8 Must-Dos in Zion National Park
Created as a National Park in 1909, just driving Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (Highway 9) through Zion is a visual treat with red rock and checkerboard rock formations, a 1-mile tunnel carved through a mountain, and the possible sighting of mountain goats. The mountains are ginormous! Here are Eight Things To Do in Zion, and #7 and #8 are my favorites! Click Here for more Utah Adventures and download eBook for less than $8.00!!
#1: Drive Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
Zion's most prominent feature is Zion Canyon, a 15-mile-long canyon with up to 2,640-foot tall walls, where the Virgin River has carved the canyon for millions of years.
#2: Drive through the Mile Long Tunnel
The Zion - Mt. Carmel Tunnel was built in the 1920s and is over a mile long. Before the tunnel connected the area, this was an isolated National Park. During construction, "galleries" or "windows" were created to push out the rocks and debris created from the blasting. They also provide light and need ventilation.
#3: Go On A Scavenger Hunt
Scavenger Hunt!
Find the Checkerboard Mesa, the stunted 40-year-old Ponderosa Pine, and the Big Horn Sheep hanging out on the steep rocks east of the Tunnel.
#4: Trek the Canyon Overlook Trail
Canyon Overlook Trail
Hike the fun, easy 1-mile round trip Canyon Overlook Trail for a breathtaking full view of Zion Canyon (parking lot on the east side of the tunnel). The trail is unique with metal bridges, and watch your head on the overhangs.
#5: Shopping and Eat Lunch in Springdale
Springdale, Utah, is the town at the entrance of the Zion National Park. The street is lined with rock shops, ice cream parlors, restaurants, and curio shops. Eat at Oscar's Cafe, and leave room for the Carrot Cake! Or hit the Bumbleberry Bakery for a coffee and cinnamon roll :)
#6: Rent an eBike and see the Zion Canyon
During peak season, private vehicles are not allowed on the Scenic Road (free shuttles are used for transportation). Even though no cars are allowed, it is open to bicycles and is a tranquil and convenient bike ride! Local rentals include Zion Guru eBike Rental and Outta Here eBike. Stops include Hanging Gardens at the Weeping Rock, The Grotto for a hike to Scouts Landing or Angels Landing; the last stop is Virgin River and the entrance to The Narrows.
#7: Hike to Scout Lookout or Angel’s Landing
Scout Lookout and Angel’s Landing
The best canyon views are part of this challenging 4-mile round-trip that begins at the Virgin River and then climbs to the cool and shady Refrigerator Canyon area. Next are the iconic Walter Wiggles 21 switchbacks. Take your time; the steep climb may test you, but it's worth it. At the top of the switchbacks is Scout Lookout, and you have climbed 1,050 feet, where the views of Zion Canyon are phenomenal! The trail continues on the Angel’s Landing (permits may be required).
#8: Wade The Narrows!
Feel adventurous? Find the Narrows!
“The Narrows” gorge is the Virgin River canyon with colorful walls that tower overhead a thousand feet. The gorge is only 20-30 feet wide. The only way to view the beauty is by wading up the river. Refrain from wearing flip-flops in the river; you may fall on the slippery rock. You will enjoy the hike more if you have the proper equipment. At a minimum, use neoprene socks (the water is cold), heavy boots, and a walking stick to navigate the river bottom rocks. Several companies, like Zion Adventures Company, rent equipment such as river-hiking boots or consider booking a tour group to supply everything.
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