Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Adventure in East Zion

June 6, 2026
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Planning a summer getaway to Zion National Park? Make Zion Ponderosa your home base and enjoy the best of both worlds: unforgettable adventures with East Zion Adventures and plenty of ways to relax when you’re off the trails.

Your adventure headquarters

From guided hikes and canyoneering to horseback rides and jeep tours, many of our most popular experiences depart right from Zion Ponderosa. That means less time driving and more time exploring.

A horse entering a slot canyon

Higher elevation = cooler temperatures

At 6,500 feet, Zion Ponderosa offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat of Springdale and Zion Canyon. It’s the perfect place to recharge between adventures.

A pool you’ll actually use

After hiking, climbing, or exploring the park, nothing beats cooling off in Zion Ponderosa’s two-tiered pool. Trust us—you’ll be glad you booked somewhere with a pool.

a view of the pools and hot tub at zion ponderosa

Exclusive summer adventures

Summer is the perfect time to experience some of East Zion Adventures’ signature offerings, including the Trail Ride and Cowboy Cookout and the Sunset, S’mores, and Stargazing Jeep Ride. Both are unforgettable ways to experience Southern Utah beyond the national park.

A jeep under the night sky

Summer treats at The Trailhead

Need a post-adventure reward? The Trailhead serves açaí bowls, gourmet milkshakes, smoothies, ice cream sandwiches, and other cool treats all summer long.

An ice cream s'mores shake outside

Slot canyons are cool

When summer temperatures climb, the narrow sandstone walls of East Zion’s slot canyons provide welcome shade and adventure. Join a guided slot canyon tour for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Elkheart Canyon

Incredible night skies

Once the sun goes down, look up. The high elevation and dark skies create incredible opportunities for our guided High-Country Stargazing.

A couple stargazing in Zion

Free evening activities

Summer nights at Zion Ponderosa are filled with family-friendly fun. Guests can enjoy live music, butter making, marshmallow roasts, field games, and other complimentary activities throughout the season.

EastZionAdventures

Minutes from Zion National Park

Did we mention we’re located just 15 minutes from Zion’s east entrance? Zion Ponderosa offers easy access to the park while helping you avoid much of the congestion in Springdale.

Conestoga wagons and glamping tent sites at Zion Ponderosa

A place to stay and adventure

Your vacation doesn’t have to end when you return from the trails. Spend the afternoon at Zion Ponderosa’s pond with paddleboards and a water trampoline, challenge the family to mini golf, play pickleball or volleyball, tackle the climbing wall, or try paintball. Then settle down for the night in a Conestoga wagon, glamping tent, cabin, tiny home, or spacious vacation homes for groups of all sizes.

Whether you’re spending your days hiking iconic trails, exploring hidden canyons on a guided adventure, or simply relaxing by the pool under cooler mountain skies, Zion Ponderosa and East Zion Adventures make the perfect combination for an unforgettable summer vacation.


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