Zion National Park - a beautiful stunning park with Hiking Trails and Amazing Views
Zion National Park is a vast and beautiful area with steep cliffs, winding roads and breath-taking views – if you’re willing to make the hike. If that sounds intimidating, please be reassured that there are several family-friendly trails, some of which are wheelchair accessible — so there are hiking opportunities for every level of experience. But if you’re planning on tackling one of the more difficult hikes, make sure you are carrying enough water and food to keep you hydrated and energized.
One of the most popular trails is the Angels Landing Trail, which is accessible from the top of Scouts Lookout. Although the hike to Angels Landing isn’t necessarily challenging, it is definitely steep and narrow. Nevertheless, the view from Angels Landing is exhilarating. You will be overcome by the scope of the lush green forests that spread along the base of the mountains. Alternatively, Scouts Lookout gives you an amazing view of the canyon with a shorter and milder hike.
If you’re looking for an easier hike at a lower elevation, then check out Weeping Rock Trail. It’s a short, leisurely hike that leads to an overhanging cliff where water trickles down to join pools of water below. Unique and easily accessible, Weeping Rock is a nice highlight amongst Zion’s many trails.
Entrance Fees:
Private Vehicle: Valid for 7 days. - $30.00
Admits private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less) and all occupants to Zion National Park, including both the Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyon areas.
Motorcycle: Valid for 7 days. - $25.00
Admits one non-commercial motorcycle to Zion National Park, including both the Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyon areas
Per Person: Valid for 7 days. - $15.00
Admits one individual (without car) to Zion National Park including both the Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyon areas, this is typically used for bicyclists, hikers and pedestrians. Youths 15 and under are admitted free.
A Shuttle Bus operates during the season:
Parking is limited inside Zion, and parking lots at the Zion Canyon Visitor Centre commonly fill by mid-morning. To avoid parking hassles, park in the town of Springdale and ride the free town shuttle to the park. You can park anywhere along the road in town that does not have a parking restriction. To find the shuttle stops look for the ''Shuttle Parking' signs throughout town. If you are staying at a lodge or motel, simply leave your car there and take the shuttle to the park. Tune your radio to 1610 AM for additional information.
How To Use The Shuttle System:
The Springdale Shuttle stops at nine locations in Springdale. The Zion Canyon Shuttle stops at nine locations in the park. The transfer between loops is made at the Zion Canyon Visitor Centre. You may get on and off as often as you like. Riding the shuttle is free. Buses are wheelchair accessible.
During the busy season the free buses run from early morning to late evening, as often as every seven minutes. Times and intervals change with the seasons. Current schedules are posted at each shuttle stop, at park visitor centres, and in the Map and Guide.
Take Your Time - Buses run frequently throughout the day, as often as every seven minutes. You do not need to rush to catch one. Take your time to plan your visit. Use the exhibits outdoors and the information inside at the Zion Canyon Visitor Centre to make the most of your time. Ranger presentations at the Zion Human History Museum are a great way to learn more about the park before you ride the shuttle up canyon. The bookstore has maps and publications that can augment your visit.
What to bring for a day trip on the shuttle:
- Water/Snacks-Walking Shoes/Map
- Sunscreen/Hat/Sunglasses
- Camera/Binoculars
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Dress for the weather and bring everything you need for a day in the park.
- Be sure to bring your Inter-agency Pass or Park Entry Receipt for re-entry into the park.
Weather:
Zion is known for a wide range of weather conditions. Temperatures vary with changes in elevation and day/night temperatures may differ by over 30°F. In summer, temperatures in Zion National Park often exceed 100°F/38°C. Zion experiences monsoons from mid-July into September that results in an increased risk of flash floods. Always be aware of the threat of storms and lightning and be prepared for a wide range of weather conditions. Winters are generally mild.
Scenic Byway 12: Utah’s All-American Road
Conveniently, Zion and Bryce Canyon are just an hour and 20 minutes away from each other. Travelling from Zion to Bryce Canyon you will drive through some amazing rock arches on the Scenic Byway 12 and took in the beauty of the surrounding Dixie National Forest and Red Canyon. The Scenic Byway 12 is an easy and quiet road with a beautiful landscape, which makes for a comfortable drive from park to park.
For more information on America's National Parks call 01243 779 737 or click on the link below.
Link to America's National Parks
