Zion National Park

When we visited Zion we underestimated it and went away wishing we had more time. The brochures don't do this place justice. It has Grand Canyon style, but on a scale you can take in. Above all, it is pretty.

Zion is not blessed with European levels of rainfall, but it is lush by Southwest USA standards. The Virgin river flows all year and the relatively small amount of annual rainfall is used to the full by the local vegetation.	Admission to the National Park costs $20 per vehicle, which allows up to 7 days visit. Give it as long as you can. There is an impressive road drive through the main canyon, but a number of stopping points with access to relatively easy walks.

'The Patriarchs' (above) stand proud among the mountains that enclose Zion National Park. They are prominent in the park brochures and they are impressive.	A typical feature here is the eroded arch shapes (above) which result from sections of collapsing rock-face. This one is called 'Weeping Rock'.

The Virgin River (above and top right) keeps Zion National Park fresh and blooming. It runs through the centre and is frequently criss-crossed by the park roads, giving plenty of fine views.	The Checkerboard Mesa (right) displays unusual criss-cross erosion, presumed to be the combined action of ice, water and integral cracks. You will encounter it on your way into or out of the Park..
The Lodge, in the centre of the canyon drive, has accommodation you can book all year round. We only came for a day visit, so we did not sample the pleasures of the Lodge. Next time we visit Zion we'll spend several days and allow time to enjoy the walks. ©Derrick Phillips February 2000 (Revised April 2006)