▲ 5 r/ZionNationalPark+1 crossposts

Zion alone with 3 kids?

Hi everyone. I am now a single mom of kids ages 11, 5 and 2.5. I have never been to a national park before but I made a vow to get outdoors more and teach my kids the beauty of being outdoors. I want to take them to Zion in October but would like your opinions on this. I'm not worried about how my 11 or 5 year old will do since they love adventure and are well-behaved but my biggest concern is my 2.5 year old and how she will do on the hikes. I read that the lower emerald pools, canyon overlook and the riverside walk leading to the narrows are all great family hikes. What's realistic to do in 1 day? I live in Los Angeles so my plan is to drive to Vegas very early, hang out and spend the night at a friend's house there and then wake up around 5:00am the following day to head to Zion, spend the day there and return to Vegas for the night before heading back home the following day. I would love if someone can help me with planning the hikes, what we should or shouldn't do and any other recommendations. Also, if you think I'm insane going alone with 3 kids I'd like to hear that, too.

EDIT TO ADD: I don't mind staying in Springdale and then driving back home the next day. As long as I can find lodging under $300.

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u/southbaymom — 6 days ago

Mammoth Lakes May 2027

Hi everyone. In my 32 years, I have never been to a national park. Crazy, I know! As much as I’d love to visit Yosemite, I’m still too much of a chicken for that drive up. I have done some research and highway 395 seems doable for me. I plan to go up there next year around May but I’d love to pre-plan. What are some must see + do things for a first timer? I will be having my children with me (ages 12 and 5) so kid-friendly please. Any tips on where to stay would be awesome too.

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u/southbaymom — 8 days ago