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If you've ventured south to Zion National Park in June or July the last few years, you might have noticed crowds reaching Disneyland-like levels. So, here's a lesser-known secret: Zion in wintertime is one of the best times to visit!
According to the National Park Service, Zion National Park welcomed a whopping 5 million visitors in 2021. But most of those visits come during the peak summer months. December, January, and February make up only 4%, 3%, and 3%, respectively, of each year's total visitors.
If you're craving fresh air, warmer temperatures and red rocks for your winter getaway, now is the time to plan. And for a complete and personalized vacation, there's no better place to stay than Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort!
Zion Ponderosa gives guests a unique experience with scenic and cozy lodging options that are affordable for a wide range of visitors. From traditional rustic cabins to luxurious vacation homes, guests can make memories unwinding in their own comfortable space after a day of exploring the park's winter wonderland. Here are 8 reasons to check out Zion Ponderosa for your next trip!
1- Escape to fresh air
Inversion season will be here shortly. And the clean skies of Southern Utah are beckoning you during the Wasatch Front's ugly inversion.
Zion Ponderosa offers a high elevation retreat where crisp air replaces smoggy skies. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Zion's cliffs and canyons, the resort provides the perfect opportunity to recharge in the sunshine and leave the inversion far behind.
Whether you're hiking, stargazing, or soaking in the views, your trip can be a refreshing reset for both body and mind.
2- It's affordable for all budgets
From simple and homey log cabins to luxurious family lodges, there's an option for every budget at Zion Ponderosa. If you're traveling as a couple, book a two-night stay in a cowboy cabin, plus an East Rim Jeep tour and dining voucher to use during your stay—for only $349.
A group of four can book three nights in a charming vacation home, an East Rim Jeep tour, and $100 towards dining for just $1,145. Check out all the winter special lodging and adventure packages here.
If you already have a packed itinerary and are just looking for a place to stay, the cowboy cabins can be booked for as low as $47 per night! You'll still get that authentic Western experience without having to truly rough it.
3- Perfect for couples or small families
When booking your stay, you have two cabin options: the Cabin Suite or the Cowboy Cabin. While both offer outdoor grills, the suites provide modern amenities like satellite TV, a fridge, and a private bathroom.
Cowboy cabins, on the other hand, are smaller and more rustic for those wanting a simpler experience. The cowboy cabins have no running water, but shared bathrooms are available on the property. You get all the positives of camping while still getting to sleep in a soft, cozy bed at the end of the day!
For larger groups, Zion Ponderosa offers a variety of spacious vacation homes. These homes are equipped with full kitchens, inviting hot tubs, and plenty of room for everyone to relax and recharge. Whether you're planning a family reunion or a corporate retreat, you'll find the perfect home to accommodate your group.
4- Get exclusive access to a stunning viewpoint
Did you know one of the undisputed best views at Zion is only accessible through Zion Ponderosa?
Observation Point was once reachable from within Zion National Park but is now exclusively accessible via Zion Ponderosa. Embark on a scenic seven-mile round-trip hike on the East Mesa Trail, which offers stunning winter vistas and a unique opportunity to escape the crowds.
In the park itself, you can explore many of the popular trails like the Emerald Pools. While the higher elevations may see snow, the canyon floor remains relatively mild. If you come prepared for the weather with layers and proper footwear, everyone can enjoy Zion National Park in wintertime.
5- Enjoy convenient on-site recreation
Experience the beauty of Zion in a whole new way with East Zion Adventures, which operates a variety of excursions from Zion Ponderosa. From horseback riding through stunning landscapes to thrilling Jeep tours and canyoneering expeditions, there's something for everyone. Whether you're traveling with little ones or older family members, East Zion Adventures can create a tailor-made adventure for your group.
6- It's a short drive from Salt Lake City
Zion Ponderosa is a five-hour drive from Salt Lake City, or around four hours from Provo. No airplanes, long delays, or TSA headaches, just a good old-fashioned road trip! The East entrance of Zion National Park is just a few minutes' drive from Zion Ponderosa.
7- Spend cozy nights in a snug cabin
During the winter, many people need a boost, whether that means getting outside in the sunshine to get the adrenaline pumping or spending more time catching up and relaxing with family. You can do both at Zion Ponderosa. Unwind with your partner, family, or friends after the day's adventures in your cozy accommodation. Play board games, share stories, or watch movies. Soothe sore muscles with a dip in the hot tub or savor a delicious meal from Ponderosa Eats.
According to the Zion National Park website, "temperatures can range from highs of 50-60°F during the day to lows well below freezing at night." Perfect weather for daytime adventures and cozy nights bundled up indoors!
8- Have a more personal experience
Zion Ponderosa's location on the East side of the park means you won't have to deal with shoulder-to-shoulder hiking trails and long lines for a viewpoint photo. The resort's high-elevation location provides breathtaking views of Zion's cliffs, mesas, and canyons while also being a peaceful retreat away from busier areas. The familial feel of the resort and its amenities creates a personal experience that will lead to a truly unforgettable vacation.
Book your vacation today
Staying at Zion Ponderosa provides a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal base camp for Zion National Park. Plan your seasonal escape now to take advantage of one of Zion Ponderosa's special winter packages.
Experience a full-service destination with lodging, recreation, and dining on the East side of Zion National Park. Skip the long lines, the crowded restaurants, and packed hiking trails on the quiet side of Zion. Check out some of the resort's many amenities here, and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!
