Best Maps for Exploring Zion National Park: What You Need & Why It Matters

If you’re heading to Zion National Park, one of the most important things to pack—aside from your boots and water—is a good trail map. With over 90 miles of hiking trails, steep canyon terrain, and limited cell service in much of the park, having the right map can be the difference between an unforgettable adventure and a frustrating day of wrong turns.

But not all maps are created equal.

From digital apps to old-school paper maps to our rugged True North cloth map of Zion, here’s what you need to know before you hit the trails—and which map belongs in your pack.

 

Why You Need a Map in Zion National Park

Zion is breathtaking—but it’s also a maze of narrow canyons, hidden turnoffs, and elevation changes that can throw even experienced hikers off track. Popular hikes like Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Observation Point aren’t always clearly marked, and many areas have no cell reception at all. Don’t rely on your phone’s GPS alone.

A reliable Zion trail map helps you:

-Stay oriented on complex trail networks

-Track mileage and elevation gain

-Spot water sources and emergency exit points

-Discover alternate routes or quieter areas to explore

 

Map Options for Zion National Park

Digital Map Apps

Apps like Gaia GPS, AllTrails, and onX Backcountry are helpful when pre-planning your route or checking elevation profiles. But once you’re in the park, service gets patchy, and GPS apps can drain your battery fast. They’re great tools—until they aren’t.

Paper Maps

You’ll find free paper maps at visitor centers and with some guidebooks. These work fine for general orientation, but they’re not waterproof, often lack detailed backcountry info, and tear easily with repeated use.

Cloth Maps (Like Ours!)

That’s where our Zion National Park Cloth Map comes in. Printed on rugged, waterproof cloth, it’s designed for serious adventurers. It won’t tear, crumple, or fail in the rain—and it features all the major trails, topographic lines, and key waypoints to help you confidently explore Zion’s frontcountry and backcountry.

 

 

Why Our Zion Map Stands Out

• Waterproof & Tear-Resistant: Built to survive rain, sweat, and getting stuffed in your pack.

• Trail-Focused Detail: Includes key hikes like Angels Landing, The Narrows, West Rim, and Kolob Canyons.

• Multi-Use: Works as a sun shade, bandana, or towel in a pinch.

• Beautiful & Gift-Worthy: Vintage-inspired design that looks as good on the trail as it does on your cabin wall.

 

Plan Your Adventure With Confidence

Whether you’re summiting Angels Landing or finding solitude on Zion’s lesser-known trails, a quality map will give you the freedom to explore without second-guessing every junction.

Pack smart. Go further. Trust your map.

Grab your Zion National Park Cloth Map from True North Map Co. before your next trip—and explore with confidence.