Park Comparison
Zion vs Yellowstone
Two iconic parks, different strengths. Here's how they stack up.
At a Glance
Zion Yellowstone
Location UT ID, MT, WY
Size 229.9 sq mi 5,414 sq mi
Visitors (2024) 4,946,592 4,744,353
Crowd Level Very Crowded Comfortable
Entry Fee $35 $35
Best Month February May
Crowd Factor
Annual Visitors
4.9M vs ✓ 4.7M
Yellowstone National Park sees fewer visitors, offering more breathing room.
Congestion Index
8.9 vs ✓ 2.6
Yellowstone is dramatically less crowded — you'll feel the difference.
When to Go
Zion
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Low Moderate High Peak
Yellowstone
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Low Moderate High Peak
Trails & Activities
Total Trails
90 mi vs ✓ 1200 mi
Yellowstone National Park has more trail mileage for exploration.
Zion Top Activities
- hiking 10/10
- canyoneering 10/10
- rock climbing 9/10
- stargazing 8/10
- ranger programs 8/10
Yellowstone Top Activities
- scenic driving 10/10
- wildlife viewing 10/10
- photography 10/10
- hiking 9/10
- backpacking 8/10
Camping
Campgrounds
299 sites vs ✓ 2147 sites
Yellowstone National Park offers significantly more camping options.
Trip Cost (2-Night)
$153 vs ✓ $127
A basic 2-night camping trip costs about $26 less at Yellowstone.
The Bottom Line
Choose Zion if you...
- Want world-class canyon hiking and canyoneering
- Prefer dramatic red rock scenery
- Are an experienced hiker looking for challenge
- Want a certified Dark Sky park for stargazing
or
Choose Yellowstone if you...
- Want to see geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife
- Are traveling with young kids or seniors
- Prefer scenic driving over strenuous hiking
- Want more camping options and in-park services