The best traffic-free bike rides in Kane County

Cycling the Zion National Park Scenic Drive offers a truly special way to experience the park's grandeur, letting you soak in the towering red rock cliffs and vibrant canyon walls at your own pace. The route starts on the gentle Pa'rus Trail, following the Virgin River, before joining the main Scenic Drive. You'll gain 668 feet (204 metres) over 8.7 miles (13.9 km) on this difficult touring bicycle route, which typically takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes, but the gradual incline is very manageable, especially with the option of an e-bike.

To make the most of your visit, plan your ride during peak season, usually March to November, when the Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles. This means you'll share the road primarily with park shuttles, creating a quieter atmosphere. You can rent bikes, including e-bikes, in Springdale, and bike racks are available at key shuttle stops and trailheads for convenience.

One of the biggest advantages of cycling here is the freedom to stop almost anywhere for photos and to fully appreciate the views, like those of The Organ or the Temple of Sinawava. This intimate access to the canyon's natural features, unhindered by car windows, makes it a standout experience compared to other ways of seeing Zion.

Embark on the Temple of Sinawava loop, a difficult touring cycling route that plunges you deep into the heart of Zion Canyon's dramatic landscapes. Starting on the Pa'rus Trail, you'll pedal alongside the Virgin River, with towering red rock cliffs like The Watchman and the Sentinel framing your journey. As the canyon narrows towards the Temple of Sinawava, you'll encounter immense rock formations and lush hanging gardens, creating a truly immersive experience.

This 15.5-mile (25.0 km) ride, with its 1889 feet (576 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 51 minutes. While challenging, a smart option is to take the park shuttle with your bike to the Temple of Sinawava and enjoy a leisurely 7.5-mile downhill coast back to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Cyclists must ride single file, in groups of six or fewer, and adhere to a 15 mph speed limit on the Pa'rus Trail, yielding to pedestrians.

The Pa'rus Trail section of this route is unique within Zion National Park, being the only trail where both bicycles and leashed pets are permitted. The Temple of Sinawava itself is a magnificent natural amphitheater carved by the Virgin River, showcasing millennia of water erosion. This route offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the canyon's grandeur up close, whether you tackle the full climb or opt for the scenic downhill return.

For an easy, scenic touring cycling experience in Zion National Park, the Pa'rus Trail is a top pick. This paved, multi-use path winds gently alongside the Virgin River, offering continuous views of Zion Canyon's towering red rock cliffs, including iconic formations like The Watchman. You'll cover 3.2 miles (5.1 km) with a minimal 134 feet (41 metres) of elevation gain, making it an easy ride that typically takes just 18 minutes.

This trail is the only one in Zion's main canyon that allows bicycles and leashed pets, making it a unique option for visitors. It connects the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to Canyon Junction, and you can easily link up with the park's shuttle system, which accommodates bikes. To avoid crowds and enjoy optimal lighting for photography, plan your ride for early morning or late afternoon.

The Pa'rus Trail offers more than just a ride; it's a gateway to the park's natural beauty and history. Along the route, you'll find educational exhibits detailing local plant and animal life, geology, and human history. From Canyon Junction, you can continue cycling on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, which is restricted to shuttle buses for much of the year, providing an extended car-free journey into the heart of the park.

If you're looking for a quick and easy spin on your touring bicycle, the Panorama Trail Loop in Utah is a solid choice. This 3.1-mile (5.0 km) route offers a gentle ride with only 184 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for nearly everyone. You'll pass through the scenic Kodachrome Basin State Park, with a notable stop at the Mammoth Spire Overlook, providing a taste of the region's unique geological formations in just about 29 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward; the loop is within Kodachrome Basin State Park, so expect park entrance fees. Parking should be available within the park, but it's always wise to arrive earlier during peak seasons. This easy route is suitable for most of the day, but consider cooler times like morning or late afternoon, especially in the warmer months, and always bring water.

The Panorama Trail Loop stands out as a family-friendly cycling option, perfect for those who want to experience the natural beauty of Utah's Kane County without committing to a long or strenuous ride. It's a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy the distinctive landscape, offering a quick, rewarding experience that highlights the geological wonders of the area.