Allen/Boswell Nov 2024 Trip

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Personalized Just For You

🎠 Piper's Adventure Guide (Age 4)

"The best explorer in the family!"

🏞️ Best Playgrounds & Play Spots

Springdale Town Park

Real playground with swings and slides! Just 2 minutes away.

George Barker River Park

Splash in the river, catch tadpoles, run in the grassy field!

Zion Lodge Lawn

HUGE grass lawn perfect for running after ice cream!

🥾 Your Perfect Trails

Pa'rus Trail

Flat so you can run ahead! River perfect for rock throwing and tadpole watching.

Riverside Walk

Leads to THE NARROWS where you walk IN the river!

Lower Emerald Pool

Follow the trail to a WATERFALL! Like finding treasure.

🎯 Must-Do Activities

• Rock Shop: Pick crystals and geodes - way cooler than toys!
• Frog Hunting: Evening at George Barker Park with flashlight
• Junior Ranger Program: Get your own Zion badge at Visitor Center!
• Explore Kit: Backpack with water, binoculars, magnifying glass

👑 Olivia's Magical Kingdom (Age 2)

"Where princesses find rainbows!"

🌈 Rainbow & Pretty Places

Emerald Pools

EMERALD green water like princess treasure! Rainbows in the waterfall mist!

Zion at Sunset

Red rocks turn PINK and PURPLE like princess castles!

Canyon Coffee

Pretty views with pink lemonade or hot chocolate!

👢 Cowboy Boot Adventures

Pa'rus Trail

PERFECT for cowboy boots! Pretend you're a cowgirl in the Wild West!

Riverside Walk

Sing songs that ECHO off the big rock walls!

Hotel Pool

Splash time in your favorite swimming suit!

🎀 Princess Treats

• Ice Cream at Zion Lodge: Twirl in your dress on the big lawn!
• Candy Company: Pick the prettiest colorful candies!
• MeMe's Cafe: Sweet crepes with strawberries - like dessert for lunch!

🧘‍♀️ Nora's Wellness & Wine

"Balance adventure with zen"

🧘‍♀️ Morning Zen

Pa'rus Trail

6:30-7:30 AM walking meditation. River sounds = best soundtrack.

Walker Wellness

Professional yoga & massage. Book ahead!

🍷 Wine & Relaxation

Spotted Dog

Excellent Malbecs! Sunset patio. Reservations!

Bit & Spur

Wine + lawn where girls play during happy hour!

Scout Bar

After kids sleep. Local Utah wines!

👩‍👧‍👧 Mom Survival

• Morning: Wake early for coffee + centering
• Strategic Hiking: Riverside & Pa'rus are stroller-friendly!
• Naptime = Your Time
• Evening: Patio wine + stargazing

⚾ Justin's Sports & Data

"Crush it at work and play"

☕ Coffee & Work

Deep Creek Coffee

Opens 6:30 AM! WiFi + "Bro-rito" + dark chocolate orange latte.

Canyon Coffee

Best views + WiFi. Cookie butter latte!

Perks Coffee

4-min walk! Morning runs while Nora gets girls ready.

🍺 Brewery & Sports

Zion Brew Pub

Local brews, wings, GAMES ON! IPA sampler.

Bit & Spur

Beer + lawn for Piper during happy hour.

Scout Bar

Walk downstairs. Utah craft beers!

🏃‍♂️ Your Adventures

Watchman Trail

6 AM start: 3.3 mi, 360° views. YOUR trail.

Canyon Overlook Trail

Dad-daughter hike with Piper!

The Narrows

Rent gear, go upstream.

E-Bike Rentals

With kid seats. Workout + bonding!

📊 Data Nerd

Zion Human History Museum

Data viz in rock! Formation timelines.

Pro Tips:

Best photo windows: 6-8 AM (best), 4-6 PM (good), 10-2 PM (avoid).
Shuttle: Every 7-10 min. Board at Springdale!

📚 Pam's Literary & Libations ▼

"Horror, history & happy hours"

📖 Reading Spots

Canyon Coffee

Morning reading before family activities.

George Barker River Park

Read while granddaughters play!

🍷 Wine, Rum & Relaxation

Spotted Dog

Wine list. Sunset with Bob!

Bit & Spur

Upscale Mexican with margaritas.

Scout Bar

Rum & coke to-go. Stargazing drinks!

👵 Grandma Time

Easy Trails: Pa'rus & Riverside - flat & paved!

Special Outings:
• Rock Shop - treasure hunt with each girl!
• Candy Shop - old-fashioned candy!
• Art Galleries - colorful Zion photos!
• Pancake Breakfast while parents sleep!

🎨 Making & Creating

Nature Crafts: Collect leaves, make rubbings!

Memory Journal: Help Piper draw. Be her scribe!

Rock Painting: Paint at hotel. Leave as family marker!

🔨 Bob's Builder & Brews ▼

"Engineering marvels & craft beers"

🏗️ Engineering Marvels

Mt. Carmel Tunnel

MUST SEE! 1930 feat! 1.1-mi through solid rock. Gallery windows. YOUR jam!

Zion Human History Museum

How park was built. 1920s-30s construction crews!

Zion Lodge

Historic 1925 original. Massive beams, stone fireplaces!

Pa'rus Bridge

Examine construction details!

🍺 Breweries

Zion Brew Pub

IPA flight. Wings, sports on TV. Your HQ!

Bit & Spur

Extensive beer. Drink while "babysitting!"

Scout Bar

Utah craft beers! Nightcap downstairs.

⚾ Sports & History

Zion Brew Pub

Catch NFL & college football games! November perfect!

Grafton Ghost Town

20 min drive - 1859 settlement!

Hurricane Heritage Museum

30 min drive - pioneer tools!

👴 Grandpa's Mission

Your Hikes: Watchman Trail, Canyon Overlook

With Piper:
• Build "dams" at George Barker. Problem-solving!
• "Fix" hotel furniture while she "helps"
• Drive through Mt. Carmel Tunnel. Explain how built!

🧭 Zion Essentials & Things To Do

Inside the Park

Zion Canyon Shuttle

• Free, frequent shuttle to major stops (seasonal schedule) • Park at Springdale lots or walk from hotel
• First buses often before 7 AM in peak season; last return varies—check current schedule

Scenic Drives

• Zion–Mount Carmel Highway (tunnels, viewpoints) • Kolob Canyons (I‑15, separate entrance)
• Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is shuttle‑only most of peak season (no private cars)

Ranger & Junior Ranger

• Junior Ranger books at Visitor Center; kids earn badges • Ranger talks vary by season/hours

Zion Human History Museum

• Exhibits on geology and culture • A/C break • Short park film runs regularly (hours vary)

With a Car

Parking Strategy

• Park lots fill early (often by 8–9 AM in peak times) • Use Springdale shuttle/parking • Consider early starts or afternoons

Tunnel & Oversize Rules

• Zion–Mt. Carmel Tunnel controlled for oversize vehicles; fees and restrictions apply • No pedestrians/bicycles in tunnel

Costs & Passes

Entrance Fees

• Private vehicle: $35 (7 days) • Motorcycle: $30 • Individual (walk/bike): $20 • Annual America the Beautiful Pass: $80

Hours & Seasons

Park & Facilities

• Park open 24/7 • Visitor Center hours vary seasonally • Shuttle service hours vary—verify for your dates

Permits & Reservations

Popular Permits

• Angels Landing requires permit (lottery) • Some canyoneering routes require wilderness permits • The Narrows depends on river flow/flash‑flood risk

Gear & Rentals

Narrows Gear

• Springdale outfitters rent boots, socks, and dry‑pants (packages often $30–$50)—prices vary by season/vendor

E‑Bikes & Strollers

• E‑bikes widely available in Springdale (kid seats/trailers) • Pa’rus Trail allows bikes and is stroller‑friendly

Safety & Tips

Heat, Water, Weather

• Carry more water than you think you need • Hats/sunscreen essential • Watch for flash‑flood warnings in narrow canyons

Family Logistics

• Early starts and midday breaks work best • Use shuttle to simplify nap/meal timing • Keep snacks handy for lines and buses

🍕 Food

🍕 Best Pizza Places

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Zion Pizza & Noodle Co.

Local favorite housed in a historic 1930 Mormon church! Great pizzas (try the Thai Chicken or Cholesterol Hiker), pasta, and calzones. Beer garden with mountain views. Kid-friendly with "Boring Cheese Pizza" on the menu!

Perfect for families! Opens at 4 PM daily. Can get busy, so arrive early or call ahead.

📍 0.5 miles ⏱️ 2 min drive / 10 min walk

868 Zion Park Blvd

Slice of Zion

Quick and casual pizza spot perfect for grabbing a slice before or after adventures. Great for families on the go!

📍 0.7 miles ⏱️ 3 min drive / 14 min walk

170 Zion Park Blvd

☕ Best Coffee Shops

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Deep Creek Coffee Company

Local favorite with excellent coffee, breakfast burritos (try the famous "Bro-rito"), and Southwest Quinoa Bowl. Relaxed atmosphere with great pastries and avocado toast. Opens at 6:30 AM!

Best breakfast spot! Try the dark chocolate & orange latte - unique and delicious!

📍 0.9 miles ⏱️ 3 min drive / 18 min walk

932 Zion Park Blvd Unit 3

Canyon Coffee

Woman-owned shop with stunning canyon views! Locally roasted coffee, homemade pastries, and dog-friendly patio. Perfect for fueling up before hikes. Open 7 AM - 2 PM daily.

Amazing views! Try the coconut mint green tea or cookie butter latte.

📍 0.3 miles ⏱️ 1 min drive / 6 min walk

358 Zion Park Blvd

FeelLove Coffee Zion

Hip coffee shop with vegan options including soft serve ice cream, avocado toast, and specialty lattes. Great for families with dietary preferences!

📍 1.0 miles ⏱️ 4 min drive / 20 min walk

1101 Zion Park Blvd Ste A

Perks at Zion

Located at Cable Mountain Lodge (very close!). Voted best coffee in Southern Utah. Specialty drinks like "Chunky Monkey" and "Pure Bliss." Also serves smoothies and sandwiches.

📍 0.2 miles ⏱️ 1 min drive / 4 min walk

147 Zion Park Blvd

🍽️ Kid-Friendly Restaurants

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MeMe's Cafe

Charming artsy cafe with crepes (sweet & savory), BBQ sandwiches, burgers, and more. Very kid-friendly with reasonable prices. Indoor and outdoor seating. Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Great for picky eaters! Our kids cleaned their plates here. Family of 5 can eat for under $75.

📍 1.1 miles ⏱️ 4 min drive / 22 min walk

975 Zion Park Blvd

Oscar's Cafe

Popular spot with huge portions and wide menu selection. Outdoor seating with misters or indoor AC. Great breakfast options. Can get busy!

📍 0.5 miles ⏱️ 2 min drive / 10 min walk

948 Zion Park Blvd

Zion Canyon Brew Pub

Family-friendly pub with great wings, burgers, and kid-friendly menu. Short 7-minute walk from visitor center. Won't break the bank!

📍 1.4 miles ⏱️ 5 min drive / 28 min walk

95 Zion Park Blvd

Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon

Mexican & Southwestern fare with outdoor patio and grass lawn for kids! Sweet potato tamales, shrimp tacos, margaritas. Family-friendly despite being a "saloon."

📍 0.9 miles ⏱️ 3 min drive / 18 min walk

1212 Zion Park Blvd

Camp Zion

Casual American dining with rotisserie chicken and comfort food. Spacious patio and communal fire pit. Family-friendly atmosphere!

📍 0.4 miles ⏱️ 2 min drive / 8 min walk

Adjacent to Desert Pearl Inn

Park House Cafe Zion

Best breakfast in Springdale! Healthy options, vegetarian/vegan dishes, famous eggs Benedict, Buffalo burgers. Beautiful Zion views from outdoor patio. Family-friendly!

📍 0.6 miles ⏱️ 2 min drive / 12 min walk

🛍️ Best Takeout / Delivery

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Delivery is limited in Springdale—most places offer call‑ahead takeout. Order early during peak dinner hours.

Zion Pizza & Noodle Co.

Popular pies, pastas, and salads. Call ahead for takeout; can be busy after 5 PM. Great family option.

Oscar's Cafe

Burgers, sandwiches, and large portions. Reliable takeout; confirm hours outside peak season.

MeMe's Cafe

Crepes, sandwiches, and kid‑friendly picks. Easy to‑go orders for breakfast/lunch/dinner.

Cafe Soleil

Quick breakfast/lunch sandwiches, wraps, and coffee. Good for early park starts—grab and go.

Bit & Spur (Pickup)

Southwestern fare; call for pickup orders. Patio/yard is great if deciding to stay.

Zion Canyon Brew Pub (Pickup)

Wings, burgers, and kids' menu. Call ahead—easy pickup near park entrance.

🚗 CA to UT Lunch Spots (Mesquite, NV)

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Perfect pit-stop options on I-15 between CA and Utah! All are within 0.5 miles of the freeway and offer family-friendly dining options.

Peggy Sue's Diner

Classic roadside diner with all-day breakfast, burgers, and comfort food. Retro atmosphere, friendly staff, and generous portions. Perfect for a nostalgic road trip break with the family.

📍 0.3 miles from I-15 🍽️ Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

260 N. Mesquite Blvd

Virgin River Hotel & Casino

Multiple dining options including a buffet and café. Popular pit-stop with ample parking. Restaurant open for lunch and dinner. Family-friendly casual dining.

📍 0.2 miles from I-15 🍽️ Lunch & Dinner

100 S. Mesquite Blvd

Mesquite Brew Co.

Craft burgers, salads, sandwiches, and local beers. Casual, family-friendly atmosphere with good reviews. Great burger options for kids and adults.

📍 0.3 miles from I-15 🍽️ Lunch & Dinner

670 N. Mesquite Blvd

The Pit

BBQ and smoked meats—excellent ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. Family-friendly with quick service. Good for hearty appetites and a quick meal.

📍 0.4 miles from I-15 🍽️ Lunch & Dinner

880 Pioneer Blvd

Casa Blanca Restaurant

Mexican cuisine with full menu including tacos, enchiladas, and combination plates. Kid-friendly with reasonable portions and prices. Good for families seeking variety.

📍 0.25 miles from I-15 🍽️ Lunch & Dinner

160 W. Mesquite Blvd

Chef's Palace Restaurant

Chinese cuisine with lunch specials and dinner options. Quick service, family-friendly menu with vegetarian options. Good variety for picky eaters.

📍 0.35 miles from I-15 🍽️ Lunch & Dinner

630 N. Mesquite Blvd

Pepper's Place Restaurant

Comfort food with burgers, steaks, and American classics. Family-style portions, reasonable prices, and friendly service. Great for a quick dinner break.

📍 0.45 miles from I-15 🍽️ Lunch & Dinner

540 N. Mesquite Blvd

🎯 Activities

🎉 Local Events (Next 2 Days)

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                            Live Events Near You! Showing events within 10 miles of Springdale for the next 2 days. Kid-friendly events are listed first.
                        

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🥾 Family-Friendly Hiking Trails

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                            Perfect for Piper (4) & Olivia (2)! These trails are kid-tested and approved. Most can use the free Zion shuttle from Springdale.
                        

Pa'rus Trail ⭐ EASIEST

Distance: 3.5 miles round trip (but walk as much or as little as you want!)
Difficulty: Easy - completely flat & paved
Why it's great: The ONLY dog-friendly trail in Zion! Stroller & wheelchair accessible. Runs along Virgin River with multiple access points for water play. Perfect for little ones to explore, splash, and catch tadpoles! No shuttle needed.

Best for toddlers! Can turn around anytime. Lots of shade and river access.

📍 1.2 miles to trailhead ⏱️ 5 min drive

Riverside Walk ⭐ VERY EASY

Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy - paved trail
Why it's great: Stunning walk along Virgin River leading to "The Narrows." Even if you don't go into The Narrows, this walk is beautiful! Multiple spots to explore the river, dip toes in water. Gateway to seeing the iconic slot canyon.

Must-do family hike! Take shuttle to Temple of Sinawava (last stop). Opens 7 AM daily.

📍 Shuttle Stop 9 ⏱️ Free shuttle from hotel

The Watchman Trail

Distance: 3.3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate - steady uphill climb
Why it's great: Beautiful 360-degree views of Zion and Springdale. Often overlooked so less crowded! Some narrow edges but most older kids handle it well. Best for Piper!

Pro tip: Do early morning for sunrise - spectacular views!

📍 1.0 miles to trailhead ⏱️ 4 min drive

Lower Emerald Pool Trail

Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy - paved most of the way
Why it's great: Short hike to a waterfall and "hanging garden"! Good for preschoolers. Currently must access via Kayenta Trail due to bridge construction. Can extend to Middle & Upper pools for longer adventure.

Note: Shuttle to Zion Lodge. Trail may have some steep parts if continuing to upper pools.

📍 Shuttle Stop 5 ⏱️ Free shuttle

Canyon Overlook Trail

Distance: 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Moderate - some steep sections
Why it's great: Breathtaking canyon views! Short but rewarding. Must drive (not on shuttle route) - parking after Mt. Carmel Tunnel on Route 9. Best for Piper with adult supervision.

Caution: Steep drop-offs and narrow sections. Hold hands with little ones!

📍 6 miles from hotel ⏱️ 15 min drive

The Narrows (Bottom-Up)

Distance: As far as you want! (no permit needed for first section)
Difficulty: Moderate - walking in water
Why it's great: THE iconic Zion experience! Walk through Virgin River between towering canyon walls. Can go just a little way with kids. Water is COLD year-round - rent gear from Springdale outfitters.

For summer visits! Need water shoes/boots and hiking poles. Depth varies - check with rangers first. Many families do this!

📍 End of Riverside Walk ⏱️ Shuttle Stop 9

🎯 Other Family Activities

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George Barker River Park

Perfect for letting kids play! Splash in the Virgin River, play in grassy fields, catch frogs in evening, walking path over bridge. Free and relaxing for the whole family.

📍 0.3 miles ⏱️ 1 min drive / 6 min walk

Springdale Town Park

Playground and pickleball courts! Great for burning energy between hikes. Free public park.

📍 0.5 miles ⏱️ 2 min drive

E-Bike Rentals

Rent e-bikes to cruise around Springdale and up Pa'rus Trail! Avoid shuttle crowds and go at your own pace. Several rental shops near park entrance. Kid seats and trailers available.

📍 Multiple locations ⏱️ Walking distance

Zion Lodge Ice Cream

After-hike treat! Soft serve ice cream on the large grassy lawn at Zion Lodge. Perfect spot for kids to run around while you relax.

📍 Inside park ⏱️ Shuttle Stop 5

Rock Shops in Springdale

Kids love collecting rocks! Since you can't take rocks from the park, stop at local rock shops. Amazing selection of fancy rocks, crystals, and fossils of all shapes and sizes!

📍 Multiple shops ⏱️ Throughout town

Zion Human History Museum

Free 22-minute film about Zion's animals, nature, and history. Air-conditioned break from heat! Great for learning about the park.

📍 Inside park ⏱️ Shuttle Stop 2

Art Galleries

Springdale has many art galleries featuring local artists! Great for rainy days or hot afternoons. Beautiful paintings, photography, and sculptures inspired by Zion.

📍 Multiple galleries ⏱️ Along Zion Park Blvd

Springdale Candy Company

Ice cream bar, packaged candies, homemade candy, and old-fashioned candy (fire balls, lemonheads!)! Perfect after-dinner sweet or stock up for the drive.

📍 0.6 miles ⏱️ 2 min drive / 12 min walk

Stargazing at Zion

Some of the darkest skies in the country! Amazing views of the Milky Way on clear nights. Free activity the whole family will love. Best spots: anywhere away from town lights!

Magical experience! Bring blankets and lie on the grass at your hotel or drive into the park.

📋 Other

🧳 Road Trip Packing List (Early Nov)

Documents & Money

IDs • Insurance cards • Credit/debit cards • Cash/coins for parking • Park pass (if you have one) • Reservation confirmations

Clothing (Layer Up)

Light/midweight base layers • Fleece/insulated jacket • Rain/wind shell • Warm hat & gloves • Thermal socks • Sleepwear • Extra layers for kids

Footwear

Hiking shoes/boots • Comfortable walking shoes • Water shoes (if doing Narrows) • Sandals/flip‑flops (pool/hotel)

Hiking Daypack

Daypack • Reusable water bottles/hydration • Snacks • First‑aid kit • Sunscreen & lip balm • Sunglasses • Trekking poles (optional)

Kids & Comfort

Light stroller (Pa'rus‑friendly) • Carrier • Favorite snacks • Small toys/books • Blankets • Wipes • Extra clothes • Nightlight/sound machine

Car & Road

Phone mounts • USB‑C/Lightning cables • Power bank • Paper towels/wipes • Trash bags • Cooler & ice packs • Emergency kit/jumper • Tire gauge

Optional Narrows

Neoprene socks • Dry pants • Trekking poles • Dry bags • (or rent in Springdale—packages are easy)

⛽ Fuel: Best Stops to San Diego

Save money: Fill up in Utah or Nevada before entering California. Prices are typically lowest in St. George/Mesquite and higher after the CA state line.

Costco Gas – St. George

Membership required. Consistently low prices and easy access from I‑15 via Exit 8/10. Lines move fast. Good final Utah fill‑up.

Maverik – Washington Parkway

Convenient on/off I‑15 with clean restrooms and snacks. Typically competitive pricing without membership.

Walmart Fuel Center – Hurricane

Usually among the cheaper options in the Springdale/Hurricane corridor. Stock up at Supercenter next door.

Smith's Fuel Center – Mesquite, NV

Often one of the lowest prices before Las Vegas. Extra discounts with Smith's/Kroger fuel points.

Costco Gas – Henderson/Las Vegas

Multiple locations near I‑215/I‑15. Membership required. Good prices compared to surrounding stations.

Primm (NV) Stations

Last Nevada stop before California. Prices higher than Mesquite/Las Vegas, but still better than many CA stations.

Strategy

• Top off in Utah or Nevada • Avoid fueling in CA desert towns if possible • Check pump payment options (tap/Apple Pay) • Pair with bathroom/snack stops

💡 Family Tips

🚌 Use the free Zion shuttle! Runs from Springdale to all major trailheads. No parking hassles!

☀️ Start early! Trails are less crowded and cooler in the morning. Perfect for little ones.

💧 Bring LOTS of water! Desert climate - everyone needs more water than expected.

🎒 Pack snacks! Hungry kids = cranky kids. Trail mix, fruit, granola bars are perfect.

👟 Good shoes matter! Closed-toe shoes for hiking. Water shoes if doing The Narrows.

📱 Download offline maps! Cell service is spotty in the park and canyon.