Wilderness Guide

National Park Service Zion National Park U.S. Department of the Interior

Wilderness Guide

The official wilderness guide of Zion National Park 2016-2017 Plan Your Trip Wilderness Permit Hours Zion Canyon Visitor Center Kolob Canyons Visitor Center Welcome to Zion National Park. Zion is a spectacular network of 435 772-0170 435 586-9548 colorful canyons, forested mesas, and striking deserts. All of the land within the park boundary is preserved by the National Park Service for March 5 to April 16 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 8:00 am to 5:00 pm the benefit of the public. In addition, a remarkable 84 percent of this 7:00 am to 6:00 pm 8:00 am to 5:00 pm extraordinary landscape is preserved as wilderness. This designation April 17 to May 27 ensures that over 124,000 acres of the park will continue to be a place May 28 to September 5 7:00 am to 7:30 pm 8:00 am to 6:00 pm where nature and its “community of life are untrammeled by man, a place where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.” September 6 to September 25 7:00 am to 6:00 pm 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

September 26 to October 8 7:00 am to 6:00 pm 8:00 am to 5:00 pm prepare and plan ahead October 9 to November 26 8:00 am to 5:00 pm 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Traveling into the wilderness, even on short November 27- March 2017 8:00 am to 4:30 pm 8:00 am to 4:30 pm trips, can be challenging Permits are required for overnight trips in the wilderness, including climbing bivouacs, through- and risky and requires careful planning hikes of The Narrows and its tributaries, and canyons requiring the use of descending gear or before you begin. Each year, people are ropes, including The Subway. Permits may be obtained on the day before or day of your trip. injured or die while exploring the park. Your safety depends on your own good and potential injuries. Also, do not build small hole 4 to 8 inches deep and at judgment, adequate preparation, and structures including benches, tables and least 200 feet from water and campsites. constant observation. shelters. Leave the area in a natural state Human waste bags must be used in for others to enjoy. Camping is limited to The Narrows. leave no trace designated sites in much of the Zion It is illegal to remove anything from Wilderness. In areas where at-large More than 50,000 people the park. Leave the flowers, rocks, and camping is permitted, camp at least 200 receive permits to visit everything else for others to enjoy. Do feet from water and out of view of trails the Zion Wilderness each not write or carve on natural surfaces. year. Please show respect and streams. Camp one-quarter mile from springs. Campfires are not allowed Feeding wildlife is illegal and unhealthy. for your national park, #findyourpark fellow visitors, and future generations. in the wilderness. Please use a gas stove. Animals can become aggressive when fed. Store food and trash responsibly. Stay on the trail. If you must leave the Carry all of your trash out of the park, trail, travel in canyon bottoms, in river Do not build or destroy rock cairns. including toilet paper. Use a human waste Allow others to enjoy the peace and or stream courses, or on slickrock They are used to mark the trail or route. disposal bag, or trash bag, to transport solitude of the park. Keep your group whenever possible. Avoid stepping on If placed incorrectly, they can mislead your solid waste. If you do not have a quiet and limit the size of your group. vegetation or biological soil crusts. visitors, causing unnecessary damage disposal bag, waste can be buried in a Reservations & Permits Permits are required trips using the online reservation system. Calendar Reservations system or the for all overnight trips, Please note that calendar reservations are Advance Lottery, the Last Minute Reservation Dates including climbing not permits. Visitors with calendar Drawing becomes an option. Individuals

bivouacs, all through- reservations must pick up their permits can submit an application for the Last For a calendar reservations hikes of The Narrows at either the Zion Canyon or Kolob Minute Drawing to obtain any remaining trip in are available on and its tributaries, all canyons requiring Canyons Visitor Center before beginning reservations for permits. The Last Minute March January 5 the use of descending gear or ropes, their trip. Drawing is limited to one request per April February 5 and all trips into Left Fork (The Subway). individual per canyon. May March 5 June April 5 All permits (including those with Making a calendar reservation July May 5 reservations and those awarded though Reservations are available online during Last Minute Drawing applications August June 5 the lottery) must be obtained in person a three month time frame. On the fifth are completed online. Entries can be September July 5 on the day before or day of the trip at day of every month at 10:00 am MT, submitted as early as one week prior October August 5 the Zion Canyon or Kolob Canyons reservations for the next month become to a trip date until two days before at November September 5 Visitor Centers. Use the park’s online available. If they are still available, noon MT. The drawing is held at December October 5 reservation system to help you plan reservations can be made until 5:00 pm 1:00 pm MT, two days before a trip date. January November 5 ahead and save time at www.nps.gov/ MT on the day before your trip. Any spaces not taken through the February December 5 zion/planyourvisit/wilderness.htm. drawing will be available as Walk-in There is a $5.00 non-refundable fee for Permits the day before a trip date. For Left Fork (The Subway) or Mystery get a permit an online calendar reservation, and there Canyon, please read the Advance Lottery There are several ways to obtain a permit is an additional charge for a permit that is Applicants will be sent a notification Reservations section on this page. for your trip into the Zion Wilderness. determined by the size of your group. email with information about the status Over half of all available permits are of their request. If a reservation is secured using the advance reservation Many of the permits for Left Fork awarded, the permit must be obtained Group size limits system. The remaining permits are (The Subway) and Mystery Canyon are before the trip at a park visitor center. Large groups result in larger impacts. All obtained through the Last Minute secured through the Advance Lottery groups traveling into the Zion Wilderness Drawing (canyoneering day trips) or prior to calendar reservations becoming Walk-in Permits must follow the group size limit for that as Walk-in Permits (backpacking trips). available. About one-third of wilderness campsites area. These limits apply to all trips into are not available through the reservation the park’s wilderness including trips that calendar reservations Advance Lottery Reservations system. They are made available as do not require a permit. Wilderness trails All visitors can reserve a wide variety of The Advance Lottery is for trips through Walk-in Permits and can be obtained have a group size limit of 12, but many canyoneering, camping, and climbing Left Fork (The Subway) and Mystery the day before your trip starts. Any slot canyoneering areas are limited to 6. Canyon. Due to the popularity of these canyon or climbing permits not taken areas, the park created an online lottery through the reservation system are Group size limits are strictly enforced. for reservations. The Advance Lottery available as Walk-in Permits. Wilderness Permits will be denied and violators will National Park Service does not run from November through campsites, climbing areas, and slot be cited if limits are exceeded. U.S. Department of the Interior March due to a low demand for permits. canyons that are not listed in the reservation system, are only available as Groups are limited to a maximum of Advance Lottery applications are Walk-in Permits. Plan ahead and obtain a 6 or 12 people that share the same completed online. Entries must be reservation to avoid any disappointment. affiliation (e.g., school, club, scout troop, Zion National Park submitted three months prior to your family, and friends). Groups that exceed planned trip. Entries are limited to one Zion Express Membership these limits may not split up and visit the Superintendent request per individual per canyon per Zion Express Membership allows same drainage, route, or wilderness trail Jeff Bradybaugh month. Entrants can request three members, who obtain a reservation in on the same day, but may split up and visit prioritized dates. The non-refundable their account, to convert it to a permit different areas. Mailing Address lottery application fee is $5.00. online, three days before their trip. The Zion National Park entire permit process can be completed Group size limits do not apply to most Springdale, UT 84767 Applicants will be sent a notification online. Zion Express Membership is trails in Zion Canyon, including the email on the fifth day of the following recommended for frequent visitors. Emerald Pools Trails, Angels Landing, Park Information month with information about the status Riverside Walk, Watchman Trail, and 435 772-3256 of their request. If a reservation is The benefits of membership include: The Narrows below the junction with awarded, the permit must be obtained Wilderness Information Orderville Canyon. 435 772-0170 before the trip at a park visitor center. • No cost to enroll. • No waiting in line to pick up permit. Website Occasionally, a few spaces remain after • No need to coordinate with Wilderness Permit Fees www.nps.gov/zion the Advance Lottery has been held. Desk hours of operation.

These spaces can be reserved through • Greater flexibility in planning (allows Fees help cover the costs of issuing E-mail the Calendar Reservations system. for early starts and late finishes) permits, wilderness patrols, resource [email protected] • Reservation fees are applied to the cost monitoring, and trail repairs. Fees are Last Minute Drawing Reservations of the permit. non-refundable and based on group size. Lost and Found All visitors can apply for the Last Minute • Membership is valid for three years. Report at any visitor center Drawing for canyoneering day trips. • $15.00 for 1 to 2 people The Last Minute Drawing eliminates the To become a Zion Express Member, • $20.00 for 3 to 7 people Emergencies need to wait in long lines for last minute visit the Zion Canyon Wilderness Desk • $25.00 for 8 to 12 people 911 or 435 772-3322 permits. When a slot canyon day trip to complete a short orientation and sign is fully booked online through the a program agreement form.

2 Wilderness Guide Wildlife Climate

You will encounter Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec wildlife while in the Temperature (°F)

wilderness. Be aware Average high 54 59 66 75 86 95 100 99 91 79 64 54 that wild animals can be Average low 30 34 39 45 54 63 70 68 61 48 37 30 unpredictable. Do not Record high 73 90 91 95 106 114 115 111 110 99 86 81 approach or attempt to move sick or Record low –15 0 10 21 19 36 41 36 33 18 6 –5 Days above 100°F 0 0 0 0 0 6 16 10 2 0 0 0 injured wildlife. Please report any Days below 32°F 20 13 9 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 10 18 encounters with aggressive, sick, or Precipitation (inches) injured animals to a park ranger. Average 1.8 2.0 2.0 1.3 0.7 0.3 1.2 1.5 1.0 1.3 1.4 1.6 Record high 9.3 6.7 7.1 5.4 3.0 4.0 4.9 5.1 6.7 5.5 4.0 4.7 Respect wildlife Record daily snowfall 12.5 8.0 7.2 4.0 4.0 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.0 4.5 8.0 Please keep all animals wild and healthy Days with thunderstorms 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.0 4.0 5.0 14.0 15.0 5.0 2.0 0.0 0.0 by viewing them from a safe distance. Temperatures at higher elevations, including the Kolob Canyons area of the park, may be 5 to 10 degrees cooler than Zion Canyon. Do not feed or touch wildlife. Store food and trash responsibly. mountain lions Mountain lions are wild animals and can be dangerous. They have been seen in Weather the park. An attack is unlikely, and the Spring park has never had a reported attack on elevation areas such as the Kolob best if completed prior to mid-October As the park warms, more people or pets. However, mountain lions Canyons and West Rim can see high when cooler temperatures may require areas of the wilderness have attacked in other wilderness areas. temperatures in excess of 90°F. Visitors wetsuits and other specialized gear. become accessible. One must pay constant attention to the of the first areas without winter • Watch children closely, and never let possibility of thunderstorms and snow is the Southwest Desert of the Much of Zion National Park is snow- them run ahead or lag behind. lightning. The park typically experiences park. La Verkin Creek is often snow covered through the winter months. • Solo hiking is not encouraged. a monsoon season from mid-July through free by mid-March, and the East and All trails, even at lower elevations, can • Never approach a mountain lion. Most mid-September with an increased risk West Rims are usually snow free by early be ice-covered and traction devices will avoid a confrontation. Always give of severe thunderstorms and dramatic April. In an average year, high water are highly recommended. In winter, them a route to escape. flash flooding. due to snowmelt makes The Narrows sections of the Kolob Terrace Road are • Do not run. Try to look large and put impassable until late May. Fall not plowed. Snow causes closures of your arms up. The brilliant autumn colors and cooler the Kolob Terrace Road near the Hop • If a mountain lion approaches, wave Summer temperatures can make the fall an ideal Valley Trailhead throughout the winter, your arms, shout, and throw rocks or Zion National Park is hot through the time for backpacking trips in the park. as well as periodic closures of the sticks at it. summer months with temperatures Canyoneering trips through The Kolob Canyons Road. Recreational • If attacked, fight back. regularly exceeding 100°F. Even higher Narrows and other slot canyons are use is limited to skis and snowshoes. Flash Floods All narrow canyons are flash flood potential ratings Watch for these indications of a possible potentially hazardous. In the summer, the National Weather flash flood: Flash floods, often caused Service issues a daily Flash Flood by storms miles away, are Potential Rating for multiple areas in • Any deterioration in weather conditions a real danger and can be Utah. Zion has worked in partnership • Build up of clouds or sounds of thunder life threatening. By entering a narrow with the National Weather Service to • Sudden changes in water clarity from canyon you are assuming a risk. create specific Flash Flood Potential clear to muddy Ratings for Zion National Park’s unique • Floating debris During a flash flood, the water level rises environment and terrain. These flash • Rising water levels or stronger currents quickly, within minutes or even seconds. flood ratings predict the severity of the • Increasing roar of water upcanyon A flash flood can rush down a canyon in flooding that is expected to occur within a wall of water 12 feet high or more. the park. If you observe any of these signs, seek higher ground immediately—even be prepared • Dry: Flash flooding is not expected. climbing a few feet may save your life. Before starting your trip, pay close • Low: Flash flooding is possible. Remain on high ground until conditions attention to the weather forecast and Some slot canyons may experience improve. Water levels usually drop the Flash Flood Potential Rating for the flash flooding. within 24 hours. Flash floods can occur park. If bad weather threatens, do not • Moderate: Flash flooding is probable. in the park during periods of low flash enter a narrow canyon. Whether hiking, Some slot canyons are expected to flood potential. A moderate or higher climbing, or canyoneering, your safety experience flash flooding. flash flood potential is a serious cause

NPS depends on your own good judgment, • High: Flash flooding is expected. for concern. Slot canyons will be closed Flash floods can be extremely violent. The adequate preparation, and constant Many slot canyons are expected to if a Flash Flood Warning is issued. The strength of the water can tumble logs and experience flash flooding. large boulders. A hiker caught in a flash attention to your surroundings. Your canyons will reopen two hours after the flood like this would not survive. safety is your responsibility. Flash Flood Warning has expired.

Wilderness Guide 3 Emergencies Safety For 24-hour emergency response, call 911 or 435-772-3322. The Zion Steep cliffs disorientation, behavior changes, and Canyon Medical Clinic is located in Springdale near the south entrance Falls from cliffs on trails seizures. If you believe that a member of to the park. For hours, please call 435-772-3226. Other medical clinics have resulted in deaths. your party is suffering from heat stroke, are located in Hurricane. The nearest hospitals are in St. George, Cedar Loose sand or pebbles on it is imperative to cool them using any City, and Kanab. stone are very slippery. Be available means and obtain immediate careful of edges when using cameras or medical assistance. binoculars. Never throw or roll rocks, as there may be hikers below you. Trails can hypothermia Transportation be snow and ice covered in winter. Hypothermia occurs

Zion canyon shuttle Private Taxis when the body is cooled • Stay on the trail. Travel in Zion Canyon You may choose to to dangerous levels. It is • Stay back from cliff edges. from March 12 to Octo- complete your hike at a the number one killer of • Observe posted warnings. ber 25 and on weekends in different location from outdoor recreationists, even in summer, • Please watch children. November is by shuttle your starting point. Other and it usually happens without the bus only. The buses are accessible and shuttle and taxi services are available. victim’s awareness. It is a hazard in Water have room for backpacks, climbing gear, Please inquire at the Wilderness Desk. narrow canyons because immersion in The desert is an extreme and bicycles. The buses are free and you water is the quickest route to body heat environment. Carry may get on and off as often as you like. bicycles loss. To prevent hypothermia, avoid enough water, one gallon Pets are not allowed. Bicycles are not permitted cotton clothing (it provides no insulation per person per day, and in the wilderness. Bicycles when wet) and eat high-energy food drink it. Water is available at visitor Plan your trip to include the shuttle. For may travel on roadways before you are chilled. The signs of centers, campgrounds, and the Zion instance, if your hike ends at a trailhead and on the Pa’rus Trail. hypothermia include: Lodge. Water flow at natural springs in Zion Canyon, time your trip so you Shuttles will not pass moving bicycles. can vary, check for information at visitor will not miss the last shuttle of the day. Pull over to allow a bus to pass. Do not • Uncontrollable shivering centers. Do not drink untreated water. pass a moving shuttle. Shuttles have racks • Stumbling and poor coordination Water collected in the wilderness is not automobiles for bicycles. Bicycles are not permitted • Fatigue and weakness safe to drink without treatment. There Private vehicles are not in the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. • Confusion or slurred speech are two safe methods to treat water. permitted on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive from other vehicles If you recognize any of these signs, stop Boil water March 12 to November ATVs and OHVs are not hiking and immediately replace wet Bring water to a rolling boil for one 13 and on weekends in November. The permitted in the park. clothing with dry clothing. Warm the minute. Add one minute for each 1,000 Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway and other Access to private property victim with your own body and a warm feet above sea level. park roads are open to private vehicles. by snowmobile is allowed. drink, and shelter the individual from breezes. A pre-warmed sleeping bag will Filter and Disinfect water also help prevent further heat loss. Filter through an “absolute” 1 micron Shuttle Schedule filter, or one labeled as meeting ANSI/ pets NSF International Standard #53. Then Pets are not allowed on Spring Summer Fall Late Fall add eight drops of liquid chlorine bleach, wilderness trails or on the 3/12 to 5/21 5/22 to 9/24 9/25 to 10/29 10/30 to 11/15 or four drops of iodine, per gallon of shuttle buses. Even well- water and let stand for 30 minutes. Zion Canyon Shuttle behaved pets may disrupt wildlife and other visitors. Do not leave First Bus 7:00 am 6:00 am 7:00 am 7:00 am Heat exhaustion pets in vehicles. Boarding kennels are from Zion Canyon Visitor Center Heat exhaustion occurs available in Rockville, Kanab, Hurricane, when the body loses more St. George, and Cedar City. Last Bus to Springdale Shuttle 7:50 pm 8:50 pm 6:48 pm Not in service fluid than is taken in. Signs from Temple of Sinawava 8:10 pm 9:10 pm 7:03 pm of heat exhaustion include firearms from Zion Lodge nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headaches, pale Firearms are permitted Last Bus 7:45 pm 8:30 pm 6:45 pm 6:44 pm appearance, stomach cramps, and cool in Zion National Park. from Zion Canyon Visitor Center 8:30 pm 9:15 pm 7:30 pm 7:30 pm clammy skin. If a member of your party As of February 22, 2010, from Temple of Sinawava begins to experience any of these symp- a new federal law allows Springdale Shuttle toms, stop your hike immediately. Find a people who can legally possess firearms cool, shady area and rest with your feet under federal, Utah, and local laws, to First Bus 8:10 am 7:10 am 8:10 am Not in service up to distribute fluids throughout your possess firearms in the park. It is the from Majestic View Lodge 8:30 am 7:30 am 8:30 am from Zion Canyon Theatre body. It is important to drink fluids, but it visitor’s responsibility to understand is also important to eat. Drinking lots of and comply with all applicable Utah, Last Bus to Zion Canyon Shuttle 7:25 pm 8:00 pm 6:15 pm Not in service fluids and not eating, while suffering from local, and federal firearms laws. Federal from Majestic View Lodge heat exhaustion, can lead to a potentially law prohibits firearms in certain facilities dangerous condition of low blood salt. in Zion National Park, which are posted Last Bus 8:30 pm 9:30 pm 7:30 pm Not in service. If heat exhaustion symptoms persist for with signs. The discharge of firearms and from Zion Canyon Theatre 8:45 pm 9:45 pm 7:45 pm more than two hours, seek medical help. from Majestic View Lodge hunting within the park are prohibited. Utah state law prohibits the open carry The average wait for a shuttle bus is fifteen minutes or less. The wait is longer in the morning Heat stroke is an advanced stage of heat and evening, but shorter during peak hours. Shuttles will also operate on weekends in of loaded firearms on park shuttle buses. November, with additional service on Thanksgiving Day and Friday. The Shuttle Schedule exhaustion. It is the body’s inability to is subject to change. Please check your Map and Guide for current information. cool itself. Symptoms include confusion,

4 Wilderness Guide Canyoneering Safety

Aylwa s found worn webbing at the head of a Plan ahead! Don’t end up being a rescue. canyon and decided to make the first have a rappel. They discovered that the canyon plan B they entered was not their intended There is no substitute for route, but they were able to continue planning ahead, taking the proper through the canyon to The Narrows. equipment, having the right skills, and The two men exited in the middle of the using sound judgment. Be prepared to night. The ability to travel after dark can take care of yourself and your group by make the difference between an unin- resolving any difficulties that may arise. tentional night in a canyon and sleeping Rescue is not a certainty. If rescue is in a warm bed. These men were able to possible, it will take hours or days to complete their trip because they carried remove an injured hiker from the head lamps. Stories such as this occur on wilderness. a weekly basis in the Zion Wilderness. The first rappel is a critical decision point Pine Creek Canyon during a canyoneering trip. Once you pull your rope, you are committed. You must On November 15, 2014, a group of three complete the canyon whether it is the was rappelling through Pine Creek Can- canyon you intended to enter or not. yon. A member of the party jumped off an obstacle about five feet high into a pool of water. He believed that the pool Refrigerator was deep enough to cushion his fall, but Canyon landed on a hidden ledge. The 36-year- On September 20, 2014, a group of old man suffered from a significant lower eight people, including a thirteen- leg injury. The patient was less than half year-old boy, attempted the Refrig- a mile from a road, but the technical rope erator Canyon route. The boy at- rescue necessary to extract him from the tempted to rest by tying off his rappel canyon required six hours and 14 rescu- device when he was about 40 feet off ers. Lower leg fractures are the most of the ground. He lost control while common injuries suffered in the completing the tie off and fell 20 to wilderness. The most common cause 40 feet. A prussic caught him before of lower leg injuries is jumping. Do not he impacted the ground, but he still Do you have a backup for all party members? Can all members of your group stop mid-rappel or ascend a short jump. Bring a rope and use it. suffered back and chest injuries. distance to correct a problem? If not, consider taking a The boy’s prussic backup prevented canyoneering course before heading out on your own. the Narrows more serious injuries. Do you have a backup for all party members? Can On the morning of September 27, 2014, all members of your group stop mid- two men hiked into the lower end of The rappel or ascend a short distance to Narrows. There was a 90% chance of correct a problem? If not, consider rain that day, and the flash flood potential taking a canyoneering course before rating indicated that flash flooding was heading out on your own. expected. Heavy rain began mid-morning and lasted through most of the day. The volume of the river increased to 40 times its early morning flow. The men were trapped on separate sand bars 200 feet apart. One of the men somehow survived a swim to the end of the Riverside Walk. The other man was killed by the flood. Always check the weather before your trip. If bad weather threatens, do not enter a canyon. If you observe any signs of a possible flood, climb to high ground and remain there until water levels drop.

Unnamed East Side Canyon On October 1, 2014, two men attempted a remote canyon on the east side of the park. They attempted to follow a route description and topographic map but found few matching land marks. They

Wilderness Guide 5 Zion National Park

To Cedar City, Cedar Breaks NM, p and Salt Lake City Cam

Cre ek Wildcat Canyon Lava Point

At-large camping is limited No reservations, no fee, primitive to 30 people per night. 18 campground with six sites with Kolob Canyons reservations are available online. pit toilets and no water. Closed Visitor Center No rth Fork The maximum group size is 12. in winter. Taylor Creek Tay lor Cr eek Canyon Mid Trai Exit s dle l The Narrows b R For 40 lo o k o a K d So uth Lee Pass Fork Site Number Max Group Size Trailhead KOLOB West Rim 1 online 4 Kolob Willis 15 C l reek 2 4 Canyons i Kolob

a Chasm Viewpoint r Reservoir T Lake Site Number Max Group Size 3 online 6 k e e r 1 12 C CANYONS 4 2

n i 1.8 mi k r 13 2 online 2 5 online 6

e To La Verkin, V

1 Kolob 0.3 mi

Springdale and a 3 4

L Arch 12 6 12 Zion Canyon 0.6 mi Visitor Center 11 4 online 12 7 online 6

k 2 7-10 e re Beatty 5 4 8 6 C r 6.4 mi e 6 Spring b 5 6 online 6 H 9 online 6 m 4 ek i re o T 3 C p kin 7 4 Ver V 10 6 La a l l A horse camp Vehicles longer than e y 19 feet/5.8 meters are 8 online 6 11 4

T not allowed on Lava r a B Point Road. Unpaved 9 6 12 online 12 i l Lava roads are impassable when wet. Point Rd West Rim Trailhead 6.5 mi k e Chamberlain’s Ranch e Lava r Trailhead Point 0.1 mi C Lava Point H Overlook O P

p r 0.8 mi K ive o e R lo e in Trailhead and trail k b irg 9 D rk V e d North Fo are on private property. e V Spring

r a

A Sawmill Please close gates. C l o C i L R r a Springs e

L r e

in E T k

e k

r Y c e n

a V o

r y a r 1

L n e a

C 2 Beyond this point, road cat b d not plowed in winter. il H 3 o 4.8 mi l W O o W K R 4-6

e Wildcat S s t WEST E Canyon 7 il a 8 Hop Valley Tr Trailhead R Kolob Canyons r i o m Trailhead Connect P 9 10 N 4.1 mi T A o r r a t i S h l L T RIM g 11 Site Number Max Group Size E 1.0 mi a C E 1.1 mi U T t Big Spring A e 12 r R a V P 1 4 V i E l e 5.9 mi E A

L k L

2 online 4 s E

V Y Potato Hollow

A L 8 P Spring 3 6 L E L Y T A 4 online 7 7 H ON T Y E E CAN ILL E ORDERV

N 5 online 4 A

6 4 R 6 O

W 7 2 rk Unpaved roads are Fo S impassable when wet.

2.4 mi Closed in winter. 8 online 12 East Me sa Trail 3.0 mi 5 West Rim

9 12 (Cabin) ft Spring Unpaved roads are Le 4 1 Temple of 3.0 mi Private 10 2 West R impassable when wet. Left Fork 3 im Sinawava property

Trailhead 2 T of Zion 11 online 4 r permit parking only a Ponderosa i N 4.4 mi l O Ranch Exit Y 12 8 1.5 mi N 27 A C N 0.4 mi 13 4 2.5 mi rk O Grapevine Fo CH t O E 0.3 mi A online 12 horse camp Trailhead Righ Right Fork Y Angels 2.1 mi B 7 Trailhead Landing N 0.3 mi Cable E A as N Mountain Spring t or R th im Toquerville C F The Grotto T o ra rk 1.8 mi 1.1 mi il R o Zion Lodge a d 17 ek re Deertrap C Mountain 5.9 mi EAST

3.2 mi

N 9 From March 15 through October To Mt. Carmel SOUTHWEST 25, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive RIM

O Junction and th East Entrance d r I is open to shuttle buses only. a o Bryce Canyon NP N Z way o Private vehicles are not permitted l High R me beyond Canyon Junction. ar C e nt c ou a DESERT M rr n- e 5 o T Zi

To La Verkin and b Spring lo Zion Human History Museum Kolob Canyons o Tunnel K Vehicles pulling trailers 2 La Verkin not recommended. 1.4 mi W Tunnel Narrow winding road 1.9 mi 4 ash

Virgin with steep grades. The s 1 h in s South upper section is not g South Entrance a g plowed in winter. 3 o W c S 3.5 mi 6 1.5 mi Springdale Zion Canyon Visitor Center Watchman V 9 s i t r i r e g p in l v 9 a i 9 o h R C s N Y O a C A N 1.7 mi W in P g E A r Chinle ir W e T V U b ra N R u U il k R i H r Hurricane ve 2.1 mi 3.2 mi o A r F P

59 Coalpits Wash er Area closed h Riv t rgin r i k V to all access. o r Fo

N Grafton st (ghost town) Rockville Ea

Bridge Chinle Trailhead Road Road turn on Anasazi Way fton Gra Unpaved roads are impassable when wet. May be closed in winter.

y a kw sonian Bac ith Butte Scenic m S

North 0 1 2 3 4 5 Kilometers

0 1 2 3 4 5 Miles Shuttle Information Visitor Information Springdale shuttle Paved road open to 2.5 mi Trail mileage This map is for planning purposes only. route private vehicles Do not use this map for wilderness travel. Topographic maps are available for sale. Zion Canyon shuttle Unpaved road No camping except route (impassable when wet) in designated sites From March 12 through Hiking trail At-large camping November 13, the Zion Canyon No designated sites Scenic Drive is open to Hiking and Campground shuttle buses only. Private stock trail vehicles are not permitted Primitive beyond Canyon Junction. Hiking route campground

12 Backcountry campsite To Cedar City, Cedar Breaks NM, p and Salt Lake City Cam

Cre ek

Kolob Canyons

Visitor Center No rth Fork Taylor Creek Tay lor Cr eek Canyon Mid Trai Exit s dle l b R For 40 lo o k o a K d So uth Lee Pass Fork Trailhead KOLOB Kolob Willis 15 C l reek Canyons i Kolob

a Chasm Viewpoint r Reservoir T Lake

k e e r C CANYONS

n i 1.8 mi k r 13

e To La Verkin, V

1 Kolob 0.3 mi

Springdale and a

L Arch 12 Zion Canyon 0.6 mi Visitor Center 11

k 2 7-10 e re Beatty C r 6.4 mi e 6 Spring b 5 H m 4 ek i re o T 3 C p kin Ver V La a l l A horse camp Vehicles longer than e y 19 feet/5.8 meters are

T not allowed on Lava r a B Point Road. Unpaved i l Lava roads are impassable when wet. Point Rd West Rim Trailhead 6.5 mi k e Chamberlain’s Ranch e Lava r Trailhead Point 0.1 mi C Lava Point H Overlook O P

p r 0.8 mi K ive o e R lo e in Trailhead and trail k b irg 9 D rk V e d North Fo are on private property. e V Spring

r a

A Sawmill Please close gates. C l o C i L R r a Springs e

L r e

in E T k

e k

r Y c e n

a V o

r y a r 1

L n e a

C 2 Beyond this point, road cat b d not plowed in winter. il H 3 o 4.8 mi l W O o W K R 4-6

e Wildcat S s t WEST E Canyon 7 il a 8 Hop Valley Tr Trailhead R i or m Trailhead Connect P 9 10 N 4.1 mi T A o r r a t i S h l L T RIM g 11 E 1.0 mi a C E 1.1 mi U T t Big Spring A e 12 r R a V P V i E l e 5.9 mi E A

L k

s E

V Y Potato Hollow

A L 8 P Spring L E L Y T A 7 H ON T Y E E CAN ILL E ORDERV

N A

R 6 O

W rk Unpaved roads are Fo S impassable when wet.

2.4 mi Closed in winter. East Me sa Trail 3.0 mi 5 West Rim

(Cabin) ft Spring Unpaved roads are Le 4 1 Temple of 3.0 mi Private West R impassable when wet. Left Fork 3 im Sinawava property

Trailhead 2 T of Zion r permit parking only a Ponderosa i N 4.4 mi l O Ranch Exit Y 1.5 mi N 27 A C N 0.4 mi 2.5 mi rk O Grapevine Fo CH t O E 0.3 mi Trailhead Righ Right Fork Y Angels 2.1 mi Trailhead Landing N 0.3 mi Cable E A as N Mountain Spring t or R th im Toquerville C F The Grotto T o ra rk 1.8 mi 1.1 mi il R o Zion Lodge a d 17 ek re Deertrap C Mountain 5.9 mi EAST

3.2 mi

N 9 From March 15 through October To Mt. Carmel SOUTHWEST 25, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive RIM

To La Verkin and b Spring lo Zion Human History Museum Kolob Canyons o Tunnel K Vehicles pulling trailers 2 La Verkin not recommended. 1.4 mi W Tunnel Narrow winding road 1.9 mi 4 ash

59 Coalpits Wash er Area closed h Riv t rgin r i k V to all access. o r Southwest Desert Fo

N Grafton st (ghost town) Rockville Ea Site Number Max Group Size Bridge Chinle Road Trailhead oad turn on Anasazi Way 1 6 on R East Rim raft 2 online 6 G Unpaved roads are 3 6 impassable when wet. At-large camping is limited May be closed in winter. 4 6 to 50 people per night. 20

y 5 online 6 a reservations are available online. w ck sonian B Ba 6 online 12 ith utte Scenic The maximum group size is 12. m S

Wilderness North 0 1 2 3 4 5 Kilometers On March 30, 2009, President Barack Obama signed the Omnibus Public 5 Miles 0 1 2 3 4 Land Management Act of 2009 into law designating 124,406 acres of Shuttle Information Visitor Information wilderness in Zion National Park. Ninety percent of the acreage of Zion Springdale shuttle Paved road open to 2.5 mi Trail mileage This map is for planning purposes only. route private vehicles Do not use this map for wilderness travel. National Park is managed under the 1964 Wilderness Act. According to Topographic maps are available for sale. Zion Canyon shuttle Unpaved road No camping except the act “a wilderness, in contrast with those areas where man and his own route (impassable when wet) in designated sites works dominate the landscape, is hereby recognized as an area where the From March 12 through Hiking trail At-large camping November 13, the Zion Canyon No designated sites earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man Scenic Drive is open to Hiking and Campground himself is a visitor who does not remain.” shuttle buses only. Private stock trail vehicles are not permitted Primitive beyond Canyon Junction. Hiking route campground

12 Backcountry campsite

Zion National Park’s wilderness is managed using standards that were developed to measure the health of natural resources and to determine the number of encounters people considered desirable and acceptable while experiencing wilderness. These two standards were combined with existing management zones to create overall use limits and group size limits. The use limits are evaluated each year, and may change as conditions warrant.

Wilderness Use Limits

Area Total Use Limit Advance Reservations Last Minute Drawing Group Size Limit

Behunin Canyon* 12 people per day 6 people per day 6 people per day 6 Echo Canyon* 12 people per day 6 people per day 6 people per day 6 Keyhole Canyon 80 people per day 60 people per day 20 people per day 12 Left Fork (The Subway) 80 people per day 60 people per day 20 people per day 12 Mystery Canyon 12 people per day 6 people per day 6 people per day 6 Orderville Canyon* 50 people per day 30 people per day 20 people per day 12 Pine Creek Canyon* 50 people per day 30 people per day 20 people per day 12 Spry Canyon 20 people per day 14 people per day 6 people per day 6 The Narrows 40 people per day 24 people per day 16 people per day 12

*Total use limits are reduced from March through August for wildlife protection.

Wilderness Guide 6-7 Backpacking Zion National Park has and fall. Coalpits Wash has no developed West Rim Trail a number of trails in a trail, but there is a well-worn path to the variety of landscapes junction with Scoggins Wash. for backpackers to explore. Backpackers Water may be available at Coalpits Spring. in the Zion Wilderness can camp in Check at visitor centers for availability. designated campsites or in at-large areas on Zion’s high plateaus, in the la verkin creek trail low desert shrublands, or next to a Spring and fall are ideal seasons for river in a narrow canyon. hiking in La Verkin Creek. Temperatures are typically 5 to 10 degrees cooler When planning your trip, consider your than Zion Canyon. Trails in the Kolob interests, time, and ability. There is no Canyons area of the park are frequently perfect trail. Use the Wilderness Guide, snow covered in winter. other guidebooks, and topographic maps to plan the best trip for you during your The La Verkin Creek Trail begins at the visit. Please refer to the map for campsite Lee Pass Trailhead and descends past locations. the finger canyons of the nearby cliffs to Timber Creek. The trail follows the creek west rim trail downstream until it reaches La Verkin Late spring and fall are ideal times for Creek, where the trail starts to gain hiking the West Rim. Temperatures are elevation. As the canyon narrows, usually ten to fifteen degrees cooler than you receive stunning views of the Zion Canyon. The trail is typically snow surrounding cliffs. The trail from Lee covered from December through April. Pass to Kolob Arch is seven miles.

The West Rim Trail traces a series of Water may be available at Beatty Spring. canyon rims with panoramic views. Check at visitor centers for availability. A difficult but rewarding one-night backpacking trip can be accomplished other trails and routes by hiking from The Grotto to one of the The map shows the locations where campsites near Cabin Spring. The trip camping is limited to designated is five miles one way, with 2,500 feet campsites, including The Narrows, of elevation gain. A more moderate West Rim, La Verkin Creek, and the one-night trip descends from Lava Southwest Desert. In other areas, Point to campsites near Potato Hollow. at-large camping is permitted. Online reservations are available for at-large Water may be available at Cabin, Potato camping on the East Rim and in Hollow, and Sawmill Springs. Check at Wildcat Canyon. visitor centers for availability. Water and maintained trails are not NPS/CAITLIN CECI east rim trail always available in the at-large camping This trail begins at the east entrance areas. Permits are required and visitors of the park and climbs 1,000 feet onto must camp one mile from roads, out Stock Use the plateau with views into Jolley Gulch of sight of trails, and one-quarter mile and several small canyons. There are from any springs. Horses traditionally standing, stock must be kept at least sweeping views of the surrounding have been used to explore 100 feet from drainages. terrain before entering a high desert extended trips Zion National Park. ponderosa forest. As you near the Trips up to 50 miles in length can Allowed stock animals Check the map on pages 6 and 7 for east rim of Zion Canyon, the trail be made in Zion National Park’s include horses, mules, trails open to stock use. Off-trail use is begins a 2,300-foot descent through wilderness by combining the La Verkin and burros. Llamas, dogs, goats, camels, permitted only in Lower Coalpits Wash Echo Canyon, ultimately ending at Creek, Hop Valley, Wildcat Canyon, and others are not allowed. from the trailhead to the junction with the Weeping Rock Trailhead. West Rim, and East Rim Trails. These Scoggins Wash, in Scoggins Wash, and routes cross several roads, so many Permits are not required for day trips. in Huber Wash. Water may be available at Stave Spring. variations to your trip are possible. However, stock are prohibited during Check at visitor centers for availability. A vehicle shuttle may be necessary. spring thaws, unusually wet periods, Overnight trips Backpackers that intend to camp in or times when their use would cause The only overnight stock camp is Hop southwest desert multiple locations need to make a trail damage. Maximum group size is Valley Site A and your stay is limited to The Chinle Trail crosses the open desert separate reservation for each location. six animals. one night. A permit is required. Stock as it winds toward the base of Mount must be hobbled or tethered to reduce Kinesava. The trail offers spectacular Fires Trails damage to vegetation. views of the West Temple and Mount Campfires are not allowed Where trails are present, stock animals Kinesava. The Chinle Trail can be very in the wilderness. Please must remain on trails. Free trailing or To reduce the spread of noxious and hot in the summer, but mild in the spring use a gas stove. loose herding is not allowed. Maintain exotic weeds, stock must be fed certified a slow walk when passing hikers. When weed-free hay two days prior to the trip.

8 Wilderness Guide Canyoneering Climbing Canyoneering combines There are several items that you should Zion National Park’s route finding, rappelling, bring on every canyoneering trip in Zion 2,000-foot sandstone problem solving, hiking, National Park. cliffs are world renowned and swimming. Zion for their big wall climbs. National Park is one of Backup Equipment Due to their difficulty, the premier places in the country to The ability to stop, move up, or down most routes in the park are not participate in this exciting activity. With while hanging mid-rope is a lifesaving recommended for inexperienced dozens of different canyons to explore, skill that must be learned before you climbers. There are few top roping some barely wide enough for a human need it. Can you create extra friction? areas and no sport climbs. Permits are to squeeze through, the park offers Do you have ascenders? Can you not required for day climbs, but they opportunities that range from trips belay the less experienced members are required for all overnight bivouacs. for beginners to experiences requiring of your group? It is illegal to camp at the base of the advanced technical skills. wall or in your vehicle. Detailed route Weather & Flash Flood Potential descriptions are available at wilderness A short trip into the lower end of The Carefully evaluate the forecast and desks. Narrows from the Temple of Sinawava is flash flood potential before entering a great introduction to the slot canyons a narrow canyon. Remember that a route closures of the park. For those with expertise and 30 percent chance of rain means that Some rock formations and routes are experience, The Subway and Orderville 30 percent of the forecasted area will closed to climbing from March through Canyon offer opportunities for route receive measurable precipitation. August each year to protect nesting finding, swimming, and short rappels. Continuously evaluate weather peregrine falcons. Some areas that are conditions. If bad weather threatens, routinely closed include the Great Minimum Impact Canyoneering avoid traveling in a slot canyon. If you White Throne, Cable Mountain, Court Travel on durable surfaces, like slickrock, are in a slot canyon, find higher ground of the Patriarchs, and Angels Landing. river bottoms, or drainages. Avoid steep, and wait for conditions to improve. Check at the visitor center or visit sandy, or erodible slopes. www.nps.gov/zion for current closure Map and Route Description information. Carry solid waste disposal bags and pack You must have and use them. Carefully out everything, including toilet paper. assess your location before beginning minimum impact climbing Don’t bury it, burn it, or leave it. your first rappel. Many of the park’s routes are now going clean. Avoid using pitons and hammers Prevent bottlenecks. If a faster group Anchor Equipment where they are not needed. Excess catches up to you, allow them to pass. Can you replace webbing if it is worn? bolting is discouraged and the use of Can you create a new anchor if needed? power drills to place bolts is prohibited. Avoid bolting. Bolts should only be When approaching a climb, please use placed as a last result. Only use a bolt Extra Clothing established trails. Never climb directly if there are no other safe options for Could you spend an unexpected night in above trails where hikers may be hit by creating an anchor. If bolts are used, they the canyon? dislodged rocks. Tube or bag human should be placed so that they will last for waste and carry it out. Do not drop many years and will avoid scarring on the Extra Food your waste. rock caused by rope pulls. Food keeps your energy up and helps you stay warm if you remain out overnight.

Keyhole Water River Trips Canyon Drink a minimum of one gallon per All watercraft use in person per day. the park requires a wilderness permit. Flashlight / Headlamp Permits are issued when Every week, canyoneers spend the river is flowing in unintended nights camped in the excess of 150 cubic feet per second. wilderness of the park. A headlamp could Watercraft must be specifically designed make the difference between spending for whitewater use. Operators must be the night in the canyon and making it out. equipped with approved personal flotation devices. Kayak trips through Helmet The Narrows should only be attempted Rock falls can cause severe injuries. by expert paddlers who are prepared to survive without assistance for multiple First Aid Kit days. Permits for kayaking through The Even a minor injury can cause major Narrows will not be issued on the day problems in the wilderness. of the trip and must be obtained the day before. An early start to this trip is Remember, even the most reliable cell needed. Inner tubes are not permitted phones and GPS units rarely work in the at any time on any watercourse within narrow canyons of Zion National Park. the park.

NPS Wilderness Guide 9 The Narrows The Virgin River has drainage, route, or wilderness trail on way you came. Some hikers try to reach North Fork of the Virgin River. Turn left carved a spectacular gorge the same day. Group size limits are strictly Orderville Canyon, a tributary roughly beyond the bridge and drive one-quarter in the upper reaches of enforced. Permits will be denied and two hours upstream from the end of mile to the gate of Chamberlain’s Ranch. Zion Canyon: 16 miles violators cited, if limits are exceeded. the trail. Travel upstream into Orderville Please close the gate behind you. Drive long, up to 2,000-feet Canyon or beyond Big Spring is one-half mile farther and park just before deep, and at times only 20 to 30-feet WHEN TO HIKE THE NARROWS prohibited. No permit is required for this the road crosses the river. To begin your wide. The Narrows, with its soaring walls, Entering The Narrows is safest when the day hike. Groups size limits apply beyond hike, cross the river and follow the road sandstone grottos, natural springs, and forecast has little chance of rain and the the junction with Orderville Canyon. for approximately 3 miles. Enter the river hanging gardens can be an unforgettable river is low, clear, and relatively warm. at the end of the road past the old cabin. wilderness experience. Conditions change from day to day and day hike from top to bottom Chamberlain’s Ranch is a private ranch are impossible to predict. Check at the Walking the entire length of The outside Zion National Park. Please The Narrow is not a hike to be Zion Canyon Visitor Center for the latest Narrows can be a grueling experience. respect private property. underestimated. Hiking The Narrows weather forecast and possible advisories. Under favorable conditions, the 16-mile means hiking in the Virgin River. At least Permits are not issued when the flow is route takes an average of 12 hours. Even footwear 60 percent of the hike is spent wading, 120 cubic feet per second (cfs) or greater. for well-conditioned hikers, this makes Hiking The Narrows is like walking walking, and sometimes swimming in Flash floods can occur any time, but are for a long and strenuous day. on slippery bowling balls. It requires the river. There is no maintained trail more common in mid-summer and early balancing on algae-coated rocks in the because the route is the river. The current fall. From November through May, trips The trailhead at Chamberlain’s Ranch middle of a swiftly flowing river. Sturdy is swift, the water is cold, and the rocks through The Narrows require wetsuits, is a 1.5-hour drive from the Temple of footwear is essential. Hiking boots with underfoot are slippery. Flash flooding or even drysuits, and special cold weather Sinawava. Two vehicles or a shuttle is good ankle support are best. Sandals and hypothermia are constant dangers. preparation. Spring snowmelt frequently necessary. A wilderness permit is and bare feet are not appropriate. Good planning, proper equipment, and causes the river to run at dangerously required. Group size limits apply. Inappropriate footwear often results sound judgment are essential for a safe high levels from March to early June. in twisted ankles and crushed toes. and successful trip. Your safety is your overnight hike from top to bottom responsibility. day hike from the bottom and back To enjoy The Narrows at a more leisurely clothing To experience The Narrows, start at the pace, some visitors choose to spend a Even in mid-summer The Narrows can group size limit Temple of Sinawava and hike one mile to night in the gorge. There are twelve be cool. The water is cold, breezes blow Large groups produce increased impacts the end of the Riverside Walk and wade numbered sites. Only one-night stays are steadily, and very little sunlight penetrates on the wilderness. Group size is limited into the river. In less than a mile, you will allowed, and overnight trips must start to the canyon floor. Although you’ll to a maximum of 12 people sharing the be hiking in one of the narrowest sections from Chamberlain’s Ranch. Reservations probably hike in shorts, take extra warm same affiliation (e.g., school, club, scout of the canyon. There is not a formal are recommended for weekend trips. clothing. Clothing made of wool or troop, family, and friends) in the same destination, and you will return the same Campsite capacity is limited and only two synthetic fibers has the best insulation. sites can accommodate groups of more than six people. drinking water Untreated water from the river and its transportation springs is not safe to drink. It has passed If you are planning to hike The Narrows over rangeland and may be contaminated from top to bottom, there are a couple of with illness-causing bacteria. Treat the transportation options: water you collect by filter, tablets, or by boiling. Hikers are encouraged to carry • If you have two vehicles, you can shuttle in all of their water. Drink one gallon of yourself by parking one vehicle at water per person per day. Chamberlain’s Ranch and the other at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. falls • You may make arrangements with a Even the most experienced hikers fall in local shuttle service. The Narrows. Pack a walking stick for additional stability. It is also a good idea At the end of your hike at the Temple to waterproof your belongings. Many of Sinawava, you must catch the Zion hikers line their packs with plastic bags. Canyon Shuttle to the visitor center. Smaller resealable bags provide extra Plan your hike so you do not miss the protection for cameras and other items. last shuttle of the night. water depth Directions to Chamberlain’s Ranch The water level varies in The Narrows. Chamberlain’s Ranch is a 1.5-hour drive Under ideal conditions, when flow is from Zion Canyon, along paved and less than 70 cubic feet per second, most dirt roads. The dirt roads are passable crossings are around knee-deep. Higher for normal cars only when dry. When flows mean higher water, a stronger wet, they may be impassable even for current, and may require wading in four-wheel drive vehicles. Snow closes waist-deep water. Be prepared to swim. the road in winter. From the park’s East Even when the river is low, chest-deep Entrance, drive 2.5 miles east on Route 9. holes are common. When possible, help Turn left on a paved road and continue the park protect fragile vegetation in The 18 miles to a bridge that crosses the Narrows and hike in or near the river.

NPS/MARC NEIDIG 10 Wilderness Guide The Narrows Timetable Protect the Virgin River

Chamberlain’s Ranch 0:00 / 0.0 mi With the increase in Old Cabin 1:00 / 2.3 mi recreational use along First Narrows 3:30 / 6.1 mi Zion National Park’s Waterfall 4:15 / 8.3 mi waterways, the National Deep Creek 5:00 / 8.9 mi Park Service introduced Kolob Creek 5:45 / 9.8 mi a human waste disposal program for Goose Creek 6:35 / 10.9 mi overnight users in The Narrows. An Big Spring 7:20 / 11.5 mi Orderville Canyon 10:00 / 13.5 mi environmentally friendly human waste Riverside Walk 11:50 / 15.1 mi disposal bag, complete with use and Temple of Sinawava 12:20 / 16.2 mi disposal instructions, is provided to all party members with an overnight Track your progress by recognizing side wilderness permit for The Narrows. canyons like Deep Creek, Kolob Creek, It is a lightweight and sanitary way to and Big Spring. Watch closely for the pack out human waste. mouth of Goose Creek. The bag-within-a-bag design and interlocking closure securely contains waste and odor, while the blend of polymers breaks down the waste and transforms it into a deodorized gel. The contents of the disposal bag are safe for landfills and may be deposited in the trash. Use of this waste disposal system is required in The Narrows, and strongly encouraged for all hikers in all park slot canyons, to help protect the Virgin River and the drinking water for Springdale, Rockville, Virgin, La Verkin, Hurricane, St. George, and other communities

NPS downstream. NPS/MARC NEIDIG Left Fork (The Subway) There are two ways to hike Left Fork (The Subway). Both trips involve extensive route finding. Visitors are encouraged to travel with an experienced hiker of Left Fork (The Subway) or obtain a detailed route description. Permits are required regardless of the direction of travel. Left Fork (The Subway) is a day-use area only.

from the bottom and back This strenuous 9-mile round-trip hike requires route finding, stream crossing, and scrambling over boulders. This hike begins and ends at the Left Fork Trailhead on the Kolob Terrace Road.

From the top to the bottom This strenuous 9.5-mile hike requires rappelling skills, 60 feet of rope, and extensive route finding experience. The route also requires swimming through several deep pools of very cold debris-filled water. The trail begins at the Wildcat Canyon Trailhead and ends at the Left Fork Trailhead. Both trailheads are located on the Kolob Terrace Road north of Virgin, Utah. NPS/CAITLIN CECI Wilderness Guide 11 Maps & Guides

Zion natural history association how-to books The Zion Natural History Association sells maps and guides, as well as Desert Hiking Tips by Bruce Grubbs other books, at park visitor centers. ZNHA is a non-profit membership Covers desert tips from drinking water to flash floods. organization which supports the scientific, educational, historical, and interpretive activities of the park. Members receive a 20% discount. Leave No Trace by Will Harmon The official pocket-size Leave No Trace manual of the American Hiking Society. Area guides Hiking Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks by Eric Molvar and Tamara Martin Reading Weather by Jim Woodmency An illustrated guide to the breathtaking slickrock canyons and towering cliffs of Weather basics to help you avoid bad weather on your outdoor adventures. southwestern Utah. Route Finding by Gregory Crouch Hiking the Southwest’s Geology, Four Corners Region by Ralph Lee Hopkins Pocket-sized guide to map and compass navigation. Information on 50 hikes includes the landscape and geologic features along each trail. Backpacker Magazine’s Trailside First Aid by Molly Absolon Favorite Hikes In & Around Zion National Park by Tanya Milligan and Bo Beck Information about recognition, treatment, and prevention of injuries. Information about hikes within a 100-mile radius of Zion National Park. maps Zion: Canyoneering by Tom Jones Trails Illustrated Map of Zion National Park Descriptions of trail hikes, off-trail hikes, and technical canyoneering routes. Scale approximately 1:37,700, 30 x 25” Wilderness and hiking information, waterproof, tear-resistant, folded. Desert Rock by Eric Bjornstad Rock climbing routes in National Parks of the Colorado Plateau. St. George and Springdale, Utah Trail Map Scale 1:25,000, 27 x 39” Rock Climbing Utah: A Falcon Guide by Stewart M. Green Hiking information, waterproof, tear resistant, folded. A guide for planning climbing trips in Utah. USGS Topographic Maps Zion Climbing: Free and Clean by Bryan Bird Scale 1:24,000, 7.5 minute quads. Paper, rolled. A climber’s guide to Zion National Park. Kanarraville, Kolob Arch, Kolob Reservoir, Cogswell Point, Smith Mesa, Guardian Angels, Temple of Sinawava, Clear Creek, Springdale East and West, and The Barracks.

To find out more about the programs The printing of this newspaper was made possible by the Zion Natural History Association. and publications available through the Zion Natural History Association, please Printed with visit our website at www.zionpark.org or call 800 635-3959. SOY INK Printed on recycled paper. Please recycle again.

12 Wilderness Guide