Visiting Zion National Park, Utah

July 26, 12:14 PMLA Escapes ExaminerJennifer Marlo

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   Zion National Park, Utah. Photo by Jennifer Marlo.

Having been designated as a National Park in 1919, Zion is the oldest of Utah’s seven National Parks. Zion is a portrait of Utah; bright red rocks glitter beneath an azure desert sky as the Virgin River twists through a deep and ancient canyon.

There are over thirty trails to explore in Zion, ranging from lazy river strolls to steep and strenuous rock trails. Videos of black-diamond hike options are featured on the Utah state website; take a peek before deciding to embark on a challenge such as “Misery Trail.”

Entrance to Zion costs $25 per private vehicle and includes a map and shuttle schedule. Park at the visitor’s center and take the shuttle to the trailhead of your choice; cars are prohibited beyond the main road through Zion.

Be sure to pack enough water and snacks to last through your hike. Temperatures in Zion can reach upward of 110 degrees and there a very few places to purchase food and water.

Inexperienced hikers can play it safe by planning a series of shorter trails that re-converge at the Zion Lodge. Escape the heat by taking a shuttle to the cafés at Zion’s south entrance or to the Human History Museum. Dedicated to the history if humans in Zion, the museum houses artifacts dating back 10,000 years and changes its displays annually.

Be sure to make some time to explore the beautiful town of Springdale, located just 2 ½ miles outside Zion’s south entrance. Home to only 200 families, Springdale is one of the most beautiful small towns in America.

For more in formation visit Utah's travel site www.atozion.com