Planning a Zion Trip in 2026? Here’s What the Tunnel Closure Means for RVs

October 15, 2025
Divider
A black and white image of a mountain range on a white background.

Core Answer: What RV Travelers Need to Know

Starting January 1, 2026, the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel will be permanently closed to oversized vehicles including RVs, trailers, and buses. RV travelers will no longer be able to drive directly through the tunnel between Zion’s South Entrance near Springdale and the East Entrance toward Mount Carmel Junction.


The good news is that there are several RV-friendly alternate routes around Zion. Options include traveling through Kanab on U.S. 89, detouring north through Cedar City and Highway 14, heading south via Colorado City and Highway 389, or looping around on I-15 to the East Entrance. Each route has unique scenery and considerations.


In this guide, we will walk through all your options so you can confidently plan your Zion RV trip in 2026. We will also explain why Kanab makes the perfect basecamp, with guided adventures available through All Ways Adventure.

Zion National Park

Why the Zion Tunnel Closure Matters for RV Travelers

The Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel has long been a gateway between the east and west sides of the park. Oversized vehicles could once pass through with a special permit and ranger escort, but that program will end in 2026.


For RV owners, this means:

  • Permits will no longer be available.
  • Route planning becomes essential.
  • Detours may add 30–90 minutes of drive time.



The key is to understand your options in advance so your trip is smooth and stress-free.

Alternate RV Routes Around the Zion Tunnel

1. The Kanab Route (U.S. 89)

Best for: Scenic drives, RV-friendly highways, convenient access to Kanab.


  • From the East Entrance of Zion, head south on U.S. 89 toward Kanab.
  • Roads are wide and RV-friendly with services like fuel, groceries, and campgrounds.



Why it works: Kanab is not just a detour but a destination. Known as “Little Hollywood,” it is the gateway to adventures like Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon, The Great Chamber, and Coral Pink Sand Dunes with All Ways Adventure.

2. The Cedar City and Highway 14 Route

Best for: Travelers heading toward Bryce Canyon or Cedar Breaks.


  • Exit I-15 at Cedar City and take Highway 14 east.
  • Highway 14 climbs to 10,000 feet, with steep grades and winding turns.


Why it works: This route is incredibly scenic with alpine forests, lava fields, and sweeping overlooks. It is best in summer but can be icy or impassable in winter.

3. The Colorado City Route (Hwy 389 / AZ-59)

Best for: RVs coming from Arizona or those seeking flatter roads.


  • From Hurricane, take Highway 59 south (becomes 389 in Arizona).
  • Reconnects with U.S. 89 near Fredonia and Kanab.


Why it works: This route avoids high elevation and provides access to the Arizona Strip, a remote desert region with hidden gems like Toroweap Overlook at the Grand Canyon, a route best done with an expert guide from All Ways Adventure.

4. The Long Loop: I-15 to the East Entrance

Best for: Larger RVs and drivers who prefer interstate travel.


  • From Springdale, drive north on I-15, then connect to U.S. 20 or Highway 89.
  • Adds distance but avoids steep climbs and tight curves.



Why it works: This is the smoothest choice for big rigs or anyone pulling a trailer.

The Grand Canyon

Common Misconceptions About the Zion Tunnel Closure

  • “I can still buy a tunnel permit.” Not true. After January 1, 2026, permits will not be issued.
  • “This only applies to commercial buses.” False. All oversized vehicles are included.
  • “There’s only one detour route.” In reality, multiple routes exist with different pros and cons.

Expert RV Travel Tips for Visiting Zion in 2026

  • Plan extra travel time for detours.
  • Check weather conditions, especially on Highway 14.
  • Fuel up before entering remote stretches.
  • Use RV GPS apps to confirm road grades and safe routes.
  • Book campsites early since demand will increase.

Why Kanab is the Best RV Basecamp

Kanab is at the crossroads of all major alternate routes, making it the most convenient hub for RV travelers.

From Kanab, you can:

  • Reach Zion’s East Entrance easily.
  • Access groceries, RV parks, and repair services.
  • Join All Ways Adventure tours for canyoneering, off-roading, hiking, and rappelling.


The closure can be turned into an opportunity to discover Kanab’s hidden gems and make your trip even more memorable.

Limestone formation in Kanab Utah

How to Prepare for Your 2026 RV Trip to Zion

  1. Map your detour in advance.
  2. Reserve RV campsites early.
  3. Stay flexible with timing and routes.
  4. Consider booking guided tours to maximize your time.

Additional Resources

Your Zion RV Adventure Awaits

The 2026 Zion tunnel closure does not mean skipping the park. With multiple RV-friendly detours and Kanab as a welcoming hub, you can still enjoy a world-class adventure.


Make Kanab your basecamp and let All Ways Adventure guide you through slot canyons, red rock trails, and unforgettable landscapes. Book your adventure today and turn your detour into the highlight of your trip.

Divider
A piece of torn paper on a black background.
A hand holds a piece  of petrified wood
By Jillian Mielke October 14, 2025
Discover the ancient beauty of petrified wood in Southern Utah. Join All Ways Adventure for a guided fall tour through this fascinating natural wonder.
A person navigates a narrow, orange sandstone canyon, wearing a helmet and gear, reaching out to walls.
July 31, 2025
Curious about Zion canyoneering or rock climbing? Learn the key differences, gear needs, and expert tips to choose your ideal adventure.
A woman is sitting on top of a rock overlooking a canyon.
By Jillian Mielke July 16, 2025
A personal tribute to the beloved North Rim Lodge—its memories, meaning, and the canyon community it touched. A reminder to savor the places and people we hold dear.
A man and a woman are holding a dog in their arms.
By Jillian Mielke July 7, 2025
Hike Zion with Wren, our beloved trail dog! From cow pie baths to canyon storms, discover her story—and request her on your next guided adventure with All Ways Adventure.
People walk through a stream that flows through a canyon.
By Jillian Mielke June 27, 2025
Beat the heat with early starts, shady canyons, and cool rides. All Ways Adventure customizes summer trips in Southern Utah for comfort, safety, and unforgettable desert experiences.
A man is standing in the middle of a canyon.
June 6, 2025
Explore the best canyoneering in Utah just outside Zion. Discover top routes, expert tips, and unforgettable adventures—no permits required. Plan your private guided trip with All Ways Adventure.
Canyoneering vs Hiking in Zion
May 24, 2025
Torn between hiking and canyoneering in Zion? This guide breaks down the key differences so you can pick the adventure that fits your style, skill level, and thrill factor—no guesswork needed.
Canyoneering with Kids
May 24, 2025
Wondering if Canyoneering in Zion is safe for beginners? Discover what to expect, expert tips, and how to start your first canyon adventure with confidence.
A man and a child are climbing up a rock wall.
By Jillian Mielke May 9, 2025
What began with low expectations became one of our most heartwarming trips—proving that open hearts, not trip notes, shape the best adventures.
A view of the mountain surrounded by clouds
By Written by Jillian Mielke originally in July 2021 May 6, 2025
Conquering self-doubt on Mount Rainier: a journey of resilience, gratitude, and finding strength through community and nature’s challenges. An unforgettable adventure and personal transformation.
Utah
April 6, 2025
Discover secret slot canyons, epic stargazing, and expert travel tips in Kanab—your perfect base for Zion National Park adventures. Skip the crowds and explore the Southwest like a local.
A dirt road going through a desert landscape with mountains in the background
April 5, 2025
Explore the top 9 adventure-filled activities in Kanab, Utah! Perfect for thrill-seekers looking to experience stunning landscapes and outdoor fun.
A woman is standing on top of a cliff wearing a helmet and shorts.
March 3, 2025
Avoid the 6 most common rappelling mistakes with expert guidance. Stay safe, use the right gear, master techniques, and enjoy a stress-free canyon adventure!
Zion National Park
March 3, 2025
Explore the 5 sections of Zion’s Angels Landing trail—what to expect, safety tips, and why this epic hike belongs on every adventurer’s bucket list.
By Stephanie Kichler February 26, 2025
Why Kanab? Stay Here, Go Anywhere
Zion National Park with kids
February 1, 2025
Plan a family trip to Zion! Explore kid-friendly hikes, top trails, and family adventures with our guide. Perfect for outdoor fun with kids.
Tour Guide in Zion
February 1, 2025
Discover how guided tours in Zion National Park provide expert insights, ensure safety, and create unforgettable memories while exploring breathtaking landscapes.
By Stephanie Kichler January 31, 2025
The start of a new year is a time to dream big and set intentions for the months ahead. You might be resolving to get fit, spend more time outdoors, or embrace new adventures—we see you, and we’re here to celebrate and support your journey. At All Ways Adventure, we believe there’s no “perfect” time or fitness level required to explore the great outdoors. The best time to start is right now, just as you are.
The Narrows
January 24, 2025
Explore The Narrows stunning hiking trail in Zion National Park, Utah, where you trek through the Virgin River surrounded by towering canyon walls.
Zion Guide Route
January 24, 2025
Plan your Zion National Park trip with expert tips on top attractions, scenic routes, and travel guides. Explore Zion's breathtaking trails and unique landscapes.
By Stephanie Kichler January 17, 2025
The Southwest’s mesmerizing landscapes—dramatic slot canyons, sweeping deserts, and red rock vistas—are more than just a feast for the eyes. They are home to delicate ecosystems, sacred cultural sites, and centuries of natural and human history. Exploring these areas requires more than curiosity—it demands responsibility. Leave No Trace (LNT) principles provide a practical and ethical framework for enjoying these environments while preserving them for future generations. At All Ways Adventure, we embrace LNT as part of our commitment to responsible exploration. Whether you’re canyoneering through stunning narrows, hiking off-the-beaten-path trails, or rappelling down sandstone cliffs, our expert guides help you experience the Southwest while leaving minimal impact. Here’s how to adapt the seven LNT principles to your Southwest adventures—and how All Ways Adventure can help you go beyond, go guided, and go responsibly.
Zion's Geology
December 23, 2024
Discover the fascinating geology of Zion National Park—learn how tectonic uplift, ancient deserts, and the Virgin River shaped this breathtaking landscape.
green trees on rocky mountain faces
December 12, 2024
Explore Zion National Park’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes! Discover its towering sandstone cliffs, ancient cultures, and conservation legacy. Plan your adventure today with All Ways Adventures!
By Stephanie Kichler December 9, 2024
The holiday season is here, and what better way to celebrate than with gifts that inspire adventure, preserve our planet, and support local communities? Whether you're shopping for an avid explorer, a first-time adventurer, or anyone in between, this guide has something for everyone.  At All Ways Adventure, we’re more than a guiding company—we’re a family of adventurers passionate about exploring, protecting the natural world, and creating experiences that are inclusive for all. This guide features some of our favorite books, local shops, conservation non-profits, and adventure-ready gear to help you or your loved ones keep exploring all year long. From the desert canyons to snowy trails, these gifts celebrate the spirit of adventure, the importance of diversity in the outdoors, and the power of making a meaningful impact.
By Stephanie Kichler November 25, 2024
As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month , we reflect on the long-standing connection between Indigenous communities and the lands we love to explore. These peoples, with their rich history, culture, and relationship to the land, have shaped the Southwest for thousands of years. All year long, it’s vital for visitors to deepen their understanding of these sacred places, not only as scenic destinations but also as living history and cultural treasures. The Southwest is home to some of the most remarkable archaeological sites, ancient pictographs and petroglyphs, and sacred cultural landscapes that are integral to the identity of Indigenous peoples. As adventurers, hikers, and explorers, it is our responsibility to honor and respect these spaces—this is especially true during Native American Heritage Month when we have the opportunity to reflect on their history, contributions, and ongoing stewardship of the land.  Below, we will explore how we can engage with the Southwest responsibly, the importance of preserving cultural heritage, and the twenty Visit with Respect tips to help visitors protect these fragile landscapes. But beyond just practical tips, this guide will offer insight into why these actions are important and how we can each make a difference in ensuring these sites are preserved.
Zion winter hiking
November 15, 2024
Planning a winter hike in Zion National Park? Discover insider tips, trail conditions, and the best routes for your skill level in this comprehensive guide.
wildlife in Zion
November 15, 2024
Discover Zion National Park's incredible wildlife, from majestic bighorn sheep to soaring condors. Learn where to spot them and best viewing practices.
Zion Weather
By Stephanie Kichler November 15, 2024
Explore Zion National Park year-round! Discover seasonal highlights, weather tips, must-do hikes, and how to plan the perfect adventure rain or shine.
A man and a woman holding hands on their wedding
November 13, 2024
Say ‘I do’ with a breathtaking Zion Utah wedding or elopement. Embrace epic landscapes and adventure elopement ideas that make your big day truly unforgettable.
By Stephanie Kichler November 5, 2024
There's no better way to savor autumn than to explore the beautiful tapestry of changing colors in and around Zion National Park . With this 2024 leaf-peeping guide, we're taking you through the most scenic spots at the right times and elevations, with a splash of science for those who love understanding our natural world! With no further ado, here's where you can experience autumn's magic in Zion, Bryce Canyon, the Grand Canyon, and beyond.
people walking through canyons
October 21, 2024
Explore the best canyoneering spots in Kanab & East Zion! From thrilling rappels to scenic slot canyons, this guide highlights top locations and tours!
man and woman packing a car
June 26, 2024
Planning a Zion adventure? Here's your go-to guide for what to pack in every season, so you're always prepared and can focus on enjoying your trip.
A woman and a child are climbing a rock wall.
June 3, 2024
Canyoneering combines hiking, climbing, and swimming to navigate slot canyons and waterfalls. Learn about the skills, gear, and safety measures involved.
Lexus 4X4 Off Roading
June 3, 2024
Discover Lexus 4x4 off-road performance, ideal terrains, and essential gear. Learn about top trails and how this is better than jeeps for zion off-road.