Planning your trip to Zion National Park starts with a smart flight choice—and knowing where to fly into can save hours on the road and cut costs. While Zion itself doesn't have a direct airport, several regional and international options provide convenient access—from nearby St. George to bustling Las Vegas. Depending on your travel style and itinerary, different airports offer pros and cons. In this guide, we’ll break down the closest and most popular airports, drive times, ground transportation, and everything you need to know. For more details, check our guides to where to fly into Zion, explore the best airports for Zion National Park, or learn how far Las Vegas is from Zion with our travel tips.

Major Airport Options
When planning a trip to Zion National Park, choosing the right airport can dramatically impact travel time, cost, and overall convenience. Zion, located in southwestern Utah, is not directly served by a major international airport, but several regional and international airports provide access within a few hours' drive. Below is a breakdown of the most commonly used airports for Zion visitors, including distances, services, and travel logistics.
St. George Regional Airport (SGU)
St. George Regional Airport is the closest commercial airport to Zion National Park, located approximately 50 miles (about a 1-hour drive) from the park’s south entrance in Springdale, Utah. This airport is a convenient choice for those seeking the shortest drive time to Zion.
- Airlines and Flights: SGU is serviced by Delta, American Airlines, and United, offering daily connections primarily through larger hub cities like Salt Lake City, Denver, Phoenix, and Dallas-Fort Worth.
- Services: While relatively small, the airport offers rental car services and basic passenger amenities.
- Best For: Travelers prioritizing proximity and willing to make a connecting flight, especially from West Coast or Southwest cities.
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) – Las Vegas, Nevada
Formerly known as McCarran International Airport, Harry Reid International Airport is the most popular major airport for Zion visitors, thanks to its extensive flight options and competitive pricing. Located about 170 miles (approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car) from Zion, it serves as a key entry point for both domestic and international travelers.
- Airlines and Flights: As a major hub, LAS offers nonstop service from cities across the U.S. and international destinations. All major U.S. carriers fly here, including budget airlines like Southwest and Spirit.
- Transportation: Ample rental car availability, as well as shuttle and tour services to Zion and other nearby national parks.
- Best For: Travelers looking for affordable flights, international visitors, or those combining Zion with Las Vegas in their itinerary.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Located approximately 300 miles (about a 4.5 to 5-hour drive) from Zion National Park, Salt Lake City International Airport offers a good alternative for those approaching from the north or planning a broader Utah road trip.
- Airlines and Flights: As a Delta hub, SLC offers extensive domestic service and some international connectivity. It’s well-suited for travelers from Northern or Eastern U.S.
- Transportation: Numerous rental car options and highway access to I-15 South, the primary route to Zion.
- Best For: Visitors incorporating multiple Utah national parks or entering from northern regions.
Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC)
Cedar City Regional Airport is another small regional option, located about 60 miles from Zion, roughly a 1.5-hour drive. It is ideal for travelers seeking a more direct local route with fewer crowds.
- Airlines and Flights: Currently serviced by Delta Connection via Salt Lake City, with limited daily flights.
- Access: Car rentals are available, but services are more limited than at larger airports.
- Best For: Travelers already connecting through Salt Lake City or those preferring a quieter, regional airport experience.
Page Municipal Airport (PGA) and Other Regional Options
Though farther afield, Page, Arizona (PGA) and other small municipal airports such as Kanab (KNB) or Colorado City (AZC) provide limited access for charter flights or small aircraft. These are not typical choices for most Zion visitors due to limited commercial service.
- Best For: Private pilots or visitors on guided air tours; not recommended for general commercial travel.
Airport Distance Overview
| Airport | Distance to Zion NP (approx.) | Drive Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| St. George Regional (SGU) | 50 miles | 1 hour |
| Harry Reid International (LAS) | 170 miles | 2.5–3 hours |
| Salt Lake City International (SLC) | 300 miles | 4.5–5 hours |
| Cedar City Regional (CDC) | 60 miles | 1.5 hours |
| Page Municipal (PGA) | 120 miles | 2.5 hours |
Selecting the right airport depends on your travel priorities—whether that’s shortest drive time, lowest airfare, or combining Zion with other destinations. Each airport provides a unique mix of convenience, access, and flight availability.
Regional Airport Choices
When planning a trip to Zion National Park, selecting the right regional airport can significantly impact your travel time, convenience, and overall experience. Several airports, both major and regional, serve as gateways to Zion, each offering different benefits depending on your origin, budget, and travel preferences.
St. George Regional Airport (SGU)
St. George Regional Airport is the closest commercial airport to Zion National Park, located approximately 50 miles (about a 1-hour drive) from the park’s main entrance in Springdale, Utah. This airport is ideal for travelers seeking the quickest access to Zion.
SGU is served by major airlines such as Delta, American, and United, with direct flights to and from major hubs including Salt Lake City, Denver, Phoenix, and Dallas/Fort Worth. While flight options may be more limited than larger airports, the convenience of proximity and a relatively short drive makes SGU a top choice for domestic travelers.
Ground transportation options from SGU include rental car services available at the airport and regional shuttle services that can take visitors directly to Springdale or nearby towns.
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, Harry Reid International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the region and a common choice for visitors to Zion due to its broad selection of flights and competitive airfares. It is situated approximately 170 miles (about 2.5 to 3 hours by car) from Zion National Park.
LAS offers extensive domestic and international flight options, making it a practical entry point for both U.S. and international travelers. Major rental car companies operate on-site, and many visitors opt to rent a car for the scenic drive through the desert and into southern Utah.
Though farther from Zion than SGU, LAS’s accessibility, frequent flights, and potential cost savings on airfare make it a strong contender, especially for those combining Zion with other destinations like Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon.
Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC)
Cedar City Regional Airport is another viable option for reaching Zion, located about 60 miles (roughly a 1.25-hour drive) from the park. This small airport is served by Delta Connection through Salt Lake City, offering a limited number of daily flights.
CDC is particularly useful for travelers flying in from northern states or connecting through Salt Lake City. Rental car options are available, though services may be more limited compared to larger airports.
The drive from Cedar City to Zion takes travelers through scenic portions of southern Utah and is relatively straightforward. This airport is best suited for those seeking a quieter, less crowded travel experience.
Colorado City Municipal Airport (AZC)
Situated near the Arizona-Utah border, Colorado City Municipal Airport is a small, general aviation airport primarily catering to private or chartered flights. It is located about 45 miles (approximately a 1-hour drive) from Zion’s east entrance.
Due to its limited services and lack of commercial flights, this airport is best suited for travelers with access to private aviation or those using charter services. Road access to Zion from this area typically involves driving through scenic Highway 9 via the east entrance of the park.
Kanab Municipal Airport (KNB)
Located in Kanab, Utah, about 40 miles (roughly a 1-hour drive) from the east entrance to Zion, Kanab Municipal Airport is another general aviation facility. Like Colorado City, it does not offer commercial passenger flights but supports private aircraft operations.
Kanab is a strategic entry point for visitors also planning to explore nearby attractions such as Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase-Escalante, and Lake Powell. The airport is suitable for travelers using charter services or small private planes and offers convenient access to multiple national parks in the region.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Though not a regional airport by definition, Salt Lake City International Airport is a consideration for travelers who prefer flying into a major hub. Located approximately 310 miles (about 4.5 to 5 hours by car) from Zion, SLC offers extensive flight options and connections across the U.S. and internationally.
Visitors flying into SLC often combine Zion with other Utah parks such as Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands. This airport is ideal for those planning a broader road trip across the state or looking for better availability of rental vehicles and lodging options.
Choosing the Right Airport
The best choice of airport depends on several key factors:
- Proximity to Zion: SGU is closest, followed by CDC and LAS.
- Flight availability: LAS and SLC provide the widest range of flight options.
- Ground transportation: All airports offer rental cars, but options may be more limited at smaller regional airports.
- Travel itinerary: Consider combining visits to other nearby parks or attractions when choosing your airport.
By evaluating airport proximity, transportation logistics, and flight availability, travelers can select the most efficient and cost-effective route to Zion National Park. Whether flying into a nearby regional airport for convenience or a larger hub for better connections and pricing, there’s an option to suit every travel style.
Transportation Planning
Planning your transportation to and from Zion National Park is a key component of a smooth and enjoyable trip. After selecting the appropriate airport based on proximity and flight availability, you’ll need to consider your options for ground transportation and the logistics of reaching the park efficiently.
Rental Car Services
For most travelers, renting a car is the most flexible and convenient option for accessing Zion National Park. Major airports such as Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas and Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) offer a wide range of rental car companies, including Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget. Regional airports like St. George Regional Airport (SGU) and Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) also provide rental services, although with more limited fleets.
Renting a car is especially advantageous if you plan to visit both Zion and nearby destinations like Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon North Rim, or other scenic areas in Utah and Arizona. It also allows for freedom to explore Springdale (the gateway town to Zion), take scenic drives like Kolob Canyon Road, and travel on your own schedule.
Driving Times and Routes
The distance and driving time to Zion vary significantly depending on your airport of arrival:
- St. George Regional Airport (SGU): Approximately 50 miles, about a 1-hour drive via I-15 N and UT-9 E.
- Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC): About 60 miles, 1 hour and 15 minutes via UT-14 E and UT-9 W.
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS): Roughly 170 miles, about 2.5 to 3 hours via I-15 N and UT-9 E.
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC): Around 310 miles, approximately 4.5 to 5 hours via I-15 S.
The most common route from Las Vegas involves taking I-15 north through Mesquite and St. George, then turning east onto UT-9 toward Springdale. This route is well-maintained and scenic, with amenities along the way. From Salt Lake City, travelers take I-15 south, passing through Provo, Beaver, and Cedar City.
Shuttle and Public Transportation Options
Zion National Park itself operates a mandatory shuttle system within Zion Canyon during peak season (typically from March through late November). However, this internal shuttle service does not extend to the surrounding airports. Shuttle services from nearby towns or airports are limited but do exist, primarily from St. George and Las Vegas.
Private shuttle companies such as St. George Shuttle and Salt Lake Express offer connections between regional airports and Springdale or St. George, though availability may vary seasonally. These services are useful for travelers who prefer not to drive, but they typically require advance booking and may not operate on a flexible schedule.
Public transportation to Zion is minimal, and there is no train service or direct bus route from major cities. Therefore, relying solely on public transit is not recommended.
Parking Considerations
While driving your own vehicle provides convenience, keep in mind that parking within Zion National Park is limited, especially during peak tourism months. Springdale offers paid parking areas, and most visitors park in town and take the free Springdale shuttle to the park entrance.
If you plan to stay in Springdale or nearby accommodations, many lodges include parking and offer easy access to the shuttle system, reducing the need to drive into the park daily.
Travel Times Based on Season
Weather and seasonality can significantly impact drive times and road conditions. In winter months, snow and ice may affect routes from Cedar City or Salt Lake City, particularly on higher elevation roads like UT-14. In contrast, summer brings increased traffic and longer travel times, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Planning your route with seasonal conditions in mind ensures a safer and more efficient journey. Always check road conditions and park alerts on the National Park Service website before departure.
Making Your Decision
Choosing the best airport for visiting Zion National Park depends on a variety of personal and logistical factors. While proximity and convenience are key, travelers should also factor in costs, available flights, ground transportation options, and the nature of their trip. Below are key considerations to help finalize your airport selection.
For International Travelers
For those flying in from outside the United States, Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas is typically the most practical point of entry. As a major international hub, it offers a wide range of direct flights from Europe, Asia, and other regions, along with comprehensive amenities and car rental services. From Las Vegas, Zion National Park is approximately 170 miles (2.5 to 3 hours) by car, making it a manageable and popular route for international visitors.
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is another viable option with international connections, especially for those planning to explore other parts of Utah such as Bryce Canyon or Arches National Park. However, the drive to Zion from SLC is longer—around 310 miles (5 hours)—and may be better suited for extended road trips.
For Domestic Travelers
Domestic travelers have more flexibility and may benefit from using smaller regional airports. St. George Regional Airport (SGU), located just 50 miles from Zion, is the closest commercial airport and offers daily flights from hubs like Phoenix, Dallas, Denver, and Salt Lake City through carriers such as American Airlines, United, and Delta.
Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) is another nearby option, located about 60 miles from Zion. Though it has limited service—primarily regional flights operated by Delta Connection—it presents an efficient route for travelers coming from within the western U.S.
Budget Considerations
Your travel budget can significantly influence airport choice. Major airports like LAS and SLC generally offer lower airfare due to competition among airlines and higher flight frequency. However, these savings may be offset by longer drive times and higher transportation costs to the park.
On the other hand, flying into SGU or CDC might involve higher ticket prices due to fewer carriers and routes, but the shorter drive to Zion can reduce rental car costs, fuel expenses, and travel fatigue. Comparing the total cost—including airfare, ground transportation, and accommodation—will help determine the most budget-friendly option.
Time Efficiency Factors
If maximizing time at Zion is a priority, proximity becomes critical. St. George Regional Airport is the best choice for those who want to spend more time exploring and less time driving. It’s especially ideal for weekend getaways or short trips.
Travelers planning to visit multiple parks in Southern Utah or take scenic road trips may find that starting at LAS or SLC provides better access to a broader range of destinations. These airports also offer more flexibility in terms of flight times and rental car availability.
When making your decision, consider not only how you’ll get to Zion, but also how airport choice aligns with your overall travel plans, such as visiting Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon North Rim, or other nearby attractions.
Summary of Key Decision Factors
| Factor | Best Airport Option |
|---|---|
| Closest to Zion | St. George Regional Airport (SGU) |
| Best for International | Harry Reid Intl. (LAS) or SLC |
| Cheapest Flights | LAS or SLC |
| Most Convenient for Short Trips | SGU |
| Best for Road Trips or Multi-Park Visits | LAS or SLC |
By weighing these factors, you can select the airport that best suits your itinerary, preferences, and budget—ensuring a smooth start to your Zion National Park adventure.
Choosing where to fly into for Zion National Park depends on your priorities—whether it's a quick drive from St. George, a budget-friendly fare to Las Vegas, or a grand road trip from Salt Lake City. While each airport offers its own perks, weighing flight costs, driving time, and convenience will help you land the best start to your Zion adventure. Ready to plan your itinerary? Map out your route, book early, and prepare to be amazed by Utah’s canyon country.