Kolob Canyon Scenic Drive

The Kolob Canyon Scenic Drive offers a range of hiking experiences. For an easy stroll with panoramic views, try the Timber Creek Overlook Trail, which is about 1 to 1.2 miles round trip. The Middle Fork of Taylor Creek Trail is a moderate 5-mile round trip leading to the Double Arch Alcove. For a strenuous and challenging full-day adventure, consider the Kolob Arch via La Verkin Creek Trail, which is 14-15 miles round trip with significant elevation gain.

You'll encounter diverse terrain, from soaring cliffs of red Navajo sandstone to deep pocket canyons and ridgelines. Trails often involve creek crossings and meander through lush areas. The scenery is dominated by towering red rock cliffs, panoramic views of the Kolob Terrace, and the unique 'finger canyons'. You might also spot historic homestead cabins and, depending on the season, wildflowers or snow-dusted landscapes.

The drive itself offers numerous pullouts with stunning views. A key highlight is the Timber Creek Overlook Trailhead and Kolob View Point, providing expansive vistas. Other notable features include the Double Arch Alcove, accessible via the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek Trail, and the impressive Kolob Arch, one of the world's largest freestanding arches, found at the end of a challenging hike.

Kolob Canyon is beautiful year-round, with each season offering unique scenery. Spring brings cascading waterfalls and wildflowers, summer has abundant flora (though can be very hot for strenuous hikes), autumn features colorful oak leaves, and winter offers snow-dusted red sandstone. For comfortable hiking, spring and fall are generally ideal, avoiding the extreme heat of summer or potential snow and ice in winter.

Yes, Kolob Canyon is part of Zion National Park, so standard park entrance fees apply. You can purchase a 7-day pass for Zion National Park. For day hikes, permits are generally not required, but for overnight backpacking trips into the wilderness, a wilderness permit is mandatory. Always check the official NPS website for the most current fee and permit information.

Parking is available at various pullouts and designated areas along the Kolob Canyons Road. The Timber Creek Overlook Trailhead is located at the very end of the scenic drive. You'll also find parking near the Entrance to Taylor Creek South Fork Trail and other trail access points.

In Zion National Park, dogs are generally permitted on paved surfaces, such as the Kolob Canyons Road and paved viewpoints, but are typically not allowed on unpaved hiking trails, with the exception of the Pa'rus Trail in the main canyon. Always keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them. Check the official Zion National Park website for the most current pet regulations.

Yes, it can be. The Timber Creek Overlook Trail is an easy, short hike (1 to 1.2 miles round trip) with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages and skill levels, including families with young children. Other trails, like the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek, are moderate and might be suitable for older children who are accustomed to hiking.

The duration varies significantly by trail. The easy Timber Creek Overlook Trail typically takes 30 to 60 minutes round trip. The moderate Middle Fork of Taylor Creek Trail (5 miles round trip) can take a few hours. The strenuous Kolob Arch via La Verkin Creek Trail (14-15 miles round trip) is a full-day hike, requiring 8-12 hours or more depending on pace and conditions.

Yes, the route provides access to several other trails. You'll find trailheads for the La Verkin Creek Trail, the Taylor Creek Trail, and the South Fork of Taylor Creek Trail along the scenic drive. These trails delve deeper into the wilderness areas of Kolob Canyon.

Kolob Canyon is generally less crowded than the main section of Zion National Park, offering a more tranquil wilderness experience. To further avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or during weekdays. Starting your hike early in the morning can also help ensure a more solitary experience on the trails.