Best Zion Family Activities for Spring Break

Spring break is right around the corner, and if you’re a parent looking for the perfect mix of adventure, fresh air, and unforgettable family moments, Zion National Park is calling your name. Whether your crew is into hiking, off-roading, flying high above the canyons, or just soaking in the beauty of nature, Zion offers something for everyone. And the best part? Spring in Zion means cooler temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and way fewer crowds than summer. So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready for a spring break that’s way better than staying home and watching yet another round of animated movies.

The Best Family-Friendly Hikes in Zion

Let’s talk about hiking. You don’t have to be an ultra-marathoner or a backcountry expert to enjoy Zion’s trails. In fact, some of the best hikes in the park are perfect for families with kids of all ages. First up is Riverside Walk—it’s an easy, paved trail that follows the Virgin River and gives kids plenty of opportunities to splash, explore, and look for wildlife. This is also the starting point for The Narrows, a hike through the river itself. If your family is up for a bit of a challenge and the water levels are safe, wading through The Narrows is an unforgettable way to experience Zion. Just make sure to rent some water shoes unless you enjoy the feeling of frozen toes.

Another great option is The Watchman Trail, a moderate hike that delivers jaw-dropping views without taking all day. In spring, this trail is especially magical, thanks to the bursts of color from Zion’s famous wildflowers. If your kids love to play “spot the coolest rock formation,” this trail delivers. And for families who want a hike that feels adventurous but doesn’t require special gear or nerves of steel, Canyon Overlook is the way to go. It’s short, sweet, and ends with one of the best panoramic views in the park. Plus, you get to walk through a cool little cave along the way—major bonus points for kids.

Take Family Adventure to New Heights with a Helicopter Tour

If your kids (or, let’s be honest, YOU) get a thrill from seeing the world from above, then a Zion helicopter tour is an absolute must. Imagine soaring over Zion’s red rock cliffs, looking down at the Virgin River winding through the canyon, and spotting places that most people will never get to see. Spring is one of the best times for a helicopter ride because the air is crisp and clear, the landscape is lush from recent rains, and the views go on forever.

Helicopter tours in Zion offer a range of options, from short scenic flights to extended tours that take you over Kolob Canyons, Smith Mesa, and even the rugged cliffs of Canaan Mountain. It’s the perfect way to get a once-in-a-lifetime view of the park while skipping the crowds on the ground. And let’s be honest, your kids will think you’re the coolest parent ever for booking a helicopter ride.

Off-Road Jeep Tours for the Ultimate Zion Adventure

If your family is more “off the beaten path” and less “stick to the sidewalks,” a Zion Jeep tour is calling your name. These guided off-road adventures take you into the rugged backcountry of Zion, where you can explore places that most visitors never get to see. One of the best routes is the Zion West Temple Jeep Tour, which climbs up a private road to a stunning overlook where you can see the Virgin River Basin, towering red cliffs, and miles of untouched wilderness.

For a mix of history and adventure, check out the Grafton Ghost Town Jeep Tour. Your family will get to explore an actual Wild West ghost town, complete with old wooden buildings and fascinating stories from the past. Plus, the drive itself is half the fun—think bumpy, winding dirt roads with epic views at every turn.

Float the Virgin River: The Coolest Way to See Zion

Hiking and off-roading are great, but what if you could float through Zion instead? In the late spring and early summer, when the snowmelt brings the Virgin River to life, tubing down the river is one of the most refreshing and fun ways to experience the park. Imagine drifting past towering canyon walls, feeling the sun on your face, and letting the current do all the work while your kids have the time of their lives splashing and laughing.

Tubing season typically starts in May, but it all depends on how much snow Zion gets during the winter. If the river is running at just the right level, this is an absolute must-do for families looking for a laid-back but totally unique adventure. Just check conditions before you go, and be ready to swap hiking boots for water shoes.

The Best Part of Spring in Zion? Fewer Crowds, More Magic

One of the biggest perks of visiting Zion in the spring is the lack of summer crowds. Summer in Zion is amazing, but it also means packed shuttle buses, long lines at trailheads, and a whole lot of sweaty people crammed into the canyon. Spring, on the other hand, gives you all the stunning views and epic adventures without the shoulder-to-shoulder tourist traffic.

Wildflowers are in full bloom, waterfalls are flowing, and the weather is pretty much perfect—warm enough to enjoy being outside all day, but cool enough that you won’t feel like you’re melting into the red rocks. Whether you’re hiking, flying, off-roading, or floating, spring in Zion is hands-down one of the best times to visit.

Plan Your Family’s Spring Break Adventure Now

With so many ways to explore, Zion National Park is the ultimate family-friendly destination for spring break. Whether you’re hiking The Watchman Trail, flying high on a Zion helicopter tour, bouncing along backcountry roads in a Jeep tour, or floating down the Virgin River, there’s no shortage of adventure. The memories you’ll make here? Way better than another trip to the theme park. So start planning now, grab your camera, and get ready for the kind of spring break your family will be talking about for years to come.

Created On 10 Mar 2025