Things to do in Zion, Things to do near Zion

Local Zion Secrets

Everyone loves to travel and explore new places that they haven’t been before. Some trips go better than others and this can be for many different reasons. One of the best ways to get the best experience from your trip is to know a little about the local secrets that each town has – the hidden gems in the community. That is exactly what I want to provide: How to have a better Zion vacation.

When To Travel

If you’re like me, you like to travel but not with hundreds of random strangers. Nature is best enjoyed with family and friends in quiet serenity. Zion is one of the most visited National Parks in the United States, but it does have times that are slower than others. Towards the end of July and the beginning of August are great times to visit. School hasn’t started yet in most places, but you won’t have a hard time booking a hotel room or waiting in lines to get on the shuttles.

If you aren’t a fan of the heat, November is a great time to travel. Zion has mild winters which allows the majority of the trails to stay open. The national park website has status updates each day of which trails are closed and why. There aren’t many people that travel during this time and hotel prices are down from their summer rates.

Parking

With the increase of visitors each year, parking in Zion and Springdale has grown into a nightmare. Only the people that wake up early are lucky enough to get a parking spot at the visitor’s center. There are parking lots that have recently been created to help alleviate traffic and allow people to stay closer to the park. However, you have to pay to stay there. Most of the hotels in Springdale allow free parking if you are staying with them. From there, you are able to take the free shuttle that circles around the town to the entrance of the park. Doing so will take away the stress of having to waste extra time finding the ‘best’ parking spot. Be careful though, most hotels issue a parking pass of some kind and check them daily and tow those cars that are parked without the permits.

Shuttle Rides

Zion has a lot of history and no one knows it better than the park services. The shuttle that runs inside of the park has an audio track played through the speakers as it makes the journey up the canyon to the Temple of Sinawava. It explains how Zion came to be, certain events that happened inside the park and different names of the mountains. The facts are extremely interesting, and the ride is a great time to rejuvenate your energy before continuing your hike.

If you arrive to Springdale later in the day and don’t have time for a hike, a round trip on the shuttle takes about 80 minutes with all the stops. While on the shuttle, look out the window and keep your eyes open as it is very common to spot wild animals roaming in their natural habitats.

Surrounding Areas

Springdale sits in the middle of many great attractions. With Zion so close, many people overlook all the other things they are able to do. Bryce Canyon National Park and Snow Canyon State Park are only an hour away. Sand Hollow State Park is 45 minutes away and a great place to cool off after a day of hiking. It features beautiful red cliffs that surround it and a spot to cliff jump as well as beaches to relax and play with your family in the sand. Sand Hollow has a store to rent boats or wave runners as well. There are many incredible mountain biking trails that are close including those that are featured by the world-famous Red Bull Rampage. Other locations that are close by include Silver reef, Valley of Fire and Coral Pink sand dunes. Unpack once and spend more time exploring these great areas!

Rent Bicycles

A little-known fact about the shuttles is that they have spots on the front where bikes can be stored. A fun activity to do is take these bikes up to the last stop in the canyon and then ride them back down to the visitor’s center. The majority of the ride is downhill, allowing for a relaxing ride with the fresh air blowing across your face. As you get closer to the entrance of the park, there will be a sign that says “Pa’arus trail access”. This trail is one of the few that are bicycle accessible. It has a wonderful view of the back-country parts of Zion and another spot where wild animals are known to be seen. A road bike rental can cost less than $50 for the entire day, allowing for more exploring to be done after cruising in the Zion.

Canyon Overlook

This is a less known trail that has a great view of Zion Canyon that differs from that of Angels Landing. Canyon Overlook is accessible by driving your car over to East Zion. It lays immediately to the left after exiting the first tunnel from the Springdale side. There is a small parking lot to the right, and not too much farther up the road lies more parking. The hike itself is 1-mile roundtrip and levels out after the initial stairs that lie at the beginning of the trail. The trail ends with a safety fence and a plaque describing the part of Zion that you are able to see from there.

Tubing

During summer, Southern Utah reaches temperatures of 100 degrees +. It is important to stay hydrated and cool! The Virgin river flows through Springdale and is calm the majority of the year. This is the same river that carved out Zions’ mountains for millions of years! There are businesses in Springdale that rent out tubes to float down the river. This is an activity that is great for kids as well as adults. The company that rents the tubes also provides transportation as you exit the river to take you back to where you left your car. Depending on the time of year and how fast the river is flowing, it takes about 2 hours from start to finish.

Bumbleberry Pie

One of the keys to having a great experience in Zion is to stop by the Bumbleberry Gift Shop and try some bumbleberry pie! We make them fresh in our own bakery as well as jams, jellies and other baked goods. Your sweet tooth will love you for stopping in! After stopping by the bakery, our gift shop has plenty of fun souvenirs, t-shirts, hiking shoes and more for you to browse. You won’t regret treating yourself to some pie and ice cream. As the saying goes, the first trip you come for Zion. The second trip, you come for Bumbleberry Pie!

October 1, 2018

Things to do in Zion, Things to do near Zion, Tips for staying in Zion, Utah Hiking

Hikes of Zion

The number one reason visitors flock to Zion National Park each year is for the incredible hiking opportunities. With the park covering a vast 150,000 acres of land, there is plenty to explore. When it comes to different hikes within the park, Zion presents nearly endless possibilities. Hikers can enjoy strenuous hikes that take days to complete or just take a light stroll through paved walkways.

Since there are many choices of easy, moderate, or strenuous hikes, visitors of all experience and fitness levels will enjoy the trails of Zion. Even those who are not avid or experienced hikers will be able to fill many days with entertaining hiking excursions. With three difficulty levels to choose from and something different to enjoy on each trail, every hike through Zion will be an unforgettable adventure.

Easy

Just because a hike is easy doesn’t mean it’s boring. The easy hikes throughout Zion National Park have many amazing views of the landscape. Most easy hikes take less than two hours to complete and will be on smooth trails. Hikers will not encounter difficult obstacles to overcome during these hikes, either. Though the hikes are short and leisurely, they are packed with experiences that will create unforgettable memories.

Canyon Overlook Trail

This short, easy hike has an unbelievable scenic view without having to hike for miles or drudge up steep ascents. At about a mile long, this hike takes less than an hour to complete, which means many hikers will spend more time marveling at the view than they spend hiking.

To get to Canyon Overlook Trail, visitors should go to the east end of Zion National Park. They will park their vehicles just before the Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel. From here, it is a short hike from the road that leads into a large, breathtaking cave. When hikers emerge from the cave, they will be treated to an amazing view of the park. This is the perfect hike for every visitor who wants to see the best of Zion and take some Instagram-worthy photos.

Lower Emerald Pools Trail

Round trip this hike is about 1 mile and takes about one hour. The paved trail leads you to 3 stunning waterfalls and a lower pool that makes it all worth it. The access for this trail is extremely convenient as well. You enter through the opposite side of the lane from the Zion Lodge parking lot. Unffortunately, this trail is closed during winter months, but for those visiting during the other parts of the year, be sure to add this to your Zion Hike Bucket List.

Pa’rus Trail

This trail takes about one and a half hours to complete and is approximately 3.5 miles. The hike is ideal for beginners. The paved trail takes you from the Virgin River near the south campground to the Zion-Canyon junction. The access for this trail is conveniently located near the south campground at Zion.

Beautiful iconic scene of The watchman at sunset, Zion National Park, Utah.

Riverside Walk

This hike is about as leisurely as a stroll through Zion can get. An even walking surface and shaded environment make this trail perfect for families. There are many incredible sights to see, including surroundings that are coved with hanging gardens of wildflowers especially during summer and spring, and a refreshing surprise at the end of the trail.
Riverside Walk takes hikers from the Temple of Sinawava to the Virgin River. This two-mile-long hike is known as the Gateway to the Narrows because the end of this trail is the beginning of the popular Narrows trail. When the entrance of the Narrows is reached, hikers can wade and splash through a refreshing pool of water before they head back. This short hike, which takes most hikers around two hours to complete, is an incredible way to experience the beauty of Zion without embarking on a long, strenuous journey.

Watchman Trail

Among the many beautiful rock formations throughout Zion National Park is the Watchman. This formation shoots from the ground, towering above the vast red rock landscape. The Watchman Trail doesn’t climb to the staggering heights of the Watchman, but it does give a fantastic view of the formation from ground level.

The Watchman Trail is a three-mile-long hike that is a hidden gem within Zion. It is usually not crowded, so hikers can enjoy some peace and quiet on this hike. This hike takes about three hours to complete and will lead hikers along a red rock trail which is rough in some portions but can be completed by even the most inexperienced hikers. Since this trail is not shaded, it is best done in the morning or evening to avoid the scorching midday sun. Hikers and their families will love the connection they will feel with Zion during this light hike.

Weeping Rock Trail

Round trip to weeping rock trail is about 0.8km/0.5mi and to reach the trail it takes about half hour. The trail is about 98 feet, easy hike, and minor drop-offs. Smooth trail ends at rock-alcove with drenched springs. The walls are decorated with wildflower hanging gardens during summer and spring time. Trailside exhibits are possibly not available and access to weeping rock trail is through weeping rock parking lot.

Photo Credit: justmecpb on flickr

Moderate

Trails that are deemed moderate are usually difficult enough to challenge hikers of all experience levels in terms of distance and technical challenges. However, they are not so difficult that a physically fit novice wouldn’t be able to complete them. Moderate hikes can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. They can be challenging both physically and mentally, but these challenges are well worth it. After completing one of these moderately difficult hikes, hikers will feel an overwhelming sense of accomplishment.

Zion Narrows

There are two ways to hike the Narrows, but the least strenuous way to hike it is from the bottom up. This route doesn’t require technical skills like climbing and rappelling, but it still gives an incredible view of the slot canyon. Steep canyon walls, beautiful rock formations, and a floor of shallow water from the Virgin River will engulf hikers in the Zion landscape.

The entrance of the Narrows, at the end of Riverside Walk, ushers hikers into a completely different world. The average length of this hike is anywhere from three to eight miles and takes anywhere between two to six hours to complete. This narrow slot canyon is an out and back trail, which means hikers can turn around whenever they please. However, making it to the Wall Street portion of the Narrows should be the goal, as this portion of the canyon, with its high, smooth walls, is an unforgettable experience. Hiking any portion of Zion Narrows will be the highlight of a trip to Zion.

Photo Credit: zionify by ramesh iyanswamy on 500px.com

Observation Point

There is no better view of Zion National Park than the one found at Observation Point. For hikers that can handle it, this moderately strenuous hike is a must-see while in Zion. Not only are the views incredible, but the physical challenges along the way will bring out a sense of pride and accomplishment in all who complete it.
The Observation Point Trail begins at the Weeping Rock Trailhead and leads up to the area of Observation Point. The trail is eight miles long and will take the average hiker around four to six hours to complete. The climb is steep and leads hikers up to elevations of over 2,100 feet. The trail is hard paved rock, manmade from the canyon walls, so the rocky terrain isn’t an issue in most areas. The strenuous part of this climb is the steep elevation and the unrelenting sun. However, once the trail is completed, the view at the top is one of a kind.

Middle Emerald Pools Trail

The Middle Emerald Pools trail takes you to both the middle and lower pools. Round trip, the trail covers about 2 miles and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. As with the Lower Emerald Pools Trail, the Middle Emerald Pools Trail is closed during the winter.

Views to Zion National Park from Angels Landing hike

Angels Landing

Perhaps the most well-known trail in Zion National Park, Angels Landing is full of incredible views, staggering heights, and daring challenges. The high elevations and narrow trails on this path will test the mental and physical fortitude of all who attempt it.
Angels Landing begins at the Grotto trailhead and leads hikers along a precarious red rock ridge. This five-mile-long trail, which takes around two to four hours to complete, features switchbacks, rocky terrain, and breathtaking heights. This trail gets so high and so precarious that it is not recommended for hikers who are uneasy with heights. Once hikers have reached the end of the hike they will have an unbelievable view of Zion. Those who dare embark on this journey will find that is was well worth the trip.

Difficult

Difficult hikes are certainly not for inexperienced hikers. These hikes are long, grueling, and can take many days to complete. They often involve camping in the wilderness, using technical skills like rappelling and climbing, and having advanced knowledge of the landscape. The terrain of difficult hikes is incredibly unpredictable, ranging from steep climbs to deep pools of water and everything in between. Embarking on a difficult hike through Zion will be one of the most difficult and rewarding experiences of a hiker’s life.

Kolob Arch

This gorgeous trail along the red rock landscape leads to a massive arch formation with a beautiful scenic backdrop. Seeing Kolob Arch, which is the second largest arch in the world, is something that experienced, physically fit hikers can do in Zion National Park. It is one of the most beautiful formations in the park and provides endless photo opportunities.
This hike will take an entire day but will not require camping overnight. The 14-mile-long trail takes most hikers a full twelve-hour day, hiking from dawn to dusk. The trail is long, exposed to the harsh sun in many places, and has moderately rocky terrain. Whether hikers take Kolob Canyons Road at Lee Pass or Hop Valley Trailhead to get to Kolob Arch, it will be a long journey with a beautiful, scenic payoff.

The Barracks

Avid hikers who are looking to get away from the crowds on more popular trails will love hiking The Barracks. This section of Zion is on the East Fork of the Virgin River. It gives visitors all the amazing views they would see on the North Fork, but none of the crowding.
This 20-mile-long journey is not for the faint of heart. This hike takes most people two or three days to complete. Parts of this hike are along Parunaweap Canyon where the layers of red rock on the canyon walls surround hikers. Other portions are in the heat of the sun on the rocky landscape. Since this hike requires camping, hikers will need to obtain the proper camping permits and make sure they adhere to park rules.

Zion National Park, Utah, USA

West Rim Trail

The West Rim Trail packs all the scenic beauty of Zion into one journey. Along the trail, hikers will see gorgeous trees and other plant life, small streams, wildlife, and, of course, stunning red rock. This strenuous hike is not for inexperienced hikers, but those able to make the journey will be glad they did.
This trail begins at Lava Rock and winds its way through the most beautiful areas of the park. If hikers desire, they can even take a side trail to hike Angels Landing. When hiked straight through without detouring to other trails, West Rim Trail is about 18 miles long and takes two days. The amazing sights on this trail should put it on every experienced hiker’s Zion bucket list.

Pick a Trail and Enjoy the Hike

Hikes through Zion give visitors the chance to see many incredible natural sights, test their physical and mental strength, and feel a sense of pride and accomplishment after hiking any of the above trails. Around every turn, there is something new and exciting to experience while on a hike in Zion National Park. All visitors have to do is pick their trail and let their journey begin.

September 15, 2017

Things to do in Zion

Zion Climbing Skills

Zion Canyon has 2,000feet cliffs, the biggest wall in ZNP, Utah. People visit the state from all over the world to climb these big walls as it is one of the famous multi-pitch free-climbing destinations in the United States of America. The ZNP offers a several number of Grade IV climbs are available for beginners and intermediate level climbers. These climbs are about 800-1,500feet, but the big walls are recommended only for experienced climbers because they are difficult to climb for inexperienced hikers. The ZNP has several sports climbing and top-roping areas as well. People of all age groups can enjoy the trip as Zion National Park has several interesting adventures and activities.

Photo Credit: Mark Miller on flickr

The best time to climb big walls is between March and May, and between September and early November. Plan it properly if you are visiting Zion in hot summer months because the summer will be very hot, the temperatures rise around 100 degrees and the walls will be very hot to climb particularly at no shade areas.

Bouldering Regions

The main canyon has access for two Bouldering areas. The first entrance is at south it’s about 40yards from the west, the boulder is as big as a house and it offers several options and also causes a lot of problems. The other entrance is about 0.5miles north of the south entrance. On west, you can see the Drilled Pocket Boulder and this slab has a crack facing south.

Permits

For day climb, the permit is not required, but if you are planning to stay overnight, then the permit is compulsory. Visit the official website for more information.

All Climbs at Zion Canyon offers excitement and experience, and the big walls can help you overcome your fears with its challenging climbs. Visit the park not just for climbs, but also for several other activities. Make your trip most memorable climbing the most exciting climbs at Zion.

February 17, 2017

Things to do in Zion, Tips for staying in Zion

Zion Park Adventures

Human beings are generally very daring and always seeking for adventure. If you are the adventure chasing type, then you must consider visiting Zion National Park to try out the fun and adventure filled package offered in an around the park. Along with the famous hikes that most come to Zion to experience, some of the most interesting adventures in the area include biking, ATV riding, paintball, horseback riding, wall climbing and rappelling, and trampoline bungee jumping.

Photo credit: Jason Lewandowski on flickr

ATV Riding

All Terrain Vehicles, or more commonly knowns ATVs, are very compact vehicles used to traverse the dense landscape around the park. However, do not let their toy-like nature deceive you. These are custom built, full throttle vehicles designed to comfortably blast through the rocky and hilly terrains of the park, and pass through intense stream beds. You will be intrigued by the power and speed of these machines, as you blast your way through the course. There is even more fun and glory when you decide to make a splash and get dirty by speeding through the mud as you go through your tour. However, ATV tours are limited to visitors with a valid drivers license or learners permit, and must be over the age of 16. If you have members of your group that are under the age of 16, there are still options for them to join in on the fun. Smaller ATV’s or Golf carts may be provided for those under 16.

You have to realize that ATV riding can be very dangerous and you are responsible for your actions. You could be asked to discontinue any further participation in the tour, if you are found responsible for any act that may cause possible damage or harm to yourself or others.

Paintball

Paintball is another very exciting activity you do not want to miss while at Zion. There are many courses with a lot of space dedicated just for the game of paintball. Whether you have a small group or a larger group, they have the space to accommodate almost any group! This is an exciting arena for paintball, because there are many obstacles incorporated into the natural landscaping. These are perfect locations where you can easily take cover or camouflage without easily being noticed, as you take revenge on opponents and cover them up in paint. The paintball ground has been further customized to create opportunities for you to sneak around your opponents and knock them out. In fact, the experience can be measured to that of a US Marshal in combat, but less dangerous.

Shooting Range

While at Zion National Park, you could test your guts by going visiting a shotgun range. The shooting range is safely located at a considerable distance away from human or animal settlement, to ensure that the only casualties are the targeted clay pigeons or cans. Although hunting is prohibited in or around the park, you can grab a taste of the hunting experience in this natural environment by shooting cans or clay pigeons that are being thrown across the valley with a provided 20 gauge shotgun. You also have the option of shooting stationary targets that have been placed against the hillside. It is possible to bring your own gun for this exercise, but strict rules apply in such situations.

Horseback Riding

If you have a passion for riding on horseback, or maybe you are just eager to learn the art of horseback riding, then you should consider signing up for a horseback riding tour. Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, working in collaboration with East Zion Adventures, is just one of the many places where you can actually get a one on one horseback riding training with some of the most experienced wranglers you could possibly imagine. Just an hour in the training session could immediately eliminate all your fears about horses, and transform you into an almost perfect horse rider. You would be teamed up with the most suitable young, strong, and well trained horses that would gracefully carry you as you embark on the ride of your life.

Along with the natural beauty and wonder of the park itself, these thrilling adventures only add to the pull that Zion National Park has on outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers around the world. What will you do on your next adventure to Zion?

January 17, 2017

Things to do in Zion

Hidden Canyon Trail

East of The Great White Throne tucked away is Hidden Canyon which is a stunning “hanging canyon” that visitors can explore. This hike is pretty cool cause depending on how far you want to explore into the canyon, it can last from 3-6 hours. It offers beautiful views and good obstacles to overcome. This is a more strenuous hike and is not suggest for the faint of heart or those who are afraid of heights. The trail climbs the east side of the canyon, access to the trailhead starts at Weeping Rock Trailhead.

Photo Credit: Patric Chaussé on flickr

The beginning of the trail will start with a few uphill sand covered switchbacks, as you get to the top of minor saddle the trail will then follow the canyon wall where helpful chains have been set in place for hikers safety. Eventually it will descend into a little shaded valley. Now for the fun part of the trail, there will be sandstone carved steps that lead up to an exposed ledge where more chains have been set in place for hikers to hold onto. This section can be quite scary for those afraid of heights! There will be a path that has been carved into the sandstone wall as well.

After conquering that section you will have officially reached Hidden Canyon, be careful as you cross over the stream bed for there are potholes that are filled with water. This is technically where the trail ends, but you can keep on hiking around for about another mile and explore beyond the trails end. If you decide to hike on, there will be plenty of overgrown gardens, mossy covered rocks, and there is even a small arch to be found.

The more you hike in the more the trail has to offer. There’s so much to be seen on this trail and it can be a lot of fun with the right crowd of friends!

September 16, 2016

Things to do in Zion, Tips for staying in Zion

Tips For Staying In A Hotel With Kids

Staying in a hotel with little ones can be quite stressful and at times it seems nearly unbearable. Trying to keep them entertained, safe and just plain happy in a hotel is pretty hard at times. So we have compiled a list of tips to make your next stay in a hotel with children a little more bearable.

Photo Credit: homestarkaren on flickr

Kid Proofing

This is especially helpful if you have toddlers and babies. Baby proof or kid proof the room the moment you arrive. Pack a few electrical outlet covers, table corner covers, and lots of disinfectant. Inspect the room for anything dangerous that your child could injure themselves on and move it out of reach. Doing a complete once over of a hotel room could help in keeping the kids safe.

Set Up

Get everything set up for your stay. This means having diapers out and available so you’re not digging through your luggage trying to find one after an accident. Get a feeding station and play area set up. Get the bathroom all set up as well. Hotels are like mini homes away from home, so make yourself and your kids as comfortable as possible before you head out to explore. This will make your life a lot easier when it comes to getting everyone dressed and ready, fed, bathed, etc.

Book A Suite

With kids it can be very frustrating, cramped and just plain uncomfortable to be stuck in a regular sized hotel room. Kids have a lot of energy and are going to be moving around and not stuck in one place, so the more space the better! Also, keeping the stay as close to a home feeling as possible will make a world of difference.

Stay Organized And Clean

Staying in a little room can be very chaotic especially with the whole family. Staying organized and cleaning up (making beds, putting dirty clothes back in suitcases, etc) will help maintain the sanity in the room.

Always Latch

Kids love to explore and get out, and hotel rooms don’t allow you to lock yourselves in. Kids can be sneaky and escape fairly easy, so be sure to use the latch to keep them locked in as best as you can.

Hopefully these tips will help you on your next trip with your kiddos!

September 8, 2016

Things to do in Zion, Things to do near Zion

Taylor Creek – Kolob Canyons

For those who are less familiar with Zion, Kolob Canyons is part of Zion and is located on the northwestern side of the park with an entirely separate entrance. This is a great place to hike and explore if you are looking for a little bit of solitude as it has fewer visitors. Most don’t know that Kolob is part of the Zion Park, which means that you can use your annual or interagency passes! Kolob Canyons offers several hikes and overlooks and is definitely just as stunning as the main part of Zion National Park, just a bit more crimson in color! Here are a few of the hikes you can take if you visit Kolob Canyons.

Taylor Creek

If you’re looking for a fun family hike with tons of wild life then Taylor Creek is definitely a hike you will want to go on. This is a 5 mile hike that takes most 4 hours to reach the end and back. This trail takes you into a narrow box canyon toward the double arch cove. On the trail you will criss cross over Taylor Creek multiple times giving you the chance to splash and play in the water to cool off before moving forward. Prepare to be captivated by Tucupit and Paria towering 1700ft above you as you reach the end of the trail to the Double Arch Alcove.

Timber Creek Overlook

This is a short and easy mile long trail that takes most about 30 minutes to complete. The trail leads you along a small ridge offering beautiful views of Pine Valley, Kolob Canyons and Kolob Terrace. If you are hiking in the spring months you will get to see the trail and mountains covered in wild flowers making the view and experience just that much more spectacular.

Kolob Arch Trail

Kolob Arch is the second largest arch in the world! So getting a chance to see this amazing rock formation is quite the experience. The trail is for the more advanced hikers as it is more strenuous and takes about 7 hours one way. This is a good hike in and camp experience! For more information on the Kolob Arch trail heads visit the Visitors Center.

Photo Credit: Jason Benton on flickr

August 12, 2016

Things to do in Zion

Keyhole Canyoneering – Zion National Park

Looking for a fun and exciting way to cool off this summer? Check out Keyhole Canyon in Zion National Park. This hike does require a pass and some gear, but is well worth it. You will need at least a 100ft rope as there are about 3 short rappels in this canyon. Depending on the season, you may need a wetsuit as well, as the water can get extremely cold.

Photo Credit: Patrick McCue on flickr

The trailhead starts on route 9, there will be signs, and roadside parking. Prepare to be hiking for at least 2-3 hours as there are some obstacles and other technicalities that will need to be faced in this hike. This hike is really good for beginning canyoneers as there are several down-climbs that you will need to face, that can be intimidating, but as long as you use opposite force on the walls you will make it down fine. Just be sure to asses the decline before executing.

Photo Credit: Lawrence on flickr

This is really a beautiful canyon to explore and you get to capture some stunning slot canyon scenery. This is a hike that you can take older children on, as said before, it is a great beginner canyon. Safety always come first though, make sure that you have the appropriate gear and are evaluating each rappel and decent as carefully as you can before heading onward. have fun and enjoy Keyhole Canyon!

June 29, 2016

Posts, Things to do in Zion

Family Hikes in Zion National Park

Things To Do in Zion Other Than Hiking

You would be surprised to find out that there is so much more to Zion than just hiking. The cool thing about Zion is that it is one of the most bike friendly National Parks. Have you ever considered going on a thrilling mountain biking adventure on the back trails of the park? That’s right. There are some pretty amazing and awesome trails even for beginners to enjoy mountain biking. There are several trails near or in Zion National Park that would be amazing for anyone to experience riding.

Par’ Us Trail being one of the most popular, this trail starts at Canyon Junction where Zion Mt. Carmel Hwy and Zion Canyon Road intersect. This is considered an easy trail as it is paved. There are several good spots to stop and get off to take a short hike as well. You can either ride 3.4 miles round trip, or one-way 1.7 miles and catch the shuttle back from Watchman Campground to Canyon Junction.

Gooseberry Mesa Trail is another popular trail to ride. This trail is 10 miles start to finish and offers bikers an opportunity to bike freely without all the tourists and ATVS. The trailhead is located in Hurricane just off of Smithsonian Butte National Back Country Byway. This trail is for the more advanced and has its challenges. If you’re looking for something that will push you to test your balance, reaction time and strength, then this is the perfect ride for you.

Zion and Springdale have several mountain biking shops where you can rent bikes and get more information regarding trails that are bike friendly as well. Be sure to plan accordingly with weather and you will have an amazing time, definitely a memory for the books!

April 29, 2016