A Journey to Zion National Park

As our time in Las Vegas came to a close, the bustling lights and energy of the citz began to feel overwhelming. The city, with its never-ending pulse of entertainment and activity, has its charms, but sometimes, the soul craves something quieter, more grounding. Luckily our travel plans made us escape the neon jungle and head into nature. Just a few hours away, Zion National Park awaited—a sanctuary of towering red rock cliffs, winding canyons, and serene beauty. It was time to trade slot machines for sandstone and fluorescent lights for the golden glow of the setting sun.

This post is part of a multi-part travel series from our Southwest USA Road trip
For the other parts click here

The Drive Through Utah’s Beauty

The drive to Zion National Park from Las Vegas is nothing short of breathtaking. As we left the city and crossed into Utah, the scenery began to shift dramatically. The desert landscape gave way to rolling hills, dotted with junipers and sagebrush. By the time we approached Springdale, the charming gateway town to Zion, we were surrounded by towering cliffs that seemed to radiate in shades of red, orange, and gold. It felt like entering another world, one shaped by time and the quiet power of nature.

Hiking the Canyon Overlook Trail at Sunset

Upon arriving at Zion, we knew we wanted to make the most of the remaining daylight. We chose the Canyon Overlook Trail for its reputation as a short yet stunning hike. The trailhead is located just past the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, a feat of engineering in its own right. As we ascended the rocky path, the landscape unfolded before us—steep cliffs, rugged outcroppings, and glimpses of the expansive canyon below.

The hike is only about one mile round trip, but every step feels like a discovery. Wooden bridges and carved steps guide you through narrow sections, and the views grow increasingly dramatic with each turn. By the time we reached the overlook, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden hue over the landscape. The entire canyon seemed to glow, with shadows dancing across the cliffs. We stood in awe, soaking in the silence and beauty. The experience felt like a reward for leaving behind the noise of the city and embracing the simplicity of nature.

Zion National Park: A Geographical Wonder

Zion National Park is a masterpiece of the natural world. Located in southwestern Utah, it covers over 229 square miles and is characterized by its unique geography and ecosystems. The park is part of the Colorado Plateau and features stunning sandstone cliffs that rise over 2,000 feet above the canyon floor. These formations have been shaped by millions of years of erosion, creating a landscape that’s as dynamic as it is ancient.

The Virgin River runs through the heart of Zion, carving the iconic Zion Canyon. The river is also responsible for shaping the Narrows, one of the park’s most famous and challenging hikes, where visitors wade through the river surrounded by towering canyon walls. Other geological highlights include the Checkerboard Mesa and Kolob Canyons, each offering a unique perspective on the park’s diverse terrain.

Things to Do in Zion National Park

Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual nature lover, Zion offers something for everyone. Here are a few must-dos:

1. Hiking: Trails range from easy walks like the Pa'rus Trail to challenging adventures like Angel’s Landing, known for its steep drop-offs and incredible views.

2. The Narrows: This hike takes you through the Virgin River, offering a unique perspective of the canyon walls. Make sure to check conditions and rent proper gear if needed.

3. Scenic Drives: The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive offers incredible views and access to many trailheads. During peak season, the park operates a shuttle system to reduce traffic.

4. Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for mule deer, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species.

5. Photography: With its dramatic lighting and stunning vistas, Zion is a dream for photographers.
   

Visitor Information: Best Time to Visit and Costs

Zion is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the park’s colors are at their most vibrant. Summer can be quite hot, and winter offers solitude but with some trail closures due to snow or ice. The entrance fee for Zion is $35 per vehicle, which grants access for seven days. If you plan to visit multiple national parks, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for $80, which covers entrance fees to all U.S. national parks and federal recreation areas for a year.

 

Our journey to Zion National Park was a reminder of the restorative power of nature. Leaving behind the chaos of the city and immersing ourselves in the timeless beauty of the canyon was exactly what we needed. After Zion we headed further east towards our next destination: Horseshoe Bend. More on that in the next part.

To be continued...