Zion National Park officials have announced significant changes that will restrict large vehicles on the iconic Zion–Mt. Carmel Highway starting on June 7, 2026. This decision, first introduced in 2024, aims to enhance safety and improve traffic flow through the park, which saw over 4.7 million visitors last year.
Beginning this summer, vehicles exceeding 35 feet 9 inches in length, 7 feet 10 inches in width, 11 feet 4 inches in height, or 50,000 pounds will be prohibited from accessing the highway between Canyon Junction and the park’s east entrance. This restriction also applies to trucks with trailers and combined vehicles longer than 26 feet from hitch to rear axle or exceeding 50 feet in total length.
The changes primarily target recreational vehicles and motor coach buses, which will be barred from crossing the highway’s bridges and tunnels. Vehicles modified with roof racks or tire adjustments will also fall under these new regulations. Park officials have noted that larger vehicles struggle to safely navigate the road, particularly at the narrow Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, where escorts are required for larger vehicles to pass.
Park Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh explained that many contemporary touring vehicles and RVs were not anticipated when the road was constructed. He emphasized that these changes are the result of years of collaboration with transportation agencies and the tourism sector. The goal is to enhance the visitor experience without compromising the integrity of this historic route, which was completed in the early 1930s and is designated as a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
A study conducted in 2016 revealed that free-flowing traffic near the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel occurred only about one-third of the time each hour due to the need for accommodating larger vehicles. By implementing these restrictions, park officials believe they can alleviate congestion while preserving the historical features of the highway.
As the summer season approaches, park officials are urging visitors to check their vehicle dimensions and weight to avoid any disruptions during their trip. With visitation numbers expected to remain high, these proactive measures aim to ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for all guests at Zion National Park.
