The Zion - Mt. Carmel Tunnel by the East Entrance was
built in the 1920's, when cars were smaller and there
were no bicyclists. So, there are some restrictions due
to this and other considerations in the park. Bicycles
and pedestrians are prohibited on the roads in Zion National
Park. Parking can be tough, during the busy summer season.
I suggest taking the tram service from Zion Lodge, if
you have a large vehicle or can't find parking.
There are some restrictions and planning necessary for vehicles
sized 7'10" in width or 11'4" in height or larger
planning to use the tunnel. For more information contact the
Zion visitors center at (435)772-3256.
over 13'1" tall, semi-trucks, vehicles weighing over
50,000lbs and/or over 40' in length are also prohibited.
longer than 19 feet are basically not allowed to park at "Weeping
Rock", "Temple of Sinawa", or "Lava Point".
So, I again suggest the tram service.
in a name?
Zion is a Hebrew word for place of safety or refuge,
and it was given to this canyon in 1860 by Mormon pioneers.
another common place name in the area, is also from
Mormon theology and refers to a heavenly place close
to God. Once you have visited this area, you will probably
understand why these areas received these names.
The oldest known inhabitants of Zion were the Anasazi,
and they inhabited this area at least 2,000 years ago.
Paiutes arrived about 800 years ago and continue to
inhabit the area.
Mormon settlers arrived in the 1860's.
In 1920, there were around 3,700 visitors to Zion.
Today over 2.5 million people visit Zion National Park
to be involved in wildlife research?
Well, you can! You can serve a vital role in maintaining
and monitoring Zion by reporting natural history field
observations. Sightings of bighorn sheep, owls, falcons,
mountain lions, bobcats, bears, and other animals sightings
can be very valuable to the preservation of the park.
Observation cards for documenting your sightings are available
at trailheads and visitor centers. You will want to include
as much detailed information as you can. Cards can be
turned in at visitor centers or to any park employee.
you be lucky enough to see Peregrine falcons?
The towering sandstone cliffs of Zion are the perfect
habitat for the endangered Peregrine falcon. These falcons
almost became extinct in the 1970's, due to the use of
pesticides by humans. Zion is home to at least 15 pairs
of these birds. Through continued conservation, including
the closing of nesting cliffs to recreational rock climbing,
this species will continue to thrive here. Keep an eye
out for them soaring overhead!