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Most national parks have a little town with hotels, places to eat, and shopping and for Zion National Park, Springdale, Utah is just that place. You can’t visit Zion National Park without stopping in Springdale! Visitors to Zion will find plenty of awesome things to do in Springdale, Utah, as well as fantastic places to stay, lots of shopping, and great places to eat . Though the population of Springdale is super small (only around 600 people actually live here), the town plays a big role as the gateway to Zion National Park. Where is Springdale Located? Springdale, Utah sits right at the entrance to Zion National Park, and you go straight through the town to get to the west entrance of Zion.  You can even walk from Springdale right into Zion. Getting Around Springdale While it’s easy to walk around most of Springdale, there’s also a convenient free shuttle that runs through town and connects with the Zion National Park shuttle. The shuttle is such a wonderful way to get around and explore all the things to do in Springdale, Utah. The Springdale shuttle runs daily from March through November, and you can find detailed info about Springdale shuttle hours and stops here . Where to Stay in Springdale Springdale is an amazing home base for visiting Zion National Park , and you’ll find lots of lodging options here. Here are my top three favorite spots to stay in Springdale: CABLE MOUNTAIN LODGE If you want to stay as close as possible to Zion, you literally can’t get closer than Cable Mountain Lodge ! The park entrance is just a 3 min walk from the lodge, so you can stroll right past any traffic backups to get into the park and walk right in the pedestrian entrance. Plus, you won’t have to worry about parking! Beyond the amazing location, Cable Mountain Lodge has some awesome amenities as well. The pool is awesome on a hot day in the desert, and you can see the stunning red rock walls of Zion in the distance while you’re splashing around. And let me tell you, The Spa at Cable Mountain Lodge  is absolutely worth the indulgence, especially after a few days of hiking and exploring in Zion. FLANIGAN'S INN Only about half a mile from the entrance to Zion, Flanigan’s Inn  is a fantastic place to stay in Springdale. From terrace rooms to suites to private villas, you can find the perfect accommodation option at Flanigan’s to fit your family or group when visiting Zion. The family-owned inn has an outdoor hot tub and pool to relax in and enjoy the views, and there’s also a nature trail on the property and a really cool hilltop labyrinth to explore. Deep Canyon Spa offers a variety of rejuvenating treatments, too. CLIFFROSE LODGE Another wonderful spot just an easy walk down the road from Zion is Cliffrose Lodge . The rooms and villas are lovely, and the grounds are absolutely gorgeous with a well-tended botanical garden right on the property. Five Petals Spa offers a special escape for a massage or a facial, but the real gem at Cliffrose Lodge is the riverside pool and hot tub. Sitting right on the edge of the Virgin River, you’ll get seriously jaw-dropping views while you soak. And here are my honorable mentions for a couple other great places to stay in Springdale: Desert Pearl Inn   –  Great location along the Virgin River and an easy walk to Springdale attractions and the Zion park entrance. Springhill Suites -  Modern rooms and amenities, just a little bit farther from the park entrance (about 1.5 miles) but easy to hop on the shuttle. Where to Eat in Springdale For such a small town, Springdale has a surprising amount of amazing places to eat! These are my top go-to restaurants when I’m exploring all the things to do in Springdale, Utah. WHIPTAIL GRILL Everything is amazing here! Whiptail Grill serves fun twists on traditional Mexican food, like goat cheese chile rellenos (my absolute fave!) and spaghetti squash enchiladas. Of course, you can also get tasty tacos and burritos, and they have excellent burgers on the menu, too. ZION PIZZA & NOODLE CO If you’re in the mood for pizza, you definitely won’t be disappointed here. The signature pizzas are seriously so good, and the salads are also great. Quench your thirst in the beer garden, which features a long list of drafts from local Utah breweries and other favorites from farther away. OSCAR’S CAFE You can’t beat the breakfast burritos at Oscar’s Cafe…both the pork verde and black bean green chili are an excellent way to start a big day of hiking in Zion. They also have pancakes and french toast if you have a sweet tooth. The lunch and dinner menu is extensive, but I swear by the shrimp tacos! MEME’S CAFE Famous for its crepes, which include both savory and sweet options, MeMe’s Cafe is a wonderful spot for lunch in Springdale. The sandwiches are truly something special, especially if you love pork…choose from a Hawaiian, Cubano, BBQ pork, and more! You also can’t go wrong with all these other yummy choices: Hangry Goat   –  This brand new spot features great barbecue sandwiches along with awesome views of The Watchman formation while you eat. Cafe Soleil   –  Convenient cafe to grab a snack before heading into Zion National Park. Deep Creek   –  Organic, locally sourced breakfast and lunch options including quinoa bowls, smoothie bowls, and sandwiches. Switchback Grille   –  Splurge on a fancy dinner at this contemporary American steakhouse with incredible seafood, too. King’s Landing   –  Treat yourself to an incredible seasonal meal with amazing specialty cocktails at this upscale bistro. Bit & Spur   –  Enjoy an eclectic menu ranging from sweet potato tamales to roasted poblano mac & cheese to chicken mole at this modern saloon, or get a casual snack at the backyard taco shack. TOP COFFEE SPOTS Deep Creek   –  My personal fave to get my caffeine fix is this adorable cafe with delicious specialty lattes and more. Canyon Coffee   –  Grab a coffee or a chai latte here to get energized for your day in Zion. Perks at Cable Mountain   –  Located right outside the park entrance, you can park at the Zion Visitor Center early in the morning and then walk over and get a coffee. LOCAL TIP: Springdale also has two grocery stores, Sol Foods Supermarket and Happy Campers Market. While they are convenient when you are heading into or out of Zion, that convenience comes with a price…literally. They are both super expensive! I recommend heading to the nearby town of Hurricane and hitting up Walmart, Lins, or Davis in for groceries if you want to save some money. Things to Do in Springdale, Utah While the big attraction here is obviously Zion National Park, you shouldn’t miss these fun things to do in Springdale, Utah, too. Rent E-Bikes from Zion Outfitters If you haven’t tried e-biking, I highly recommend it, and Springdale is the perfect place to give it a go. Head to Zion Outfitters, a gear store right at the entrance to Zion, and rent an e-bike for the day . Once you get your bike, start pedaling on the Pa’Rus Trail  which runs from the Visitor Center along the Virgin River to Canyon Junction. You can continue biking through the canyon, and it takes about 30 minutes to get from the Visitor Center to the end of the canyon at the Temple of Sinawava. Local tip: Zion Outfitters offers 30 e-bike reservations per day (except on holiday weekends) with additional e-bikes available on a first-come/first-serve basis. Make a reservation online  if you want to guarantee that you get a bike! Check out my blog post with lots more info about e-biking in Zion here ! Play Around at Springdale Town Park Since most people are distracted by Zion, the Springdale Town Park is a local secret that I love! There’s so much to do here, with pickleball courts, volleyball courts, tennis courts, softball fields, frisbee golf, and a playground. Plus, you can chill out in the gazebo or have lunch at the picnic tables (there’s a grill, too). And, of course, the views from here are amazing. Hang Out at George Barker River Park As you might expect from its name, George Barker River Park sits on the Virgin River in Springdale. One side of the park features picnic tables, grills, and plenty of grass to set up a picnic blanket. On the other side of the river is Marj Bonner Dog Park, where you can let your furry friends run and play off leash. And everyone will enjoy splashing in the river here, especially when it’s hot! Hike with a View While the most well-known trails are obviously in Zion, you’ll find some nice easy trails right in Springdale, too. One of my favorites is a great little hike that starts at George Barker Park and takes you up to a beautiful vantage point of Springdale and the surrounding cliffs. It’s only about a mile round trip, and the views are incredible!  Stop into the Springdale Library A great rainy day destination or an escape from the heat, the Springdale Library offers something to keep the whole family entertained for a while. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and this truly might be the most beautiful library location you’ll ever see, with the sandstone walls of Zion rising just behind it. Stroll the Shops in Springdale It’s totally worth spending an afternoon walking around Springdale and checking out the shops. Here are a few to make sure to pop into: Bumbleberry Gift Shop   –  This cute gift shop is also a bakery, so you can get both souvenirs and sweet treats here. Hoodoos General Store   –  We love the grassy area outfront of Hoodoos. Check out the gift shop, then get an ice cream and sit on the lawn for a bit. The store also has a deli inside if you get hungry. Zion Prospector–  Gaze at all the beautiful rocks, gems, and fossils from both Utah and around the world. You can definitely find a unique souvenir here! Zion Rock & Gem   –  From breathtaking large crystals to smaller but equally gorgeous gems, you could spend all day here exploring the selection of amazing rocks. The prices for souvenirs are also the best in town. Peek at the Art Galleries You might not expect it, but there are lots of great art galleries in Springdale! Check these out to appreciate the local talent: DeZion Gallery   –  This wonderful gallery showcases local Southwestern artists and is on a mission to make art accessible to as many people as possible. David J West Gallery   –  Photographer David J. West displays stunning photos of Zion and the Southwest in his gallery. Worthington Gallery   –  This gallery is housed in a historic pioneer home and features the work of over 40 local artists in a variety of mediums, including kinetic wind sculptures. Sorella Gallery   –  A small gallery with beautiful photographs, gorgeous art glass, and lots of creative pieces. Take some time  to explore this charming town that welcomes travelers to Zion National Park. As you can see, Springdale is far more than just a parking lot for the park. Nestled in the shadow of the iconic red, white, and pink striped cliffs, Springdale feels like an extension of the park itself. With plenty of entertainment, shopping, restaurants and lodging options, you will find that Springdale is a great place to spend some time on your visit to Zion National Park. I hope this blog post helps you make the most of that stop. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

Stunning red sandstone cliffs surround the city of St. George in southwest Utah, and this landscape makes it a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Tons of trails nearby offer adventures for all ability levels, and you’ll surely find a few amazing trails that are perfect for you on this list of the best hikes in St. George, Utah. As a local, these are all hikes that I have done numerous time with my kids and on my own and I love these hikes so much! The 15 Top Hikes in St. George, Utah These St. George, Utah hiking trails are all within a 45 minute drive from town, and most are 30 minutes or less. You’ll find hikes in Snow Canyon State Park  and Red Cliffs National Reserve, and a few of these hikes near St. George, Utah are in or near Kolob Canyons . This is a very cool separate area of Zion National Park  that is closer to St. George than the main canyon entrance in Springdale . Scout Cave Trail Johnson Canyon Petrified Sand Dunes Jenny’s Canyon Lava Flow Trail White Rocks Trail Cinder Cone Trail Babylon Arch Red Reef Trail Dino Cliffs Trail Spring Creek Taylor Creek Trail Timber Creek Overlook Quail Creek Overlook Trail Kanarra Falls St. George is a wonderful family-friendly destination , and all of these trails in St. George, Utah are easy to moderate, so you can bring the kids on most of them. 1. Scout Cave Trail I am a huge fan of trails that lead to caves, and that makes Scout Cave Trail one of my favorites. With stunning views of the St George Valley and plenty of desert beauty along the way, this is definitely one of the best hikes in St. George, Utah. LOCATION The trailhead for the Scout Cave Trail located on the south side of Snow Canyon just outside the park. It’s about a 15 minute drive from downtown St. George. You will park in the gravel parking area to the left side of the road, and the trailhead is just across the street. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO LENGTH The Scout Cave Trail is about 3.5 miles round trip. The trail is just long enough to get the blood pumping but short enough that you can do it as a little morning or afternoon adventure. Depending on your pace, it will take around 1.5 - 2 hours to complete. TRAIL DETAILS The first section of Scout Cave Trail takes you along a lava flow path that is a bit rocky but well defined. The path heads down into a creek bed with lots of trees and desert vegetation, which was my favorite part of the trail.  The trail then runs along a housing development, and just past the housing, the trail starts to climb. If you look up ahead, you can even sneak a peek of the cave in the cliffs above. Climb a set of stairs and then a rocky path will take you up and into the cave. The cave itself is not that big, but the views of the St George Valley are absolutely beautiful up here and totally worth the short climb. Learn more about hiking the Scout Cave Trail here ! 2. Johnson Canyon Trail You can add on Johnson Canyon Trail to your Scout Cave hike or do this trail on its own. Just be aware that Johnson Canyon is closed seasonally from March 15-September 14 for preservation of natural resources. LOCATION The main trailhead for Johnson Canyon is near but just outside the south entrance to Snow Canyon State Park along Snow Canyon Drive. LENGTH The Johnson Canyon Trail is just under 2 miles out and back. It can be combined with Scout Cave Trail for a longer hike. TRAIL DETAILS This trail packs a lot into a short hike, with lava flows, a natural spring, and sandstone cliffs. Willows and cottonwoods dot the landscape and contrast with the red rocks. At the end of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with the gorgeous Johnson Canyon Arch which spans 200 feet. 3. Petrified Sand Dunes The Petrified Sand Dunes are one of the most popular attractions in Snow Canyon State Park, and you'll see why on this family-friendly hike which is packed with incredible views. The dunes are basically huge hills of Navajo sandstone that cascade all around you. LOCATION You’ll find the Petrified Sand Dunes in Snow Canyon State Park near the Upper and Lower Galoots picnic areas. LENGTH This trail is only 1.2 miles out and back with just a little bit of elevation gain, so it’s a great one for the kiddos to explore. TRAIL DETAILS The trail winds through the Petrified Sand Dunes, so you can immerse yourself in these cool formations. The dunes are reasonably easy to navigate, just expect some uneven surfaces and some steep hills. You can continue to Hidden Pinyon Overlook near the end of the trail for even more breathtaking views! 4. Jenny’s Canyon Trail Jenny’s Canyon Trail is a short, sandy walk to a small yet magnificent slot canyon that offers a cool refuge from the hot desert summers. It’s a great introduction to southern Utah slot canyons  that the whole family can enjoy, even the littlest ones. LOCATION Jenny’s Canyon is located in Snow Canyon State Park, just 15 minutes from St. George. The trailhead is off of Snow Canyon Drive. LENGTH Jenny’s Canyon is only a half a mile round trip, so it’s probably the easiest slot canyon you can find! TRAIL DETAILS From the trailhead, cross a short wash to reach the canyon. Before you enter the canyon, be sure to stop at the overlook with impressive views of the sand dunes of Snow Canyon. Then head through the canyon where you can run your fingertips along the soft red walls and kids can scramble around. Note: Jenny’s Canyon  is closed from March 15 – June 1 to protect endangered habitat. 5. Lava Flow Trail The Lava Flow Trail is one of the most unique hikes in St George, Utah, and you don’t want to miss it. The trail lets you explore lava tubes which formed when the outer surface of a lava flow cooled and hardened while the lava inside continued to flow. Eventually all of the lava flowed out, leaving these cool cave-like tubes that you can hike through. LOCATION This is another hike located in Snow Canyon State Park, with the trailhead along Snow Canyon Drive. LENGTH The Lava Flow Trail is 2.3 miles out-and-back and is considered a relatively moderate hike. TRAIL DETAILS Be sure to bring your headlamps or flashlights to explore this trail! Although you might not expect it at first, you will stumble across three different lava tubes you can check out on the hike. You'll also find a lot of basalt and white rocks in this area, which is a departure from the red rocks you'll find more of on other hikes in St. George, Utah. 6. White Rocks Trail For spectacular views of Snow Canyon State Park, take a short hike to White Rocks Amphitheater. The petrified white rocks will delight the whole family, and kids will enjoy the sand hill. You can also extend your hike on the White Rocks Trail for a moderate adventure for more experienced hikers. LOCATION The trailhead for White Rocks is along UT-18, just outside the north entrance of Snow Canyon State Park. LENGTH You can do the short spur to White Rocks Amphitheater, which is only about a mile out and back, or you can take the longer 4-mile hike along the full White Rocks Trail. TRAIL DETAILS White Rocks is great because you can choose your own adventure! Maybe you just want to enjoy the beginning of the trail surrounded by cascading white rocks and distant views of Snow Canyon, or perhaps you want a longer trail to see more of this interesting desert landscape. Either way, White Rocks is one of the great hikes in St. George, Utah. 7. Cinder Cone Trail Wondering where all the lava flows in the St. George landscape come from? Ancient volcanoes erupted in this area, and you can hike up to the summit of one of the cinder cones on this cool trail. LOCATION Cinder Cone Trail is located outside the north entrance to Snow Canyon State Park, just past the White Rocks Trailhead along UT-18 near Diamond Valley. LENGTH Cinder Cone Trail is just 2 miles round trip, but it’s decently steep, and you’ll encounter some loose, rocky sections. It’s not one of the hikes in St. George, Utah that I would really recommend for kids. TRAIL DETAILS Beyond just the fun of hiking up an ancient volcano, the Cinder Cone Trail offers spectacular panoramic views of  Snow Canyon and Dammeron Valley from the summit. The trail is fairly easy to follow, but it’s quite rocky and steep so make sure to wear shoes or boots with good traction and bring trekking poles. 8. Babylon Arch The trail to Babylon Arch features beautiful red rock formations around every corner, stunning views of the Virgin River, and, of a course, an amazing arch! Honestly, the first time I tried this trail, I wasn’t super impressed, but I’m so glad I came back again, because now it’s absolutely one of my favorite hikes in St. George, Utah. LOCATION The trail is located in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, about 30 minutes from St. George. Most people will start this hike from the Sand Cove trailhead, but if you have a good 4WD vehicle, you can drive farther down the road to start near a primitive camping area. LENGTH Starting from the Sand Cove trailhead, it’s about 2.2 miles round trip to Babylon Arch. If you’re able to drive farther down the road, you can make it more like 1.5 miles out and back. TRAIL DETAILS If you start from Sand Cove, you’ll hike down the road for a little bit until you reach the primitive camping area and the actual start of the Babylon Arch Trail. Then you’ll hike along a sandy and rocky trail for about half a mile. When you see the Virgin River in the distance, look to your right to find a steep sand hill. Head down the hill to arrive at the arch. From here you can also follow a trail spur to the Virgin River. Definitely plan to take some time to explore and enjoy the trail…if you have kids who love to scramble on rocks, they will be in heaven here! Get more details about hiking to Babylon Arch here ! 9. Red Reef Trail With a gorgeous desert backdrop, soaring red rock walls, arches, petroglyphs, rock caves, cool-looking trees, and pools for swimming (if the stream is running), this is seriously one of the best hikes in St. George, Utah that you don’t want to miss. Red Reef Trail is a hike that I take just about everyone who comes to visit this area on…I just love it so much! LOCATION This trail is in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area, and the trailhead is located between St. George and  Hurricane, just 5 minutes northwest of Quail Lake Reservoir. LENGTH The Red Reef Trail is 3 miles round trip with very little elevation gain. The trail is sandy and occasionally a little rocky, but it is clearly marked.  TRAIL DETAILS As you start the Red Reef Trail, you will see a tree stump that looks like an elephant (seriously!), and soon after that a fun rock tunnel. Continue hiking for a bit, and you will come to an amazing tree with sprawling branches that my kids call the snake tree. Follow the dry (or wet) stream bed, and you will come to a pool of water, which is a great spot to jump in when the water is flowing. Climb up to a higher section of the trail where there’s a bench that’s the perfect place for a snack break. Then continue on and look for an arch in the rock wall straight ahead. You can hike right up to the arch to check out some petroglyphs on the ceiling on the left side of the arch. As you continue on the trail, the red cliff walls close in and surround you in a way that is truly spectacular. Read more about the Red Reef Trail here ! 10. Dino Cliffs Trail As you might expect, the highlight of the Dino Cliffs Trail is the actual dinosaur tracks you can see here. A short hike leads you to several amazing dinosaur footprints preserved in the hardened rock. LOCATION You’ll find the Dino Cliffs trailhead about 15 minutes from St. George in the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. LENGTH It’s only about half a mile round trip to reach the dinosaur tracks, but if you hike the whole trail, it’s about 3.5 miles round trip. TRAIL DETAILS This trail is surrounded by beautiful red rocks, but the dinosaur footprints are what makes Dino Cliffs so special. This would be a fantastic hike for dino-loving kiddos, but it’s actually super cool for anyone to see this evidence of when dinosaurs from the Jurassic Period roamed here. 11. Spring Creek Trail Spring Creek Canyon might not have the stunning waterfalls of Kanarra Falls or the fame of Kolob Canyons in Zion, but it is actually an equally incredible hike through a slot canyon where you won’t have to deal with the crowds at those more well-known trails. LOCATION Spring Creek Canyon is in Kanarraville, which is 10 minutes north of the Kolob Canyons  area of Zion National Park and 20 minutes south of Cedar City. From I-15, take Old US-Hwy 91 to Spring Creek Road to get to the trailhead.   CLICK HERE FOR DRIVING DIRECTIONS     LENGTH This hike is 5 miles round trip but to get to the slot canyon section it is only about 3/4 mile in. This is an out and back hike. If you don't go the full 5 miles it is still a great hike! TRAIL DETAILS The trail starts out a little boring but don’t be discouraged, the good stuff is yet to come. Soon you’ll reach towering sandstone cliffs that will totally take your breath away! Head into the canyon, which will narrow in several spots, but never become too tight of a slot canyon to struggle through. Winding your way through the depths of Spring Creek Canyon will definitely provide the amazing red rock experience that you come to the desert of southern Utah to explore…but without the crowds of the busier hikes in the area. For more info, read all about Spring Creek Trail here ! 12. Taylor Creek Trail Soaring peaks of Navajo sandstone line the Taylor Creek Trail, and the lush vegetation makes it a cool and shaded hike during the heat of the summer. Along the trail, you’ll encounter two historic cabins, and you’ll discover an incredible double arch alcove at the end. The alcove is huge and somewhat cave-like, with a large wall of seeping water and lush green ferns. LOCATION Taylor Creek is located in the Kolob Canyons district of Zion National Park. Kolob Canyons is located at Exit 40 on I-15, about half an hour from St. George, and Taylor Creek is the first trailhead you will come to along Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive . LENGTH Taylor Creek is a five mile round trip out and back trail. It typically takes 3-4 hours to hike. TRAIL DETAILS The trail starts with a short and steep hike down to Taylor Creek. When you reach the bottom of the canyon, the trail levels out and runs along the small stream all the way to the end. Be prepared to cross the stream multiple times along this hike. About a mile in, you will find the first of two historic homestead cabins along the trail. You can walk around the cabins, peeking into the windows to imagine what life was like for the settlers who built these remote cabins.  After you continue on, you'll know you have reached the end of the trail when you hit the Double Arch Alcove. It's not a true open arch, but the closed arches in the sandstone soaring high above you are still super cool.  For more info, read all about Taylor Creek Trail here ! 13. Timber Creek Overlook The views from the Timber Creek Overlook trail are simply stunning…seriously! This easy hike is a wonderful way for the whole family to experience the beautiful sandstone cliffs of Kolob Canyons.  LOCATION The trailhead for Timber Creek Overlook is at the end of Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive, and it is a fantastic finish to a beautiful drive.  LENGTH Timber Creek Overlook Trail is just over a mile round trip on a mostly flat, sandy  trail with a only few brief sections of rocky hills. TRAIL DETAILS This trail features awesomes views the whole way, but the panoramic perspective at the end of the Timber Creek Overlook  trail is the cherry on top! The jaw-dropping views of the rich red mountains and wild desert landscape go on for miles and miles. Check out my blog post here for more easy hikes in Zion ! 14. Quail Creek Overlook Trail For an oasis in the southern Utah desert, head to Quail Creek State Park and hike to the Quail Creek Overlook. From here, you’ll enjoy lovely views of Quail Creek Reservoir with red rocks and mountains in the distance. LOCATION This hike is in Quail Creek State Park, and the trailhead is on the south side of Quail Creek Reservoir. LENGTH From the south shore trailhead, the hike to the overlook is just under 4 miles out and back. There is also a much longer 12-mile round trip trail if you’re looking for a challenge. TRAIL DETAILS This hike winds around part of Quail Creek Reservoir with impressive views over the water to the desert and mountains beyond. It’s a moderate hike with a fairly mild incline, but it is exposed with no shade. If you do get hot, you can take a dip in the reservoir when you’re done hiking! 15. Kanarra Falls Kanarra Falls was once considered a hidden secret but not anymore. The stunning slot canyons and waterfalls make this hike about as photogenic as it comes and with all those amazing pictures posted all over social media, this hike has become a destination spot for many travelers visiting Zion + Southern Utah. $15 permit per person is required. You can get one online CLICK HERE to get your permit online . 200 people a day will be able to get a permit so best to get one ahead of time online to make sure you get the permit needed to access the hike. Once summer hits these permits go fast. LOCATION Kannara Falls is located in the small town of Kanarraville, UT, just 15 minutes south of Cedar City and 1-hour north-west of Zion. Click here  for map and directions from your location. LENGTH Kanarra Falls is 4 miles round trip but it is only a little over 2 miles round trip to get to the first waterfall and ladder. This is where I usually turn around when hiking Kanarra Falls with kids. TRAIL DETAILS This trail starts out on a dirt road for about 1/2 mile as you head towards Kanarra Canyon. Once the dirt road ends, you will follow a dirt path going back and forth along a small stream. Eventually, you will be required to hike in the stream. A little over a mile in you will come to a waterfall. Just about 10 to 15 minutes past the waterfall is the famous and beautiful slot canyon....it is amazing you guys!!! Just a short hike through the slot canyon and you will come to a waterfall with a ladder to climb up. The new metal ladder that was installed a few years ago makes the climb up fairly safe. Kids may need a little help. Once at the top, you will soon come to a large boulder and waterfall to climb. Kids will require assistance here as well. Past this section, you will follow the stream up for much more beauty and fun.....or so that is what I hear. We usually only make it a short way past the first waterfall. Read more about the Kararra Falls Here! Hope you enjoy all these amazing hikes in St. George, Utah! And check out even more epic hikes in southern Utah here ! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

While Angels Landing gets all the hype thanks to the super steep section of chains and the epic views from the top, hiking to Scout Lookout along the way is a worthwhile adventure in its own right. Hiking Scout Lookout Zion National Park is a great choice for those that are scared of heights and don’t feel comfortable on the exposed chains section of Angels Landing, as well as for people who aren’t able to get permits for Angels Landing. As a local I don't love having to get permits for hikes so I love that I have the option to still get the incredible views and not fuss with the permit. Info for Hiking Scout Lookout in Zion National Park Here’s all the important info that you need to know before hiking Scout Lookout Zion National Park.  This is a popular hike that’s part of the much longer West Rim Trail. (The entire West Rim Trail is 16 miles point-to-point, and many people backpack it.) Scout Lookout is on the way to Angels Landing and is a common turn-around point for people who decide not to hike the steep, exposed section to the summit. LENGTH The section of the West Rim Trail to Scout Lookout is 3.6 miles round trip. If you are in good shape and keep a moderate pace you can complete this hike in 2 to 3 hrs.  DIFFICULTY Even though this hike doesn’t go all the way to the summit of Angels Landing, you’ll still get 1,122 feet of elevation gain on the way to Scout Lookout. It’s a great workout and considered a difficult hike, but I think it’s still totally doable with young kids. (On the other hand, I would not recommend hiking the chains section all the way up to Angels Landing with kids.) LOCATION The trail to Scout Lookout starts at The Grotto, which is stop #6 on the Zion shuttle . When you arrive, cross the road, go over the bridge, head to the right to the West Rim Trail toward Angels Landing, and you are on your way. (If you go to the left, you will be on the Kayenta Trail.) CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS & TO BOOK A SHOOT In the winter when shuttles are not running, you can drive yourself and park in the lot. But plan to get there early, because parking in the winter during the day will be hard to find. Do You Need a Permit to Hike Scout Lookout? Nope! You do NOT need a permit for hiking Scout Lookout Zion National Park. You only need a permit if you want to continue on to the chain section and the summit of An gels Landing . If you don’t have a permit, you can’t go any farther up the trail than Scout Lookout. Scout Lookout still offers incredible views over Zion, so it’s a perfect stopping point if you’re nervous about the chains up to Angels Landing. You can also continue along the West Rim Trail for a bit if you want to keep hiking but don’t have an Angels Landing permit. Trail Details for Hiking Scout Lookout Zion National Park From the Grotto, you’ll follow the West Rim Trail up to Scout Lookout. The start of the trail will take you along the Virgin River for a bit. The hike starts off fairly mellow, but as  you veer away from the river, you’ll start the switchbacks and more intense elevation gain. After a while, you’ll enter Refrigerator Canyon, which is a nice break from the steep uphill. It also offers some shade as a respite from the heat in the summer. Enjoy your rest in Refrigerator Canyon, because after that you’ll have to tackle the infamous Walter’s Wiggles. This section consists of 21 steep switchbacks and is named after Walter Reusch, the first superintendent of Zion National Park. You might be cursing his name for constructing these switchbacks as you make your way up them, haha, but believe me, it’s worth it to keep going! After you finally stop ascending and reach the top of Walter’s Wiggles, you will emerge to find yourself at Scout Lookout. Enjoy the absolutely beautiful views of the canyon from above and spend some time here to savor it. You can look up and see the chains to Angels Landing from here, and maybe get a better idea if that’s a hike you might want to do someday. But remember, you can’t go any farther without a permit!  Check out my post here for more info about hiking Angels Landing ! Once you’ve gotten your fill – and plenty of photos! – of the view from Scout Lookout, turn around and head back down the trail to make your way back to the Grotto. Tips for Hiking Scout Lookout Zion National Park While this isn’t a super long hike, you should still take plenty of water and snacks on your hike. There is a water fill station at the Grotto so you can make sure you have enough water (especially when it’s hot out).  I highly recommend using the bathrooms at the Grotto before you start your hike! There actually are toilets at Scout Lookout but, believe me, these should really be used only in an emergency.  You’ll want comfy hiking shoes with good traction for this hike. A hiking pole might be useful on the way down, too. If you’re hiking to Scout Lookout in Zion in winter , microspikes might be necessary. The Walter’s Wiggles section of the trail stays mostly in the shade, so ice can build up there, and I’ve definitely seen people slipping and sliding. Some kind of traction on your shoes will make life a lot easier here! Although the permit system for Angels Landing helps limit the crowds on the trail a bit, this is still a very popular hike, especially in the summer. So my tip for hiking Scout Lookout in the summer without the crowds is to go for sunset! Start the hike about two hours before sunset and come down the chains when it is still light and pull out headlamps for the last leg of the hike. This does mean you’ll miss the last shuttle out of the park, but if you take a bike (you can even rent an e-bike ) into the park, it’s only a 3 mile ride back to your car. Hope this helps you enjoy a hike to Scout Lookout on your trip to Zion! Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here   CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

Snow Canyon State Park is known for its stunning views with easy accessibility and is one of my favorite, not so hidden gems in Southern Utah. Snow Canyon has 33 trailheads and can be a quiet park even during Southern Utah’s peak season. SAVE THIS PIN FOR FUTURE PLANNING ⬆️ Not only that, but Snow Canyon has the most stunning backdrop to host your Southern Utah wedding or elopement! With Pinterest-worthy views, earthy vibes, and an inexpensive permit, you can create the desert wedding or elopement of your dreams at Snow Canyon State Park! Did I mention I got married in Snow Canyon in September of 2022?!? I learned so much when planning my wedding in September, so I am here to walk you through all the details and things to consider when choosing Snow Canyon State Park as the destination for your celebration.....lets go! TABLE OF CONTENTS Things to consider when choosing Snow Canyon for your wedding or elopement destination The Best time to get married or elope at Snow Canyon State Park Blackout dates for weddings at Snow Canyon State Park How to get a permit to get married at Snow Canyon State Park Details for planning an intimate elopement at Snow Canyon State Park Best location for elopement photos in Snow Canyon State Park Alexander & Kennedy - Getting married in Snow Canyon; My Story Why hire Zion Adventure Photog to capture your Snow Canyon Wedding or Elopement THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING SNOW CANYON FOR YOUR WEDDING DESTINATION Before you say yes to Snow Canyon State Park, here are some things to consider right off of the Utah State Government site - Group size may not exceed 50 people and 10 vehicles. Weddings exceeding 50 people are not permitted. Groups of 25 or fewer people can choose from one of the following locations: a) Snow Canyon Scenic Overlook* b) Petrified Dunes* c) Lower Galoot d) SandDunes* * These locations are still open to the general public and cannot be reserved for exclusive use. Groups larger than 26 (and not exceeding 50 people) can only use (and reserve) Lower Galoot. On Saturdays and Sundays from March-May and October-November, Lower Galoot can only be reserved between the hours of 8 am and 11am OR 4 pm and 9 pm. No more than one wedding permit will be issued for any given date (i.e. once a date has been booked by a wedding party, regardless of time and location, it cannot be booked by another group). Park hours are 6a.m. to 10p.m. daily. Day use is not permitted outside these hours. Hiking is on designated trails only. Your ceremony, wedding party photos, or other wedding activities cannot take place off-trail. The following are not allowed: No Drones No Amplified music No Generators No open flames or flammable items No signs, balloons, or other temporary markers No Rice, birdseed, confetti or other wedding toss items No release of doves, butterflies, or any other type of wildlife Dogs must be leashed and under control. Scoop, bag, and bin all dog waste. If you are hosting an intimate ceremony with 50 people or less, this truly is a great place to say, “I Do.” THE BEST TIME TO GET MARRIED/ELOPE AT SNOW CANYON STATE PARK Southern Utah is gorgeous year round, but it is good to keep in mind the summer months (May-September) and our 100+ degree temps when choosing a wedding date. Spring and Fall (March, April, October & November) are absolutely perfect times for weather, but the park does tend to be a bit more crowded! If you want the park to yourself plan a winter wedding or elopement. Winter temps (December-February) in Southern Utah are mild and tend to stay around 50 degrees in the daytime. BLACKOUT DATES FOR WEDDINGS AT SNOW CANYON The park has strict blackout dates to follow when choosing a day for booking. Due to heavy visitation; high visitor demand and limited parking; or special events, wedding permits will not be issued for the following 2023 dates: January 14 – 16 (Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend) February 17 – 20 (President’s Day holiday weekend) March 11 – 19 (Washington County Spring Break) April 1 – 10 (Davis County Spring Break; Easter holiday weekend) o May 4 – 6 (Ironman 70.3 North American Championship) May 27 – 29 (Memorial Day holiday weekend) October 7 – 11 (St. George Marathon; Huntsman World Sr. Games; Columbus Day holiday) o October 12 – 16 (UEA / Fall Break) November 18 (Snow Canyon Half Marathon) November 23 - 27 (Thanksgiving holiday weekend) Now with all of that in mind, you can make the decision if Snow Canyon is still a good fit for you! For us, it was! ***LOWER GALOOT CEREMONY LOCATION HOW TO GET A PERMIT TO GET MARRIED IN SNOW CANYON Your first order of business will be to get a permit for your wedding date. Permits are only given for the current calendar year. You must have a permit prior to three weeks of your chosen wedding date. There is a $150 filing fee that is due upon booking your date. For the Lower Galoot trailhead, the cost is an additional $100 for up to three hours and then $30 for every hour after that. You can call or email the park (snowcanyon@utah.gov) for your special use permit. Your photographer and videographer (reach out to book us to capture your day!) will need to do the same to get their photo and video permit. Each person that drives into the park for your ceremony will also need to pay the $10-$15 entrance fee. There are so many stunning views all throughout the canyon! Here are some examples of the endless possibilities that can take place within the park. REACH OUT AND LET US HELP YOU PLAN YOUR SNOW CANYON WEDDING/ELOPEMENT DETAILS FOR PLANNING AN INTIMATE ELOPEMENT IN SNOW CANYON STATE PARK Snow Canyon State Park is the perfect place for an intimate elopement! Combine travel, outdoor adventure, and the celebration of your love by eloping in this red rock desert paradise. Exchange private vows in a slot canyon with just the two of you and a few of your closest family and friends, then head to get killer shots that truly show off those immense red rock desert views. Hire us to help you plan the perfect elopement. THE BEST LOCATIONS FOR ELOPEMENT PHOTOS Jenny's Canyon A short, sandy walk to a quaint yet magnificent slot canyon. This trail is only a .5 mile round trip walk and is lightly trafficked throughout the day. You can run your fingertips along the soft red walls of the canyon, and it offers a cool refuge from the hot desert in the summer. Petrified Dunes The dunes are essentially massive hills of Navajo sandstone that cascade around you with epic red rock views in all directions. A short and easy walk leads you to the massive views. Snow Canyon Overlook This location features a desert setting with the stunning red rock of Snow Canyon State Park in the background. This is a drive up to location making is super easy and accessible. Off the beaten path There are so many beautiful places in Snow Canyon to get away from people and immerse yourself in nature. Capture stunning red rock and desert vibes with a local photographer who knows the area well........ THAT'S ME!!! CLICK HERE TO BOOK ME FOR YOUR SNOW CANYON ELOPEMENT! Alexander + Kennedy - GETTING MARRIED AT SNOW CANYON STATE PARK; MY STORY We opted to host our family in a full-blown wedding weekend celebration to show our friends and family from around the country our favorite places to explore and adventure in our area! We had everyone stay at the INN Santa Clara , a local INN about 12 minutes from the park. After visiting with the owners of the INN, we fell in love with the idea of hosting our family there for our wedding weekend! Each room was impeccable and themed to represent different things unique to the area. INN Santa Clara was a place that our family could return to after hiking in Zion, racing at the sand dunes in Sand Hollow or shopping at the local boutiques in downtown St. George. There are several awesome VRBO’s that can host large groups. Red Mountain Resort, right by the entrance, can host large groups and is an all-inclusive resort. We held our ceremony at the Lower Galoot Trailhead in Snow Canyon so we could invite 50 people. We rented benches, got an arch off of Amazon and we added floral arrangements that we worked on together to create the look! After our ceremony, we had all of our friends and family head back to our reception. This gave us some time to take some photos of just the two of us. There are so many ways to incorporate the park into your day. For us, the park was the scene of our first date together, so it meant a lot to us to get married within the grounds. For our reception, we transformed the INN's grassy “parking” area into a space for dinner, dancing, and toasts! Everything was perfect, and it was a night to remember. WHY HIRE ZION ADVENTURE PHOTOG TO CAPTURE YOUR WEDDING OR ELOPEMENT AT SNOW CANYON STATE PARK At Zion Adventure Photog we are a team of local photographers who love the outdoors, but even more than that, we love adventuring with our clients and showing them our amazing home. With all our local knowledge and seven years of experience capturing elopements in Southern Utah, we are skilled in making sure every detail of your day goes down without a hitch. We help you figure out the perfect locations, timing, and all the details of your day to make it everything you want and more. However you choose to celebrate your union will be perfect! The key is to stay true to it being the perfect representation and celebration for the two of you. Happy Adventuring, Kennedy Check out more about Kennedy and book a shoot here CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS

Southern Utah is traditionally known for its towering red rocks, stunning desert landscape, and mild winter temps. But what if I told you Southern Utah is also the home of snowy mountain towns and popular winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and snowmobiling? The higher elevation zones in Southern Utah give way to mountain towns like Cedar City, Brian Head, and one of my favorite winter escapes, Duck Creek Village. ****SAVE THIS PIN FOR FUTURE TRIP PLANNING!!! Sitting at the edge of a large mountain meadow at an elevation of 8,400 feet, Duck Creek Village is a quaint mountain village with countless ways to play and adventure in summer and winter. It also serves as a gateway to several National Parks, monuments, and state parks. Once a favorite spot for local sheepherders, Duck Creek Village is now a thriving community with shops and restaurants, lodges, inns, cabin rentals, adventure outfitters, and a campground (open in the summer). Duck Creek, Utah, is a place I know well. Growing up in Southern Utah, my grandparents had a cabin in Duck Creek and my dad has built many cabins there as well. I have fond memories as a kid of making forts and exploring with my cousins in the summer and sitting by the crackling fire and playing in the snow in the winter. WHERE IS DUCK CREEK LOCATED Duck Creek is located in the Dixie National Forest, off of Scenic Hwy 14, at an elevation of approximately 8,400 feet. It is in the heart of Southern Utah and surrounded by three National Parks, five National Monuments, a renowned National Recreational Area, two State Parks, two National Forests, and endless outdoor adventures. DRIVING DISTANCES Duck Creek Village is within easy driving distance of so much. Even though you will probably get to your cozy cabin and never want to leave, it's still nice to know how much potential there is if you want to get out and explore. Lake Powell - 2 hours Kanab - 1 hour Coral Pink Sand Dunes - 1 hr North Rim of Grand Canyon (closed in the winter) - 2 hours 30 minutes Cedar Breaks National Monument (closed in winter) - 20 minutes Snow Canyon State Park - 1 hour 35 minutes Valley Of Fire State Park - 2 hours 45 minutes Zion National Park East Entrance - 55 minutes Zion National Park West Entrance - 1 hr 20 minutes Bryce Canyon National Park - 55 minutes Las Vegas - 3 hours Cedar City - 40 minutes Saint George - 1 hr 25 minutes minutes Brian Head - 1 hour 30 minutes Hurricane - 1 hour 15 minutes WHERE TO STAY IN DUCK CREEK VILLAGE, UTAH Duck Creek in the winter is all about the cabin experience. Don't even think of staying in Duck Creek if you don't have accesses to a wood burning fire place! Duck Creek has a bustling Airbnb/Vrbo cabin rental community, so finding a cozy little cabin to rent shouldn't be too hard. I may be a little partial but my favorite cabin rental in Duck Creek is this Modern and Cozy Cabin (this cabin belongs to my parents). This adorable cabin has been built and decorated with so much love and is great for families and couples wanting to escape to the mountains in style. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE I have spent many weekends away from the hustle and bustle of life at this cozy cabin, and it is my absolute favorite. CLICK HERE FOR RENTAL INFORMATION 8 THINGS TO DO IN DUCK CREEK IN THE WINTER Snow Tubing or sledding Snowshoeing Visit Bryce Canyon National Park Rest & Relaxation Rent a snowmobile Visit Zion National Park Winter Sports in Brian Head Visit Cedar City ***The Zion Adventure Photog Team tubing at Woods Ranch 1 - Snow Tubing/Sledding Snow tubing/sledding is a fun activity for the whole family and is perfect for some winter fun on the mountain. Check out our two favorite spots in and around Duck Creek to take your family. Take Hwy 14 and turn onto Strawberry Point Rd. At the turn, there is plenty of parking. East of the parking is a hill that is just a short walk to go sledding and perfect for hours of tubing or sledding fun. The other option is Woods Ranch, 20 minutes down the mountain towards Cedar City. Woods Ranch has a covered pavilion with picnic tables, restrooms, and a fireplace. With a large steep hill, this is a popular local spot for snow tubing and sledding and has a fun family atmosphere. You can rent snow tubes or sleds at Utah Off Road Outfitters or A Plus Outfitters , located in Duck Creek Village. You can also purchase tubes or sleds and bring them with you up the mountain. I purchased these ones off Amazon and they have been great. ***The Zion Adventure Photog Team snowshoeing at the Navajo Lake turn off hwy 14 2 - Snowshoeing When the snow get's super deep in Duck Creek, snowshoeing is the best way to hike and explore off the main roads. Our favorite spot to go snowshoeing is at the Navajo Lake exit, just 5 miles from Duck Creek. This is a popular spot for people to park and ride their snowmobiles from, so the area is always cleared out with plenty of parking. You can hike west from the parking lot and go down towards Navajo Lake or you can hike from the east side of the parking lot. On the east side, the trees are a little denser than on the west side. We have snowshoed each side and both areas are beautiful and fun to explore. You can rent snowshoes in Cedar City at Cedar Sports for $10 a day or you can rent snowshoes on the mountain from Utah Offroad Outfitters for $20 a day. 3 - Visit Bryce Canyon National Park Bryce Canyon in the winter is a sight to behold. At just 55 minutes from Duck Creek, if you are planning on going on a day trip anywhere, it needs to be to Bryce Canyon. Your hiking options may be a little limited because of ice and snow, especially if you are visiting with kids, but it is still 100% worth it. The great thing about Bryce is it doesn't take much to get the big hoodoo views. CHECK OUT THIS POST - One Day in Bryce Canyon National Park with Kids - Winter Edition 4 - Rest & Relaxing I know this may be a silly thing to include, but if you are headed to the mountain I highly recommend spending a day sitting by the fire, watching a movie, and looking out the window at the beautiful snowy landscape. That is one of my favorite things to do on the mountain in the winter. There is something about the quiet of Duck Creek in the winter that makes you want to slow down and just be, and that is something we all need in this crazy busy world we live in. 5 - Rent a Snowmobile Snowmobiling is a great winter activity if you want to get off the beaten path, and it is such a fun way to add some high adventure to your winter getaway. My partner Eric and I recently rented a two-person snowmobile for 2 hours from Utah Off Road Outfitters in Duck Creek Village. The snowmobile was super quick and easy to rent. The staff was very friendly and gave us a quick lesson on the ins and outs of snowmobiles, showed us some ideas of routes to take, gave us a map of the area, and we were off. We knew that Strawberry Point had great views, so that is where we headed. The ride was so much fun, and the views at Strawberry Point were absolutely stunning. Snowmobile Rental pricing for Utah OffRoad Outfitters in Duck Creek Village 2 hrs $175 4 hrs $595 8 hrs $895 6 - Visit Zion National Park Zion National Park in the winter is the least busy time of year to visit. Zion is a magical park year round, and in the winter you’ll have an opportunity to experience the beauty with more calm and quiet. If you are visiting Zion during December or January, chances are the shuttles won't be running. If the shuttles are running, jump on and ride it to the last stop, Temple of Sinawava and hike the Riverside Walk trail. PRO TIP If the shuttles aren't running, make sure to get an extra early start so that you will find parking. Parking is very limited in the canyon. CHECK OUT THIS POST - A Guide to Visiting Zion In the Winter 7 - Winter sports in Brian Head Brian Head is located just 1 hr 20 minutes from Duck Creek and is a great destination for winter sports in Southern Utah. With great snow, great prices and uncrowded slopes Brian Head is great for a fun action packed day. Try skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or snow tubing. 8- Visit Cedar City Cedar City is just 40 minutes down the mountain. This small and quaint mountain college town has great coffee shops(there are no coffee shops in Duck Creek), tons of excellent places to eat, grocery stores, shopping, and anything else you might need. Cedar is a great stop on your way up the mountain for groceries or a bite to eat. It is also a fun place to spend the day. We love the Southern Utah Museum of Art and the weekend farmers market, held every Saturday from 10am-1pm downtown. Favorite Places to eat Don Miguels for authentic Mexican cuizine Centro Pizza for fantastic pizza Park Place for sandwiches and pastries Bristlecone for the best coffee in town CHECK OUT THIS POST - Visit Cedar City in the Winter, A Family Winter Weekend Adventure Take some time away from the hustle and bustle of life and head to the mountains in Southern Utah. Relax by the fire in a cozy cabin, or head out on an adventure. Duck Creek Village has everything you need for the perfect winter getaway. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS

Clear Creek is the main dry streambed that follows Route 9 throughout the east side of Zion. Although it may not be an actual named hike in Zion, it is excellent for some off the beaten path hiking and fun. Filled with cave like tunnels, family friendly slot canyons and sandstone cliffs, you will find surprises around every corner. LOCATION Clear Creek does not have an actual starting point or end point. As you drive along Route 9 on the upper east side of Zion, you will see the dry creek bed down below. There are pull-offs all along the drive. Pick a spot to pull off and go exploring. The best spots to pull over will start about 1/4 mile east of the Canyon Overlook parking lot. Click here to see a map of Clear Creek. Another really great place to stop is at the Many Pools trail head. There is plenty of parking and 2 pit toilettes. LENGTH Once you make your way down into the dry stream bed, this is a hike that you can make as short or as long as you would like. Always make sure to keep track of where you came down so that you will know when to head back up to your car. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE DIFFICULTY The difficulty of Clear Creek depends on the spot you pick to head down to the dry-creek. If you pull over and it looks too hard and steep to get down then drive to another pull off and try again. Once you are down in the creek bed, there will be little elevation gain. You will be walking on thick sand and over rocks. You may also have to do a bit of rock scrambling to get down to the creek bed. TRAIL DETAILS No matter where you park and go down, you will be hiking along a sandy, pebble-filled dry stream bed that will take you along short slot canyons and red/black cliffs. You may encounter some stagnant pools of water that have not dried up from the last rain fall that may restrict your hiking. You may also run into a few tunnels that take you under Route 9. These are always so much fun to explore with kids. Scroll down for tips and additional info. TIPS AND ADDITIONAL INFO Make sure to stick to well-worn trails or slickrock to avoid trampling plant life or cryptobiotic soil. Please respect any "do not hike here" signposts. Please minimize your impact on the area. Set aside at least an hour or two to explore along this fascinating section of East Zion. This area gets a decent amount of shade but always make sure to bring plenty of water, good hiking shoes, sunscreen, and snacks. There are many side-shoots to explore as you hike. Take the time to check them all out so that you don't miss something good right around the corner. Be cautious in this area during a rain storm as this dry stream bed can get flash floods. Do not ever write on the wall of the canyon or let your kids write on the walls......even it is something like dirt or rocks. Happy Hiking, Arika CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS

There are so many reasons to ditch the big wedding, hop on a plane, and turn your "I do's" into a big adventure. Forget pressure from friends, family, and society telling you what your wedding day "should look like." Instead, plan a day that is true to your love and plan an elopement in Zion National Park. An intimate elopement in Zion National Park, whether with your closest family and friends or just the two of you, is the ultimate way to combine travel, outdoor adventure, and the celebration of your love. Exchange vows beneath soaring sandstone cliffs. Wander with your love through swirly canyons of deep red and vibrant orange. Feel the desert sun on your skin and the red sand beneath your feet as you commit to loving your person forever. It really can be that simple and beautiful. In this guide, I will walk you through the ins and outs of planning a small and intimate elopement in Zion National Park. WHERE CAN WE GET MARRIED IN ZION? There are 6 locations inside the park that are approved for weddings. A Special Use Permit is required for all weddings, regardless of group size. The application fee is $100 and must be received at least three weeks before the requested date. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO The park is serious about ensuring weddings have as little to no environmental impact as possible, and they have very stringent guidelines for decor and amount of people. Each location has different rules and allowances. Temple of Sinawava (maximum of 35 people) If you want soaring sandstone cliffs, then this is your spot. Temple of Sinawava is the last shuttle stop in the Zion Canyon. The approved location is set away from tourists and in my opinion, is one of the most stunning and natural location of the six. Temple of Sinawava can only be accessed via shuttle from mid February - mid November. In most cases the park will not issue passes to drive a car into the park so you and your guest will have to take a shuttle. Menu Falls (maximum of 10 people) With a waterfall feature and towering cliffs this off-the-beaten-path location is a quiet little spot away from crowds. A big bonus with this location is that along with your permit you will get passes to drive into the canyon. So no shuttle needed. Zion Lodge Lawn (maximum of 100 people) Surrounded by towering cliffs and massive cottonwood trees, the Zion Lodge Lawn is a stunning location to get married. This location can be very busy in the summer and is only accessible via shuttle most of the year. PRO TIP : To avoid having to get on the shuttle for this location, durning March-November when the shuttle is running you can book a stay at the Zion Lodge. Staying at the Zion Lodge will give you access to drive a car into the park. Nature Center North Lawn (Maximum of 50 people) Available November-early April only The Nature Center lawn is a beautiful location for a ceremony and has easy accessibility. This location is next to the Pa'Rus trail making it easy to walk over and get beautiful photos along the trail. South Campground Amphitheater (Maximum of 100 people) The South Campground Amphitheater is another easy option for a ceremony and is close to the Pa'Rus trail. This location is already set up with benches and is very easily accessible for guests. Timber Creek Overlook (Maximum of 20 people, 4 cars) The Timber Creek Overlook is in the Kolob Canyons section of the park. This section of Zion is located between Hurricane & Cedar City and is about 1 hour from Springdale & the Zion Canyon. This location is stunning and the accessiblity for photos along the stunning Timber Creek Overlook trail after the ceremony makes this location a top contender for me. Can we exchange vows in other areas of the park? A great way to open up more location options and make the moment special and meaningful is to do a simple vow exchange in the park. Make the most of your time in Zion being among the sandstone cliffs and lush desert landscape by saying your vows privately in a stunning off-the-beaten-path location and doing the official ceremony/marriage formalities before or after your time in Zion. Another great option is to plan a formal ceremony with friends and family at a number of stunning locations just outside the park and then head into the park afterward for all the amazing photo spots you have your heart set on. Reach out to us to get a detailed guide of those locations. When is the best time to get married in Zion? There isn't a perfect time to get married in Zion. It really just depends on what you are looking for on your special day. If you don't want to deal with heat and crowds, don't elope in July. Elope in the late spring or summer if you want to be surrounded by a lush green desert landscape. Here are some things to think about when choosing your date. SUMMER - Summer is the hottest and busiest time in the park but also the most lush and green. The monsoon season runs from mid-July through the end of August and consistently brings evening storms to Zion. PRO TIP - Plan your ceremony at sunrise for the best chance of cooler temps. FALL - Zion is busy in the fall, but the temps are beautiful during the day. Zion is dripping in yellow foliage, and the Zion Canyon is incredibly stunning this time of year. The fall season runs from October thru November. Temps can be very cool in the morning & evenings dropping to the 40s and 50s. WINTER - This is the least busy time to visit the park except during Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks. Temps average 40's and 50's during the day. There is no shuttle service into Zion Canyon so that you can drive into the park. The canyon looks very stark without all the green leaves. Trails can be closed, and icy conditions are often present. Services in Springdale are more limited in the winter. SPRING - Spring starts at the end of February and runs through April. The park is busy, but temps are great during the day. The Zion Canyon is just starting to get lush and green again. PRO TIP - The Zion Canyon changes drastically with the seasons, but East Zion does not. Photos among the slot canyons and slick rock along Zion's east side will have a similar look from winter to summer. The light and the temps are very different, but the vegetation looks mostly the same. What are the best spots in Zion for a private vow exchange + epic photos? For epic views and the classic Zion look, I have a few favorite spots that I recommend on a regular basis. I'm not going to give away all my secrets ( Hire us for that! ), but here are a few of my favorites. Pa'Rus Trail The Pa'Rus Trail is a quick & easy location to get classic Zion scenery. It is a paved trail that runs along the Virgin River with epic views of the iconic Watchman Mountain in the background. Canyon Overlook Canyon Overlook is easily the most popular location in Zion for elopement photos + a private vow exchange. A 1.25-mile round trip hike leads you to incredible views. CLICK FOR MORE INFO Clear Creek Clear Creek is an excellent location to get the those beautiful slot canyon photos. This dry stream bed that runs long the east side of Zion has tons of beautiful slick rock and is easily accessible. CLICK FOR MORE INFO Observation Point A 6.5-mile round trip hike, this location features the biggest views in the park. It even overlooks Angels Landing. A great hike for adventurous couples and getting away from the crowds in Zion. CLICK FOR MORE INFO Kolob Terrace This meadow along the Kolob Terrace section of Zion features stunning views of Zion in the background. It is easily accessible and perfect for a simple vow exchange. What are the best spots to get married outside the park if we don't want to hassle with a permit? Many of the hotels in Springdale allow weddings on their grounds. Cliffrose Lodge and Cable Mountain Lodge are a few. There are also beautiful rental properties set up for weddings. Check out Zion Red Rock and The Ardella Cottage . Here are a few of my favorite outdoor locations to have a ceremony without needing a permit. Lambs Knoll Located 35 minutes northwest of Zion/Springdale, this off-the-beaten-path location features stunning views, lots of jagged red rock, and a small slot canyon. The area is easily accessible. CLICK FOR MORE INFO Smiths Mesa Smiths Mesa is a quiet and secluded spot along the Kolob Terrace section of Zion tucked just outside the park making it a great place to get married without needing a permit. Red Reef Trail This location in the Hurricane Valley features a seasonal waterfall & stream, a beautiful canyon, and lots of red rock. It is a little over 2 miles round trip with stream hopping and climbing rocks. CLICK FOR MORE INFO How do we Legally Get Married in Utah? To apply for a marriage license, both applicants must Apply in person together. Provide full names, addresses, birth dates, and places. Share social security numbers (if applicable). Give parents’ names and birthplaces, including mother’s maiden name. Show valid photo ID (passport, birth certificate, driver’s license, or state ID). What documents do we need to get married in Utah? An in-person application with both applicants present at the time of application. Valid picture ID such as a passport, birth certificate, driver license, or state ID card. PRO TIP: If you hire an officiant to marry you, then they will take care of all this for you and walk you through the entire process. ***Zion Eco Cabin in Hildale, Ut - Adventure photog Kennedy Where should we stay for a romantic few nights close to Zion? OPEN SKY - The ultimate in luxury, this property is quietly tucked into the desert landscape and ready for guest to come and connect with nature. Located just 20 mintures from Zion Canyon this property is what desert dreams are made of. Their handcrafted, safari-style tents traveled all the way from South Africa. Each tent has optimal views and premium luxury. CLICK HERE FOR OUR BLOG POST ABOUT STAYING AT OPEN SKY CAVE LAKES CANYON RANCH - This is a unique new glamping property tucked into a private canyon between Kanab and Orderville! Spring-fed ponds, cave lakes, beautifully designed glamping tents, and cabins all tucked into a stunning secluded private canyon. I can't get over how cool this property looks. CLICK HERE FOR OUR BLOG POST ABOUT STAYING AT CAVE LAKES ZION ECO CABIN - The most "liked" airbnb on instagram in 2021, this tiny cabin boasts some of the most stunning red rock views in all if Southern Utah. It is located in Hildale, Utah. A 50-minute drive to Zion. ***The Ardella Cottage in La Verkin - Photos courtesy of Ardella Cottage Where should we stay if we are bringing friends and family? BASECAMP 37 - This stunning off-grid glamping property in Kanab is the perfect desert retreat for friends and family to come together and celebrate in the desert. Rent out the entire property of beautiful glamping tents with a large main house perfect for hosting big groups. ZION PONDEROSA - One of the largest resorts in the west, Zion Ponderosa is tucked into the east side of Zion. Full of adventure,activities, and fun for all sizes of groups. The large homes allow for families to stay together and some are even set up for wedding celebrations. ZION RED ROCK - With an assortment of large beautiful homes located next door to Zion, Zion Red Rock is sure to have the perfect home for all your friends and family to come together and celebrate. ARDELLA COTTAGE - This stunning historic home in La Verkin, Ut is located just 30 minutes from the park and is filled with all the luxury, comfort, and charm you could possibly want for your Southern Utah celebrations. What are some epic adventures we must do while visiting Zion? E-bike the Zion canyon My absolute favorite way to experience the Zion Canyon! Zoom through the canyon with the wind in your hair, smells of the lush desert vegetation around you, while feeling the pockets of cool and warm air on your skin. Take A guided adventure with East Zion Adventures Check out East Zion Adventures for tons of great options to get off the beaten path and explore Southern Utah in a fun new way. I highly recommend the White Mountain Horseback Ride or the Crimson Canyon Slot Canyon UTV Tour . Go Canyoneering with All Ways Adventure For a spectacular adventure repelling one of the beautiful slot canyons in Southern Utah, book a canyoneering package with our favorite canyoneering company All Ways Adventure . Book a helicopter tour Go big or go home! A helicopter tour is about as epic a s you can get. With awe inspiring views of Zion and the surrounding cliffs and valleys, book a helicopter tour with Zion Helicopters and fly close to the amazing rock formations and right over 2,000’ sheer cliffs. Take An ATV/UTV Sand Dune Tour Explore miles and miles of sand dunes, zoom down sand hills, and take in expansive and stunning views. The sand dunes at Sand Hollow in Hurricane are absolutely stunning and so much fun to explore. Booking a guided tour with Southern Utah Adventure Center . PLAN A ROMANTIC LUXURY PRIVATE PICNIC This is such a beautiful way to celebrate and make your day extra special. Reach out to Kay's Events and Picnics and let them handle every detail while you create unforgettable memories. Embark on a journey of relaxation and enchantment. Their picnics are the perfect thing to do visiting Southern Utah, Zion National Park or anywhere in southern Utah who want to experience the beauty of the area! WHY SHOULD WE HIRE ZION ADVENTURE PHOTOG TO CAPTURE OUR ELOPEMENT? At Zion Adventure Photog we are a team of local photographers who love the outdoors but even more than that we love adventuring with our clients and showing them our amazing home. With all our local knowledge and 7 years experience capturing elopements in Zion we are skilled in making sure every detail of your day goes down without a hitch. We help you figure out the perfect locations, timing, and all the details of your day to make it everything you want and more. Let us take you on an adventure and capture your special day with lots of love, adventure and epic desert scenery. CHECK OUT THESE OTHER RELATED BLOG POSTS

Taylor Creek is a beautiful scenic hike located in the Kolob Canyons district of Zion National Park. With a small stream running along the trail, Taylor Creek is one of my favorite water hikes in Zion in the summer, but really it is a beautiful hike any time of the year. Soaring peaks of Navajo sandstone line the trail and lush vegetation make for a cool and shaded summer hike. Taylor Creek features two historic cabins and a double arch alcove at the end. This is a great morning or afternoon hike. Take a sack lunch with you and eat under the alcove at the end. Don't let the 5 miles round trip discourage you if you have kiddos. This hike is a great one to take slow and play as you hike. If you don't make it to the end, it is still 100% worth it. LOCATION The Kolob Canyons district of Zion National Park is located at Exit 40 on I15. Taylor Creek is a 20-minute drive from Cedar City, a 20-minute drive from Hurricane, and a 50-minute drive from Springdale. Taylor Creek is the first hike you will come to along the 5-mile-long scenic drive in Kolob Canyons. CLICK HERE FOR DRIVING DIRECTIONS HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION + SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE DIFFICULTY The trail starts with a short and steep descent down to the canyon floor. It is easy to navigate with stairs and a well-maintained path, but hiking back out will get your heart pumping. After reaching the bottom, you will hike along a stream for the majority of the hike with minimal elevation gain. There are plenty of ups, downs, and overs, but a well-worn path makes it easy to navigate without too much trouble. LENGTH Taylor Creek is a five mile round trip - out and back hike. The average hike time is 3-4 hours. BEST TIME TO HIKE TAYLOR CREEK Taylor Creek is best hiked in spring, summer, and fall. In the winter, from November through February, the trail can be icy and snowy. The Kolob Canyons road also often closes in the winter. TRAIL DETAILS The trail starts with a short and steep hike down to Taylor Creek. At the bottom of the canyon, the trail levels out and runs along the small stream all the way to the end. The trail crosses the stream numerous times, and even though there is minimal elevation gain, you will be navigating over boulders and downed trees throughout the hike. Water shoes or waterproof hiking boots are necessary if you want to avoid getting your feet wet. About 1 mile in, you will hit the first of two historic homestead cabins along the trail. Built-in the early 1930s, the first historical cabin is the Larson Cabin , and about another half mile up is the Fife Cabin. It's fun to walk around the cabins, peeking into the windows and imagining what life was like for the settlers who built these remote cabins. You'll know you have reached the end of the trail when you hit the Double Arch Alcove . The alcove is massive and cavelike, with a large wall of seeping water and lush green ferns. Don't let the term double arch fool you; it's not a true open arch but the closed arches in the sandstone soaring high above are super cool. After spending some time enjoying this beautiful and secluded section of Zion, give yourself a pat on the back, turn around and head back the way you came. Always be respectful of the land. Leave no trace and pack in + out anything you bring with you. Leave nothing behind. GOOD TO KNOW All guests are required to stop at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center to show your Park Pass or pay the Zion National Park entrance fee. There is a pit toilet at the trailhead but no water. You can fill your water bottle at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center. This trail is sometimes referred to as Middle Fork of Taylor Creek. You can take two other longer hikes with this trail, but along the creek is the most popular and easy way to do it. LIST OF THINGS TO BRING WITH YOU HIKING SHOES OR HIKING SANDALS - Wear water shoes like Teva's or Chaco's when hiking Taylor Creek in the summer. Keen also has great water shoes for kids. Click here for my favorite hiking sandals on the planet.....I'm a Teva's girl! HIKING CLOTHES - Wear comfortable, light and breathable clothes if visiting in the summer. If visiting in the spring/fall, bring a light jacket. Chances are it will warm up mid-day. SUNSCREEN - Always take sunscreen with your wherever you go in the desert! HAT & SUNGLASSES - The sun is intense. Having a hat and sunglasses is a must. SNACKS, AND LOTS OF WATER - Always hike with snacks and plenty of water HIKING DAY PACK - You will want a small backpack to carry snacks, water, camera & phone. BEST PLACES STAY WHEN VISITING KOLOB CANYONS I recommend staying a few days in the Hurricane Valley to explore all the different sections of Zion. There is so much to see and do. The Hurricane Valley is located 30 minutes from the west entrance of Zion National park, 2 hours from Bryce Canyon, 2 hours from the north entrance of the Grand Canyon, and 30 minutes from Kolob Canyons. READ MORE ABOUT VISITING THE HURRICANE VALLEY HERE 15 HIKES + THINGS TO DO CLOSE TO TAYLOR CREEK/KOLOB CANYONS 1 - Visit Cedar Breaks 2 - Hike Timber Creek Overlook Trail 3 - Hike Kanarra Falls 4 - Hike Spring Creek Trail 5 - Visit Sheeps Bridge Park 6 - Hike Lambs Knoll 7 - Visit Grafton Ghost Town 8 - Hike Red Reef Trail 9 - Visit Snow Canyon State Park 10 - Hike Watchman Trail 11 - E-bike The Canyon 12 - Hike Lower Pine Creek Falls 13 - Hike Ashdown Gorge 14 - Go to the Shakespearean Festival 15 - Canoe Navajo Lake Hiking Taylor Creek is an amazing way to experience all the beauty that the Kolob Canyons section of Zion has to offer. This stunning 5-mile round trip hike is perfect as a day trip or water hike in the summer for families so get out and enjoy!. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

The Nautilus is a short hike to a unique hidden gem in the desert outside Kanab, Ut. This swirly rock formation has been named "The Nautilus" because when you hike down into the white rock formation, it spirals around, giving you the feeling you are exploring a large mollusk seashell. Just sit on your bum and slide down. My kiddos thought this was the coolest thing ever! I thought the light inside the mollusk-like formation was absolutely stunning, and the ripples of yellow stripes running through the white rock were so cool. Because this is a short hike located right off highway 89 between Kanab and Lake Powell, it is the perfect stop on any Southern Utah road trip. DIRECTIONS TO GET TO THE NAUTILUS TRAILHEAD The Nautilus is located 45 minutes east of Kanab or 35 minutes west of Page, AZ & Lake Powell. You will take the White House Road turn along highway 89. It comes up quickly. Have your navigation app going so that you know when to make the turn. Follow White House Road to a wash just before White House Campground. The road is dirt and a little bumpy but nothing that a regular 4-door vehicle can't handle. At the second wash along the road, you will stop and park at a little pull-out just before the wash. Click Here for the exact location. TRAIL DISTANCE The trail to The Nautilus is less than a one-mile round trip . It is on flat sandy ground and easy to navigate. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION - CLICK TO LEARN MORE BEST TIME TO VISIT This trail is excellent for year-round use. It might be a little hot in the middle of the summer, June-August, but since it is such a short hike, you will be fine. Just bring lots of water and wear sunscreen. We did this hike the beginning of October in the morning. It was the perfect time to go! The best light for photography is mid-morning or mid to late afternoon. If you want good photos don't go on a cloudy day, the light will be flat and dull. This area can get flash flooding during a rain storm, but I don't consider it high risk. Since you aren't hiking along a tight slot canyon, there are plenty of places to get to higher ground in case water does fill up the wash. Just beware that the road will get a little slick and muddy in the rain. TRAIL DETAILS The trail starts at the wash and goes east. If you are looking towards the campground, you will go to your left. You will walk for a short distance and then come to a fence going across the wash. Walk around the fence and keep going. My kiddos had fun running and climbing up the slick rock along the sides of the wash. ***The White Dome - Hike up and over to the right and the formation is inside. You will see a large white dome-like mound coming up out of the sand to the right. The Nautilus is inside that white dome. Hike up to the right and then down into The Nautilus. This is the part where you get to slide down on your bum....haha! It's about a 10-12 foot slide. Once at the bottom, you can check out how the light plays on the walls. My kiddos turned around and climbed right back up and slid down again. I walked around and explored the light and the shapes of the white and grey sandstone walls. I was in awe of the yellow wavy stipes running along the walls.....so beautiful. We played and took photos for about 20 minutes and then hiked back the way we came. PRO TIP Type in The Nautilus on your navigation app and check it while you hike. That way, you will know exactly where the rock formation is, and there is no way you will accidentally pass it. Please be careful visiting this delicate rock formation. Do not write on or carve into the walls. Do not break or damage the rock. Always practice LEAVE NO TRACE principals. Pack out what you pack in! Help us protect this place for generations to come! WE LOVE EAST ZION ADVENTURES GUIDE COMANY - CLICK TO LEARN MORE GOOD TO KNOW There is no restroom at the immediate trailhead but some at the White House Trailhead and campground, about 0.3 miles down the dirt road. The closest drinking water is available at the Paria Contact Station at the start of White House Road. There is no fee or permit required for this hike. LIST OF THINGS TO BRING WITH YOU HIKING SHOES OR HIKING SANDALS - Hiking shoes or hiking sandals are a great option for this hike but honestly you could do it in flip flops. Click here for my favorite hiking sandals on the planet.....I'm a Teva's girl! HIKING CLOTHES - Wear comfortable, light and breathable clothes if visiting in the summer. If visiting in the winter, bring a warm coat and wear layers. Chances are it will warm up mid-day. SUNSCREEN - Always take sunscreen with your wherever you go in the desert! HAT & SUNGLASSES - The sun is intense. Having a hat and sunglasses is a must. SNACKS, AND LOTS OF WATER - Always hike with snacks and plenty of water HIKING DAY PACK - You will want a small backpack to carry snacks, water, camera & phone. BEST PLACES STAY AND HIKE IN AND AROUND KANAB I recommend staying a few days in Kanab to explore the whole area around The Nautilus. There is so much to see and do. Kanab is located 35 minutes from Zion National park, 1 hour 30 minutes from Bryce Canyon, and 1 hour 45 minutes from the north entrance of the Grand Canyon. WHERE TO STAY IN KANAB - BASECAMP 37 We actually found The Nautilus while we were staying at Basecamp 37 . The owner Amy told us to go check it out! Basecamp37 is a spacious, secluded but totally connected hideaway with, safari-style tents, luxury beds and linens, hot showers, even hotter grills, and friendly folks. There is a shared house on the property plus a common area for all the guests. The 5 tents on the property face nothing but open land and huge vistas. It is located 8 miles east of Kanab in the Chocolate Cliffs of the Grand Staircase under the magnificent Southern Utah sky. We loved our glamping experience at Basecamp 37 and highly recommend it! 15 HIKES TO CHECK OUT + THINGS TO DO CLOSE TO KANAB & THE NAUTILUS 1 - Hike Wire Pass Trail 2 - Hike Buckskin Gulch 3 - Hike The Toadstools 4 - Hike Whitehouse Trail 5 - Hike Coyote Buttes North 6 - Hike The Wave 7 - Hike to Moqui Caverns 8 - Hike Belly of the Dragon 9 - Paddle Board Antelope Canyon 10 - Visit Horseshoe Bend 11 - Swim at Lake Powell 12 - Hike Mansard Trail 13 - Hike Water Canyon 14 - Go Canyoneering 15 - Try a guided slot canyon UTV tour As you can see, The Nautilus is just one of the many things to check out when visiting Southern Utah. This short hike to a unique hidden gem is a must on any road trip through the Southern Utah desert. Happy Adventureing, Arika CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS

Visiting a national park for the first time can be very overwhelming. There is so much to know about weather, must-see spots, travel conditions, where to stay etc. Growing up 30 minutes from Zion National Park and working with clients who are often first-time visitors to Zion means I get asked a lot of questions about visiting Zion. I love helping people plan their trip to Zion, and I am always happy to help, so I have put together a list of all the questions I get asked most. Here is my list of the 16 things you should know before visiting Zion. 1 - CAN WE DRIVE TO CANYON OVERLOOK? The Zion shuttle runs from early March through November. Outside of those times (it does run again over the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays), you can drive your car into Zion Canyon. CHECK OUT THE SHUTTLE SCHEDULE HERE . The Zion shuttle ONLY runs to Zion Canyon. Everywhere outside Zion Canyon is accessible via car. Canyon Overlook is located in the East Zion section of the park and is only accessible via car. The shuttle is free, and no reservation is needed. In the summer, when the park is the busiest, mornings are crowded with long lines. Afternoons are less busy and usually have no line. 2 - WHAT DO WE DO IF IT IS STORMY IN ZION? If you are visiting Zion in the summer from July through September you need to know that there is a big chance of encountering evening storms. This is monsoon season in Zion. Prevailing winds over the desert southwest shift to bring more moisture up from the Gulf of California. This leads to thunderstorms regulary rolling in during the afternoons. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO The monsoon rains can cause flash flooding, so if you are in a slot canyon like The Narrows or hiking along a stream, river, or dry streambed, there is a chance of flash flooding. Always check the weather. Things to do if it's a stormy day in Zion Take a drive up Kolob Terrace road. Head to Snow Canyon State Park 1 hour away Grab an umbrella and walk the Pa'Rus trail Go to the Zion Human history museum. Sit under the viewing deck and watch the clouds come and go around Tower Of the Virgins. Put on your raincoat and hike to Scouts Landing of Angels Landing. Take the shuttle to The Zion Lodge and Temple of Sinewava. Both have great waterfalls to watch from there. Get a coffee at Deep Creek and then walk across the road and visit the art galleries in Springdale. 3 - HOW HOT DOES IT GET IN ZION? In the summer the heat can reach up to 115 degrees. If you are visiting in the summer be prepared. Heat illness is the cause of many medical emergencies in Zion every summer. Carry and drink at least one gallon of water per person per day. Pace yourself, wear sun protection, and hike in the early or later parts of the day. Tips to beat the heat Early mornings are always the best time of day to start hiking if you want your best shot at beating the heat. Evenings are also great. Chose water hikes like The Narrows, Riverside Walk, Lower Pine Creek Falls or Taylor Creek. Ice cream is always the great way to cool off, right?!? We love getting a soft serve cone at Castle Dome Cafe at the Zion Lodge and eating it while sitting on the grassy field in front of the lodge. It is about as good as it gets. Finding spots to splash and play along the Virgin River is a great way to cool off from the summer sun. A few of our favorite spots include, the many paths down to the river along the Pa'rus trail, anywhere along Riverside Walk, Canyon Junction has a fun spot to slide down the rocks and into the river, and Springdale Park. 4 - WHAT ARE THE PARK HOURS? The park never closes. The entrance station is only open at certain times of the day but the park never closes. If you drive into the park early in the day or later in the evening and the entrance station is closed, that just means that you don't need to show your park pass or pay the entrance fee. 5 - WHERE SHOULD WE GO IN ZION? Zion National Park is made up of 229 square miles of land and is comprised of four main sections. ZION (MAIN) CANYON This is the busiest section of Zion and is only accessible via shuttle for the majority of the year (see below for details on navigating the shuttle). Zion Canyon is where you go for iconic hikes like Angels Landing and the Narrows. EAST ZION East Zion is located on the east side of the Mt. Carmel Tunnel. It is at a higher elevation, just above Zion Canyon, and temps run 5-10 degrees cooler. Great hikes include Canyon Overlook, Many Pools, and off-the-beaten-path exploring along Clear Creek. KOLOB CANYON One of Zion's best-kept secrets, Kolob Canyon is tucked into the northwest corner of Zion National Park. Soaring cliffs of red Navajo Sandstone and breathtaking views are the highlight along a stunning 5-mile scenic drive. The canyons are easily accessed from Interstate 15. Our favorite family-friendly hikes in Kolob Canyons are Taylor Creek and Timber Creek Overlook. KOLOB TERRACE Kolob Terrace is a section of Zion that begins with a 15 minute drive west of Springdale and leads you to great Zion hikes like The Subway, Northgate Peaks trail and Lambs Knoll. It is a stunning scenic drive and perfect for rainy days. 6 - WHAT'S THIS ABOUT A TOXIN IN THE VIRGIN RIVER? In July 2020 a puppy died 20 minutes after coming into contact with a toxic algae bloom in the Virgin River. Since that happened, the park has been monitoring toxin levels in the park’s streams and rivers. As of November 4, 2022 toxin-producing cyanobacteria have been detected in the North Fork of the Virgin River. The North Fork of the Virgin River runs through Zion Canyon and is at a Warning Advisory level. During warning advisories, the park recommends that recreators avoid swimming or submerging their head in the river because toxins can enter the body by swallowing water or through the nose, eyes, or open wounds. Drinking water from the Virgin River is not advised . Toxins cannot be filtered out by standard hiking filtration methods. Dogs must be kept on a leash . If pets get into the river, remove them from the water immediately, rinse off their fur thoroughly, and monitor for symptoms of toxin poisoning. A dog can die in as little as 15 minutes from anatoxin-a poisoning . INFO FROM A LOCAL Since July 2020 there have been thousands of people hiking The Narrows and swimming in the Virgin River. I have hiked The Narrows and swam in the Virgin River. I have not gotten sick or heard of anyone getting sick. 7 - HOW DO WE WORK AROUND THE CROWDS IN THE SUMMER Visiting Zion during the busiest times of the year means you may experience extended wait times at the entrance station, wait times to get on the shuttle, and heavy traffic getting around the park. Tips to avoid the crowds Go early to get parking at the Visitor Center and avoid long shuttle lines. Walk the Pa'Rus Trail and follow the paths leading down to the river. Go into the park later in the day, up to 2-3 hours before sunset but don't miss the last shuttle out. Hike along Clear Creek in East Zion. Drive the Kolob Terrace road. Get off at the Court Of the Patriarchs stop and explore along the river and hike Sand Bench Loop trail. 8 - CAN WE DRIVE THROUGH THE ZION-MOUNT CARMEL TUNNEL? WHAT ARE THE HOURS? Vehicles sized 11'4" in height or 7'10" in width, or larger, are required to have an escort, or traffic control, through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. A $15 dollar tunnel permit fee is charged, and the tunnel is open to large vehicles on a regular schedule when rangers are present to manage traffic. Those hours are: November 6 to March 31: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 1 to September 30: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Regular cars can drive through the tunnel any time day or night. 9 - CAN WE PET THE CUTE SQUIRRELS? Keep at least 50 feet away from small wildlife like squirrels, birds, and reptiles. As animals become used to humans and dependent on them as a food source, they become a nuisance and aggressive. If you are watching an animal and it notices you or changes its behavior, you are too close. Human food is hard for animals to digest, and feeding them has led to several fatalities. Animals stay happier and healthier without human food. 10 - WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP TAKE CARE OF ZION? We all need to do our part to take care of Zion. Being a good steward of that park means you are doing your part to be courteous to other visitors, protect the wildlife, and respecting the precious ecosystem in Zion. The park has put together this list, and I hope you will all read it and follow it. Plan ahead and prepare by reading and following the information in the park newspaper. Keep personal food away from all wildlife, and never approach or touch a wild animal. Protect the canyon walls, rocks, and trees from graffiti and vandalism. Preserve the park scenery by not collecting wildflowers, rocks, or plants. Never enter a narrow canyon when there is a potential for flash flooding. Be ready to pack out my human waste, toilet paper, and diapers from trails and river corridors. Stay on established trails to protect vegetation and fragile cryptobiotic soils. Leave rocks as you find them, and do not stack rock cairns or build river dams. Protect the natural sounds of the canyon by talking softly and using headphones for music. Recycle and dispose of trash and food appropriately. Park in designated areas and avoid blocking traffic. Share these stewardship principals with others. 11 - HOW DO WE AVOID A FLASH FLOOD? Flash floods can happen even if there are blue skies overhead. Your safety is your responsibility. While the park service can give you information on weather, flash flood potential, and risks, it is ultimatly up to you to make the best choice for yourself. Keep a close eye on the weather and do not go into slot canyons or hang out near rivers or streams before, after, or during a rainstorm. 12 - CAN WE BRING OUR DOG HIKING IN ZION? There is only one trail in Zion where dogs are permitted and that's the Pa'Rus trail. National Parks aren't usually the best place to bring pets. If you can't leave Fido at home make sur to follow these guidelines for dog owners visiting Zion Bag your pet's poop Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste from all areas in the park including campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots, roads, pet-friendly trails, and other developed areas. Always wear a leash Pets must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Respect wildlife Pets can harass or harm wildlife by making noise or scaring wildlife away. Know where you can go The only trail that allows pets is the Pa’rus Trail, which begins at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Pets are not permitted - on any other trails, wilderness areas, on shuttle buses, or in public buildings in Zion. Additionally, properly restrained pets are welcome along public roads and parking areas, in the developed campgrounds and picnic areas, and on the grounds of the Zion Lodge. 13 - CAN WE HIKE ANGELS LANDING WITHOUT A PERMIT? The first portion of Angels Landing, up to Scouts Lookout, can be hiked without a permit. After Scouts Lookout is when the chain section of the hike starts, and this is the section that requires a permit. To get a permit you can apply quarterly or from 12am - 3pm the day before. Visit the National Park website for more info CLICK HERE 14 - WHERE DO WE FIND OUT ABOUT ROAD CLOSURES OR HIKE CLOSURES? The Zion National Park website is your friend. They keep everything up to date so check it for rock falls, hikes closures and roads closures. CLICK HERE FOR LINK 15 - WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE NARROWS? Summer is generally the best time the hike The Narrows. The water is a nice temperature and it is an excellent respite from the desert heat. Summer is also when it is most crowded so make sure to get on the first shuttle out in the morning. July through August, The Narrows will often close due to flash flooding from the monsoon storms. Spring runoff often causes The Narrows to close much or April and May. The Narrows closures occur when the river is running above 150CFS. Some years if the mountains of Southern Utah don't get much snow The Narrows may not close at all. Winter can be a great time to hike The Narrows to avoid crowds, but you will have to have all the right gear to stay warm and prevent frostbite. ***Cliffrose Lodge in Springdale 16 - WHERE SHOULD WE STAY WHEN VISITING ZION? If you plan to spend most of your time hiking Zion Canyon and East Zion, Springdale will be the most convenient place to stay. Springdale is a touristy town with touristy prices, but it also has charm and a ton of great restaurants and lodging options. Other good options close to the park include Hurricane, Virgin, La Verkin, Orderville, Kanab, or St George. I hope you find this list of 16 things you need to know when visiting Zion, helpful when you are planning your trip. I love where I live so much and I want everyone to have a fabulous time when visiting my favorite place in the world. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CLICK HERE FOR RELATED BLOG POSTS

When visiting Zion with kids, there are so many great hikes that are easy and doable for all skill levels. You may have a list a mile long of all the hikes you want to do with the kiddos on your trip to Zion. I don't blame you. There are a lot of great hikes. But what do you do when the kiddos get tired of hiking and need a break? Is the vacation over? Whether you have kiddos who love to hike or kiddos who would rather be playing video games in the hotel room, it's good to have some backup activities to break things up and keep it fun. I have put together a list of the best things to do in Zion with kids that don't include hiking.....yay! These are all things in Zion or super close to Zion that you can do with your kiddos when they need a break from hiking. 13 THINGS TO DO IN ZION WITH KIDS THAT DON'T INCLUDE HIKING 1-Zion Nature Center 2-Grafton Ghost Town & Cemetary 3-Bike the Pa'Rus trail 4-Sign up for a Ranger-led activity 5-Play on the lawn at the Zion Lodge 6-Drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel 7-Play on the playground at the Springdale Town Park 8-Visit the Springdale Library 9-Tube the Virgin River 10-Visit the Zion Human History Museum 11-Swim and play in the Virgin River 12-Complete the junior ranger handbook and get a badge 13-Walk through the shops and art gallies in Springdale 1-ZION NATURE CENTER The Nature Center in Zion is located next to the South Campground and features daily youth specific programs. Everyday at 3 pm and 4:30 starting after Memorial Day and ending Labor day weekend, kids will learn about powerful geological forces and much more. All programs are carefully developed by staff to create a fun and enjoyable learning experience for visiting youth and their families. CHECK OUT OUR BLOG POST - THE ULTIMATE QUICK GUIDE TO HIKING ZION WITH KIDS 2 - GRAFTON GHOST TOWN If you are a history buff, prepare to nerd out on this quaint little ghost town located 20 minutes outside Zion National Park. Grafton was established in 1859 by Mormon settlers who built their homes here in hopes of flourishing cotton crops & farming. Allow an hour or two to walk around and experience this old town. Although Grafton has been abandoned since the mid-1900s, it has been well preserved and cared for over many years. You can access some of the homes, but not all of them & there is no access to the school house. Make sure not to miss the cemetery just up the road. Reading the old headstones in the historic graveyard is a somber reminder of the difficult times residents faced in the adversity of the hot desert & limited resources at that time. 3- BIKE THE PA'RUS TRAIL The Pa'Rus trail is a relaxing, easy, 1.7-mile (one-way) biking and walking path that takes you along the Virgin River and ends at Canyon Junction (the shuttle stop that takes you into Zion Canyon). The trail starts at the Visitor Center and goes along the South Campground. It takes you over several beautiful bridges that cross the Virgin River. Our favorite thing about the Pa'Rus trail is all the places to stop and let the kids play along the river. There are lots of great bike rental shops in Springdale. The most convenient rental shop is Zion Outfitters, located right next to the walking entrance of the park in Springdale. WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO STAY IN ZION WITH KIDS??? CHECK OUT THIS BLOG POST WITH 17 AMAZING IDEAS 4 - SIGN UP FOR A RANGER-LED ACTIVITY Enhance your understanding and enjoyment of Zion National Park by participating in a ranger program. Topics include geology, plants, animals, human history, and more. All ranger-led programs are free and for all ages. Check the park's visitor center and bulletin boards for times, places, and subjects. Check out one of our favorite ranger-led programs every evening, May through October, at 8:30 pm at the Watchman Campground Amphitheater. Discover what makes Zion such a special place with topics ranging from animals, people, geology, and history. Ranger-led Patio Talks occur daily at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center Plaza at 10 am and 2:30 pm. 5 - PLAY ON THE LAWN AT THE ZION LODGE Hop on the shuttle and ride into the canyon without the expectation of hiking. Get off at the Zion Lodge shuttle stop and let the kids run and play on the big lawn under the most spectacular cottonwood tree. Bring a frisbee or soccer ball with you to play with. The Zion Lodge also has a small cafe called Castle Dome Cafe, where you can get a soft-serve ice cream cone to enjoy while you sit on the lawn. The Lodge also has a great gift shop that is fun to look through. 6 - DRIVE THROUGH THE ZION-MOUNT CARMEL TUNNEL The Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel is a spectacular entry into Zion National Park with a 1.1-mile long tunnel along hwy 9. Construction of the 1.1-mile Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel began in the late 1920s and was completed in 1930. The tunnel has three sets of windows to look out, so roll the windows down, go slow, and enjoy the ride. 7 - PLAY ON THE PLAYGROUND AT THE SPRINGDALE TOWN PARK The Springdale Town Park is located right in town with 360-degree views of towering Zion cliffs. The park has a great playground with swings, slides, and plenty to entertain the kiddos. There are also lots of shady trees and picnic tables. The park features a gazebo, grill, pickleball court, sand volleyball court, and tennis court. 8 - VISIT THE SPRINGDALE LIBRARY The Springdale Library is located right next to the Springdale park. This library is the perfect spot to bring the kiddos for some quiet time. The library also features some beautiful Zion artwork. 9 - TUBE THE VIRGIN RIVER The Virgin River is prime for tubing from May to July, depending on the spring runoff levels. Rent or buy a tube at Zion Outfitters in Springdale and enjoy a leisurely 2-mile float through Springdale. There are also some great spots along the Pa'Rus trail to splash and play in the water with tubes. 10 - VISIT THE ZION HUMAN HISTORY MUSEUM The Zion Human History Museum is a great little museum displaying artifacts and archival materials from the permanent collections of Zion National Park. The exhibits showcase the rich human history of Zion and illustrates the effects water has had upon both the peoples and the land. Exhibits include topics such as geology, plants, animals, survival, and community. We love the shaded viewing deck at the back of the museum for watching sunrise and sunset. Don't miss the 22 minute film, We The Keepers. It is such a beautful movie and so well done. 11 - COOL OFF IN THE VIRGIN RIVER There are so many great spots along the Virgin River to play on the shore and swim in the water. All along the South Campground, there are shady and sandy spots to throw out a blanket and chill for the afternoon on a hot day. 12 - BECOME A JUNIOR RANGER Explore. Learn. Protect. This is the motto of the Junior Ranger program. Zion offers a Junior Ranger experience for ages four and older. The self-guided activity booklets are available for free at the visitor center, the Zion Human History Museum, and the Nature Center. You can also download the booklet ahead of time. Children aged four and older can complete pages in the booklet and attend a ranger-led program to earn their Junior Ranger badge for Zion National Park. After completing the booklet, the kids will present their book to a ranger, take an oath to protect the park, and get a lovely keepsake badge. 13 - WALK THE SHOPS IN SPRINGDALE Springdale is a great walking town filled with art galleries, cute little tourist shops, and rock shops. What kid doesn't love a rock shop? Spend the afternoon walking from shop to shop. To make it a little more fun, hit up one of the many ice cream shops along the way. Keep this list handy when you are hiking Zion with kids. Use it when the kids get a little tired of hiking or when they just need a change of activity to rest their cute little hiking legs. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS

I first came across these light filled caves on Instagram over four years ago. I immediately scooped up my kiddos and went to find them. Since that day I have visited Moqui Caverns outside of Kanab many time and each time I visit I am blown away. These beautiful caves are also known as the Kanab Sand Caves . ***Updated with new parking information on 9/27/2022 FUN INFO ABOUT THE CAVES These man-made caves were used to harvest sand for glass production in the 1970s. Crazy that they are man-made! I was shocked and fascinated when I found out. These sand caves are so much fun to visit with kids and they are the perfect little adventure when visiting Kanab, Orderville, Bryce Canyon or Zion National Park. If you are staying in Kanab and heading to Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon the caves are a great stop to do on your way to or from. If you are visiting Zion National Park and heading to Bryce Canyon it is only a 20 minute detour to visit the caves. Also check out BELLY OF THE DRAGON for another fun detour that is only 10 minutes from the sand caves.. Do not confuse Moqui Caverns with Moqui Cave. They are two very different things. Moqui Cave is a tourist attraction and gift shop. They are located very close to each other. LOCATION AND PARKING INFO Located 5 miles north of Kanab or 12 miles south/east of Carmel Junction along HWY89. The caves are located on the north side of the road. You can actually look up and see them from the road. To get to the sand caves, you will park at the turn-off for Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. You will see a big orange sign for Best Friends and this is where you will turn. There is a new designated parking area for the caves. You can no longer park accross the street from the caves . It will add a little more time to the hike but not having to cross that busy highway is totally worth it. Belive me, this is a much safer option. Google maps has updated info to get you to the parking lot. Type in Sand Caves Parking or CLICK HERE FOR DIRECTIONS. DIFFICULTY The short hike to the caves is easy and family friendly. You will have to scale up a wall for a very short distance and the kids will need some help, but if you have good traction on your shoes, it won't be too much of a problem. Shoes with good traction are a must! LENGTH 1/2 mile round trip. TRAIL DETAILS The trail starts at the new parking lot and you will head north. It is sandy and there is no shade on the trail. Going to the far north side (closer to Moqui Cave the tourist attraction) is the easiest spot to scale up the rock wall to make your way up and over to the caves. Scroll down for tips and additional info. HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER IN ZION/SOUTHERN UTAH - CLICK TO LEARN MORE To the far left is where you will scale up the wall. RELATED POST - 10 REASONS KANAB, UT SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT FAMILY VACATION WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE CAVES? The caves are accessible year round. In the dead of the summer, May-August I don't recommend going in the middle of the day because there is no shade on the trail. Go early in the day or later in the evening. WE LOVE EAST ZION ADVENTURES GUIDING COMPANY - CLICK FOR MORE INFO If you go in the winter there may be some snow and ice to contend with. Snow melts quickly in Southern Utah so if there has been a recent storm just give it a few days for the snow and ice to melt. TIPS + ADDITIONAL INFO The best time to go to get the beautiful light shining into the caves is an hour or two before the sun goes down. There is no cost or fees to hike the caves Please be respectful and DO NOT add to the carvings in the sandstone walls. Always practice Leave No Trace principals and leave the places you visit the way you found them. Better yet, bring a clean-up bag with you and leave it BETTER than you found it! The sand in the cave is excellent for little hands to play in. A few sand toys might be fun. There are sheer drop-offs so keep a good eye on your kiddos at all times. After you visit the caves hit up Sego Restaurant for dinner. You are sure to have one of the best meals of your life. Happy Adventuring, Arika Check out more about me and book a shoot here CHECK OUT THESE RELATED POSTS