Zion National Park, UT

After visiting The Valley of Fire State Park, my brothers and I made our way to Zion National Park where we drove through to get to our Airbnb in Orderville, UT. We enjoyed the scenery, majestic mountains, long tunnels, as well as crazy rock formations. Here are a few helpful travel tips if you plan to visit Zion National Park, UT. 

Plan Ahead: 

Zion National Park is a popular destination, especially during peak seasons. Reserve accommodations and permits well in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Take Advantage of Shuttle Services: 

To reduce traffic congestion and environmental impact, utilize the park's free shuttle system, which provides access to key trailheads and viewpoints.

Dress Appropriately: 

Zion's weather can vary greatly, from scorching summers to chilly winters. Dress in layers and bring sun protection, sturdy footwear, and plenty of water for hiking.

Start Early: 

Beat the crowds and the heat by beginning your hikes early in the day. Sunrise and early morning hours offer stunning views and cooler temperatures.

Stay on Designated Trails: 

Respect the park's delicate ecosystem by staying on marked trails and avoiding off-trail exploration. This helps preserve fragile desert vegetation and protects wildlife habitats.

Carry Out Your Trash: 

Help maintain the park's pristine beauty by packing out all trash and leaving no trace of your visit. Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your environmental impact.

Embrace Diversity: 

Zion offers a diverse range of landscapes, from towering sandstone cliffs to lush river valleys. Explore different areas of the park to fully appreciate its natural wonders.

Stay Informed: 

Check weather forecasts, trail conditions, and park regulations before setting out on any adventure. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and follow safety guidelines at all times.

Respect Wildlife: 

Observe wildlife from a safe distance and refrain from feeding or approaching animals. Keep pets leashed and under control to prevent disturbances to native species.

Engage with Rangers: 

Take advantage of ranger-led programs, guided hikes, and visitor centers to learn more about Zion's geology, ecology, and cultural history. Rangers are valuable resources for enhancing your park experience.

We were surprised to see rock layers that looked like muscle tendons. We ended up parking at a turnout/lookout point and climbed a bit. 

Here's our drive through the park:

We stopped to take a photo of Checker Board Mesa Rock. 

We definitely need to go back and do some hikes since we couldn't do it due to the rain that hit us. We wanted to do the Overlook Trail right outside of the tunnel, Pa'rus trail, which is an easy paved trail, as well as the Emerald Pools Trail. We're not as adventurous to try The Narrows or Angel's Landing.