Zion with kids (8, 4) and dog (Riverside, Springdale: day cares, construction, camping)

[naport]

Hello,

We'll be in Zion for between 2 and 5 nights tent-camping in Watchman Campground. (We have 2 nights reserved one week, then will visit family nearby, then have another 3 nights reserved the next week.) Not sure if we'll use one or both reservations.

What do you think is an optimal length of stay in Zion with kids? We want to do some short (<3 miles) day hikes and see if they have a junior ranger program. Are there any particular trails or activities you'd recommend?

Thanks so much in advance.

[SouthernBelleInUtah]

I don't remember seeing any dogs there. Are you sure you can take the dog?

[motormaker]

Dog rules at Zion.

Zion National Park - Pets (U.S. National Park Service)

Looks like pets are OK at the Watchman Campground, but it would be wise to check with them.

[Jasmine728]

I don't think I would take my dog, especially in the summer. It is the DESERT, your dog can't go on trails anyway.... so he would be left in the heat at your campsite? Do him a favor and leave him home.

[jfitt]

Or, if you take your dog with you, your dog can have a mini-vacation at Doggy Dude Ranch right outside the park in Springdale, Utah I don't know anything about it, but every time we drive by on our way to eat at Oscar's we smile at its name!

[InSandy]

Originally Posted by Jasmine728

I don't think I would take my dog, especially in the summer. It is the DESERT, your dog can't go on trails anyway.... so he would be left in the heat at your campsite? Do him a favor and leave him home.

You can't take the dog on the shuttle, or on any trails but Pa'rus, and you can't leave him alone anywhere, campground, car etc. So you can't really see Zions with the dog. Either use one of the day cares or find a good kennel you like at home.

As far as what to do and how long to stay. A two day visit is sufficient if all you will be doing is the most popular main canyon trails (Riverside, weeping Rock, Emerald Pools...) They do have a good jr ranger program, and a nice IMAX film, history museum and visitors center. If you want to do more like canyoneering, tubing, or other activities like visit Grafton then a couple more days would be good.

There will be construction delays in the canyon this summer, check the park website for more info (though the current info there is not updated with the newest schedule.)

[WFW&P]

The watchman trail is <3mi but I think it would be too much for the youngsters.