North Pole (detail) | Photo: ©Michael Fatali
Jason’s Corner (detail) | Photo: ©Michael Fatali
View from Observation Point | Photo: ©David J. West
Sentinel Of Eden (detail) | Photo: ©Michael Fatali
Mystic Waters (detail) | Photo: ©Michael Fatali
One of America’s most spectacular and favorite national parks, Zion’s deep Navajo Sandstone canyon was carved by the Virgin River over millions of years. Its 229 square miles of majestic, rugged topography features mesas, gorges, buttes, and natural arches.
Originally inhabited 8,000 years ago by Anasazi and Parowan Fremont Native Americans, the area was eventually settled by Mormons in the 1860s. Designated as Mukuntuweap National Monument in 1909, the name was changed to Zion and re-established as a national park in 1919. The Kolob section was incorporated in 1956.
Zion Canyon’s road is six miles deep (9.7 km) and ends at Temple of Sinawava where an easy walking trail continues to the mouth of the Narrows—the famous slot canyon where hikers wade up the river through half-mile-high rock walls.
Learn more about the fascinating geology and history of the area at Zion Canyon Visitor Center (located across the bridge from the shuttle stop/parking area at Zion Canyon Giant Screen Theatre) or Zion Human History Museum. Kids will especially enjoy the Junior Ranger programs.
Park Activities
• Ranger walks & campfire talks
• Junior Ranger programs
• Educational slide shows
• Guided tours
• Backcountry permits
• Weather updates
• Extensive gift/book store
For more information and hours, visit the Park website:
www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm
Zion Natural History Association
Promotes Zion National Park through classes, lectures, photography workshops, and other historical and interpretive activities.
zionpark.org/
Zion Park Shuttle System
To reduce overload on the Park, a shuttle transportation system was introduced in 2000. All visitors must use free shuttle buses to access Zion Canyon during the high season (April-October). Shuttles also loop through Springdale to access area hotels, restaurants, shops, and galleries. A shuttle stop is conveniently located at the front of Desert Pearl Inn. Each shuttle has a rack for at least two bicycles. Pets, food, and beverages other than water are not permitted on the buses.
Zion Shuttle Map