Zion Hiking: Strenuous Trails Easy to Moderate Trails
Zion National Park is the oldest national park in Utah. Zion was designated as a national Park in 1919, but it was not until the 1920s and 1930s that many of the front country trails were constructed. Work back in those days was difficult and much of it was done with a simple pick, shovel and dangerous explosives. A group called the Civilian Conservation Corp made the majority of Zion's front country trails. Trails in Zion that were subject to erosion were paved or were carved into the natural rock. Pack mules were used to carry the heavy water up the steep grades of the trails. The men carried the dry cement mix in their backpacks. The Riverside Walk (Gateway to the Narrows) was built in 1925 with more work completed in1929. The Emerald Pools, Observation Point and West Rim Trails were also done in 1925. An addition the West Rim Trail was finished a year later, connecting the steep, twisting path called "Walter's Wiggles" that leads to Angels Landing. The East Rim Trail was finished in 1926. The old wagon trail it was made from was called the Winder Stock Trail. Canyon Overlook was finished in 1932 and two years later the Watchman Trail was completed. The newest trail in the park is the Pa'rus trail, constructed in 1995.
Hiking Equipment
The kind of gear you will need for your visit to Zion National Park depends on which trails you plan to do. Comfortable hiking shoes and quality socks are a must. Painful blisters and sore toes can ruin your plans. If hiking the Zion Narrows is on your vacation itinerary you might want to invest in a good pair of aquatic shoes. A daypack and hydration system are also essential.
Key: [East/South of Canyon Junction off hwy 9] [Cliff-side: Exposed scramble or narrow ledge] [Slot: Slot Canyon or Narrows]
[Boulders: Climbing over boulders or up steep slabs] [ Scrambling: Hiking/Climbing up or down steep slick rock]
[Semi-Tech: Rope and climbing skills] [Technical: Advanced climbing or canyoneering]
Common sense hiking cautions - Weather Report
Remember that Zion National Park is canyon country. There is a rock fall some where in Zion Park every single day. There are sheer cliffs, loose rocks and slippery sandstone. Think of standing on sandstone like standing on a layer of tiny round marbles. Stay away from the edges. Do not take children on trails that are not safe for them. In the winter check with the visitor center before heading for the trails. Some trails get little sun and can be dangerous in the cold weather months. Flash floods are a real danger. Stay out of slot canyons if it's storming. A storm far away can cause a flash flood. If there is lightening stay off the trails. If there is heavy rain or flash flooding, water can sweep hikers off the trails and off the side of a cliff. Hypothermia, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are concerns when hiking. Stay hydrated. Watch kids closely. Wear hats in the summer and in the winter wear layers of clothing. Bring high energy foods to snack on when hiking. Wear comfortable shoes appropriate for hiking and bring bandages. Hikers often cut short a trip due to blisters and sore toes from their shoes. Do not feed animals or touch them. Do not give into the begging of the fat little squirrels at the end of the Riverside Walk Trail. Feeding the wild animals makes them aggressive and puts them at harm in many ways.
Disclaimer & Privacy Policy
All rights reserved © Copyright Zions Works
Do not use photos or maps without permission © Photography by Tanya
