Best things to do in Kolob Canyons at Zion National Park.
How to get to Kolob Canyons.
Kolob Canyons is located in the northwest section of Zion National Park. It is conveniently located right off of Interstate i15 and is 17 miles south of Cedar City. This canyon features a 5 mile scenic drive through the canyon to an overlook. The road is paved red and will be getting a makeover starting May 1st, 2018. The road will close so plan ahead if you are planning to stop by or do a hike. This is a box canyon which is located on the western part of the Colorado Plateau creating giant peaks with 2,000 ft cliffs. It is the sandstone version of Yosemite. I just made that up, but thats how I felt when I was there.
We visited in April in mid day and saw little to no traffic and plenty of parking at the trailheads. Kolob Canyons features hiking, climbing or just a drive through experience. This is by far the best part of Zion National Park and should not be missed.
Backpacking in Kolob Canyons.
Backpacking in Kolob Canyons, a section of Zion National Park in southern Utah, can be a rewarding and challenging experience. The park offers several backpacking trails, including:
- La Verkin Creek Trail: This 14.5-mile trail is a strenuous hike that takes you through a narrow canyon and ends at the Kolob Terrace Road. Permits are required for overnight camping.
- Hop Valley Trail: This 8.5-mile trail takes you through a beautiful valley and ends at the Kolob Terrace Road. Permits are required for overnight camping.
- Wildcat Canyon Trail: This 12-mile trail takes you through a remote canyon and ends at the Lava Point Campground. Permits are required for overnight camping.
It’s important to note that backpacking in Kolob Canyons requires a permit and reservations are highly recommended, as the number of permits is limited. It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out, bring appropriate gear and enough food and water, and be prepared for the challenges of backcountry hiking, such as rugged terrain and changing weather.
Camping in Kolob Canyons.
Camping in Kolob Canyons, a section of Zion National Park in southern Utah, can be a great way to experience the park’s beautiful scenery. There is one campground on this side of the park and two located at the south entrance::
- Lava Point Campground: This is a primitive campground located at the end of the Kolob Terrace Road. It offers 6 campsites and pit toilets, but no running water. It’s open seasonally, and reservations are not accepted.
- Watchman Campground: This campground is located near the South Entrance of the park and offers 179 campsites with picnic tables, fire rings, and flush toilets. There is no RV hookups or potable water at the campground. Reservations are highly recommended, as the campground fills up quickly during peak season.
- South Campground: This campground is located near the South Entrance of the park and offers tent and RV camping. It has 71 campsites, with picnic tables, fire rings, and flush toilets. There is no potable water at the campground. Reservations are highly recommended, as the campground fills up quickly during peak season.
It’s also important to note that all camping in the park is subject to park rules and regulations, and a wilderness permit is required. Also, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out, bring appropriate gear and enough food and water.
Best Hikes to do while in Kolob Canyons at Zion National Park.
Kolob Canyons is a section of Zion National Park located in southern Utah. The park offers a variety of hiking trails that range in difficulty, from easy nature walks to strenuous backcountry backpacking hikes. Some popular hiking trails in Kolob Canyons include:
- The Taylor Creek Trail, a 5.4-mile round trip hike that follows Taylor Creek through a narrow canyon and ends at the Double Arch Alcove.
- The Timber Creek Overlook Trail, a 3-mile round trip hike that offers stunning views of the Kolob Canyons from an overlook.
- The Kolob Arch Trail, a 9-mile round trip hike that leads to one of the largest natural arches in the world, Kolob Arch.
It’s important to note that some trails require a permit to hike so make a reservation, and also some trails are closed during certain times of the year. It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast, bring plenty of water and snacks and wear appropriate gear, and let someone know your hiking plan and expected return time before heading out. Check out the backpacking rules and regulations in Zion National Park.
For more information about hiking in Kolob Canyons.
How to get around Kolob Canyons
At the south entrance there is a scenic shuttle bus that will take you up and down the canyon. Check for seasonal operating times on the Zion website or book a ticket in advance for busy weekends. In Kolob Canyons it is suggested to have a private automobile to travel the scenic drive throughout the park. Note that the speed limit is 35 mph and seat belts, child safety seats are required for all passengers.
Are pets allowed at Kolob Canyons?
On most trails pets are not allowed in the national parks. The only trail that allows pets is the Pa’rus Trail at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center located on the other side of the park. There are no trails in Kolob Canyons that allow pets. But what about your service animal? Your dog that is trained to do work or perform tasks to benefit your disability will be allowed.
Can I fly a drone at Kolob Canyons?
No, Flying a drone in Kolob Canyons, a section of Zion National Park in southern Utah, is subject to rules and regulations set by the National Park Service (NPS) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
According to the NPS, the operation of unmanned aircraft, including drones, is prohibited in all national parks, including Zion National Park. This includes all areas of the park, including Kolob Canyons. The use of drones in national parks can disrupt wildlife, damage natural and cultural resources, and interfere with visitor experience.
However, the FAA allows the operation of drones in national parks under certain conditions, such as obtaining a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC). But in most cases, the NPS doesn’t issue SFOCs to fly drones in national parks.
It’s important to check the regulations before you go and not to fly a drone in the park without proper permissions. If you are caught flying a drone in the park, you may face penalties, fines and possible confiscation of your drone.