The town of Springdale, Utah sits at the southwest entrance to Zion National Park. The 2000 census listed the population of Springdale at 457 and somehow this small community plays host to many of the visitors to Zion National Park. At an elevation of 3,900 feet Springdale was named in 2008, by Forbes Traveler, as one of the 20 ‘prettiest towns’ in America.

View toward Zion National Park - Springdale, Utah

One visit to this community and the beauty of this small town is immediately evident. Springdale is surrounded by the emerging red-rock formations of Zion National Park and other formations that lie just outside the park.

Two different forks of the Virgin River  (north and east forks) come together in the Springdale area.  Both of these rivers have been major contributors to the erosion, and therefore the creation, of Zion National Park.

Scenic Highway 9 - Springdale Utah - Zion National Park

For Zion National Park visitors, Springdale, Utah offers many excellent lodging, dining and shopping opportunities. In addition to this there are several entertainment options such as the Zion Canyon Giant Screen Theatre where IMAX films are shown, and the O.C. Tanner Amphitheater which offers outdoor entertainment through the summer season.   Several outfitters in Springdale provide gear and guided outdoor adventures for activities such as; hiking, canyoneering, mountain biking, jeep tours, rappelling, rock climbing and more.

History:  This area was visited and inhabited by Native Americans and was explored by early Mormon pioneers in the 1850’s and 1860’s. In 1862 Mormon pioneers settled the Springdale community, and it was the wife of one of these pioneers that suggested the name of Springdale, because of the proximity to some freshwater springs.