August National Park Highlight: Zion National Park

in Travel / by

Happy August, Flock! We’re back again this month highlighting another National Park, and this time it’s Zion! Zion National Park is located southwest Utah, 4 hours south of Salt Lake City. If you haven’t had the chance to visit yet, start planning your trip ASAP! The park is settled on the intersection of three unique geographic areas: the Colorado Plateau, the Great Basin, and the Mojave Desert.

Camping in the Park

The park is home to three campgrounds: Watchman, South, and Lava Point. Watchman and South campgrounds are located within Zion Canyon on the south entrance to the park, and Lava Point campground is about an hour drive through the canyon. Camping is strictly enforced inside the park and is only allowed in the designated campgrounds. According to park services, these campgrounds tend to be full almost every night from mid-March through November. There are 243 campsites available for single use in the South and Watchman campgrounds. Lava Point is only open from May through September, weather permitted. It has six primitive campsites that are available on a first come first serve basis. If you’re really looking to get off the grid during your stay permits for overnight backpack camping are also available.

Park Activities

Zion National Park has no shortage of exciting adventures. The park is a popular climbing destination that provides single and multi-pitch routes ranging from ratings of 5.6 to 5.12c. If climbing isn’t your thing, this park is also home to plenty of hikes for all adventurers to enjoy. A popular trail for beginners and families is the Canyon Overlook Trail, located right at the entrance to the Mt. Carmel tunnel. This hike is the one you’ll want to take for the ‘gram! Only a mile round trip and 213ft in elevation gain, this trail will lead you through a natural cave and out to an overlook of Zion Canyon. There are also guided horseback rides, river trips, and open mountain bike trails for those looking for a different kind of park experience.

Wildlife

Zion is home to a vast array of wildlife. The park is home to 78 species of mammals, almost 300 species of birds, and 37 species of reptiles and amphibians. While in the park, you are likely to see some mule deer, wild turkey, and rattlesnakes- but remember to keep a safe distance and not to disturb or interfere with wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for a special treat in Zion- the protected Mexican Spotted Owl, Mojave Desert Tortoises, and California Condors. 

So there you have it, Flock! Our quick guide to Zion National Park. Make sure to remember to reserve a campsite before heading out, and enjoy every square inch of the 147,551 acres you’re able to experience. And, don’t forget to tag @Roofnest on Instagram so we can follow along on your adventure! Happy camping!

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