2014: Spring Break - Hiking Zion National Park
Distance: 51km
Map
This trip was purposely designed for rest and relaxation. This is a destination highly recommended for anyone in need of such.
Springdale, Utah
This is a small town of approximately 600 people largely devoted to supporting the folks exploring the natural beauty of the Zion National Park.
The park itself is closed to all vehicular traffic from April 1 until late fall. However, you can walk into the park or take advantage of a well organized free shuttle bus to all parts of this scenic park.
The Geography
We experienced rain, sun, snow, hail, clouds and wonderful blue skies. Each day we managed to hike on average 6 miles of quite varied terrain. Climbing up to Angel's Landing is a 1500 foot ascent. Near the top you walk a thin ridge (a couple of feet wide) where the drop is 1200 feet on one side and 1100 feet on the other. You look left. You look right. You simply go "Wow".
Walking up the Virgin River through the bottom of the canyon is spectacular. Walls on either side going up hundreds of feet provide a memorable experience.
Recommendations
A couple of things if you go here: 1) You need to drive through the park heading east through a series of switchbacks and a one mile tunnel. The other side: a completely different geological formation of sliprock. 2)Thai Sapa: a great food experience in Springdale.
Rating: 10
I really have nothing to cause a rating downgrade. The villa at Flanigan's was excellent. The hospitality in Springdale was great. The park is well managed with many excellent hiking destinations. If you stay in Springdale, there is really no need to use your rental car all week - an added bonus. Bike and water hiking gear rentals are readily available.
