Table of Contents
Must-See Places in Zion National Park
Introduction
Zion National Park is a stunning and majestic landscape in southwestern Utah. It’s one of the most popular national parks in the United States, with more than 4 million visitors each year. Zion National Park is known for its breathtaking canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and picturesque views. It’s an outdoor paradise for hikers, campers, and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking for a day hike, a backcountry adventure, or an overnight camping trip, Zion National Park has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-see places in Zion National Park.
The Narrows
The Narrows is one of the most popular and spectacular hikes in Zion National Park. This 16-mile hike follows the Virgin River through a narrow canyon, with towering walls on either side. The hike is challenging, but the views are incredible. You’ll get to experience the power of the river as it winds its way through the canyon. The best time to hike The Narrows is during the summer months when the river is low and the temperature is warm. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear.
Angel’s Landing
Angel’s Landing is one of the most popular and challenging hikes in Zion National Park. This 5-mile hike takes you to the top of a 1500-foot sandstone cliff. Along the way, you’ll traverse a narrow ridge with dizzying drop-offs on either side. The final stretch of the hike takes you up a steep set of switchbacks known as “Walter’s Wiggles.” The view from the top is absolutely breathtaking, and the feeling of accomplishment is unbeatable. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear the right gear.
Zion Canyon
Zion Canyon is the main attraction of Zion National Park. This spectacular canyon stretches for 15 miles and is surrounded by 2000-foot sandstone cliffs. You can take a shuttle bus along the canyon, stopping to admire the views, or you can hike one of the many trails that wind their way through the canyon. No matter how you explore this majestic canyon, you’re sure to be in awe of its beauty.
Kolob Canyons
Kolob Canyons is a hidden gem in Zion National Park. This remote area is located in the northwest corner of the park and is home to stunning red rock canyons and deep ravines. The Kolob Canyons are a great place to explore on foot or by car. You can take the Kolob Canyons Road to admire the views from the comfort of your car, or you can hike one of the many trails that wind their way through the canyons.
Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is one of the most scenic drives in Zion National Park. This highway takes you from Zion Canyon to the east entrance of the park, winding through the Virgin River Gorge and past some of the park’s most spectacular scenery. Along the way, you’ll get to experience the power of the river, the towering sandstone cliffs, and the wide-open spaces of the desert. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Zion National Park.
Checkerboard Mesa
Checkerboard Mesa is one of the most unique and interesting features in Zion National Park. This mesa is covered in a unique pattern of light and dark stripes, created by the erosion of the sandstone. You can take a shuttle to the mesa or hike the 2.5-mile trail. Either way, it’s a great way to admire the beauty of this strange and fascinating landscape.
Weeping Rock
Weeping Rock is one of the most popular spots in Zion National Park. This rock formation is composed of sandstone that is streaked with water, giving it the appearance of a giant waterfall. You can take the short hike to admire the view or explore the many caves and crevices in the area. Be sure to bring a flashlight if you plan to explore the caves.
Court of the Patriarchs
The Court of the Patriarchs is one of the most iconic spots in Zion National Park. This area is home to three towering sandstone cliffs, known as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The view from the top of the cliffs is breathtaking, and the area is perfect for watching the sunset. You can take the short hike to the top of the cliffs or take a shuttle to the viewpoint.
Canyon Overlook Trail
The Canyon Overlook Trail is a 1-mile hike that takes you to a stunning viewpoint of Zion Canyon. The trail winds its way up a steep set of switchbacks and then takes you along a narrow ridge, with breathtaking views of the canyon on either side. This hike is short but steep, so be sure to bring plenty of water and wear the right gear.
Observation Point Trail
The Observation Point Trail is an 8-mile hike to the top of the East Rim of Zion Canyon. Along the way, you’ll traverse a narrow ridge with stunning views of Zion Canyon. The final stretch of the hike takes you up a steep set of switchbacks, and the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. Be sure to bring plenty of water and wear the right gear.
Zion Human History Museum
The Zion Human History Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Zion National Park. This museum is home to a variety of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the park and its people. You can also take a short hike to the nearby petroglyphs to see ancient rock art created by the native people.
Summary
Zion National Park is an outdoor paradise for hikers, campers, and nature lovers. It’s home to some of the most stunning and majestic landscapes in the United States. Whether you’re looking for a day hike, a backcountry adventure, or an overnight camping trip, Zion National Park has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-see places in Zion National Park. The Narrows is one of the most popular and spectacular hikes in Zion National Park. Angel’s Landing is one of the most popular and challenging hikes in Zion National Park. Zion Canyon is the main attraction of Zion National Park. Kolob Canyons is a hidden gem in Zion National Park. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is one of the most scenic drives in Zion National Park. Checkerboard Mesa is one of the most unique and interesting features in Zion National Park. Weeping Rock is one of the most popular spots in Zion National Park. The Court of the Patriarchs is one of the most iconic spots in Zion National Park. The Canyon Overlook Trail is a 1-mile hike with stunning views of Zion Canyon. The Observation Point Trail is an 8-mile hike to the top of the East Rim of Zion Canyon. And the Zion Human History Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Zion National Park. No matter what type of adventure you’re looking for, Zion National Park has something for everyone.