Zion Park and the Kolob Canyons

Zion National Park spans over two major canyons: the classic and touristic Zion Canyon of course, on the South side, but also the Kolob Canyons on the North West. Without a road linking these two areas, the park has two entrances.

We were visiting with family from France and a friend in Vegas recommended the Kolob entrance, which is less popular and congested, and doesn't require to park your car to catch a shuttle. Zion Canyon is still very much worth the visit, especially if you manage to get early to secure a good parking spot. Otherwise, Kolob Canyon also offers magnificent views of red cliffs. Parking is also limited but, again, that side is less crowded.

We first drove to the top, the Kolob Canyons Viewpoint and hiked the short Timbre Creek Overlook trail. Then drove down to the trailhead of Taylor Creek trail. As we wanted to drive to Bryce afterwards and get there before dusk, I was given 90 minutes to explore that canyon.

I knew nothing about that trail except I had heard about 5 miles to a site worth seeing called the Double Arch Alcove. With an out and back format along a creek, I figured I'll just split the time and turnaround at half the time.

This was quite a technical trail and I quickly lost track of the number of creek crossings. Enough running injuries these past years so I crossed over rocks, very carefully. With that, my progression was slow, in the 12-13 minute/mile range and that wasn't even counting the stops to take pictures! At least I was not alone, there were a few hikers, even a handful of families.

1 mile, 2 miles, I was approaching the dangerous time limit when the trail turn from dust to mud then snow, as the canyon was narrowing and the trail stuck in the shade of impressive cliffs on both sides. 2.5 miles and there was the majestic alcove, at the end of the trail. At least I was able to get to it, just in time for a few pictures and retrace my way back.

So, it was 5 miles indeed but round trip. And technical.

The Relive.cc flyover is worth watching to get a sense of the size of the boulders forming that Kolob Canyon. Sheer walls challenging the 3d visualization algorithm... (click on this link or the image below)

Again, if you have not been to Zion before, Zion Canyon is the best option if you can get to the main parking lot early. Otherwise, Kolob is a great substitute to appreciate the grandeur of this site and natural wonder; highly recommended! And, with more time than I had, you can hike between the two canyons, that looks like even more exciting!