Kolob Canyons | Zion National Park
Kolob Canyons, located within the world renowned Zion National Park, Utah, exudes a natural beauty that is sure to captivate each and every visitor. Situated in the northernmost part of the park, these towering red rock cliffs boast a palette of glorious hues that change as the daylight passes through the canyons. Whether you hike or take the scenic drive through this remarkable area, you'll be blown away by the unique layers of rock and the dramatic formations that have formed by erosion over millions of years. The peaceful nature of Kolob Canyons amplifies the magical experience, and unlike the busier areas of Zion allows you to connect with the surrounding nature on a profound level. Whether you're enjoying a drive to the breathtaking viewpoints or hiking the canyon trails, visiting Kolob Canyons is an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Zion National Park.
Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive
The scenic drive through Kolob Canyons showcases the unrivaled beauty of southern Utah's red rock country. As you embark on the drive, be prepared to witness some of the most panoramic beauty your eyes will ever see. The 5-mile-long road snakes through a stunning landscapes adorned with the famous red-hued cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and desert vegetation. Every corner reveals an insane vista that will leave you speechless. From the vista points along the route, you will get an excellent view of the finger canyons, such as Taylor Creek and Kolob Canyons.
Visitor Center
To enhance your experience when visiting Kolob Canyons, check out the park’s visitor center. Located at the entrance of the area, the visitor center is the gateway to an extraordinary experience. Knowledgeable park rangers can offer guidance, answer questions, and provide park information.
Inside the visitor center, you'll find information brochures that will teach visitors about the diverse flora, fauna, geology, and historical aspects of the park.
Kolob Canyons Hiking Trails
One of the highlights of Kolob Canyons is the selection of excellent hiking trails catering to hikers of all skill levels and abilities. There are some fairly easy hikes and some more challenging treks, all offering a unique adventure.
For those seeking a more leisurely srtoll, the Timber Creek Overlook Trail is a great selection. This 1-mile round trip trail offers tremendous views of the canyon, making it the perfect location for capturing amazing photography. Alternatively, the Taylor Creek Trail is a more difficult trail but still moderate and is around 5-miles round trip winding its way along the creek, leading to the Double Arch Alcove, an incredible natural amphitheater carved into the sandstone over the millennia.
For more experienced hikers, the Kolob Arch Trail is a great hike. This energy sapping 14-mile round trip trail rewards you with perfect views of the world's largest freestanding arch.
Another park in the region that is much quieter than Zion and is well-worth checking out is Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. Here you’ll discover ancient archaeological sites, dinosaur tracks and may even come across a rare species of desert tortoise.
Exploratory Glory YouTube Channel
Camping
Looking to camp in the wilderness of Kolob Canyons and spend a night under the stars? You can definitely do that at one of the park's designated campgrounds.
There are two campgrounds at Kolob Canyons with facilities to suit your needs: the Lava Point Campground and the Kolob Canyons Camping Area. The Lava Point Campground is a more primitive site, offering a unique opportunity for solitude and seclusion. The site is perched on a high-elevation plateau and features glorious views of the park, this campground is accessible by a 25-mile scenic drive from the main park entrance.
The Kolob Canyons Camping Area, located near the visitor center, and offers campers a much more developed camping trip. Accessible by Kolob Canyons Road, these sites boast picnic tables, fire rings, and restroom facilities, ensuring a more amenity rich camping experience.
Prices
As of the most recent update on 11/13/2023, the following entrance fees apply for accessing Zion National Park, including Kolob Canyons:
Private Vehicle (1-7 days): $40
Motorcycle (1-7 days): $30
Individual/Bicycle (1-7 days): $20
These fees grant visitors access to all areas within Zion National Park, including Kolob Canyons. However, it is important to note that annual and interagency passes are also available for those planning to visit multiple national parks throughout the year.
Kolob Canyons Photos
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