Zion Lodge
Thinking of Staying at Zion Lodge? Get reservations early !
While visiting Zion National Park, we decided to stay at the Zion Lodge, which is located inside the park along Zion National Park Scenic Drive (and open year-round. We liked the idea of being right in the middle of all the beauty!
I took this picture of the deer when we first arrived at the lodge. They seem to be quite tame and used to humans as they were right next to the building. We were able to come within 15 feet before the move slight away.
Copyright 2007 photo by Howard Knudsen |
I woke up at dawn to head out from the lodge to take pictures and before traveling less then half a mile I saw a bunch of "blobs" (it was still sort of dark) on the road. There was a flock of 25 wild turkeys on the road. As I approached they moved to the side and allowed me to take some pictures.
Copyright 2007 photo by Howard Knudsen |
Copyright 2007 photo by Howard Knudsen |
History: Zion Lodge was
designed by architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood in the 1920s. In 1966 the
original lodge was completely destroyed by fire. During the same year, a
new lodge was rapidly built in
about 100 days to begin service again. Unfortunately, the new lodge does
not resemble Mr. Underwoods design. However the lodge did get a face-lift
in 1990 and now has a more rustic appearance.
Our visit was during the off season, so we were able to drive through and park
right at the Lodge.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive shuttle system: From April through late October, visitors are not allowed to drive their vehicles along this 6-mile stretch of road called Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The only exception to this rule is for guest who have reservations for Zion Lodge. No vehicles are allowed to drive past the lodge when the shuttle is in operation. During the winter months, however, private vehicles are allowed access to the scenic drive.
Copyright 2007 photo by Howard Knudsen |
We attempted to rent one of the six suites, but
there were no vacancies even during this less-traveled time in early January.
Twenty of the motel-style rooms were available (they have a total of 75 and also
40 cabins).
We requested two connecting rooms so we could have more space and the kids could
have a separate room. This was a wise choice, because we had plenty of room and
two bathrooms!
Each of our rooms had two queen beds, a large mirrored dresser and a small round
table with two chairs. There was a vanity area outside the bathroom, which I
think is a bonus in motel rooms. And they had
a heat light inside the bathroom
to keep you warm after you exit the shower/bath.
Outside the sliding glass doors of our rooms was a beautiful view of the
mountains. This may be something you might want to request as the scenic
view is obscured by cabins in many rooms or your deck may be on the backside
without a view. We had a small deck with table and chairs. In nice weather, I’m sure
those patios get a lot of use!
When you make your reservation, I suggest you request a room on the parking lot
side of the lodge. That’s where you’ll get the best views.
After getting ice down the hall from my room, I decided to explore the hallways
a little further. I found a large common area with couches and a huge gas
fireplace. If we would’ve stayed another night, it would’ve been fun to play
some card games by that cozy fireplace.
The main lodge has these amenities:
*Gift shop with lots of souvenir items. My daughter bought a deck of playing
cards with pictures of animals and animal facts. We couldn’t get our sons away
from the candy!
*Large activity room with fireplace, tons of board games, tables, couches and a
small stage area. This room would be perfect for family reunion activities. We
were able to take a few board games back to our room to play with.
*Indoor/outdoor Café, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Unfortunately for us,
because it was during the winter, this was closed while we were there.
*Restaurant (open all year long) with a great selection of foods and a
spectacular view of the mountains. Each of our rooms came with 2 free breakfast
buffets, including drinks, which we thought was awesome! Ask about that when you
make your reservations.
*The lodge sells fine art photographs. This one is my absolute Favorite photo of Zion National Park Subway by Ed Firmage.
Emerald Pools hiking trail is right across the street from Zion Lodge. We crossed the bridge pictured below over the Virgin River to start the hike.
Copyright 2007 photo by Howard Knudsen |
Copyright 2007 photo by Howard Knudsen |
Copyright 2007 photo by Howard Knudsen |
Here are some of our Utah Trip Advisor recommendations for your stay at Zion Lodge...
Suggestions:
1. Xanterra Parks & Resorts has a contract with the U.S. Department of the Interior (administered by the NPS) under which it operates Zion Lodge, restaurants, sightseeing tours, retail shops, service stations and other visitor services. The company's goal is to provide services to visitors that will maximize their park experience while simultaneously protecting our national parks' treasures. You may make reservations year-round at Zion, by calling (303) 29-PARKS or (303) 297-2757.
2. As a general rule, accommodations are in heavy demand May through October. Prospective visitors should make their reservations several months in advance, if possible.
3. There are no televisions in the rooms. Bring books to read or games to play at night.
4. Bring your camera to take some great pictures.
5. Another option for Zion National Park lodging is a Bed and Breakfast we stayed at in Springdale.
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