UTAH, Zion National Park with Kids – Science lessons on geology, weathering, and erosion are one thing, but seeing the red rocks and stacked layers of sandstone in person at Zion National Park takes science to new heights.

Located in Southwestern Utah near the town of Springdale, many families travel to Zion National Park as part of a wider road trip including Utah’s Mighty Five parks or the Grand Canyon. Wanting to see it all can be alluring, but you need several days (if not longer) to appreciate Zion National Park with kids, and to fully experience the canyons created by the powerful Virgin River.

This 229-square mile park is a dream for hiking families and outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails range from easy to extreme and the diversity of activities will appeal to everyone in the group if nothing else for the bragging rights that come from trekking the most popular trails.

Even better for families, Zion is easily accessible from Las Vegas (just a two-hour drive) and although the elevation definitely is higher than sea level – it is unlikely that you’ll feel the effects of altitude or need time to acclimatize.

Although there are 18 marked trails (and an unlimited amount of wilderness trail areas) to explore, here are four family-friendly activities, plus one great place to stay and one great place to eat while visiting Zion National Park with kids.

1. Challenge Yourself with a Canyoneering Adventure Day

We are fans of trying new adventures both when we travel and at home. And Zion National Park is the perfect location to learn something new and push yourself beyond your comfort level with canyoneering and rock climbing. We chose to reserve a full day family canyoneering adventure day with Zion Adventure Company. Rappelling, rock scrambling, stemming through narrow canyon walls. You name it, we did it.

Our guide led our private party of two (Zion Adventure Company strives to provide private experiences for families whenever possible) through two secluded canyons outside of the national park. Best of all, the day fostered trust and communication between my daughter and I as we learned to be “on belay” and ask each other for assistance when needed.

And when my tween daughter got nervous as I descended down a 60-foot rappel? Our guide reassured her and hooked her to him for a tandem rappel that she still talks about. Website: www.zionadventures.com

2. Reach New Heights at Angel’s Landing

Angel’s Landing offers a hiking experience unlike many other trails and ranks among the most famous of Zion National Park “must do’s.” While this intense but visually and physically rewarding hike (you’ll climb to just under 1,500 feet from the canyon floor) is not advisable for anyone who is afraid of heights, it is accessible for families with children who are comfortable with a bit of adrenaline. Carved steps, chains, and a few guard rails are there to help you feel more confident.

Truth be told, the most difficult part of hiking Angel’s Landing is not the narrow trail with long drop offs, but the amount of people on the trail as the day progresses. While you might be tempted to sleep as part of your vacation, I’d highly recommend setting your alarm clock for an early morning and catching the first or second shuttle leaving the Zion Visitor Center in the morning.

And once you make it to the top? Take a few pictures for the memory books, but then start your descent before you feel like you are part of a Tetris game as the trail becomes more crowded. Not sure the kids can make it all the way to the top? You can go as high as Scout’s Lookout – a landing area where the views are still impressive – without making your way up the narrow spine to the top.

3. Wade through the Narrows

The Bottom-Up Narrows hike isn’t just a favorite trail, it is a rite of passage for Zion hikers and a unique trek for families with kids. Young adventurers will love wading through the waters of the Virgin river while parents appreciate the narrowing canyon walls and reflections of sunlight that cast rays of gold and red as you go deeper.

Not sure you want to get wet? There is no avoiding water on this hike. Rent dry gear and a walking stick from a local outfitter like Zion Adventure Company in the colder months and bring a dry bag to store your camera or phone.

This hike is weather dependent, based on the Cubic Feet per Second levels and flash flood conditions of the Virgin River (the Park Service closes the Narrows when the CFS is over 150, but I’d recommend no higher than 100 CFS with younger children especially). Click here for more about the Narrows Bottoms-Up route.

4. Explore the Terrain Along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

Cars are not allowed along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive – the main thoroughfare through Zion National Park – from mid-March through October. But you can drive from the Springdale entrance to the eastern entrance along the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway. This 10-mile stretch offers switchbacks, sweeping views, and a drive through a mile long tunnel through the stone mountain.

Once you’ve reached the eastern section of the park, you’ll find many pullouts to park your car and explore what feels like uncharted terrain over slick rock and through canyons. Of course, if you do go exploring, be sure to keep track of your route and maintain a sense of where you parked.

One of the most impressive views is of Checkerboard Mesa – a coned landform with known for horizontal scratches made my wind and vertical cracks from thousands of years of weathering that resemble a checkerboard.

1 Great Place to Eat at Zion: The Whiptail Grill

There are no shortage of restaurants in the town of Springdale, just outside the park. For a local favorite, we asked our canyoneering adventure guide for a suggestion and found ourselves at The Whiptail Grill. Our only mistake was waiting to eat there on the last night and regretting that we didn’t have the chance to go back.

This Mexican fusion restaurant once served the community as a Texaco gas station and still reflects the look of a service station with an outdoor patio under the original awning.

Portions are large, but you’ll probably be hungry after a day of adventures. Start off with an appetizer like the Goat Cheese Chili Relleno and then come up with a plan of what to choose between fish tacos, spaghetti squash enchiladas and Mexican pizza. (Or have everyone order one of each and then share!)

Be sure to arrive early as seating is the first-come-first serve. Website: www.whiptailgrillzion.com

Best Place to Stay When Visiting Zion National Park with Kids: Cable Mountain Lodge

While many families will enjoy nights under the stars at one of Zion’s campgrounds, we opted for a suite at Cable Mountain Lodge. Not only is the property located just outside the main entrance gate to the park, the suites are reasonably priced and offer kitchens, comfortable accommodations, and a pool (and hot tub) to play and relax in after a long day of hiking.

Rooms and suites have private terraces, many of which overlook the massive red rock formations which put on a special show at sunset with the reflection of the setting sun.

You’ll also appreciate being within walking distance of several good restaurants and the nearby village where you receive a discount by showing your room key at the local market, IMAX movie theater and shops. Website: www.cablemountainlodge.com

Map for Your Trip Planning:

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From the echoes of the adhān to the rainbow-color stalls that line the souks, it is impossible to ignore the blend of sights, sounds and tastes that come to live in this Moroccan city. Nor would you want to. Instead of being overwhelmed, families can soak up the energy and thrill of the city with these family-friendly activities. And don’t miss my recommendations of one great place to eat and one great place to stay while visiting Marrakech with kids.

Activity 1: Imagine what life was like at the Medersa Ben Youssef

Medersa Ben Youssef in Marrakech.

Out of all the historic sites in Marrakech, walking into the Medersa Ben Youssef took my breath away. A visit is a chance to learn what life was like as a student at this Koranic theological college, once the largest medrasa in Morocco. Dating back to the 14th century, the walls of the Medersa Ben Youssef are covered in geometric, floral zellige tilework and calligraphy. I found myself wishing I knew Arabic to be able to read the murals.

Kids will enjoy visiting the 130 dormitories which at one time were filled with 900 eager students and peering out the small windows across the inner courtyard. The blend of marble from Italy, cedar wood from the Atlas mountains and the (now empty) pool in the courtyard made me dream of redecorating my home with even just one of these features. Medersa Ben Youssef is open from 9 am to 6 pm. Click here to find out more about the Medersa Ben Youssef.

Activity 2: Buy spices at the Mellah

Shopping for spices in Marrakech.

While most people think of the Spice Square as the go to spot to buy spices, I wanted to venture away from the crowded souks to get a taste of daily life and spices at the Mellah market. The Mellah was home to the large population of Jews once living in Marrakech and known for artisans and spice traders.

At the Mellah Market you’ll see (and smell) everything from chicken and rabbits being sold to spices like curry, turmeric and saffron. Yes, this can be overwhelming for young children (my daughter still talks about throngs of people that were there to get a chicken for dinner).

I loved that we saw locals shop for everything they need here, from food to pots and pans to black soap for their next trip to the local hammam. Although the presentation of spices isn’t as elaborate as the sellers in the main souks, the prices are less expensive (bartering is always recommended) and the local experience is unparalleled. In fact, don’t be surprised if you are offered a cup of Berber tea while you are perusing.

Tip: Depending on the age of your children, seeing chickens and rabbits being slaughtered can be overwhelming. Consider preparing children for what they might see as locals use this market for their daily shopping needs.

Activity 3: Get lost in the souks

Inside a Marrakech carpet souk

You cannot go to Marrakech without getting lost in the souks. My family would tell you that it was my mission to get us lost, feeling like it was a rite of passage to any trip to Marrakech. The maze of shops rivals any mall in the United States.

The souks of Marrakech are organized by specialty, even if it seems like every turn looks the same. For instance in the Souk des Teinturiers you will find linens and scarves and can learn to tie a Berber knot by a shopkeeper. I loved seeing the powdery dyes in a rainbow of vibrant colors, ready to be applied to textiles.

Whether you are admiring the carpets, metalwork or trying on babouche slippers, the trick to any shopping in the souks is to barter, always starting with a price much lower (go for at least half) than the asking price. And? Never be afraid to say no. The souks open at 9 am.

Tip: For a change of pace and perspective, roam the souks early in the morning before they open and fill up. And for children that love cats? Have them keep a daily tally of cats that they see sprawled out in corners around the souks.

Activity 4: Soak up the color at Majorelle Gardens

Marrakech color at Majorelle gardens.

As much as I thrived on the energy from medina, there is an entirely different side to Marrakech outside of the old city walls. And at the Jardin Majorelle, a sensory reprieve was gladly granted, replacing the chaotic buzz with the sing song of birds.

The lush greenery comes alive with over 300 species of plants in the gardens that were the inspiration of painter Jacques Majorelle. Children will love the colors and watching fish and turtles in the ponds.

While I am not a naturalist, and struggle to name varieties of plants, there is something restorative about this being immersed in so much greenery. In fact, in 1966 Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé discovered the Jardin Majorelle and later purchased them to restore the dreamy space to the home of deep and vibrant hues and a museum dedicated to Berber Culture.

Tip: Instead of taking a taxi, take a carriage ride from Jemaa El Fna to get to the gardens–it’s a great way to experience Marrakech with kids. Click here to find out more about the Majorelle Gardens.

1 great place to eat in Marrakech with kids: #98 in Jemaa El Fna

Marrakech seafood at Jemaa el Fna.

The main square of Marrakech – Jemaa El Fna – comes alive at night with foods stalls and music. Although my daughter wanted to see a snake charmer and the many dancers that fill the square during the day, I had been looking forward to experiencing the night scene that transforms the square into a food mecca.

For the ultimate in local delicacies, make your way straight to stall #98 for an eat-with-your-hand meal unlike any other. While I am not a connoisseur of fried food, I quickly found myself elbow deep in fried seafood, french fries, eggplant salad and hot bread. The casual picnic table atmosphere is a great way to meet locals and tourists alike. Be patient if all of the seats are full, as they turn over quickly.

Tip: Go early to grab a before dinner soda or tea from the rooftop of the Le Grand Balcon Cafe Glacier to watch the sun set over Jemaa El Fna.

1 great place to stay in Marrakech with Kids: Riad Camilia

Courtyard inside the Riad Camilia courtyard, Marrakech.

Deciding where to stay with kids in Marrakech can be tricky. Options range from large resorts and hotels that lure you with swimming pools and golf courses to a riad (a traditional Moroccan house) in the heart of the medina. For a luxurious and authentic experience, the Riad Camilia is the ultimate pick.

Appointed with rich textiles, Moroccan lamps and unique art, the riad offers six rooms – each with their own distinctive style. Families will appreciate room 6 which has two bedrooms plus a separate sitting area. Though, you probably won’t be spending much time in your room thanks to a lush inner courtyard that beckons for afternoon tea or the rooftop which boasts panoramic views.

The rooftop is also the best place for breakfast, where you will feast on tea, breads, jams and behrir – Morocco’s version of pancakes – each morning. Worried about finding the riad in the maze of the medina once you arrive in Marrakech? Don’t be. Nicolas – the riad’s generous and thoughtful manager – will meet your taxi and lead you on foot to the front door.

One note: the Riad Camilia (like many riads in Marrakech) only allows children over 12 years old unless you are reserving the entire riad. Click here to find out more about the Riad Camilia.

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