Well, I dont think you will have to worry about snow down there. They dont get it very often and I was just there and there is none now so I am sure you will be fine when you go. I am sure you wont need chains. I have never even used chains and I have lived here all my life. Trust me, the snow is worse here in SLC and we dont even use chains. I doubt you will even see snow when you are down there.

As for Springdale, I am sure that will be a great place for you. As you can see, it is on the south end of Zions and will be fine if you want to stay there as a base. However, when I travel down there, I dont like to be tied to one location so I only stay in one place for one night. Then I move on and find a new place where ever I end up. That way, I dont have to back track to get back to my hotel. I dont think you will have any problems just showing up at most locations here without a reservation. Most places have rooms and you can just move around as you please.

As for the gas, it is like I said, if you gas up and watch the signs they will tell you how far to the next gas station. Just know the limits of the car and you will be fine.

Also, you might want to stop in St. George on your way in. it is a great place and there are a lot of things to see. Also they have some great golf if you like to golf.

Good luck,