Planning a trip to Zion National Park? You’re not alone. Zion is one of the most popular national parks in the US, so getting there requires a little planning. One of the biggest factors in your trip will be which airport you choose.
The right airport can save you travel time and make your overall experience much smoother. This guide will walk you through the airport options closest to Zion National Park, the transportation options at each, and the key considerations to help you pick the best airport for your trip.
The 5 Closest Airports to Zion National Park
If you’re planning a trip to Zion, you’ll need to decide which airport to fly into. Here are a couple of the closest options:
St. George Regional Airport (SGU)
St. George is the closest major airport to Zion National Park. At only 48 miles away, the drive is a little over an hour, making SGU a convenient choice if you want to minimize travel time.
As a regional airport, SGU is smaller and often easier to navigate than some of the larger international airports. If you’re traveling from within the region, you may find the flight schedules more convenient, as well.
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
Located in Las Vegas, Harry Reid is the closest international airport. It’s about 170 miles from Zion, which translates to a drive of around 2 hours and 50 minutes.
As a major international travel hub, you’ll find a wide range of flight options to and from destinations around the world. Rental cars are generally easy to find at Harry Reid, too.
Other Airport Options Near Zion
While flying into McCarran in Las Vegas is a popular choice for visitors to Zion, there are several smaller regional airports that are closer, though they may have fewer flight options.
Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC)
- Distance and drive time: About 80 miles from Zion, which translates to a drive of about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Transportation: You’ll find rental cars, shuttle services, and limited taxi/rideshare options. Shared shuttle rates are around $25 each way.
Colorado City Municipal Airport
- Location: Roughly 80 miles from Zion National Park, expect a drive of about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Transportation: Taxi and rideshare options may be limited and more expensive, potentially costing $200-$250 for a one-way trip.
Kanab Airport
- Proximity: Located about 45 miles from Zion, the drive takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes.
- Transportation: Shuttle services are available, with rates around $40-$50 per person each way.
Transportation Options from Airports to Zion
Once you’ve landed, you’ll need a way to get to Zion. Here are a few options:
Rental Cars
Rental cars are easy to find at most airports, especially at bigger hubs like Las Vegas (LAS) and St. George (SGU). It’s a good idea to book ahead, especially if you’re traveling during the busy season.
Before you book, double-check the rental car return policies at the airport. Also, be aware that some rental companies charge extra if you pick up the car at one location but return it to another.
Shuttle Services
Shuttles are a convenient alternative to driving, especially if you’re traveling alone. Do some research to find the shuttle services that serve your airport, and ask about shared ride options to save money.
Shuttle rates typically run around $30 to $50 per person each way.
Taxi/Rideshare Services
You can always grab a taxi or rideshare, but these tend to be more expensive than shuttles. Expect to pay somewhere in the neighborhood of $70 to $90 for a one-way ride from either St. George or Las Vegas.
Keep in mind that taxi and rideshare services from smaller airports like Cedar City and Colorado City will cost you a lot more. From Cedar City, for example, you could easily pay $150 to $200 for a one-way trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the closest major city to Zion National Park?
The closest major city to Zion National Park is Las Vegas, Nevada, which is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive away. While St. George, Utah, is closer in proximity, it’s considered a smaller city. Las Vegas offers a wider range of flight options, rental car services, and amenities for travelers heading to Zion.
Is there a shuttle from St. George Airport to Zion National Park?
Yes, there are several shuttle options from St. George Regional Airport (SGU) to Zion National Park. These shuttles provide a convenient way to travel between the airport and the park, especially for those who prefer not to rent a car. It’s recommended to book your shuttle in advance, particularly during peak season, to ensure availability. The shuttle ride typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours.
In Conclusion
If you’re looking for the quickest route to Zion National Park, St. George Regional Airport (SGU) is your best bet. But remember to factor in the drive time from other airports if you’re considering flying into, say, Las Vegas.
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas gives you more flight choices, especially if you’re flying in from outside the United States. So, weigh the convenience of SGU against the broader availability of flights at LAS.
No matter which airport you choose, advance planning is key to a smooth and amazing trip to Zion. Book your rental car and shuttle services early, especially if you’re visiting during the busy season.