On the way to Zion National Park

On the way to Zion National Park

One of my favorite things about traveling is the constant ability to surprise myself. Whether it's discovering hidden beaches in Vanuatu or encountering sea turtles on a dive in Samoa, travel often offers the unexpected. The most recent example was during our unplanned visit to Zion National Park in Utah on our (again unplanned) American road trip.

We had spent a few days exploring Grand Canyon National Park and were enjoying our last meal at our lodge while chatting with another group of hikers.

They suggested adapting our route to Zion National Park. “It’s like a red Yosemite in the desert,” they told us. “You’ll love it.”

Varied topography

Well, there’s nothing “little” about Zion National Park – quite the opposite. The massive sandstone cliffs in cream, pink and red rise dramatically into the sky.

As you emerge from the Zion-Mount Carmel tunnel, you are greeted by rolling plateaus that gently undulate before the juniper-covered slopes and sandstone canyons quickly rise wildly to 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) and never fall below 900 meters (3,000 feet). .

There are meadows with freshwater streams and the Virgin River running through the park, as well as dripping springs and even the odd waterfall. The topography is refreshing and really varied.

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The excellent National Park Service has done a good job here too. There is plenty of information and signage available upon arrival to help the first-time visitor decide what to do.

The park is interspersed with a number of trails of varying lengths and challenges, suitable for all time frames and fitness levels. There are rock towers, sandstone gorges and sharp cliffs to climb if you have the time and strength.

We took an unplanned detour and only had the day. We decided to explore three short hikes: the Weeping Rock Trail, the Upper Emerald Pool Trail, and part of the Riverside Walk.

The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive winds through most of the park, connecting the trailheads, viewpoints and other services (restaurants, cafes and information points).

I would like to come back and stay at the well-stocked campground for a few days (if Kia allows) and try some of the more challenging hikes like Hidden Canyon and La Verkin Creek.

Zion is the eighth most visited national park in the United States, but don't let that fool you - it holds its own against the heavyweights. In February, the park was peaceful and tranquil with breathtaking views that rivaled the better-known Yosemite and Grand Canyon National Parks. If you ever get the chance, take the road to Zion. We loved it. You will too.

How to get there

Zion National Park is located on State Route 9 in Springdale, Utah. We drove south from Arizona on US Route 89 and then onto State Route 9.

Depending on where you're coming from, you'll probably want to head toward St. George, La Verkin, or Mount Carmel Junction. Your best bet is to use the Plan Your Visit page on the excellent NPS website.

The park entrance fee is $25 per vehicle or $12 per person, and the pass is good for a week, making it more economical if you visit in a group and can stay for several days.

There are camping options as well as lodges both in the park (more expensive) and nearby. The National Park Service website has a wealth of information, including maps, shuttle schedules, hiking routes, lodging and more.

Mission statement: Atlas & Boots

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