Canyoneering guides on the technical slots, outfitters gearing you up for The Narrows, shuttle drivers and Springdale lodge staff — a lot of Zion’s workforce runs on tips. Here’s who to tip and how much.
Zion is an adventure hub: guided canyoneering through the slot canyons, Narrows and Subway trips, rock climbing, e-bike and shuttle tours, plus the lodges and restaurants in Springdale and at Zion Lodge. Guides and outfitters here rely on gratuities, and with the busy shuttle-only corridor and spotty signal, a scannable tip code is often the easiest way for a grateful guest to say thanks.
| Who | Customary tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Canyoneering / climbing guide | 15–20% (or $20–$40 per day) | Technical, safety-critical guiding earns the top of the range. |
| Narrows / hiking outfitter | 15–20% | For guided hikes and outfitted trips into The Narrows or the Subway. |
| Shuttle / tour driver | $2–$5 per person | On guided shuttle and e-bike tours. |
| Gear-shop / outfitter staff | A few dollars | For fitting drysuits and boots for The Narrows. |
| Lodge housekeeping | $2–$5 per night | At Zion Lodge and Springdale hotels. |
| Restaurant server | 15–20% | At Zion Lodge and in Springdale. |
Customary US guidance; technical guiding sits at the higher end. See our guide tipping guide.
A Zion canyoneering guide sets your anchors and keeps you safe on rappels — skilled, high-responsibility work that earns 20% or $20–$40 a day. Narrows outfitters, e-bike and shuttle guides follow the usual rates. As everywhere in the parks, the friction is cash: you’re out on the trail, signal is patchy, and your small bills are gone. A code the guide can show you closes that gap in seconds once you’re back in Springdale or on Wi-Fi.
Zion’s canyoneering guides and outfitters work where cash and signal both run thin. A ScanToTIP QR code lets travelers tip by phone with Apple Pay, Google Pay or card the moment they’re back in range — and guests can cover the processing fee so it isn’t taken out of the tip.
15–20% of the trip, or roughly $20–$40 per day — toward the top for technical, safety-critical guiding.
A few dollars for the staff who fit your drysuit and boots is a kind touch; tip a guided Narrows trip 15–20%.
On a guided shuttle or e-bike tour, $2–$5 per person is customary. The free park shuttle is a public service and not tipped.
Free to start, no hardware, works anywhere a phone gets a moment of signal. No cut taken from tips.
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