Zion National Park, Utah

Located in the arid Southwest, Zion National Park occupies the beautifully colored canyon and desert landscape that lies just outside of the towns of Cedar City, and Springdale, Utah, the latter of which was listed as one of the prettiest towns in America by Forbes. Following is some information that people planning on visiting Zion might find useful.

Zion National Park at a Glance

The park was officially established in 1919 by U.S. Congress, though President Taft had designated it a national monument a decade earlier. Today, it encompasses nearly 150,000 acres of desert in Southwestern Utah, which includes Zion Canyon, the park's main feature. Three towns border or are near the park. Springdale lies south of Zion, Orderville is east, and Cedar City, a larger town, is a little ways to the west of the park, one of the most popular western vacation destination. It is mainly the beautiful land formations (such as the canyon), the balmy desert atmosphere, and the wildlife that draw visitors to the Zion.


Flora and Fauna in Zion National Park, Utah, a Top Western Recreation Area

Many different species of desert plants thrive in Zion. Pinyon pine, ponderosa pine, juniper, and oak are among the most abundant trees, though several other types of deciduous trees, such willow and maple are also found in the park. Desert shrubs and numerous species of cacti are also common in Zion.

Animal life also abounds in this top southwestern national park. Desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, mountain lions, coyotes, foxes, ring-tail cats, and rabbits (cottontails and jackrabbits) are some of the notable mammals in Zion. Birds include Golden Eagles, Red-tailed Hawks, several species of owls, California Condors, Gambel's Quail, many types of woodpeckers, jays, and numerous species of songbirds (including warblers, sparrows, towhees, flycatchers, orioles, and more). Rattlesnakes, several types of lizards, frogs, toads, and the desert tortoise are also found in the park.



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Activities in Zion, a Top Western Vacation Destination

People Visiting Zion National Park are sure to be thrilled by its natural beauty and wildlife. Trails are available for hikers to navigate through the park, and they allow for breathtaking views and natural sights. Birdwatching and wildlife watching is popular among park visitors. Rock climbing is another popular activity in Zion, and visitors may camp at any of the three major campgrounds, or outside of them (by special permit only). Guided horse tours are also available, as are guided nature tours.

Zion National Park is certainly among the top recreation areas in the west, and because of its natural beauty, nature lovers are strongly encouraged to travel to Utah to experience it firsthand.

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