From the verdure of the expansive valley floors to the creamy sandstone of towering cliffs rising 2,000 feet (600 m) above, Zion is a wonderland of visual imagery. The monolithic stone sculptures, lush forests and roaring rivers are breathtaking, and the first-time visitor will be amazed by the diverse array of colors, a vibrant melange of magenta, azure, vermilion, and cyan. Zion National Park has become a popular destination for the tourist experiencing the American West for the first time and long-time denizens, alike.

Comprising more than 147,000 acres (59.500 hectares), the park covers a wide range of elevations from 3,700 feet (1130 m) to 8,726 feet (2630 m) above sea level. The terrain runs from desert to forest, with a dramatic river canyon known as the Narrows. The weather and temperature in the area is just as diverse, reaching over 100F (38 C) in the summer, while the higher elevations are often snow-capped during the winter months.

To truly experience the magnificence of Zion National Park be sure to follow the Riverside Walk up the Virgin River. The paved trail is only about 2 miles long and there are many trailside exhibits and hanging wildflowers along the way. Following the Riverside Walk places you at the beginning of the Zion Canyon Narrows where the pavement ends. From this point, hikers can continue upstream where the canyon walls are only 24 feet (7 meters) apart and measure more than 1,000 feet (300 m) high! You will want to bring a good pair of hiking boots and be prepared to get wet. Much of the canyon is too narrow for side trails, forcing the hiker to wade into the river over slippery rocks. A permit is not required for day-hikers but you will want to check the weather forecast and speak to the park rangers before venturing into the canyon, as flash floods are common.

While access roads provide a scenic route through much of the area, hiking is the best, and in many cases, the only way to see Zion National Park. There are a variety of trails available, from scenic strolls to challenging multi-day excursions. Popular day-hikes include the Emerald Pool Trail, which winds through a forest of maple, oak and cottonwood trees, past numerous waterfalls, to the picturesque Emerald Pools. A more strenuous day-hike is the popular Angels Landing Trail, which climbs 1,500 feet (457 m) to a summit that provides spectacular views into Zion Canyon.

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