Zion Freebies

Our Local Expert Says:

This is the way to see Zion during the on season. Save the trees and your sanity—take the shuttle. (You have no choice April-October anyway.)

Description:

This spring-through-fall shuttle is free, green, and friendly to all, from babies to elderly folks to people with bikes. It is the only way to get around when in season, and it even runs to the gateway town of Springdale. The ease and importance of taking the Zion Shuttle can't be emphasized enough. Ride clean! Save the environment! And allow yourself to settle back and enjoy unparalleled views as someone else steers you through Zion National Park. Bikes, strollers, wheelchairs all welcome aboard as well.

Our Local Expert Says:

Considered one of southern Utah's most scenic drives.

Description:

The drive along Mt. Carmel Highway costs $25 (for the entrance fee), but is priceless in terms of beautiful vistas and scenic overlooks. Don't forget your camera for this winding road, as you'll want to stop often so you can peer into canyons and admire the rock formations from multiple lookout points. Prepare your jaw for dropping.

Our Local Expert Says:

Beautiful and worth it

Description:

Ah, cool and lovely, these pools make a great trek. Consisting of Lower, Middle, and Upper, the Emerald Pools can get crowded, so consider an early start. Sheer drop-offs on the trail make it iffy if you suffer from vertigo or have little children. If you want shade and ease of access, stick to the Lower Pools trail. When to see the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools at their best: after a storm. Mind slippery edges and enjoy the cool gorgeousness of this signature hike.

Our Local Expert Says:

Simply gorgeous, and at a 1/2 mile roundtrip, so easy for most people.

Description:

No, the rocks aren't sad, although you may have melancholy thoughts if you're there on a crowded summer day! Wrap your mind around these facts: the "weeping" water comes from a spring 100 feet above and took almost 1,000 years to get to where you can see it. Navajo sandstone is fairly porous, allowing the water to travel through over time. Best time of day to go: early morning if you crave peace and quiet. Best time of year to go: spring, when wildflowers are in riotous bloom alongside the trail. Bring a camera with a great macro zoom for your jaunt to Weeping Rock.

Description:

Bike riders have known about the Pa'rus for years and many walkers staying in the Watchman Campground make use of the trail. You'll find a few spots shaded by cottonwoods, ash, and maples where you can slip into the Virgin River...