Zion National Park Marks Milestone: 100 Millionth Shuttle Boarding Celebrated

Zion National Park, Utah (

ABC4

This week, Zion National Park reached an impressive landmark with 100 million rides on their shuttle system since it began operations in 2000.

To tackle issues like traffic jams, growing numbers of visitors, and environmental strain within Zion Canyon, the Zion Canyon Shuttle System was established as per statements from park authorities. The development involved collaboration between Zion National Park staff and entities such as the Town of Springdale, the Federal Highway Administration, the Utah Department of Transportation, along with additional collaborators.

Park officials stated that the shuttle system is crucial for safeguarding Zion’s stunning landscapes and enhancing the overall visitor experience, handling millions of passengers each year. This service simplifies exploring the park by eliminating the stress associated with traffic and finding parking spots.

In 2000, when the shuttle system began operations, Zion welcomed around 2.4 million visitors each year. By 2024, however, visitor numbers had surged to nearly 5 million. “Despite this expansion, the shuttle continues to be a key component of our park management approach,” stated Zion National Park in an official statement.

ABC4.com stopped by Zion National Park and chatted with several tourists regarding the shuttle service.

“It’s the most efficient method; instead of driving and struggling to find a parking spot, which is nearly impossible, consider this approach. Plus, once you’re inside the park, everything becomes much easier,” explained Mark Keefer and Elena Szeto from California.

The shuttle system was created to reduce car traffic within Zion Canyon, and visitors informed ABC4.com that this has made their visits more seamless and pleasant.

It was quite challenging to locate a parking space since it appears very bustling around here,” stated Mia Starns and Mary Hughes from Florida. “However, the shuttle service proved extremely helpful… We ended up having to park outside, indeed in that small town over there, hence the shuttle made things much easier.

The shuttle system has been modified to become more environmentally friendly. In September 2024, Zion National Park switched its complete shuttle fleet to zero-emission electric vehicles, making it the first national park to achieve this.

“We always have easy access to transportation when moving from point A to point B. This completely eliminates traffic jams. I believe our park passes cover the cost, and it’s definitely worth the investment,” said Kathleen Smith from Minnesota during an interview with ABC4.com.

To celebrate the 100 millionth visitor, the park presented them with a special T-shirt along with a gift bag sponsored by the Zion National Park Forever Project.

It’s likely our fifth visit to this place,” Mark and Elena went on. “We simply adore this region; it’s stunningly picturesque. We also really value the coordination between the park shuttle and the city shuttle. Definitely a sensible approach rather than attempting to navigate through traffic.

Jeff Bradybaugh, the superintendent of Zion National Park, stated in a press statement that the shuttle system embodies the efforts of all those working there to “preserve this extraordinary location.”

Latest headlines:

Zion National Park commemorates the 100 millionth passenger boarding the shuttle.
Maintain smooth and healthy skin throughout the summer with O’Keeffe’s.
Good4Utah Road Trip: East Canyon State Park
Head outside this summer and experience top-notch tech assistance courtesy of Verizon.
10 Must-See Attractions in Utah for Your Summer Bucket List

To get the most recent updates on news, weather, sports, and live videos, visit ABC4 Utah.