Zion National Park: History, Stuff to Do, Wildlife, and more.

History and Background

The Native American Connection

Zion National Park has a rich and complex history, dating back thousands of years. The Southern Paiute, Navajo, and Ute lived in the park for generations.

These tribes had a deep connection to the land and relied on its resources for survival. They hunted, fished, and gathered plants for food and medicine, and used the canyon walls for shelter and protection.

The Museum of Human History and Zion Canyon Visitor Center have exhibits on the park’s indigenous cultures.

The Pioneer Era

Settlers and pioneers visited Zion National Park in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were drawn to the region’s fertile soil, mild climate, and abundant water.

One of the most famous pioneers was Isaac Behunin, who built a homestead in Zion Canyon in the 1860s. The canyon’s first non-Native Americans, he and his family farmed, raised livestock, and built a community.

Other pioneers followed, and by the early 1900s, the area was home to several small towns and settlements. These settlers played an important role in shaping the park’s history, and their legacy can still be seen in the park today.

The Creation of Zion National Park

The idea of creating a national park in Zion Canyon dates back to the early 1900s. In 1909, President William Howard Taft declared the area a national monument to preserve its beauty and cultural significance.

In 1918, Congress passed a bill to establish Zion National Park, and it was signed into law by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919. The park’s boundaries were expanded in the 1930s and 1950s, and today it covers an area of 229 square miles.

Since its creation, Zion National Park has become one of the most popular and beloved national parks in the United States. Millions of visitors come each year to hike, camp, and enjoy the park’s stunning beauty.

Things to Do and See

Hiking

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Zion National Park, and with good reason. The park has over 90 miles of trails that range from easy strolls to challenging hikes.

One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Angel’s Landing Trail, which offers stunning views of Zion Canyon from its lofty summit. The trail is 5.4 miles round trip and includes steep switchbacks and a narrow ridge with drop-offs on either side.

Another great hike is the Observation Point Trail, which offers panoramic views of Zion Canyon and the surrounding landscape. The trail is 8 miles round trip and includes a steep ascent up switchbacks and a final climb up a steep set of stairs.

Scenic Drives

If you’re not up for a hike, don’t worry – there are plenty of scenic drives in Zion National Park that offer breathtaking views of the park’s stunning scenery.

The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, with its switchbacks and tunnels, is a popular drive.

The Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive winds through narrow canyons and towering sandstone cliffs.

Wildlife Viewing

Zion National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, mountain lions, and black bears.

One of the best places to see wildlife in the park is the Kolob Terrace Road, which passes through a variety of habitats and offers excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife.

Another great spot for wildlife viewing is the Riverside Walk, which follows the Virgin River and offers a chance to see a variety of bird species, including the rare California condor.

Cultural Sites

Zion National Park is home to a number of cultural sites that offer a glimpse into the park’s rich history and heritage.

One of the most popular cultural sites is the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, which has exhibits on the park’s geology, flora and fauna, and human history.

Another great cultural site is the Weeping Rock Trail, which passes by a series of alcoves and rock formations that were used by Native American tribes for shelter and protection.

Wildlife and Natural Environment

Nature lovers love Zion National Park for its diverse wildlife and natural wonders. Here are some additional highlights of the park’s wildlife and natural environment:

Flora

Zion National Park is home to a variety of plant life, including over 1,000 species of plants. The park’s flora is as diverse as its geology, with plants ranging from desert cacti to alpine wildflowers.

One of the most unique plant species in the park is the bristlecone pine, which is one of the oldest living organisms in the world. These trees can live for thousands of years and are found at high elevations throughout the park.

Another interesting plant species is the desert trumpet, which has large, trumpet-shaped flowers that are pollinated by bats.

Fauna

Zion National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Some of the most iconic wildlife species in the park include bighorn sheep, mule deer, and mountain lions.

One of the best places to see wildlife in the park is the Watchman Trail, which offers panoramic views of the park’s wildlife and natural beauty.

Another great spot for wildlife viewing is the Zion Narrows, which is a popular spot for hiking and offers a chance to see a variety of wildlife species.

Geology

Zion National Park’s geology is as diverse as its plant and animal life. Millions of years of erosion and geological activity formed the park’s unique sandstone formations.

One of the most iconic geologic features in the park is Angels Landing, which is a towering sandstone formation that rises over 1,500 feet above the canyon floor.

Water has carved The Subway, a slot canyon, over millions of years, making it an interesting geologic feature.

Water Features

Rivers, streams, and waterfalls make up Zion National Park’s ecosystem.

One of the most iconic waterfalls in the park is Emerald Pools, which is a series of three waterfalls that are located in the middle of the park.

Another great water feature is The Virgin River, which flows through the heart of the park and is home to a variety of fish and other aquatic species.

Practical Information for Visitors

To make your Zion National Park trip go smoothly, keep a few things in mind. Here are some additional practical tips for visitors:

Getting There

Zion National Park is located in southern Utah and is easily accessible by car. The nearest airport is the St. George Regional Airport, which is about a 45-minute drive from the park. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Las Vegas or Salt Lake City and rent a car to drive to the park.

Accommodations

The Park offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, including camping, RV parks, and hotels. There are three campgrounds in the park that are open year-round, as well as several RV parks and hotels located just outside the park.

Activities

It offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including hiking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and more. Some of the most popular hiking trails in the park include Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Observation Point.

Weather

Experience a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year, with hot summers and cold winters. The summer often brings hot temperatures, with temperatures frequently exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so visitors should prepare accordingly. In the winter, visitors should be prepared for snow and ice on the park’s trails and roads.

Safety

While Zion National Park is a beautiful and awe-inspiring destination, it’s important to remember that it is also a wilderness area with potential hazards. Visitors should always stay on designated trails and be aware of potential dangers such as rockfalls and flash floods. Additionally, visitors should be prepared for extreme weather conditions and carry plenty of water and sunscreen.

Fees and Permits

Zion National Park authorities require visitors to pay an entrance fee that varies depending on the type of vehicle and the length of stay. Annual passes are also available for frequent visitors. Some activities, such as backcountry hiking and camping, require additional permits.