They sell tickets the day before online

The shuttle stops to early for that kind of photography, I’m planning on staying inside the park for a chance to get some of these. I was going to get some night shots while staying outside the park but too much light pollution. Check park hours but I’m not sure about driving up the canyon without a pass for the lodge.

The previous reply to your questions was quite good. I advise you to get to the park as early as possible before checking into the hotel (which will be there when you're finished touring) and go back in the morning after checking out. Depending upon the crowds, which lessen later in the afternoon, you'll be able to see many of stopping points and even catch the sunset. The next morning you can get there early and get to see the remaining places you may have missed. Happy travels.

TA does not show the post you are referring to but From my travel log I believe it is the “Emerald Falls”. The bridge is across the street a short walk from where the shuttle stops and at the lodge inside Zion. The hike itself is easy to moderate up to the falls but the upper two were closed due to rockslides.

Sorry, I did not hear about such a service.

about 5 min. Wait time is short. They are well organized and stay on schedule