Overview Hotels Things to Do Restaurants Itineraries Facts Explore Travel

Sometimes all you want is an easy jaunt. These are the most casual strolls (hikingwise, that is!) in Zion National Park, but they certainly don't lack for spectacular views. To start with, hop on Zion's clean-fuel shuttle (April-October). The trails are listed in order of shuttle stop, beginning with the Visitor's Center. Canyon Overlook Trail is reached by driving up the switchback road toward the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. The trailhead parking lot will be on your right (south) after you leave the tunnel. The Timber Creek Overlook is in the Kolob Canyons section of the Park, off the main Kolob Canyons Road. This part of Zion is less visited, so less crowded, and just as stunning (if not more than) the popular main canyon.

Each of these hikes can be completed in about an hour. Some have elevation gains, such as Canyon Overlook Trail and The Watchman overlook, but they're still quite short. You can wander the Pa'rus Trail for a couple of hours if you want, but it's flat the entire way. Remember, since they're easy, they're very popular and thus can be crowded. Try for off-season or early morning if you'd rather observe Zion's glories in quieter peace.

[photo courtesy of sendlink]