Zion National Park

I have been here twice (July 1987, Sept. 1994).  It is said to be one of the nation's oldest national parks where one can experience it's massive canyons, deserts, streams, waterfalls and hanging gardens of ferns and moss. The 6-mile drive into the heart of verdant Zion Canyon brings visitors past such scenic wonders as The Great White Throne, The Watchman, Grotto Picnic Area, Angels Landing, Weeping Rock, the trail to Emerald Pools and the fantastic Gateway To The Narrows Trail.

After millions of years, the Virgin River continues to flow through the masterpiece it has created. There are several easy, self-guiding trails in Zion National Park, along with more strenuous hikes. Sure-footed hikers enjoy hiking in the Virgin River itself through the Zion Narrows. Here you can experience the power of millions of years of erosion as you make your way through slot canyons. These canyons are hundreds of feet high, and at times, only an arms-length across. While this provides for an exciting hike, it can also be very dangerous. The Virgin River is the natural drainage. A downpour rainstorm, completely out of sight from within the Narrows, could fill these narrow canyons in seconds! Such flash floods have been known to strand or kill hikers. Therefore, such hikes require advanced check-in at the ranger station.

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