedded in the rock.

Guided tours are available to enhance the adventure. Knowledgeable staff share fun facts and stories, making learning enjoyable for all ages. Outdoor recreation options exist nearby, allowing kids to engage more with nature during their visit.

This kid-friendly attraction guarantees a memorable day of exploration and discovery for everyone in the family.

Recommended Nearby Parks

Discover nearby parks that offer fun experiences for families. Jellystone Park™ Zion provides themed activities. Sand Hollow State Park features stunning water and sand. Quail Creek State Park boasts beautiful trails and fishing spots.

Snow Canyon State Park showcases unique landscapes perfect for exploration. These parks can make your family trip even more exciting!

Jellystone Park™ Zion

Jellystone Park™ Zion offers a unique family-friendly experience near Zion National Park. Kids under 10 will enjoy a range of activities in this vibrant camping environment. You can find themed cabins and campsites that cater to families seeking outdoor recreation.

The park features fun amenities like splash pads, mini-golf, and playgrounds. Nature exploration is easy here with scenic walks around the site. Parents can relax while kids engage in exciting adventures.

Wildlife observation opportunities abound too, adding to the excitement for young explorers.

Sand Hollow State Park

Sand Hollow State Park offers a fun-filled day for families with kids under 10. This park features beautiful red rock landscapes and a large reservoir, perfect for swimming and fishing.

Easy hiking trails surround the area, allowing families to explore together while enjoying nature walks.

Kids can enjoy water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking in the clear waters. The sandy beach provides a great spot for sandcastle building and relaxing under the sun. Wildlife observation is another exciting activity here, as children can spot various birds and animals in their natural habitat.

Sand Hollow State Park truly delivers kid-friendly adventures that all family members will cherish.

Quail Creek State Park

After visiting Sand Hollow State Park, take some time to explore Quail Creek State Park. This park offers a variety of outdoor recreation options for families with kids under 10. Enjoy easy hiking trails that wind through beautiful scenery.

The paved paths make it simple for young children to walk along.

Families can enjoy fishing in the clear waters or have picnics at shaded areas. Wildlife observation is also popular here; kids might spot birds and other animals while exploring nature.

The lake provides opportunities for swimming and kayaking, which adds extra excitement to your visit. Quail Creek State Park truly shines as a location for kid-friendly adventures in Zion National Park.

Snow Canyon State Park

Snow Canyon State Park offers stunning scenery and fun for families. The park has easy trails that are perfect for kids under 10. You can explore volcanic rock formations, colorful cliffs, and desert landscapes.

A great option is the Lava Flow Trail; it features unique geology and wildlife observation opportunities.

Families can enjoy a picnic while taking in the beautiful views. Waterfalls add to the scenic beauty of this area during certain seasons. Snow Canyon is close to Zion National Park, making it an excellent stop after your visit there.

Kid-friendly excursions await at nearby parks like Jellystone Park™ Zion.

Conclusion

Zion National Park offers many adventures for families with kids under 10. You can hike easy trails and explore nature together. Enjoy scenic walks that lead to stunning views and waterfalls.

Discover kid-friendly activities that entertain and educate. Make memories in this beautiful park while enjoying the great outdoors.

FAQs

1. What are the best familyfriendly activities in Zion National Park for kids under 10?

Young children enjoy nature exploration, wildlife observation, and scenic walks along easy trails. These activities help families discover kidfriendly adventures together.

2. Which hiking trails are most suitable for young children in Zion?

Easy hiking trails like Riverside Walk and Lower Emerald Pools offer safe paths for kids under 10. These paved trails feature gentle slopes and beautiful views.

3. Are there any waterfalls or water features that kids can visit safely?

Yes, families often visit the Emerald Pools area where small waterfalls flow near kidfriendly excursions. The pools provide a fun spot for outdoor recreation with close supervision.

4. Can we find camping options suitable for families with young children?

Zion offers camping with kids at South Campground and Watchman Campground; both have amenities to support family needs during overnight stays.

5. Is wildlife watching possible on nature hikes or while exploring viewpoints?

Wildlife observation is common on scenic viewpoints and easy nature walks throughout the park; deer, birds, and squirrels are often seen during these outings with children under 10.