Zion
Description: Zion National Park less than 1 hour from St. George and it is rated as one of the greatest sightseeing destinations in the western United States.
My favorite hikes in Zion are: The Subway, The Narrows, Angels Landing, Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock and the Scenic overlook. The Subway, The Narrows and Angels landing you would want to plan a day for each hike. Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock and The Scenic Overlook are 3 shorter hikes that all could be done together in a day.
The Narrow’s is a water hike. You will be hiking in about 1 inch to 1 foot of water most of the way so be prepared by bringing some sandals, flip flops, Tevas or shoes you don’t mind getting wet. The hike you are surrounded by amazing towering mountains. There are a few spots where the water gets a little deep and it’s nice in the summer to be able to swim around for a while and cool down. Summer is usually the only time I go on this hike since the water can get cold other times of the year.
Angels Landing is a hike where you ascend to one of the highest peaks in Zion and are able to overlook the park. The views are amazing, but this hike is not for the weak of heart, you will be spending most of the day climbing up a hill and towards the end of the hike you will be holding on to cables so you don’t fall off the mountain! If you aren’t afraid of heights and love adventure then this hike is for you. The view and memories are worth it!
The Subway: An all day hike spent Canyoneering, swimming, and hiking in amazing canyon. The subway is a uniquely carved canyon that resembles a subway tunnel. A permit is required and is available online or at Zion’s backcountry desk. Call 1-435-772-0170 for more information
Emerald pools hike has a few waterfalls and a pond at the top. Breathe taking views from the top and amazing tall skyscraper like sandstone walls.
Weeping rock is a phenomenal site where the water drips out of the rock year round and has the appearance of rain even on dry days.
The Scenic overlook: To get to the scenic overlook hike you drive through a tunnel built in Zion that is amazing on its own. Once you Exit the tunnel you park just on the right and the hike starts just across the street.
Cost: $25 per vehicle (good for 7 days at Zion)
$50 (Annual Zion Pass Good for Zion only)
$80 (National park pass good for any National Park)
Phone: (435) 772-3256
Web Site: http://www.nps.gov/zion/index.htm
Location: Highway 9, Springdale, UT 84767
(From St. George Travel I-15 north. Take exit 16 and travel through Hurricane to LaVerkin. Continue on SR-9 to the south entrance of the park.)
