Think that you can only plan a stay in a Zion cabin or glamping tent in the warmer months? Think again! With heat or heated blankets in every unit, you can stay warm and cozy even on the coldest winter nights. This means that you can plan a stay at Zion Wildflower Resort during Zion’s Secret Season!
Winter is sometimes referred to as Zion’s Secret Season because it’s a favorite among locals, but is often overlooked by tourists. While winter brings cooler temperatures to Southern Utah, it also brings some unique activities, beautiful snowy landscapes, and more.
Much of the region experiences mild winter temperatures, so you can still enjoy activities like hiking. But the higher elevations, including Zion National Park, do see a few snowfalls each season. If you’re lucky enough to be luxury camping near Zion when winter weather strikes, it’s important to know a few safe driving tips. Whether it’ll be your first time driving in snow or you’re an experienced pro, keep reading to learn a few tips to stay safe on the roads during your visit.
Pack an Ice Scraper
Scraping the ice and snow off your car can be annoying, not to mention cold. But before you give into the temptation to let it melt or blow away on its own, take the time to scrape your car clean.
Driving when you can’t see out of the windows is incredibly dangerous. And if ice dislodges from your car while you’re speeding down a highway, you run the risk of obscuring the view of any drivers behind you if it hits their windshield.
If you’re flying for your stay in Angels Landing hotels and renting a car, don’t forget to pack an ice scraper, or pick one up as soon as you arrive so that you can safely clean your windows.
Check Your Tires
The pressure in your tires will fluctuate as the temperature drops. Before you head out, check your tires and add air if needed. This will help you keep your traction and avoid getting stuck on the road with deflated tires.
If you’re renting a vehicle for your Zion cabin stay, check the tire pressure as soon as you leave the airport. Don’t assume that the air levels will be good from the pick-up time.
Take it Slow
By far the most important tip to remember when you’re driving on snow and ice is to take it slow. It can sometimes be difficult to gauge just how slick roads are. Ice can be difficult to see on the roads, and even a fine dusting of snow can mask the slick ice underneath. If you’re driving a rental car, you might not know how the vehicle will perform on slick roads. And if you aren’t confident driving in winter weather, you might not yet be confident on the roads.
Slowing down will allow you to react if your car begins to slide, and will allow you to more carefully watch the roads for patches of ice.
Watch the Road Up Ahead
A drive through Zion National Park during your stay in Angels Landing hotels, especially this time of year, means enjoying some incredible sights. There’s something uniquely beautiful about the park when it’s covered in snow and ice! But avoid enjoying the sights until you can come to a safe stop in an overlook or parking lot. If you want to take in the views, use pull-offs and parking lots to do so rather than doing it while driving.
In addition to taking it slow, it’s important to keep your eyes on the road and watch as far ahead of you as you can for ice or wet spots. While it might be cold outside, wildlife is still active in the park this time of year. Watching the road ahead will allow you to see any animals crossing the road or walking on the edges.
Know What to Do If You Start to Slide
Making sure that you understand exactly what to do if your car does lose traction can help you avoid an accident.
The first time you feel your tires slide even just a little on a slick road, it will be tempting to jerk your wheel as you attempt to straighten your car back out. But doing so will only send your vehicle even further into a tailspin.
Instead of jerking your wheel, hold the wheel steady, and take your foot off the gas. Don’t hit your brakes, but instead, gently turn the wheel in the direction that your back tires are sliding. If you’re still moving straight, keep your wheel turned straight. Allow your car to slowly come to a stop.
Planning Your Winter Zion Cabin Stay
If you’re planning a Secret Season stay in a Zion cabin or glamping tent, knowing these driving tips can help you stay safe on the roads if winter weather strikes. But winter weather isn’t a guarantee this time of year in Zion. It’s just as likely that you can enjoy dry, warmer days in the park this time of year.
If you aren’t comfortable driving in snow and winter weather does strike, don’t fret. There are tons of other activities you can enjoy during your stay in the best hotel Zion has to offer. Zion Wildflower Resort is a short drive away from St. George, where you can visit museums, do some shopping, choose from endless restaurants, and more.
Snow in Zion doesn’t necessarily mean snow in other nearby parks. Check the forecast at state parks in the region, like Quail Creek State Park, which is at a lower elevation and often enjoys mild weather and temperatures.
Need another great reason to book a winter stay in a Zion cabin or glamping tent? How about the chance to save big on your stay? Right now, when you book a stay of two or more nights at Zion Wildflower Resort, you’ll enjoy a 30 percent discount on your booking! This sale only lasts until February 29, so book today to take advantage of these big savings!
