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Explore the Natural BeautyMajestic Zion National ParkBy Alexandra Gnaedig
The numerous switchbacks that lead down to the park are a great introduction into the park and the world I was about to enter. The tunnel was completed in 1930, a new passage way into this most fabled park that attracts over three million visitors every year. I was in awe while descending through the deep canyon walls. I caught myself staring towards the sky as far as my eyes would allow me, so I could catch a quick glimpse of what I was to look forward to for the next couple of days.
While setting up my tent, I was both surprised and pleased to notice mule dear wandering through the camp. I had to stop and enjoy this joining of humans and nature in such a peaceful setting. Zion was established in 1919, but work began on this genuine elegance over 13 millions years ago when the Virgin River began to carve the gorges of Zion Canyon. Mormon pioneers in the 1860’s gave the park its name, which is Jewish for safety or refuge. This is what I felt, a refuge from the hectic lifestyle of the city and the safety of a pure environment. I decided to conquer the Hidden Canyon Trail, which is a three-hour roundtrip hike of two miles and an 850-foot elevation. There were a number of switchbacks leading to the top of the trail and the wonderful views along the climb were breath taking. At times, I would stop to enjoy the panorama of the park before me. The deep greens of the trees and the frantic scurry of animals around me made for a tranquil ascent. After walking down natural footholds in the rock surface, the trail began to narrow into the canyon. The rock formations were spectacular reaching far up into the atmosphere, giving the impression that they could almost touch the strong blue of the sky.
To treat myself I decided to exit the park and head into the town of Springdale (a short five-minute drive) for a relaxing cup of coffee on the patio of the Tsunami Juice and Java. I reflected on the past days of accomplishment and planned the next day. The town offers an IMAX theatre with an aerial experience of Zion on the larger than life screen. Looking at the marvel of technology of the theatre and the natural beauty of the landscape surrounding me I thought it a strange contrast of past and future. The area is growing rapidly with millions of visitors every year, presenting a fear of destroying this natural wonder around the growing technology. However, the park is taking strong measures to avoid a severe disturbance of the purity of the landscape. Their actions include the commencement of a shuttle service in the spring of 2000; this will be the only motorized transportation permitted into the canyon. Only the park east side will be accessible by vehicle, this is where you will find the campsites. This is necessary to protect the fragile surroundings that exist here so that others will be able to enjoy the magnificence. After a close up of the park, through hiking, I decided to take the scenic drive around the park for an overall glimpse at this sight. Not short after beginning the drive I saw my first wild turkey of my visit, I stopped to look at these creatures of the park and so did many other cars. Everyone was enjoying the drive, stopping along the way to take pictures and take quick peaks of the mule deer munching on some grass. I finished the tour with enough time to watch the sun set along the 3000-foot canyon walls. Apparently, I was not the only one who thought a nice sunset would be a great end to the day considering the amount of people waiting for that exact moment. The next morning I awoke early to enjoy a coffee in my enormous backyard named Zion Park, while attempting the energy to tear down my campsite, I reflected on the previous evening of vibrant stars in the clear evening of Utah. I thought of earlier explorers to this land over 2000 years ago, the Ancestral Puebloans (formally Anasazi) would have fallen asleep to the same stars as I did last evening and awoken to the crisp fresh air that I was breathing at this moment. Did they know that their home would become such a popular destination for naturalists around the world? If not, I hope that the people who visit and the staff who maintain the park continue to move forward with their efforts to keep this park as natural as possible with all its splendor and glory. For further information: Photos by Michael Gnaedig |
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TM
As
I drove through the east entrance of Zion National Park I was struck by two
things: the deep canyons that were present here, and the one mile long
tunnel that takes you through the cliffs.
The park entrance fee seems well worth the investment
for the natural beauty before me. I decided to establish my campsite before
nightfall. Self-registration is required for camping, with fire grates,
picnic tables, restrooms and water available. 
Next
on my agenda was the Riverside Walk, which is an easier hike with only a
57-foot elevation consisting of 1.5 hours of the scenic Virgin River.
Along the route, vibrant wildflowers cling to the canyon walls that have
given them life from the cascading water falling from above. The walk
was very pleasant, allowing for a relaxing end to a very busy day.