Key Highlights
- Zion National Park is the No. 2 most visited national park in the U.S., attracting nearly five million visitors annually.
- A new hotel (the largest in Utah) and a hot springs retreat are opening to enhance visitor experiences in Zion’s surrounding areas.
- Black Desert Resort, now the largest resort in Utah, offers a golf course, pickleball courts, and Plume Spa & Wellness for guests.
- The Emerald Pools bridge at Zion National Park is reopening after two years of construction, providing access to iconic trails once again.
New Hotels and Resorts in the Zion Area
Zion National Park’s popularity as a travel destination continues to grow, with plans for new hotels and resorts. One of the most notable additions is the opening of the largest hotel in Utah, which will offer luxurious accommodations to visitors.
Additionally, a hot springs retreat has opened just outside the park boundaries, providing travelers with an array of therapeutic options after their hikes or other outdoor activities. This 50-pool complex features geothermal soaks and mimicry of famous hot spring destinations worldwide, offering a unique relaxation experience for guests.
Black Desert Resort: Golfing and Wellness
Outside the park in Ivins, Utah, Black Desert Resort has opened its doors to offer golf enthusiasts and wellness seekers an unforgettable experience. The resort’s 18-hole championship course, designed by Tom Weiskopf, provides breathtaking views of the canyon and challenging gameplay with high-tech carts guiding players through lava fields.
For those looking for a more casual activity, Black Desert Resort will debut state-of-the-art pickleball courts in spring 2026, including a “Championship Court” that can host up to 1,000 spectators. The Plume Spa & Wellness center offers various treatments inspired by the surrounding landscape, providing guests with a rejuvenating experience amidst nature.
Emerald Pools Bridge Reopens
A significant update for hikers and nature lovers is the reopening of the bridge that connects Zion Lodge to the Emerald Pools Trail system. This bridge, relocated upstream and designed to withstand flash floods and landslides, restores access to one of Zion’s most iconic trail systems.
The Emerald Pools hike takes visitors through lush scenery, dramatic cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. The trail features three destinations—Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools—each with varying levels of difficulty. This reopened route will allow visitors to experience the park’s stunning landscapes year-round, especially during spring runoff.
Tuacahn Amphitheatre Celebrates 30th Season
Adding to the entertainment options in the area is Tuacahn Amphitheatre, which is celebrating its 30th season. This outdoor theatre hosts concerts and off-Broadway performances, including upcoming shows such as “Finding Nemo,” “Les Miserables,” and “Grease.”
Private Flights Over National Parks
Luxury travelers can now explore Utah’s national parks via private flights departing from Amangiri’s helipad. These bespoke flights offer aerial views of Zion, Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon (located in neighboring Arizona), and other landmarks within the “Mighty 5” national park system.
As a travel enthusiast, I find these developments particularly exciting for visitors who want to explore the diverse landscapes and unique features that make Southern Utah such a special destination. From hot springs to golf courses and private flights, there’s something for every type of traveler in this growing region.