Day 2 Zion National Park

 

Zion National Park, in southwestern Utah, is definitely worth a visit. The views are breathtaking in this 593 square kilometre (229 sq miles) park. The lowest point if just over 3600 feet (1100 metres) and the highest point is about 8700 feet (2660 metres).  

There are mesas, canyons, mountains, arches, rivers and monoliths. The 150 million years of Mesozoic sedimentation created the formations in the area. 

Previous inhabitants were the native Americans and Mormons,  who gave the park its name. The park was established in 1919. 

You  need to visit during less crowded months (end April/early May or October) even if it’s a bit nippy in the mornings to enjoy the area without the crowds. 

The trails are well marked, sandy in some places, rocky in others and we used a guide today  to take us through the highlights. Otherwise, it’s not complicated with a map and use of the park shuttle buses. E-bikes are another option to see the parks, though you cannot access the hiking trails with them. 

Today we did the Western rim trail and the Emerald pools trail. Here are the photos. Some may appear misty because of early morning light. 

On another note, the jalapeño margaritas are good in town! Cheers!