Tag Archive for: tour

Winter tours at the Grand Canyon

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Visiting the Grand Canyon during the winter can be a beautiful and unique experience. Here are a few tips to keep in mind if you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon during the winter months:

  1. Dress warmly: The Grand Canyon can get very cold in the winter, especially at higher elevations. Make sure to bring warm clothing, including a coat, gloves, and a hat.
  2. Check the weather forecast: The weather at the Grand Canyon can vary greatly, even within a single day. Make sure to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
  3. Wear appropriate footwear: The trails at the Grand Canyon can be slippery in the winter, so make sure to wear shoes or boots with good traction.
  4. Plan your activities: Some activities, such as hiking and mule rides, may not be available during the winter months due to icy conditions. Check with the park service to see what activities are available and plan your trip accordingly.
  5. Be prepared for road closures: Some roads within the park may be closed during the winter due to snow or ice. Check with the park service or visit their website for up-to-date information on road closures.

A Slower Pace

Cooler temperatures, shorter days, and falling snow bring a slower pace to one of the most visited national parks in the country.

After the December holidays, winter visitors are less touristy throughout the park in January and February. Those ready for ice and snow will find the Bright Angel Trail to be a scenic drive with a bit smoother and less traffic.

Dramatic winter storms bringing inches of snow cover contrast with sunny days perfect for walks along the canyon rim. The fresh air and a bit of snow bring new perspectives to the temples and knolls emerging from the canyon floor, providing the perfect backdrop for viewing canyon flora and fauna.

Winter tours at the Grand Canyon - Sweetours Grand Canyon Tours 1

Visiting Grand Canyon

The South Rim of the park is open year-round and the roads are open except in bad weather. The weather in the Grand Canyon changes rapidly, and so does visibility.

Scheduling a multi-day visit allows visitors to witness some of these changes, and offers great views of the canyon.

Winter tours at the Grand Canyon - Sweetours Grand Canyon Tours 2

Wildlife in the Grand Canyon

Mule deer roaming the fresh snow and bald eagles darting along the edge of the canyon are just some of the wildlife you can see in the winter.

Many animals become less active and less visible as winter approaches, but there are still opportunities to see elk, California condors, ravens, and arber squirrels on the edge and in the nearby ponderosa pine forest.

Most animals in the park have developed some adaptation to the cold. Rock squirrels, which are common along the edges during the summer, spend the fall hoarding food and preparing for the cold winter. They spend most of the winter in their burrows but can be found around the edges on warm days.

Mule deer and elk wear thick winter coats to cope with the low temperatures, and Aberut and Kaibab tree squirrels wear tufts of fur on their ears to ward off the cold.

Grand Canyon National Park: Mule Deer Winter Browse

Camping

During the winter months, Mother Campground reservations can be made at the Grand Canyon Village through recreation.gov. Reservations are recommended during the December holiday season.

The Trailer Village RV Campground is also open all winter with all hook-ups.

Winter solitude covers the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, which is closed to all vehicles between December 1st and May 14th.

Hikers with backcountry camping permits for multi-day canyon adventures can hike from the South Rim to the North Rim to experience winter camping in one of the most inaccessible locations in the country.

Be Prepared

Hikers with backcountry camping permits for multi-day canyon adventures can hike from the South Rim to the North Rim to experience winter camping in one of the most inaccessible locations in the country.

Winter hikers and backpackers should be prepared for cold weather, icy trails, and short daylight hours. NPS backcountry rangers recommend bringing traction gear over your shoes, hiking poles, extra snacks, a flashlight/headlamp, and easily removable layers to accommodate varying weather conditions.

A Winter Getaway

A trip to the Grand Canyon can be a great winter vacation, especially if you plan carefully.

The National Park Service Mobile App is a great place to start. Download Grand Canyon National Park maps and content for offline use. This is especially useful when exploring remote locations or when data caps are a concern.

If you still feel confused, take it easy. Because we are professional tours and travel in the Grand Canyon, so we will give you the information you need during your trip to the Grand Canyon, just get in touch with us.

Winter tours at the Grand Canyon - Sweetours Grand Canyon Tours 4

Focus on Safety

Don’t let the dangers of winter scare you. Declining temperatures, severe weather and conditions, and changing wildlife behavior present challenges to consider when visiting national parks. Get ready to travel and prepare for a fun and safe winter adventure.

Get ready, pack your jacket and winter gloves, avoid the crowds, and experience the winter wonderland of the Grand Canyon!

Winter Travel Kit Emergency Items:

  • Shovel
  • Windshield scraper & fluid
  • Cell Phone
  • Flashlight
  • Battery-powered radio & extra batteries
  • Food and Water
  • Matches
  • Extra hats, socks, and mittens
  • First aid kit with a pocket knife
  • Necessary medications
  • Blankets
  • Tow chain or rope
  • Sand or cat litter (road salt is not permitted in the park)
  • Booster cables

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When is the best (and worst) time to visit the Grand Canyon?

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There is no crowd at the Grand Canyon during these times, making it one of the best times to visit.

Arguably the most popular national park in the United States, the Grand Canyon attracts millions of visitors each year. People travel from all over the world to see the massive, mile-deep canyon that stretches 227 miles along northern Arizona. Visitors planning to visit Grand Canyon National Park should decide whether they want to hike, raft, or camp, as all these activities depend on the weather and may be more suitable at certain times of the year.

Whether you’re looking for an exhilarating experience on the Skywalk or prefer to quietly take in stunning views, these are the best times to visit the Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon’s North Rim

While early summer heralds the best weather in the entire Grand Canyon, it also tends to be the busiest time to visit. Fortunately, the North Rim is much more secluded than the South Rim, making it an ideal destination during high season. Temperatures vary widely in the park – they can range from the low 40s to the mid 80s between June and August. The North Rim, often the most exciting part of the Grand Canyon, closes entirely in the winter, with the exception of remote camping and cross-country skiing. To access all the accommodations and restaurants on the North Rim, plan your trip from May to October.

Best Time to Visit the South Rim

Autumn visitors flock to the South Rim, the park’s most popular area and one of its two entrances open all year, for its glorious weather and bustling atmosphere. To balance this experience, they should bring warm clothing, as temperatures can dip below freezing even in September.

Best Time to Visit the West Rim

Although not part of the national park system, the West Rim has many year-round attractions. Spring is the perfect time for those looking to go whitewater rafting, many of which depart from the West Coast.

The glass floor of the West Rim Skywalk extends 4,000 feet above the Grand Canyon, giving visitors a unique perspective of the canyon below. Winter is the least crowded and mildest time of the year to visit the area. Grand Canyon West is open year-round. Arrive early to enjoy all this area has to offer.

Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon for Ideal Weather

Weather in the Grand Canyon is at its best from April and June, when precipitation is low on average and temperatures have yet to reach the extreme heat of summer. Please come early as it will be very crowded during the closing period in June.

Worst Times to Visit the Grand Canyon

July and August are the hottest, wettest, and busiest months in the park, making them less ideal times to explore the Grand Canyon than spring or fall. Also, if you’re interested in exploring the North Rim, avoid visiting during the winter when all roads, restaurants and accommodations are closed.

Most Affordable Times to Visit the Grand Canyon

Prices for flights and accommodations tend to be cheaper during the off-season from November to February. (Grand Canyon National Park vehicle permits are $35 per year, but watch out for national park free days to save on admission).

Planning a trip to the Grand Canyon can be stressful. It’s hard to know when to go if you want to avoid crowds and bad weather. Our Grand Canyon Tours experts have done the research for you. We offer a variety of tours to suit your needs, and we’re happy to help you plan an unforgettable vacation. Enjoy your Grand Canyon Tours with Sweetours!

Get in touch with us today!

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The Grand Canyon Must-Haves: What to Pack for Your Trip to The Grand Canyon

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Grand Canyon is one of the most popular destinations in the world. It is also one of the most remote places, which means that going on day trips there requires some planning and packing. Fortunately, most things you will need are fairly obvious. However, there are some considerations that might not be so clear at first glance. The weather can vary significantly throughout the year and even during a single day – especially at such high elevations as the rim of the canyon. Your day trips may well involve hiking, climbing, or camping at some point – all of which require very different things to bring along with you.

In this blog post, we have compiled everything you need to know about what to pack for a trip to the Grand Canyon!

Comfortable, sturdy footwear

A lot of people will start their packing by choosing the right footwear. In some ways, this is an unfortunate choice, since it is also one of the most important things to get right. The ground at the Grand Canyon is steep and uneven and can be full of loose rocks and stones. You will be hiking and climbing in some very remote places and not always in the company of guides or fellow hikers. If your feet are uncomfortable, it can be very painful and even dangerous to continue.

If your footwear is not comfortable, this can quickly lead to blisters and other foot problems. Plus, your day trip might even well be ruined! 

The best choice is a good pair of hiking boots. They are made from sturdy, hard-wearing materials and feature a rugged sole. This is the best choice for smooth or rough terrain, whether it be sand or rocks. You may also want to consider a pair of hiking shoes, which are more lightweight and flexible.

Lightweight layering

trip to the grand canyon - what to pack

The Grand Canyon is a high-altitude desert environment, so it can be very hot in the summer months. However, at night and in the early hours of the morning, it can drop down to freezing temperatures. There is also ample opportunity to get caught in rain or even snow at times – at any time of the year. 

Consider packing lightweight and sturdy layers that you can easily add or remove to regulate your temperature. Also, think about bringing a durable, water-resistant jacket for rainy or snowy conditions. This can then double as an extra layer for the cooler nights. You may also want to consider a sturdy pair of waterproof/breathable hiking pants. Wool hiking socks are also a good idea since they retain some warmth even when wet. They also dry out more quickly than cotton socks.

Some shades

sunglasses - to make your grand canyon trip perfect

If you start your trip to The Grand Canyon during the summer, you’ll likely experience extremely bright sunshine that can be very difficult to look at directly. This type of sun exposure is also known to cause headaches and eye strain. If you want to avoid any potential pain or discomfort, you’ll want to bring along a good pair of shades. You shouldn’t just bring any pair of sunglasses, though. They should be rated to block out 99 percent of UV rays. Since you’ll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors, you’ll also want to make sure that they are durable enough to stand up to the elements.

Water and snacks

There is the option to bring a water bottle or a water bladder and fill it up at various water fountains along the way. However, day trips with long hikes and climbing can be very thirsty work and you should consider bringing some water bottles with you, even if you opt for a bladder. You should also bring some small, light, and easily packable snacks. These might consist of energy bars or even trail mix, granola, etc.

Camera and spare batteries

The Grand Canyon is one of the most photogenic and famous places in the world – this should go without saying! You are going to want to capture some memories of your trip, but be aware that cameras, particularly in a desert environment, can be very delicate. This can be especially true if you are planning to go on any hikes or climbs on your day trips. At such times, your camera bag can get very dusty and may even get wet if it rains. 

You should consider investing in a sturdy and weatherproof camera, particularly if you are planning to do any more adventurous hikes or climbs on day trips. You should also bring some spare batteries, as well as a small cleaning kit to maintain the camera’s functionality. Some cameras also allow you to upload photos as you go, which can be a nice way to keep the rest of your party up to date.

Bandages or a small first-aid kit

Finally, it is always a good idea to have a small first aid kit with you. A basic one can consist of bandages, painkillers, and antiseptic wipes. If you have particularly sensitive skin, you might want to bring some soothing cream or ointment. You should also consider bringing some anti-diarrheal medication, as well as some antibiotics if you have a chronic condition. You can also bring some small snack bars for an extra boost of energy. Even something like an energy drink or some caffeine can make a big difference in those day trips with longer hikes or climbs.

Pack your bags and book your trip to the Grand Canyon today with Sweetours!

Visiting the Grand Canyon is a wonderful experience for anyone. It’s a place where you can marvel at the incredible landscape and have a chance to see plants and animals that are not found anywhere else in the world. It’s also a place where you can learn about and appreciate the history of the United States. You can learn about how the canyon was formed, how different tribes lived in the region, and the different ways people have used the canyon over the years.

When you’re packing for your trip to the Grand Canyon, make sure you bring these things with you so that you can enjoy your experience to the fullest! Now that you know what to pack, you can rest assured that you have everything you need for a great trip to the Grand Canyon!

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THE 8 BEST THINGS TO DO WHEN YOU TAKE A HOOVER DAM TOURS

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Experience the Thrills and Wonders of Hoover Dam with These Must-Do Activities When You Take a Hoover Dam Tours

At Hoover Dam, you can do more than meets the eye. As well as some great viewpoints, there are interesting sights and places nearby. See our top 8 recommendations for your Hoover Dam Tours below!

1. HOOVER DAM VISITOR CENTER

Your first stop when you take a Hoover Dam Tours is the Hoover Dam Visitor Center, where you can find restrooms, food, and information. The visitor center also has a parking lot, but it can get crowded depending on the time of day.

Hoover Dam Tour From Las Vegas - Visitor Center

Here you can purchase a tour ticket and take a self-guided walk through the center’s narrated exhibits. A great way to learn about the history of the Hoover Dam and appreciate its heritage. Exhibits include maps, archival material, and models of the dam’s energy system and infrastructure. You can choose from 3 different tours:

  • Self-Guided Visitor Center Tour: $10 (Visitor Center exhibits, observation deck)
  • Guided Powerplant Tour: $15 (Visitor Center, observation deck, original construction tunnels, Nevada Powerhouse)
  • Guided Dam Tour: $30 (Visitor Center, observation deck, original construction tunnels, Nevada Powerhouse, elevator ride to the top of the dam, inspection tunnels & ventilation shaft)

2. HOOVER DAM BRIDGE – MIKE O’CALLAGHAN – PAT TILLMAN MEMORIAL BRIDGE

Another cool thing to check out is the Hoover Dam Bridge. Also known as the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, this massive structure is a very impressive sight. It also offers some of the best and most unique views of the dam.

Hoover Dam Bridge - Mike O’callaghan – Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge

The building is named after former Nevada governor Mike O’Callaghan and soccer player Pat Tillman, who died while serving in Afghanistan. The arch bridge spans the Colorado River connecting Nevada and Arizona and is 1,900 feet long. Since its opening in 2010, the bridge has been the widest concrete arch in the Western Hemisphere and, at 890 feet tall, is the second tallest bridge in the United States.

This bridge was the result of the Hoover Dam Bypass Project, which created a safe route across the dam. Today, you can walk across the bridge to get a different view of the Hoover Dam’s man-made structure and water level. You can also go by car, but you cannot see the dam from the car.

3. HOOVER DAM LOOKOUT – KINGMAN WASH

A sure way to enjoy your Hoover Dam Tours is to visit one or more of the lookouts. The Hoover Dam Lookout on the Arizona side of the dam offers breathtaking views of the Hoover Dam from above.

This is definitely the best way to understand the enormity of this structure. Simultaneously glimpse rapids, Lake Mead, Black Canyon, and the surrounding desert environment.

This viewpoint is easy to miss, but it’s worth it as it’s rarely crowded. To get there, follow the Hoover Dam Bridge into Arizona and take the Kingman Wash exit. There is a dirt access road that takes you about half a mile (0.5 miles) to a vantage point.
If you feel like it, follow this trail to see Fortification Hill, the Black Mesa, and the breathtaking expanse of the surrounding mountains.

4. LAKE MEAD AT HOOVER DAM

Next to a huge hydroelectric dam lies the blue waters of Lake Mead. This body of water was created by the construction of a dam. Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the largest of its kind in the United States.

lake mead at hoover dam - hoover dam

Covering 247 square miles, Hoover Dam’s Lake Mead is a perfect contrast to the concrete and steel sections of the dam. The area is prime kayaking, boating, and swimming destination. For those who prefer land-based activities, there are hiking trails and several campsites here.

Plus, enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the reservoir on a self-guided tour of Lake Mead and Hoover Dam at the Visitor Center.

5. GOLD STRIKE HOT SPRINGS TRAIL

Another lesser-known Hoover Dam activity is the Gold Strike Hot Springs Trail. This 6-mile off-road hike is a little strenuous, but most people can easily complete the first mile or so. Bring plenty of water and snacks and dress appropriately for the weather.

gold strike hot springs trail at hoover dam - hoover dam trail

This hike is one of the best activities at Hoover Dam. At several points along the route, you will have to climb over rocks or hold on to support ropes. Along the way through the Wash Gorge, you might come across scenic caves, natural pools, and bighorn sheep.

Some hot springs have dried up, but there are hot springs where you can swim and hot spring waterfalls. Definitely, one of the coolest spots near Hoover Dam so highly recommended.

6. HEMENWAY PARK

Turn off Highway 93 on the way to Hoover Dam and check out Hemenway Park. This short detour takes you to another top attraction near Hoover Dam. Here you can breathe in the fresh air, enjoy snacks and watch wildlife.

hemenway park at hoover dam - hoover dam overview

Hemenway Park in Boulder City, Nevada is a pleasant little green space best known for its large horn sheep herd. Fittingly, this is the state animal of Nevada, and you’ll often see these sheep grazing in parks or resting in the shade.

Park also has a playground, tennis courts, and picnic areas, making it a great place to take a short break before continuing your journey to the Lake Mead area.

7. NEVADA SOUTHERN RAILROAD MUSEUM & OTHER PLACES TO VISIT IN BOULDER CITY

Boulder City has plenty of activities to do near the Hoover Dam. If you have time, I recommend spending a few hours here. One of his most popular attractions is the Nevada Southern Railroad Museum, which features historic train models dating back to the 1840s. You can also ride the 7-mile historic railroad and learn about the locomotive history of the area along the way.

Another cool spot near Hoover Dam is Bootleg Canyon Park. With cross-country and downhill trails that crisscross the desert landscape, it’s an ideal place for mountain biking. You can also hike here to find a great vantage point overlooking Lake Mead.

nevada southern railroad museum hoover dam

For a change of scenery, visit Veterans Memorial Park, a 25-acre green space. There are several playgrounds and courts, a three-acre fishing pond, a designated skate park, and trails for biking and hiking.

If you have time, check out the free Boulder City/Hoover Dam Museum exhibits, or stroll through the cacti and desert shrubs at the Allan Bible Botanical Gardens.

8. GET STUNNING AERIAL VIEWS OF HOOVER DAM

Finally, make your visit to Hoover Dam extra special with the Hoover Dam Helicopter Tour. Nothing beats the aerial view of Hoover Dam. The best way to capture the grandeur of this structure.

get stunning aerial views of hoover dam - scenic hoover dam

It’s also worth noting that most Grand Canyon helicopter tours from Las Vegas fly over the Hoover Dam. This is perfect if you are traveling from Sin City and don’t mind just a helicopter ride over the Hoover Dam. We did this helicopter tour and got some great photos of the dam and canyon from above. It was a lot of fun and I recommend you see it for yourself!

If you’re in Las Vegas and you don’t want to rent a car, you can take one of these Hoover Dam tours from the Strip. We’ll take care of round-trip transportation, guides, and tickets. Some of these tours include extra stops at attractions along the way, so they’re perfect for a day trip.

The most popular one is this full or half-day tour with a shuttle service. It’s also included in the Las Vegas City Pass, one of the best Sightseeing Passes in Las Vegas.

You could also book a Hoover Dam helicopter tour and enjoy a narrated flight while soaring over one of the most famous U.S. landmarks.

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Here are some things you can do at Grand Canyon West

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What’s in Grand Canyon West??

Many people want to visit the Grand Canyon, but many don’t know about the Grand Canyon’s West Rim-only activities! The following list includes a few of the many great activities available to visitors to this part of the Grand Canyon.

This list includes special activities for everyone, from families to avid explorers to quiet observers. The possibilities in this beautiful and breathtaking area are endless, and any visitor will find satisfaction and fulfillment in a sense of adventure and awe.

GRAND CANYON SKYWALK

The Skywalk Glass Bridge is a must for adventurers touring the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. This 2.5-inch thick glass bridge straddles the sides of the canyon and floats above 4,000-foot-high water droplets.

Going to the bridge is exciting for most people. For those who are afraid of height, the surface is reinforced so it can support a whopping £ 71m! It’s a 70747 airliner. But fighting fear is definitely worth it. This Grand Canyon activity is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and will leave you with breathtaking memories that can only be experienced on the Skywalk.

EAGLE POINT

Eagle Point at Grand Canyon West Rim - Sweetours

Eagle Point, the location of the Skywalk, is named after a natural eagle-shaped rock formation directly opposite the canyon. The wings are so wide that it looks like it’s standing above the Grand Canyon, 4,000 feet above the canyon floor. Get your camera ready! At Eagle Point, you have the opportunity to shoot this inspiring formation from every angle. You will be amazed by the beauty of nature, which offers miles of scenery.

GRAND CANYON BUS TOURS

The trip from Las Vegas to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon was more stylish than the Sweetours bus tour. A certified tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in a customized tour trekker bus. With over 50 seats, you’ll get a personalized experience and oversized windows. Great for taking pictures.

The Grand Canyon West Tour includes lunch, an unlimited supply of bottled water, and a drive through Joshua Tree Forest, so a day is set for you. It also includes some other perspectives and popular attractions in the area. For an additional fee, Sweettours bus tour guests can also enjoy the Skywalk mentioned above.

GUANO POINT

Guano Point at Grand Canyon West - Sweetours

Another dramatic vantage point, Guano Point is renowned for its year-round photography opportunities and beautiful views. Here, visitors can experience the Grand Canyon up close by dining at the edge of Guanodeli.

Another famous attraction is high point hiking. From the top of the trail, you’ll get stunning 360-degree views of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River below! Guano Point is also home to the ruins of a historic tram that once stretched 8,000 feet across the Grand Canyon to the Guano Mine. This is the origin of the name Guano Point.

THE ZIP LINE AT GRAND CANYON WEST

Zip Lane at Grand Canyon West - Sweetours

For those seeking a true thrill, fly 1,000 feet above the Grand Canyon’s spectacular Side Canyon on a zipline. At an approach speed of up to 40 mph, adventurers experience about 3,200 feet of lively adrenaline surrounded by breathtaking views.

HUALAPAI VILLAGE

Hualapai Ranch - Hualapai Village at Grand Canyon West - Sweetours

The Grand Canyon West is home to the Hualapai, meaning “tall pine people.” When visiting the Grand Canyon West, visitors can visit the village of Hualapai. The village has some examples of Native American buildings that you can explore on a self-guided tour. Visitors can also visit Native American gift shops. You can buy handmade items and souvenirs here.

HUALAPAI RIVER RUNNERS

Hualapai River Runners at Grand Canyon West - Sweetours

Another unique way to experience the beauty of the Grand Canyon is to cruise the Colorado River with a crew of fellow adventurers. This exhilarating experience travels deep into the canyon, revealing its mystery from inside and below the canyon, rather than simply looking down from above. Not to mention the mighty Colorado River! But be prepared – the water temperature stays at 5.5 ° C, which is chilly all year round. This is an unforgettable way to experience the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River only at the Grand Canyon West.

HELICOPTER AND AERIAL VIEW TOURS

Helicopter Tours at Grand Canyon West - Wind Dancer at Grand Canyon West - Sweetours

If looking at the Grand Canyon from the edge isn’t enough, there’s always a helicopter tour option. Those who choose this option flying over the canyon have plenty of opportunities to take pictures of the Colorado River as well as the canyon. Driving this route will amaze adventurers and visitors of all kinds as you experience all the beauty and splendor of the Grand Canyon, both from above the canyon itself and from within the canyon.

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Top Reasons to Visit Zion National Park

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In a state filled with dramatic scenery that stretches to the horizon and seemingly endless bucket list adventures, Zion National Park is the crown jewel of Utah’s five iconic national parks. Zion’s landscape is filled with rainbow-colored rock layers chiseled into sharp peaks, high mesas, and deep, twisting canyons. It’s a place so hauntingly beautiful that you will never forget the silence of Zion’s sandstone cathedrals, the light reflecting off the slot canyons, the rushing Virgin River, or the architect of its cliffs and canyons. Everyone should visit Zion at least once in their lifetime to hike its trails, wade through canyon waters, and watch deer graze in open meadows. Named by early settler Isaac Behunin in 1863, Zion remains true to its name—the Promised Land and a place of refuge.

Here are a few of the reasons why it’s such a special destination.

Spectacular Scenic Driving Adventures

The six-mile Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, running north through the national park’s scenic heart, is one of Utah’s most spectacular road adventures. Skyscraping sandstone formations, including the Great White Throne and Temple of Sinawava, soar above the tumbling Virgin River.

The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway (Utah 9) drops 2,000 feet from the East Entrance to the visitor center, passing through a 1.1-mile tunnel. On both drives, expect gorgeous scenery along the entire route. Take the free park shuttle to experience the canyon since the road is closed to traffic most of the year.

Iconic Hiking Trails: Hikes from Easy to Strenuous

The hike trail at Zion National Park
The best way to see Zion is to fill a water bottle, strap on your boots, and hit the trail. You’ll find a wide range of options—from easy to strenuous—in the park. For easy romps, take Canyon Overlook, Weeping Rock, and Riverside Walk trails. Hardy hikers ascend the famous but dangerous Angel’s Landing Trail or trek to Observation Point for Zion’s best views, while backpackers follow East Rim and West Rim trails to find wildlife, solitude, and hidden wonders.

World’s Best Canyoneering

Zion is renowned as one of the world’s best places for canyoneering, the sport of descending slender canyons. The national park invites adventurers to lower into fantastic watery slots and river-filled canyons that range from strenuous hiking and wading to technical challenges with swimming and rappelling.

Novices can hire an expert guide service in Springdale to safely navigate the park’s canyons, while experienced canyoneers explore remote crevices with specialized skills and a park permit. Zion’s great canyons include the famed Subway, Zion Narrows, Mystery Canyon, Pine Creek, Orderville Canyon, and Keyhole Canyon.

Desert Waterfalls

Fed by winter snowmelt and dousing thunderstorms, Zion’s waterfalls offer a refreshing respite from the summer heat. The sound of falling water in the desert promises a cool spray and an oasis of ferns and flowers. Many of Zion’s falls are ephemeral so plan to visit during the July and August monsoon season or in early spring to see them.

A couple of the best waterfalls are the dripping springs at Weeping Rock, a trio of falls at Lower Emerald Pools, and a 300-foot plunge at Upper Emerald Pools. Other popular spots include Pine Creek Falls, Archangel Falls below The Subway, and Mystery Canyon Falls in The Narrows. Use caution if it’s raining since flash flooding can occur, watch for slippery rocks below falls, and never stand on top of a waterfall.

Climbing Big Walls

Big walls on Zion National Park
Zion Canyon, lined with towering sandstone cliffs, is a famed rock-climbing area. Home to some of the tallest sandstone walls in the world. Climbers come to jump on big wall routes on airy cliffs like Angel’s Landing, Temple of Sinawava, Red Arch Mountain, and Touchstone Wall, as well as try the shorter crack climbs along the cliff bases. If sandstone peak-bagging is your game, try North and South Guardian Angels, Lady Mountain, or West Temple—if you have the experience, of course, otherwise hire a guide service in Springdale.

Wildlife and Nature Study

Zion National Park’s 232 square miles protect a land of canyons and plateaus with diverse plant and animal habitats including pine forests, lush riversides, and barren slickrock. Zion harbors more than 1,000 plant species that allow a wide variety of wildlife to flourish. The park is birdwatching heaven with 291 species, including peregrine falcons and endangered California condors. Bring binoculars to spot some of Zion’s 78 mammal species. Watch rocky slopes for desert bighorns and canyon meadows for grazing mule deer. At night look for elusive ringtail cats and kangaroo rats along campground trails.

The Remote Kolob Canyons

The Kolob Canyons, hiding in the national park’s northwest corner, offers a glimpse into Zion’s wild heart with solitude, soaring cliffs, and few visitors. The canyon is usually accessed from I-15, but that route is closed through the end of 2018 for infrastructure improvements. Take SR9 to access the canyon during the construction. Kolob is a wonderland of sheer sandstone canyons and peaks, slot canyons, tumbling waterfalls, more than 20 miles of trails, and the 287-foot-long Kolob Arch, the second longest natural arch in the world.

The Kolob Canyons are an hour’s drive from Zion Canyon, and it’s the place to go for wilderness adventures. Take a hike up Taylor Canyon Trail to Double Arch Alcove or carry a backpack up La Verkin Creek Trail to backcountry campsites, Kolob Arch, and technical Beartrap Canyon.

Bike-Friendly Park

Pedal power is one of the best ways to see Zion Canyon, especially during the busy months when the park shuttle ferries visitors into the canyon. Zion, one of the few national parks that encourages bicycling, allows you to avoid packed buses and to enjoy the stunning scenery without looking through a window.

Bring your own bike or rent one in Springdale, then follow the paved Pa’rus Trail for 1.75 miles to Canyon Junction. Continue for 7.5 miles up Zion Canyon, yielding to passing shuttles and enjoy the views. The return trip to the visitor center is all downhill.

If mountain biking is more your style, head west from the park for miles of world-class singletrack at Gooseberry Mesa.

Great Dining and Lodging in Springdale

Zion National Park Lodging
Despite Zion’s rugged landscape, it’s easy to find civilization by heading to Springdale, an old Wild West town on the park’s southwest boundary. If you don’t want to rough it in one of Zion’s spacious campgrounds, book accommodations in Springdale at a wide variety of hotels, lodges, and bed & breakfasts. (Tip: Make reservations in advance to ensure a room during the high season!)

Springdale offers plentiful dining options for hungry Zion hikers, most bordering Zion Park Boulevard, the town’s main street. Popular favorites include Barefoot Taqueria, Oscar’s Café, Spotted Dog Café, Bit & Spur Restaurant, and Café Soleil. Stop at Zion Canyon Brew Pub on the park boundary for a chilled pint of locally brewed beer and pub grub.

So, after you get your fill of Zion, you can find even more outdoor adventures west of Springdale. And that including hiking, mountain biking, slot canyons, off-road driving, and rock climbing.

So, do you feel like visiting the Canyon in January? Then what are you waiting for? Plan and Book Your Trip with Sweetours today!

Contact us for further information!
Phone: 702.456.9200
Fax – 702.434.7163
Email – info@sweetours.com

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