zion national park
Famous for its beautiful red sandstone cliffs, slot canyons, and the Virgin River, Zion National Park is a breathtaking destination in southwest Utah. Zion offers activities for all types of visitors, including hiking, beautiful drives, rock climbing, wildlife viewing, biking, camping, river activities during summer months or simply just taking in the majesty of nature.
BASIC FACTS ON ZION
LOCATION: Utah
SIZE: 147,242 acres (59,598 hectares);
FOUNDED: November 19, 1919; the oldest national park in Utah.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring (March-May) & Fall (September-November)
HOW MANY DAYS: 1-3 DAYS
ROAD TRIP SUGGESTION: UTAH’S MIGHTY 5 ROAD TRIP (7-Day Itinerary OR 10-Day Itinerary); AMERICAN SOUTHWEST ROAD TRIP (10-Day Itinerary OR 14-Day Itinerary)
NOTE: Reservations might be required to enter the park during peak seasons and you might need additional info about the park in order to have a smooth travel. Please VISIT HERE for latest information about the park.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
HIKING: Zion is famous for its stunning hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging trails. Some popular hikes include:
- Angels Landing Trail: Angels Landing Trail is the most well-known trail in Zion, and among the most thrilling hikes in the US. It features breathtaking views high above the valley floor with the last ascent is mounting a small ridge and parts of chain-assisted rock scrambling. NOTE: For people who are terrified of heights, there are exposed parts, which might be mentally taxing. Plus, since it is a very popular hike, there may be extremely long lineups. So, it is advised to get to the trailhead much earlier before you wish to begin your hike. And, remember, to hike to Angels Landing will require a permit. DETAILS HERE
- The Narrows: Hike through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, where you wade through the Virgin River. Hiking this trail can be done in two ways. Option 1: Begin at the Riverside Walk and hike upstream as far as to Big Springs (10 miles) before hiking back out, without a permit. Most people hike up 3-4 miles and then back. Option 2: Hike the Subway, the top-down Narrows hike 2-day 16-mile thru-hike in the Left Fork of North Creek. This technically difficult hike requires exposure to cold water and canyoneering skills. Permits are required. DETAILS HERE, and MORE HERE.
- Canyon Overlook Trail: This is a short and enjoyable hike that offers one of the best views in Zion. Starting close to the Zion-Mount Carmel tunnel, it is only a mile out and back. Enjoy an incredible sweeping perspective of Zion Canyon with this rather easy ascend. Also, along the way, there’s a natural cave to explore. It is a popular spot, especially around sunrise, so try to get here early since parking is limited.
- Emerald Pools: Lower Emerald Pool and Upper Emerald Pool are connected by this short, popular trail. Depending on where you start and how far you go, this hike can range from 1.5 to three miles. The most accessible Emerald Pool is the lower one, which is mainly flat. The climb up to the upper pool ascends a few hundred feet in height but is still less than a mile longer.
- Other top hiking trails: The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk (Gateway to the Narrows); Observation Point via East Mesa Trail; The Watchman Trail; Pa’rus Trail.
Take a drive on Mount Carmel-Zion Highway. This picturesque drive, which winds for 25 miles and passes through the Mt. Carmel tunnel, links the park’s east entrance with the visitor center. NOTE: The park is only accessible by car during the off-season, and there are very few parking spaces. You can only take the shuttle from April through October.
Visit Canyon Junction Bridge. This is where you should take the famous picture of Watchman Peak and the Virgin River. For a more epic picture, visit in the evening for the sunset.
Venture Kolob Canyons. This is a tiny area of the park located north of Zion Canyon Scenic Drive which features its own visitor center in addition to a few hiking trails.
