Zion Webcams

Introduction

Zion National Park, located in the southwestern part of Utah, is a magnificent expanse of unique geological formations, diverse ecosystems, and rich history. Established as a national park on November 19, 1919, Zion spans across 229 square miles (593 square km) and is distinguished by Zion Canyon, which stretches 15 miles long and up to half a mile deep. The park's history dates back to approximately 8,000 years ago with Native American groups, such as the Ancestral Puebloans and the Paiute tribe, inhabiting the region. The name "Zion," meaning a place of peace and refuge, was given by the early Mormon settlers in the 1860s. The area was initially designated as Mukuntuweap National Monument by President William Howard Taft in 1909 and later became Zion National Park. The park's elevation ranges from 3,666 feet (1,117 m) at Coalpits Wash to 8,726 feet (2,660 m) at Horse Ranch Mountain, contributing to its diverse habitats. The park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, with visitation numbers often exceeding 4.5 million annually.

The park is home to a rich array of wildlife, including 68 species of mammals, 291 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 8 species of fish. Notable species include the Mexican spotted owl, the California condor, the Mojave Desert tortoise, and the Southwestern willow flycatcher, all of which are protected due to their vulnerable status.

The Narrows and Angels Landing are two of the most famous features in the park. The Narrows is a gorge carved by the Virgin River, offering a unique hiking experience where visitors can wade through the riverbed. Angels Landing is a challenging hike that rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the park's canyons and rock formations.

Visit the Wikipedia site for more information.

Hiking

Zion National Park has over 90 miles of trails.   Most of the hikes are short but with some elevation gain.    For a full list of hikes, visit the NPS website.

Top Day Hikes

Angel's Landing is one my top 5 hikes in the United States.  The hike is known for its incredible view of the canyon and the challenge it presents to hikers. A permit is required for the hike.  The trail takes you through a series of switchbacks known as Walter's Wiggles, up to Scout Lookout, and then along a narrow ridge with chain-assisted rock scrambling sections.  The hike is strenuous and not recommended for those with a fear of heights The trailhead for Angel's Landing is located at The Grotto (stop #6 on the Zion Shuttle), where hikers cross a bridge over the Virgin River to begin their ascent. The round-trip distance of the trail is approximately 5.4 miles (8.7 km) with an elevation gain for the hike is around 1,500 feet (457 m).

The Narrows has stunning views as you wade/swim thru the slot canyon carved by the Virgin River.  The walls of the canyon, in places, reach up to 1,000 feet (304 m).  The vast number of hikers leave from the Temple of Sinawava, at the final stop of the Zion Shuttle and go up the canyon.  However, you can start at Chamberlain's Ranch and descend 16 miles (26 km).  I highly recommend water shoes or boots.  You may rent out boots in the neighboring town of Springdale.  

The East Mesa Trail to Observation Point is a less strenuous alternative to the traditional route from Weeping Rock. It takes you through a high plateau, offering a relatively flat walk through pine forests before reaching the grand overlook of Zion Canyon. The East Mesa Trailhead is accessed via a dirt road off of North Fork County Road, outside the main canyon of Zion National Park. It's recommended to have a high-clearance vehicle to navigate the road leading to the trailhead. The main attraction is the Observation Point itself, which provides a spectacular view of Zion Canyon, including landmarks like Angels Landing and the Great White Throne. The hike about 7 miles (11.3 m) round trip with only 230 feet (70 m) to reach the point.

Backpacking

Backpacking in Zion is a rewarding experience.  Some of the trails give you a high level view of the canyon, Angel's Landing and the Temple of Sinawava.  Others trails offer a unique perspective of the high desert surrounding the park.  Permits are required for overnight camping  (recreation.gov) and for the Narrows. Below are my top two backpacking trips in the park.  The NPS has a list of backpacking trips on it's website.  Water is scarce in the park, except in the Narrows (you will need a filter).  Plan accordingly.  Regulations and more backpacking information can be found at the NPS Backpacking website.

West Rim Trail is a high-elevation path that provides sweeping vistas of Wildcat Canyon and the surrounding areas. It begins near Lava Point and descends into the main canyon, passing through diverse landscapes including alpine forests and red rock canyons. The trail starts at the West Rim Trailhead, located near Lava Point. To reach the trailhead, you'll need to drive on Kolob Terrace Road, which runs along the western boundary of the park. The road to Lava Point can be closed due to snow in the winter and spring months, so check current conditions before your trip. Along the trail, you'll encounter breathtaking features like Phantom Valley, the expansive views from the rim, and the deep canyons below. The West Rim Trail is approximately 14.5 miles (23.3 km) long when hiked from Lava Point to The Grotto. Most of the trail is downhill.  Starting elevation is 7,900 feet (2,408 m), and it ends at 4,474 feet (1,364 m) at The Grotto bus stop.  Go to the NPS site for a list of campsites and photos of the trail.

The Southwest Desert trail, also known as the Chinle Trail, offers a unique desert hiking experience. It traverses open terrain, providing sweeping views of the West Temple and Mount Kinesava.  The trail begins at the Anasazi Way subdivision, off Highway 9 between Rockville and Springdale. The trailhead and parking are on the right as you turn onto Anasazi Way. The trail's attractions include vast desert landscapes, the petrified wood forest, and the biological soil crusts. It's a hot trail in the summer but pleasant in the spring and fall. The one-way distance from the Chinle Trailhead to Coalpits Wash Trailhead is approximately 11.7 miles (18.8 km), or 8.2 miles (13.2 km) from the Chinle Trailhead to Coalpits Spring. The elevation change along the trail is about 600 feet (180 meters), making it a relatively flat hike compared to other trails in Zion.  The NPS provides a trail map with campsites.

Transportation

The national park service provides a free shuttle that runs from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to Temple of Sinawava (the Narrows).  This is a great way to get around the canyon floor.  I personally prefer taking a bike.  There is a bike path to the canyon from the campgrounds and the canyon floor is closed to private vehicles.

Camping

There are three campgrounds within the park.  All are reservable at recreation.gov.  The park is very popular and campsites go quickly.  I highly recommend reserving sites six months in advance.  

South Campground is currently closed to improve water drainage.

Watchman Campground is located next to the Zion Canyon Visitor center.  Microbreweries and restaurants are close by.  There are a total of 176 campsites.  There are 69 tent only sites, 65 RV only sites and 95 sites with electricity.  There are flush toilets, potable water and cell service in the campground.

Lava Point Campground is located an hour drive from Zion Canyon.  The campground is usually open from May thru September.  The campground sits at 7,890 feet (2,404 m) of elevation and is cooler than the canyon.  There are only 6 campsites at the campground.  There is no cell reception or water but there are vaulted toilets.  Reservations are available on a 2-week rolling window.