Trip from LV to Zion

Question

This question might be more appropriate for the Zion forum but, because I read in this forum of a suggestion to begin NP travel from LV, going first to Bryce then returning by way of Zion (rather than LV to Zion then Bryce), I thought I'd ask a related question here.

The response indicated that entering Zion from the east side was preferred. Can someone explain why? Since we've now nixed our trip to Bryce because early March temps will be signficantly colder than Zion and colder than we'd prefer, would entering Zion from the East be worth driving the extra hour to do so?

Want to better understand the added value. Thanks for the guidance.

Answer

Entering Zion National Park from the east (via Highway 9, the Kolob Canyons area) is a popular recommendation for a few key reasons, particularly when you're traveling from Las Vegas. Here's a breakdown of why it's often considered worth the extra drive:

1. Scenic Drive Through the Kolob Canyons

Driving from the east allows you to take in the beautiful Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park before reaching the main park. This area is less visited, so it provides a quieter and more serene introduction to the park. The drive through this section is particularly stunning, with winding roads, towering red rock formations, and panoramic views of the surrounding canyons. It also leads you to the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center, which can be a great first stop to get information and plan your visit.

2. Dramatic Entrance into Zion Canyon

The most iconic and dramatic entrance to Zion National Park is through the eastern side, which offers a unique view of the towering cliffs and the valley below. As you enter from the east, you’ll pass through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, a historic tunnel built through solid rock that adds to the experience. Once you emerge from the tunnel, you’ll be greeted by the striking contrast of Zion Canyon's red sandstone cliffs. It's a jaw-dropping experience and arguably one of the best "first looks" at the park.

3. Avoid the Crowds (Especially in the Spring)

While Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the U.S., entering from the east helps you bypass some of the crowds that tend to cluster around the main entrances. In early March, Zion can still be relatively less crowded, but entering from the east offers an even quieter and more scenic introduction to the park. This is especially important if you prefer to avoid the busier parts of the park.

4. Proximity to Scenic Trails

Once you enter from the east, you’re not far from some great scenic hikes, including the Kolob Arch Trail and the Taylor Creek Trail, which are less crowded than the popular trails inside the main canyon. This can provide a more peaceful hiking experience, especially in the early season when the park is less busy.

5. Flexibility for Your Travel Plans

If you are looking to minimize your time spent driving through Zion’s busiest areas (like the main Zion Canyon area), entering from the east allows you to drive through less congested parts of the park. After entering, you can explore the quieter sections of the park and then head to the main canyon or take the scenic routes around the park as you make your way out of Zion, depending on your time and interests.

Would It Be Worth the Extra Hour of Driving?

Scenic Value: If you enjoy scenic drives and are looking for a more tranquil and unique experience, the extra hour of driving is definitely worth it. The Kolob Canyons section is stunning, and entering Zion this way is a memorable experience that you won't get from the main entrances.
Timing and Convenience: If you're tight on time and don’t mind the extra driving, it’s worth it. However, if your goal is simply to experience Zion's most iconic spots (like Angels Landing or the Narrows), the extra time may not be necessary. But for those wanting a more leisurely pace and a chance to see Zion's lesser-known areas, this drive is ideal.
Weather Considerations: Since you mentioned you’re visiting in early March, weather conditions will likely be milder on the eastern side of the park compared to higher elevations like those at the Kolob Terrace. This makes the eastern entrance a great option if you’re looking to avoid colder temperatures in the higher parts of the park.

Alternative Route: West vs. East

West Entrance: If you're concerned about the extra hour of driving and would prefer to make your visit a bit simpler, entering Zion from the west (Springdale) is also a good option, and the park's main features like the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive are accessible this way. It’s less of a scenic drive initially but very convenient for exploring Zion’s top spots.
Combination: Another option could be to enter Zion from the east and then exit from the west, allowing you to see both the quiet beauty of the east and the more famous parts of Zion Canyon.

Final Thoughts: If you have the time and enjoy scenic drives, entering from the east side will certainly add to the experience and give you a deeper appreciation of Zion National Park’s varied landscapes. However, if your main goal is to maximize your time inside the park itself, entering from the west might be a more practical choice. Either way, Zion will be an unforgettable experience!

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