With its barbecue amenities and impressive views, the Grotto Picnic Area is one of the most iconic and picturesque places to visit in Zion National Park. It lies on the Grotto Trail, a shaded walk between the peaks of Great White Throne and Lady Mountain. Take a break in this serene rest stop after a morning of hiking.
Bring snacks, drinks and food to cook on the barbecue grills in this picnic area in an opening in the woods. Make sure to clean up after yourselves to help preserve the fragile forest environment. The picnic area also has restrooms and water fountains to fill up your bottles before embarking on another hike.
Look for several historic cabins and other buildings in these parts. View the exterior of the historic Grotto Residence, which is the oldest remaining building in Zion National Park. It was constructed in 1924 and now serves as a residence for visiting artists. Not quite as old, Zion Lodge has cabins, hotel rooms and restaurants for a rather luxurious park experience.
Purchase firewood for your barbecue before you enter the park. Collecting firewood from the forest is prohibited. Note that children’s activities with park rangers often take place in and around the picnic area. Kids can learn about the ecology and natural history of the park from these programs.
Continue along the adjacent Kayenta Trail, which is somewhat strenuous, with narrow elevated sections. See the spectacular sights of the nearby Emerald Pools area, including a waterfall passing over the trail and basins of water with a green appearance from algae growth.
The Grotto Picnic Area is on the Grotto Trail next to the Virgin River, in the southwestern corner of Utah. It is accessible via the smaller Kayenta Trail that branches off from the main path.
Explore the rest of this part of Utah for other recreation areas such as the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Dixie National Forest and the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. You will need to purchase the national parks pass to access The Grotto.
