Experience Zion National Park

Zion National Park

The oldest national park in Utah, Zion National Park is also the most visited. With more than 2.5 million visitors annually, it's becoming one of the West's must-see sites. Massive stone towers rise from the forested canyon floor, with intermittent pools and waterfalls feeding into the Virgin River. Zion Canyon walls range in color from reds and pinks to white and gold.

Most of the park is seen from the Zion Canyon floor, instead of the rim like many other national parks in Utah. Hiking difficulty varies from easy, paved walks that can accommodate wheelchairs and strollers to more strenuous climbs with switchbacks and steep inclines.

It's also a great place for rock climbing and rappelling, backpacking, or riding along the Pa'rus bike trail. Coming from Hwy. 89 east into Zion Canyon, Hwy. 9 goes through a mile-long tunnel carved through the mountain in the early 1900's. Periodically, large windows reveal brief glimpses of Zion's beauty. There are size restrictions on vehicles going through the tunnel, and bicycles cannot be ridden through, but can be driven through. Hikers should bring plenty of water, as summer temperatures in Zion get into 100 Fahrenheit. Winters are mild, with rain and light snow possible.

There is a plethora of other activities at Zion National Park other than hiking. For the nature lover, starting in spring with the multitudes of flora and abundance of wildlife you can be awed by the grace and majesty of mother nature. Photography is a great way to capture all the colors of the seasons. Many species of watchable wildlife make the park their home, along with 271 different kinds of birds. You can obtain a checklist for birdwatching at the visitors' center. Park ranger-led activities are another popular undertaking. Programs include guided walks, short talks at the visitor center and evening programs at the campground amphitheaters and Zion Lodge. All programs are free. Check the weekly schedules posted at the park visitor centers and bulletin boards throughout the park for times, places and subjects.

Near the south entrance to Zion lies the Visitor's Center for maps, permits and gifts, and Zion Lodge, with a gift shop and dining inside. Springdale, the gateway to Zion, has several gift shops, restaurants, lodging, and an IMAX theater.