Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel

Overview

The Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel is a historic tunnel located in Zion National Park, offering stunning views and unique geological features. It connects the Zion Canyon and the east side of the park, providing visitors with a breathtaking driving experience.

The tunnel was carved through the sandstone cliffs in the 1920s and has become an iconic feature of Zion National Park, offering visitors a unique perspective of the park's natural beauty.

Tunnel Scenic Drive

Location

Address

Zion National Park, Springdale, Utah

Neighborhood: Zion National Park

Coordinates

37.298300, -113.029900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$35 (per vehicle)

Children

free (under 15)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

15 minutes

Recommended

1 hour

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• wildflowers
• waterfalls

summer

hot

• extended daylight

autumn

cool

• fall colors
• cool weather

winter

cold

• snowy landscapes
• quiet trails

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check tunnel height restrictions
Bring ID
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella warm clothes

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• altitude
• uneven surfaces

Medical facilities: first aid available in park

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $35 (per vehicle)

parking $10

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, layers for changing temperatures, walking shoes, hiking boots, inappropriate clothing, high heels

Booking Tips

• 2 weeks
• official website
• 48 hours
• available for shuttle

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Zion National Park Official App

Size: 60 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Shuttle schedule, Park information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: McCarran International Airport, Las Vegas

Distance: 250 km

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

rental_car

varies 2.5 hours

public_transport

$50 3.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

shuttle

$1 10 min

bus

$1.50 10 min

taxi

$10 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique geological features, sense of adventure

Historical Significance: Engineering feat of the 1920s, important for park accessibility

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning before 8 AM
Best food at Springdale cafes
Visit the Zion Human History Museum nearby

Local Recommendations

• Try local café in Springdale
• Ask for guide Brian

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

East entrance of tunnel

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Capture the light through the tunnel

Result: Stunning backlit photos

#ZionNationalPark #Utah #ScenicDrive

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas inside vehicles during transit

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit required

drone policy prohibited without permit

tripod policy allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Zion Human History Museum

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Museum

Riverside Walk

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Hiking Trail

The Narrows

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour