Route map
Start / endStopsHalfway
Las Vegas to Zion: the drive
The drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park covers 160 miles (257 km) and takes about 2 hr 45 min without stops, mostly on I-15 and SR-9.
It's an easy drive that leaves plenty of time to explore along the way. Allow about 3 hr 15 min with breaks.
We found 7 worthwhile stops within about 25 miles of the route, including Seven Magic Mountains, Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire State Park and Snow Canyon State Park.
| Main roads | Approx. miles |
|---|---|
| I-15 | 125 |
| SR-9 | 32 |
Best time to go: April to June and September to November. Summer is hot and crowded; winter is quiet.
Best stops between Las Vegas and Zion
Before you leave Las Vegas
- 2
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
A 13-mile one-way scenic loop 25 minutes from the Strip. A timed-entry reservation has been required for most of the year.
Photo: Wilson44691 · CC0
- 1
Seven Magic Mountains
Seven towers of neon-painted boulders in the desert just off I-15 south of Las Vegas. Free, quick and very photogenic.
Photo: Bobak Ha'Eri · CC BY 3.0 - 3
Hoover Dam
Walk across the 726-foot Art Deco dam, or take the power plant tour. The Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman bridge walkway gives the best view.
Photo: Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) · CC BY-SA 4.0 - 4
Valley of Fire State Park
Nevada's oldest state park: fiery red Aztec sandstone, petroglyphs at Atlatl Rock and the short Fire Wave hike. Too hot for hiking at midday in summer.
Photo: Clément Bardot · CC BY-SA 3.0 - 5
Snow Canyon State Park
Red and white Navajo sandstone, lava tubes and petrified dunes just outside St. George. A mini-Zion without the crowds.
Photo: Wilson44691 · CC0
Near Zion
- 6
Kolob Canyons (Zion)
Zion's quiet northwest corner, with a 5-mile scenic drive right off I-15 at exit 40 and no shuttle needed.
- 7
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Shifting pink sand dunes between Zion and Kanab, where you can rent sandboards.
Photo: Staplegunther (David Jolley) · CC BY-SA 3.0
Where to stay in Springdale
Utah's most visited park: The Narrows, Angels Landing and a canyon floor you reach by shuttle from Springdale. Springdale is the closest town with lodging. Rooms near national parks sell out in peak season, so book early.
Map not loading? See places to stay near Springdale →
Renting a car for this trip
Most travelers fly into Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) and pick up a car there. Booking a round trip from the same airport is usually much cheaper than a one-way rental. A mid-size car is fine for all paved roads on this route. You only need an SUV for the optional dirt-road detours.
Need a car?
Rental cars at LAS
Compare prices from major and local agencies at Harry Reid International Airport in one search.
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Trip cost calculator
Estimate gas or charging, hotels and car rental for a round trip from Las Vegas to Zion:
Las Vegas to Zion road trip FAQ
How long is the drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park?
About 2 hr 45 min without stops for 160 miles via I-15 and SR-9. With breaks for fuel and food, allow around 3 hr 15 min.
What is the halfway point between Las Vegas and Zion?
Mesquite, NV is about halfway, roughly 80 miles from each end. It's a good place for fuel and a meal.
Can you drive from Las Vegas to Zion in one day?
Yes. At 2 hr 45 min of driving it's a comfortable one-day trip. Leave early so you arrive with daylight to spare.
What are the best stops between Las Vegas and Zion?
Top stops include Seven Magic Mountains, Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire State Park and Snow Canyon State Park. See the full list with detour times above.
How much does gas cost from Las Vegas to Zion?
About $21 one way in a car that gets 28 mpg with gas at $3.60 a gallon. Use the calculator on this page to plug in your own car and prices.
When is the best time to visit Zion?
April to June and September to November. Summer is hot and crowded; winter is quiet.
Route calculated from OpenStreetMap data and checked 2026-11-09. Drive times assume normal traffic and no stops.
