Zion Canyon loop

This route, starting from Hurricane, typically involves cycling to the Zion National Park entrance in Springdale. Parking is available in Hurricane, or you can find parking in Springdale near the park entrance, though it can fill up quickly. From Springdale, you can access the Pa'rus Trail and the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

Yes, as this route takes you into Zion National Park, you will need to pay the park entrance fee. This fee covers entry for seven days. No special cycling permits are required for the main paved roads like the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive or the Pa'rus Trail.

Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) generally offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with moderate temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be very hot, especially in the canyon, while winter can bring cold temperatures and potential snow at higher elevations. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is typically closed to private vehicles from April to October, making it ideal for cycling during those months.

The route is primarily on paved roads. Sections like the Pa'rus Trail are relatively flat and easy. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive involves a gentle, gradual uphill climb for about 6.2 miles, with an average grade of around 1.1%. Given the overall distance of 90 km and over 1100 m of elevation gain, the full loop from Hurricane is considered difficult and includes significant climbs outside the main canyon.

This route offers stunning views throughout. Key highlights include the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive with its towering red rock cliffs and formations like Angels Landing, and the Temple of Sinawava. You'll also pass the scenic Pa'rus Trail along the Virgin River and the George A. Barker Springdale River Park.

Within Zion National Park, the Pa'rus Trail is the only trail where leashed dogs are permitted. For the rest of the route, especially on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and other park roads, dogs are generally not allowed to accompany cyclists. Always check current park regulations before bringing your pet.

During much of the year (typically April to October), the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles and operates as a shuttle-only road. This is a huge benefit for cyclists, as it significantly reduces car traffic. However, cyclists must yield to shuttle buses by pulling over to the side of the road and coming to a complete stop to allow them to pass safely. Bike racks are available at major shuttle stops if you wish to combine cycling with a shuttle ride.

The full 90 km loop from Hurricane with over 1100 m of elevation gain is rated as 'difficult' and is best suited for experienced road cyclists. However, sections within Zion National Park, like the Pa'rus Trail (easy, paved, multi-use) and the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (moderately easy, gentle climb), are much more accessible and can be enjoyed by families or less experienced riders as shorter, out-and-back rides.

Yes, if you're looking for a challenging ride away from the main canyon crowds, Kolob Terrace Road is an excellent option. It's accessible from the Hurricane area via towns like Virgin and offers a substantial climb (around 5,000 feet over 25 miles) with dramatic landscape transitions and minimal traffic. It provides stunning views and a different perspective of the Zion vicinity.

Both Hurricane and Springdale (the town just outside Zion National Park's main entrance) have bike rental shops and services. Hurricane is known as a 'bike-loving community' and offers several options. Springdale also has rentals conveniently located for accessing the park's cycling routes.

The estimated duration for the entire 90 km 'Zion Canyon loop' from Hurricane is approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes of active cycling time. This does not include stops for photos, breaks, or exploring highlights. Plan for a full day if you intend to complete the entire loop and enjoy the scenery.