Exhibit 23.1 CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 333-36207) pertaining to the Zions Bancorporation Employee Stock Savings Plan of our report dated June 22, 2001, with respect to the financial statements and schedules of the Zions Bancorporation Employee Stock Savings Plan included in this Annual Report (Form 11-K) for the year ended December 31, 2000. Salt Lake City, Utah June 29, 2001