National Parks

Zion National Park

Zion is Utah's first and most visited national park. The massive sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red tower over the Virgin River, creating one of the most dramatic canyon landscapes in the American Southwest.

Quick Facts

• Location — Southwestern Utah, near Springdale
• Established — November 19, 1919
• Size — 229 square miles (147,000 acres)
• Highest Point — Horse Ranch Mountain at 8,726 feet
• Annual Visitors — Over 4.5 million (most visited Utah park)
• Distance from SLC — About 310 miles (4.5 hours)

The Name

Mormon pioneers named the canyon "Zion," a Hebrew word meaning "place of refuge" or "sanctuary." The original Paiute name was "Mukuntuweap," meaning "straight canyon." Isaac Behunin, an early settler, reportedly said, "These great mountains are natural temples of God. We can worship here as well as in the man-made temples in Zion."

Must-See Spots

• Angels Landing — The iconic hike. 1,488-foot drop-offs, chains to hold, permit required. Not for those afraid of heights.
• The Narrows — Hike through the Virgin River between 1,000-foot canyon walls. Water shoes and a walking stick essential.
• Zion Canyon Scenic Drive — 6-mile road through the heart of the park. Shuttle-only in peak season.
• Court of the Patriarchs — Three massive sandstone peaks named Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
• The Watchman — Iconic tower visible from the park entrance, especially stunning at sunset.
• Weeping Rock — Short walk to a cliff face where water seeps through the rock, creating hanging gardens.

Best Hikes

• Angels Landing — 5.4 miles round trip. Strenuous with 1,500 ft elevation gain. The final half-mile along a narrow ridge is legendary. Permit required since 2022.
• The Narrows (Bottom-Up) — 10+ miles depending on turnaround. Unique river hiking experience. Check water levels—dangerous during flash floods.
• Observation Point — 8 miles round trip. Even higher than Angels Landing with less crowds. 2,150 ft elevation gain.
• Canyon Overlook Trail — 1 mile round trip. Short but rewarding views of Zion Canyon. Great for sunset.
• Emerald Pools — 1.2-3 miles depending on pools visited. Waterfalls and pools along a mostly shaded trail.
• The Subway — 9 miles. Technical canyoneering route requiring a permit. Left fork requires rappelling.

The Geology

Zion's cliffs are composed of Navajo Sandstone, ancient sand dunes compressed into rock over 180 million years ago during the Jurassic period. The canyon was carved by the Virgin River over millions of years. The sandstone layers tell a story from ancient seas to vast deserts.

• Navajo Sandstone — The dominant rock, up to 2,200 feet thick. Creates the massive cream and pink cliffs.
• Kayenta Formation — Harder layer beneath the Navajo, creates shelves and hanging gardens.
• The Great White Throne — 2,350-foot monolith, one of the largest freestanding rock formations in the world.

When to Visit

• Spring (March-May) — Waterfalls flowing, wildflowers blooming, moderate crowds. Some trails may be muddy.
• Summer (June-August) — Hot (100°F+), crowded, but great for The Narrows. Arrive early.
• Fall (September-November) — Perfect temperatures, fall colors in the canyon. My favorite time.
• Winter (December-February) — Fewer crowds, snow on the cliffs is stunning. Some trails icy.

The Shuttle System

From March through November, private vehicles are not allowed on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. A free shuttle runs from the Visitor Center to Temple of Sinawava. This protects the canyon and reduces congestion—embrace it.