Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Bryce Canyon National Parks”) and ask for a copy of the free handout “Pack An-
imal Use.” People bring their own horses for the trips.
Guided rides in the park are available March through October from
Canyon
Trail Rides,
P.O. Box 128, Tropic, UT 84776 (
&
435/679-8665;
www.canyonrides.com
), with ticket sales and information near Zion Lodge. A
1-hour ride along the Virgin River costs $40, and a half-day ride on the Sand Beach
Trail costs $75. Riders must weigh no more than 220 pounds, and children must be
at least 7 years old for the 1-hour ride and 10 years old for the half-day ride. Reser-
vations are advised.
ROCKCLIMBING
Expert technical rock climbers like the tall sandstone cliffs in Zion
Canyon, although rangers warn that much of the rock is loose, or “rotten,” and
climbing equipment and techniques that are suitable for granite are often less ef-
fective (and therefore less safe) on sandstone. Backcountry permits, available at
visitor centers, are required for overnight climbs and cost $10 for one or two per-
sons, $15 for three to seven, and $20 for 8 to 12 people. Because some routes may be
closed at times, such as during peregrine falcon nesting, from early spring through
July, climbers should check at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center before setting out.
ZionAdventureCompany
and
ZionRock&MountainGuides
offer a variety of
guided rock climbing and hiking trips, as well as instruction. Typical per-person
rates are $125 for a half-day and $160 for a full day for two people, with lower per-
person rates for larger groups. Zion Rock & Mountain Guides also offers equip-
ment rentals and sales.
Climbers without the necessary expertise for Zion are advised to try nearby
Snow Canyon State Park (see chapter 8, “Nearby Things to See & Do”).
SWIMMING&TUBING
Hikers in the Narrows soon find that they are participating in a
water sport, as they wade along the “trail” at the bottom of the Virgin River. Swim-
ming and wading are prohibited in the Emerald Pools. Swimming is permitted in
the Virgin River south of South Campground amphitheater; check with the visit-
or center about other areas that would be safe for swimming. Those wanting to go
tubing in the river can rent tubes ($15) from
Zion Adventure Company
.
WINTERACTIVITIES
Zion does not usually get enough snow for winter sports, but
the relatively warm winter days can be perfect for hiking. However, winter hikers
need to be especially careful when trails are icy.
