Zion

(Springdale UT)
I entered Zion National Park from the east going through the tunnel for a $15 fee. It was the shortest route, and had fantastic views with turn-outs along the way for taking photos.

Tall cliffs along a canyon

Cliffs in Zion National Park

Straight to the Visitor Center I went, to get a parking spot, and to decide what to see. A trolley takes you up Zion Canyon to most all the sites and trails. They arrive about every 15 minutes, so you can get on and off whenever you want.

Several jagged mountain peaks

Peaks in Zion

Towering rock formations

Magnificent Towers

Thought of hiking to Angels Landing, but realized it would likely be too much for me. Besides, I prefer seeing the features from below rather than above. The alternatives were very nice too.

Water sprays over edge of rock

Waterfall on trail to Emerald Pools

Instead, I hiked the trail to the Emerald Pools and on through to The Grotto. Also, went up to the Weeping Rock, and took the Riverside Walk up to the point where you must enter the Virgin River to continue.

Rocky trail in mountains

Trail to Emerald Pools

Rock face dripping water

Weeping Rock

There were hoards of people everywhere including in the river. Getting photos without people in them was not easy. Many were not even observing the spectacular scenery. I learned it was Spring Break for schools in Utah and California which accounted for the masses. It was depressing, so I decided to leave instead of spend another day.

River winding through canyon

Virgin River

Words, and even photos, cannot describe the magnificent views within the canyon. I resolved to return another time, during the off season, when I might enjoy it more. Boondock camping overnight for free on BLM land near the Virgin River.

River flowing between tall cliffs

Virgin River entering narrow canyon

PS: It turned out that I had a tire leaking, so it is probably good that I left early. I was able to get it fixed in the next town.

Camp: Boondock-BLM outside Zion NP
Scene: River, cliffs, mountains, trails

10 Responses to Zion

  1. Dizzy-Dick June 5, 2014 at 9:16 pm #

    Oh my, what a beautiful place!! I guess it is better for those of us who can, to visit popular places off season. I do not prefer to travel in the summertime.

    • Pleinguy June 5, 2014 at 10:41 pm #

      The shoulder is best, just before and just after peak season. I will try to keep that in mind for the future.

  2. J. RICHARD SECOR June 5, 2014 at 11:53 pm #

    We’ve been to Zion several times – beautiful country – we like the views from the bottom up – it’s like being at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Nice photos

    • Pleinguy June 6, 2014 at 12:26 am #

      It’s an enchanting place and I hope to return when the crowds are gone.

  3. Barney (The Old Fat Man) June 6, 2014 at 2:50 am #

    It is really beautiful when there is a LITTLE snow scattered around.

    • Pleinguy June 6, 2014 at 4:44 pm #

      I imagine it would be; maybe next time.

  4. Gypsy June 6, 2014 at 3:17 am #

    It was a bummer you couldn’t stay longer, but you were really lucky to be able to get your tire fixed before you woke up to a flat! Great photos!

    • Pleinguy June 6, 2014 at 4:44 pm #

      I had planned to stay a few days; but, it was not meant to be.

  5. jonthebru June 6, 2014 at 5:39 am #

    In the back of my head I am planning to rent a small class C in Vegas from El Monte in late October and do the loop in Southern Utah. The roads are open, the crowds are sparse and the leaves are colorful. The timing is a suggestion by Bob Wells. This will be my intro to Rving trip.

    • Pleinguy June 6, 2014 at 4:46 pm #

      Perhaps; keep in mind it often begins snowing in the higher elevations by the end of October in Utah.

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