Zion National Park

Zion National Park is located in southern Utah (Washington, Kane and Iron counties) in the USA.  The park is a top tourist attraction for its incredible rock formations and high sandstone cliffs and also desert landscapes including sandstone canyons, mesas and high plateau regions. The 24 km long and 800 metres deep Zion Canyon is a significant feature of Zion National Park (area: 593 square kilometres). The national park was established way back in 1909 and is governed by the National Park Service.

Geography:

Zion National Park is situated at the junction of Colorado Plateau, Great Basin and Mojave Desert regions. Horse Ranch Mountain (2,660 metres high) is the highest peak in the park while the lowest point is Coal Pits wash (1,117 metres). The park features several streams as well. Other prominent geographic features of the park include: Virgin River Narrows, Emerald Pools, Hidden Canyon, Angels Landing, The Great White Throne, Checkerboard Mesa, and others.

Climate:

The park weather varies with elevation. Spring weather is unpredictable while in summer, the days are hot and nights cooler. Rainfall is maximum in March. July through September is the time of afternoon thunderstorms. Heavy snow covers the higher elevations during winter.

Flora:

The park is home to numerous plant species, thanks to its geographic diversity. Cottonwood, Cactus, Juniper, Pine, Boxelder, Sagebrush and various willows are some common species found here.

Fauna:

The park is inhabited by mountain lions, rock squirrels, coyotes, chipmunks, gray foxes, mule deer and bighorn sheep besides 19 types of bats. Reptiles are also found.

Birds:

Around 290 types of birds are spotted in Zion National park. Golden Eagles and California Condors are to name a few.

Activities:

• Hiking (Zion National Park has some of the most spectacular trails)
• Backpacking
• Climbing (Watchman and South Campground)
• Canyoneering
• Rafting
• Backpacking
• Horseback trail
• Nature walks

Attractions:

• Zion Canyon (cuts Navajo Sandstone by the North Fork of the Virgin River)
• Gooseberry Mountain Biking
• Temple of Sinawava (‘Sinawava’ is the Coyote God of the Paiute Indians)
• Checkerboard Mesa and the East Temple to the east of the park
• Subway, Lava Point at Kolob Terrace area (west of Zion Canyon)
• Kolob Arch in Kolob canyons section
• Zion canyon Hanging Garden
• Zion-Mt. Carmel HighwayZion Canyon Visitor Center
• Zion Human History Museum
• Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
• The Narrows
• Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway

Reaching Zion National Park:

• By air:
  St George is the closest city with air link. St George Municipal Airport serves the park-bound tourists. Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport is the nearest major airport followed by Salt Lake City Airport.
• By road:
  SR-9 from east or west, I-15 (west), US-89 (east) are some of the approaching roads to Zion National Park. Cars can be hired in Salt Lake City, Cedar City, St. George and Las Vegas.

Getting around:

By car, by shuttle, by bicycle, by foot or by guided tours (Hydros Adventures Tours)

Fees/Permits:

$25 for all private vehicles (valid for seven days) while motorcycles, bicyclists and pedestrians need to pay $12. Besides, America the Beautiful pass may be purchased for $80.

Accommodation:

• Zion Lodge

• Lodging facilities are available at Springdale, Mount Carmel Junction as well as Hurricane and Apple Valley.

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