Wondering what time it is in Zion National Park? The park follows Mountain Time (MT), which can vary between Mountain Standard Time (MST) and Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) depending on the season. Accurately knowing the time helps visitors plan hikes, catch shuttle services, and enjoy sunrise or sunset views on time. If you're preparing for your trip, knowing whether you're visiting during standard time or daylight saving can save you an hour of confusion. Whether you're focused on backcountry adventures or exploring top must-see spots, understanding Zion’s local time is essential. Check the current time when arriving from nearby regions like Las Vegas or when flying in through the closest airport to Zion. And yes, even wintertime visitors planning snow hikes and cold-weather gear need to account for Zion’s winter weather and sunlight hours too.
Current Time and Time Zone Basics
Mountain Time Zone (MT)
Zion National Park, located in the southwestern corner of Utah, operates under the Mountain Time Zone (MT). This time zone is officially recognized as UTC−7 during Standard Time and UTC−6 during Daylight Saving Time. Throughout the year, Zion adheres to the Mountain Time Zone along with most of Utah and surrounding regions such as Colorado and parts of Arizona and New Mexico.
Local Time Tracking
The current local time in Zion National Park aligns with the Mountain Time Zone. This means when it is 12:00 PM (noon) in Zion, it is also 12:00 PM in Salt Lake City, Utah, but may differ from neighboring states that do not observe Daylight Saving Time (e.g., Arizona during part of the year). Visitors are encouraged to check the current time before planning activities, as accurate time tracking is essential for guided tours, shuttle schedules, and trailhead departure times.
Time Zone Abbreviations
- MST (Mountain Standard Time): Observed during the fall and winter months when Daylight Saving Time is not in effect. MST is UTC−7.
- MDT (Mountain Daylight Time): Observed during the spring and summer months, typically from mid-March through early November. MDT is UTC−6.
These abbreviations are commonly used in transportation schedules, event listings, and digital devices, so it’s beneficial for visitors to understand their meaning when navigating local resources.
UTC Offset Explanation
Zion National Park alternates between two UTC offsets throughout the year:
- Standard Time (MST): UTC−7
- Daylight Saving Time (MDT): UTC−6
This one-hour difference can have a significant impact on travel schedules, especially for visitors arriving from states on Pacific Time (UTC−8/UTC−7) or Central Time (UTC−6/UTC−5).
Daylight Saving Time (DST)
Zion National Park follows the Daylight Saving Time schedule observed throughout most of the United States. This involves advancing clocks by one hour in the spring and returning to standard time in the fall.
- Start of DST: The second Sunday in March at 2:00 AM local time (clocks move forward to 3:00 AM).
- End of DST: The first Sunday in November at 2:00 AM local time (clocks move back to 1:00 AM).
During Daylight Saving Time, Zion experiences extended daylight in the evenings, which is particularly beneficial for hikers and photographers looking to maximize their time outdoors.
Regional Time Considerations
Due to its proximity to Arizona, where Daylight Saving Time is not observed (except in the Navajo Nation), travelers should be mindful of time differences when crossing state lines. For example, during summer months, Arizona remains on Mountain Standard Time (UTC−7), while Utah shifts to Mountain Daylight Time (UTC−6), resulting in a one-hour time difference even though both locations are geographically in the Mountain Time Zone.
For travelers planning to visit multiple parks or attractions across Utah and Arizona, staying updated on local time changes is crucial for accurate scheduling and coordination.
Daylight Saving Time in Zion National Park
Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, observes Daylight Saving Time (DST) in alignment with the rest of the state and the Mountain Time Zone. Understanding the application of DST is essential for visitors planning activities, hikes, and travel within the park, especially during seasonal transitions.
Implementation and Usage
Zion National Park follows the United States national schedule for Daylight Saving Time. The park switches between Mountain Standard Time (MST) and Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) annually. This change affects both the local time and the amount of daylight available for outdoor activities.
Annual Start Date
Daylight Saving Time begins on the second Sunday in March. At 2:00 AM MST, clocks are moved forward one hour to 3:00 AM MDT. This transition results in later sunrises and sunsets, increasing the amount of daylight in the evenings. For visitors, this means extended hours for hiking and sightseeing during spring and summer months.
Annual End Date
DST ends on the first Sunday in November. At 2:00 AM MDT, clocks are turned back one hour to 1:00 AM MST. This shift brings earlier sunsets and more daylight in the morning. Visitors during late fall should plan accordingly, as some park services and shuttle operations may adjust schedules with the time change.
Time Differences
During Standard Time (early November to mid-March), Zion operates on Mountain Standard Time (MST), which is UTC−7. During Daylight Saving Time (mid-March to early November), the park observes Mountain Daylight Time (MDT), which is UTC−6. This one-hour shift can affect travel itineraries, especially for those coming from different time zones or coordinating transportation.
Impact on Park Operations and Visiting Hours
While the park remains open year-round, certain services, including shuttle buses, visitor centers, and ranger-led programs, may follow seasonal schedules that align with DST changes. Extended daylight hours during DST allow for a longer window for exploring the park’s trails and scenic routes. Conversely, shorter days in the winter months might limit evening activities, making early planning essential.
Visitors should always check the current local time and park service announcements when planning their visit to ensure alignment with daylight hours and scheduled activities.
Natural Time Patterns
Daily Sun Cycles
Zion National Park, located in southwestern Utah, experiences distinct and predictable natural light patterns due to its position within the Mountain Time Zone. The daily sun cycle plays a significant role in both the ecological rhythm of the park and the planning of visitor activities.
Sunrise and Sunset Timings
Sunrise typically occurs between 6:00 AM and 7:30 AM depending on the season, while sunset ranges from approximately 5:00 PM in winter to around 9:00 PM in summer. For instance, during the summer solstice in June, sunrise in Zion National Park can occur as early as 6:00 AM, with sunset stretching close to 9:00 PM, resulting in long daylight hours that are ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
Day Length Variations
Day length varies significantly throughout the year. In winter months like December, daylight can be as short as 9.5 hours, while in summer months like June, it can extend over 14.5 hours. These variations are important when planning activities such as backcountry hikes or photography sessions, as lighting and visibility significantly change throughout the day.
Solar Noon Characteristics
Solar noon—the point at which the sun reaches its highest position in the sky—typically occurs around 12:45 PM local time in Zion National Park during standard time and around 1:45 PM during daylight saving time. This moment marks the halfway point between sunrise and sunset and is often when shadows are shortest and temperatures peak. Understanding solar noon is useful for photographers seeking optimal lighting and for hikers who need to plan water and rest stops during the hottest part of the day.
Twilight Periods
Twilight periods in Zion National Park provide additional light before sunrise and after sunset, extending the usable daylight for outdoor activities.
Civil Twilight
This is the brightest phase of twilight and occurs when the sun is between 0° and 6° below the horizon. Civil twilight begins roughly 30 minutes before sunrise and ends about 30 minutes after sunset. During this time, there is enough natural light for outdoor activities without artificial lighting.
Nautical Twilight
Nautical twilight occurs when the sun is between 6° and 12° below the horizon. It is commonly used by navigators and stargazers. Conditions during this phase are ideal for observing the first stars and planets becoming visible in the sky.
Astronomical Twilight
The darkest of the twilight phases, astronomical twilight happens when the sun is between 12° and 18° below the horizon. Once this phase ends after sunset—or begins before sunrise—the sky is dark enough for astronomers to observe celestial objects without interference from sunlight.
These twilight periods are especially significant in Zion, where the minimal light pollution allows for exceptional stargazing and night photography, particularly during new moon phases. Visitors interested in night hikes or astrophotography should consider these twilight timings to maximize their experience.
Planning Your Visit Around Time
When visiting Mount Zion and Zion National Park, understanding how time affects your experience is essential. From daylight variations to time zone changes and seasonal schedules, strategically planning your visit around time ensures you make the most of every moment in the park.
Best Times to Visit
Zion National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit largely depends on what you want to experience:
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Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make this a favorite season for hiking and sightseeing. Sunrise hikes are particularly rewarding during this season, with sunrises typically occurring between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM.
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Summer (June to August): Expect longer days and higher temperatures. Daylight can last up to 14.5 hours in June, with sunsets around 8:45 PM. Early morning and late evening hikes are recommended to avoid the heat and crowds.
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Fall (September to November): Cooler weather and vibrant foliage make autumn another popular season. Sunsets begin to occur earlier, typically around 7:30 PM in September and as early as 5:15 PM by November.
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Winter (December to February): Shorter days and fewer visitors make winter ideal for solitude. Daylight lasts approximately 9.5 to 10 hours, with sunrise around 7:30 AM and sunset near 5:15 PM.
Time-Specific Activities
Many activities in Zion are best enjoyed at specific times of day:
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Sunrise & Sunset Viewing: The Watchman Trail and Canyon Overlook Trail offer stunning sunrise and sunset views. Plan your hike to arrive at your viewpoint at least 30 minutes before the scheduled event to catch the best light.
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Stargazing: Zion’s remote location makes it ideal for night sky observation. The park is a designated International Dark Sky Park, so check moon phases for optimal stargazing (a new moon is ideal).
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Wildlife Watching: Early morning and dusk are the best times to spot wildlife such as mule deer and bighorn sheep. These cooler parts of the day also provide better lighting for photography.
Scheduling Recommendations
To make the most of your visit, consider these time-related tips:
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Start Early: Arrive at the park entrance early, especially during peak seasons. Shuttle services begin as early as 6:00 AM in spring and summer.
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Check Daylight Saving Time: Zion National Park follows Mountain Time (MT). Daylight Saving Time begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November. During this period, clocks are set one hour forward, shifting sunrise and sunset times accordingly.
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Book Timed Activities in Advance: Ranger-led programs and shuttle services may require advance reservations, particularly during busy months. Align your bookings with sunrise/sunset times for the best experience.
Weather Considerations
Time of day can greatly impact weather conditions:
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Morning: Cooler temperatures and thinner crowds make morning the best time for strenuous hikes.
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Afternoon: Summer afternoons often bring higher temperatures and occasional thunderstorms. Plan indoor or shaded activities during these hours.
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Evening: Cooler and calmer, evenings are ideal for scenic drives, photography, and relaxation.
Always check the local weather forecast before your visit, and be prepared for sudden changes, especially in the spring and summer.
Local Business Hours Alignment
Springdale, the gateway town to Zion, operates on the same Mountain Time zone. Most visitor services, including restaurants, gear rentals, and tour operators, open by 7:00 AM and close by 9:00 PM during peak season. Confirm hours ahead of time, especially in off-season months when hours may be reduced.
By aligning your itinerary with local time patterns and natural light cycles, you’ll enhance your experience in one of America’s most iconic national parks.
Additional Time-Related Information
Seasonal Time Changes in Zion National Park
Zion National Park follows the Mountain Time Zone (MT), which includes both Mountain Standard Time (MST) and Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) depending on the season. Daylight Saving Time (DST) begins on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November each year. During DST, the local time shifts one hour forward, changing from MST (UTC−7) to MDT (UTC−6). This impacts sunrise and sunset times and is especially important for visitors planning early hikes or sunset photography.
Sunrise and Sunset Variations by Season
The length of daylight in Zion National Park changes substantially throughout the year due to its latitude and elevation. During the summer solstice in June, daylight can last over 14 hours, with sunrise occurring as early as 6:00 AM and sunset after 8:30 PM. In contrast, during the winter solstice in December, daylight shortens to approximately 9.5 hours, with sunrise around 7:40 AM and sunset before 5:30 PM.
These variations are critical for scheduling hikes, particularly for popular trails like Angels Landing or The Narrows, where daylight is essential for safety and visibility.
Solar Noon and Twilight Periods
Solar noon in Zion typically occurs between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM depending on the time of year and Daylight Saving adjustments. This is when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky. Twilight periods—civil, nautical, and astronomical—also vary throughout the year:
- Civil twilight: Begins roughly 30 minutes before sunrise and ends about 30 minutes after sunset. This is the best time for photography and scenic viewing.
- Nautical twilight: Occurs when the sun is between 6° and 12° below the horizon. It is often used by early risers and those navigating by stars.
- Astronomical twilight: Begins when the sun is 12° to 18° below the horizon. This time is important for stargazers and astrophotographers.
Lunar Influence and Night Sky Visibility
The moon phase plays a significant role in night visibility within Zion National Park, which is known for its dark skies. A waxing gibbous moon, such as one with 94.4% visibility, can significantly reduce the visibility of stars but enhance nighttime landscape photography. Conversely, during a new moon, conditions are optimal for stargazing and observing astronomical events.
Moonrise and moonset times vary daily and can be checked via local astronomical calendars. Visitors planning nighttime hikes or photography sessions should consider lunar phases to plan accordingly.
Time-Sensitive Park Operations
Zion National Park operates on seasonal schedules that align with daylight patterns. Shuttle services, visitor centers, and trail access times often change with the seasons to accommodate daylight availability. For example, shuttle services typically begin at 6:00 AM during peak seasons and end between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM, which aligns with late sunset times in summer.
Additionally, some trails may have restricted access during early morning or late evening hours in winter due to low light and icy conditions.
Travel and Transportation Timing
For travelers flying into nearby airports—such as St. George Regional Airport (SGU) or Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS)—time zone awareness is essential. Las Vegas operates in the Pacific Time Zone (PT), which is one hour behind Zion during standard time and may match during DST depending on the date. Careful planning of arrival and departure times can help avoid confusion and missed connections, especially for early morning tour departures or lodging check-ins.
Time-Specific Events and Activities
Zion National Park occasionally hosts ranger-led programs, night sky events, and seasonal festivals that are scheduled according to local time. These events often take place at specific twilight or nighttime hours, so awareness of the current local time and sunset schedule is crucial for participation.
For example, astronomy nights are commonly held during new moon phases and begin shortly after astronomical twilight. Checking the park’s official calendar and aligning plans with local time ensures participation in these unique experiences.
Being aware of the local time in Zion National Park ensures smoother itineraries, safer hikes, and better experiences during your visit. Whether you're arriving from another time zone, planning around daylight, or chasing the perfect sunrise-to-sunset adventure, sync your schedule with Zion’s Mountain Time for an unforgettable trip. For optimal planning, always check current time updates and seasonal changes—and consider combining your visit with nearby attractions for a fully timed adventure.