It is difficult to write objectively about the beauty and energy of this place. Zion truly captivates visitors’ hearts and minds, leaving them asking, “Why haven’t we heard more about this Park?” and “Why did we only plan to visit Zion for a few days?” While Zion is often a brief stop on a larger “Grand Circle” tour of the Southwest, many visitors abruptly change their plans in situ to make more time available for exploring here. There is just soooo much to see, to feel, to experience in Zion.

Few Zion visitors would deny the cobalt sky is unlike any other sky they have seen. Zion has an amazing depth of atmosphere that seems almost edible. The sky alone makes hiking in the Park addictive. Especially those hikes which take you up and up and up, til you can almost grab the blue in your hands. The stark contrast of a cloudy day in Zion creates an aura of almost being in a totally new place. The rock features change with the lighting, with the seasons, and with your greater aquaintence to them. Zion is worth hiking every season so you can revel in the grandeur of 18 million years of geologic history.

We have heard many say, “We’ve done all the trails, what else is there to do around here?” A lot! Seek the special place, canyon, climb, or walk that meets your needs. Some of the best stuff in Zion is heavily traveled, like Angel’s Landing and the Zion Narrows. Zion’s greatest secrets, however, are well off the beaten path. These pages are merely an introduction to what lies around the bend.

The links above connect you to brief introductions of Zion’s most accessible treasures, its trails. Zion National Park boasts a tremendous degree of geologic and biotic diversity; each of the “zones” on the map displays a different array of sandstone formations and ecological communities.

It is impossible to write descriptions conveying the magnificence of this spectacular place. Know all of the trails are beautiful. Any choice you make will reap rewards. Life is good when all decisions are of high value. If you need more details, call or stop by Zion Adventure Company on you way through the Park, or call anytime (435-772-1001) for the latest info on trails, weather & river conditions and accessibility.

Mileage and hiking times are based on round trip (RT) or through-hike (THRU) excursions. You may connect many day hikes as multi-day events. The 37-mile Trans-Zion hike is one of the best treks in the world. Consult a topographical map of Zion before planning extended backcountry trips.

Zion National Park is well known for its exceptional hiking, steep trails, and amazing views. Many of the trails have exposure to cliff edges and loooooong drops. Carelessness on trails has proven fatal for a few visitors, locals, and even rangers.

This region of the Colorado Plateau reaches temperatures well above 100F / 38C during summer months. Temperatures can fluctuate as much as 60F / 33C throughout the day; dress in layers for optimal comfort. Be prepared for wind, cold, heat, and rain any time of year.

The number one illness or injury in the Park is dehydration. Drink before you are thirsty to assure your body has the fluids it needs to serve you well. Bathe in at least SPF 30 sunscreen, wear a hat, and avoid mid-day hiking May through September to avoid the worst heat of the day. Resting and hydrating prevent the onset of heat stroke.

Elevation changes are extreme on many hikes. Take the time your body needs to adjust from your home elevation to Zion’s 3700 to 8700 feet above sea level.

Cellular phones do not work on most hikes in the Park. Plan ahead and leave a trip itinerary with friends prior to departing on any overnight event.

The Park requires permits for ANY overnight experience in Zion, whether it be climbing, canyoneering, or hiking, as well as day hikes of ANY technical (rappelling required) canyon. These can be obtained in person at the Visitor Center Backcountry Desk in Zion Canyon, or at the Kolob Visitor Center. At least one group member must be present to receive a permit. Brokering of permits is illegal. On-line permitting is available by exploring the Zion Backcountry link.

Enjoy your precious time!