Park City's POWDR wins contract to run concessions in Zion National Park

For the first time in more than 50 years, Zion National Park in Southern Utah has a new concessionaire. Park City-based POWDR has been awarded a 10-year contract to manage and operate lodging, food, retail and visitor services within the park starting in 2025, the company announced in a recent press release. POWDR will operate at Zion through newly formed subsidiary, Destination Zion Lodge LLC.

POWDR will replace the current contractor, Xanterra, which has provided services at Zion since 1972. In a statement the National Park Service said the “transition is not expected to affect visitors.”

POWDR assumed management of concessions and lodging at Stovepipe Wells Village in Death Valley National Park in January. The company also manages several ski areas, including Snowbird, Woodward Park City and Copper Mountain. The company is known locally for its prior ownership of Park City Mountain ski resort before selling to Vail Resorts. The compnay is recognized for its management of notable destinations like Snowbird ski resort, Woodward Park City and Stovepipe Wells Village in Death Valley National Park.

“We are honored and excited to have been selected as the new concessioner for Zion National Park,” POWDR CEO Justin Sibley said. “As a Utah-based company with deep roots in the outdoors, we understand the importance of preserving and protecting these incredible natural spaces while providing exceptional experiences for visitors.”

POWDR said its plans for Zion include upgrading lodging facilities; expanding food and beverage options; and introducing educational programs that connect visitors with the park’s geology, ecology and cultural history. According to the release, the company also aims to reduce the park’s environmental footprint by implementing renewable energy solutions and waste reduction initiatives.

“Zion is a true national treasure and we are committed to being responsible stewards of this remarkable landscape,” said Sibley. “Through our collaborative partnership with the National Park Service we will work to enhance the visitor experience while minimizing our impact on the environment.”