The best cycling routes around Zion

Touring cycling in Zion offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find easy, paved multi-use trails like the Pa'rus Trail, which follows the Virgin River. Other routes, such as the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Kolob Terrace Road, involve significant elevation changes and varied surfaces as they climb through the park's dramatic landscapes. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway also presents varied terrain with sustained climbs and breathtaking views.

Yes, the Pa'rus Trail is an excellent option for families. It's a paved, multi-use trail that starts at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and follows the Virgin River, offering relatively easy riding conditions and stunning views. It's also the only trail in Zion where bikes are permitted, making it ideal for all fitness levels.

Cycling in Zion provides access to many iconic landmarks. Along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, you can pedal beneath towering cliffs to destinations like the Temple of Sinawava, where The Narrows begin. Other prominent features visible from various routes include the Court of the Patriarchs, The Watchman, and the majestic Great White Throne. The Kolob Canyons and Kolob Terrace Road offer different scenic views in less crowded sections of the park.

The best time to bike Zion National Park is typically during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, temperatures are milder, and the weather is generally more pleasant for cycling. Summer can be very hot, while winter may bring colder temperatures and potential snow at higher elevations, though cycling is still possible on many paved routes.

Within Zion National Park, dogs are generally not permitted on most trails, including cycling paths, with one exception. Leashed dogs are allowed on the Pa'rus Trail. For other areas, it's best to check the official National Park Service guidelines for the most current pet policies: nps.gov/zion.

Yes, e-bikes are allowed on the same routes as regular bicycles within Zion National Park. This can be a great way to navigate the park, especially for those who wish to cover more ground or tackle the park's significant climbs with less effort, allowing for a more accessible touring cycling experience.

Parking is available at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, which is the starting point for the Pa'rus Trail. This trail also connects to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Bike racks are available at major shuttle stops and trailheads throughout the park. The town of Springdale, located just outside the park entrance, also offers various parking options and direct access to the Pa'rus Trail.

When cycling on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, cyclists must ride single file on the side of the road. It is crucial to yield to shuttle buses, stopping completely to allow them to pass safely. This road offers a unique opportunity to experience the canyon's grandeur from your bike, but safety and awareness of shuttle traffic are paramount.

While there are limited dining options directly on the cycling routes within the park, the nearby town of Springdale, Utah, offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs. Springdale is located right at the park's entrance and is easily accessible from the Pa'rus Trail, making it a convenient stop for refreshments before or after your ride.

Among the routes highlighted, the Bald Eagle State Park – Millbrook Marsh Nature Center loop from Bellefonte is the longest, covering approximately 132.7 kilometers (82.5 miles). This route is also classified as difficult, featuring significant elevation gain, and is a substantial undertaking for experienced touring cyclists.

For a less crowded experience, consider exploring the Kolob Canyons area or the Kolob Terrace Road. These are located in the less-traveled northwest sections of the park and offer different scenic views and a more serene cycling environment compared to the main Zion Canyon. The Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive is also bike-friendly and typically sees fewer visitors.

The Kolob Terrace Road is a challenging route that climbs around 5,000 feet (approximately 1,524 meters) over its 25-mile (40.2 km) length. This route offers dramatic changes in landscape and is suitable for cyclists looking for a significant physical challenge and rewarding views.

Bikes are allowed on the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, but cyclists cannot ride through the 1.1-mile tunnel. Due to safety concerns and the tunnel's design, cyclists must arrange for a shuttle or vehicle transport through the tunnel. This road offers varied terrain and breathtaking views of petrified dunes on either side of the tunnel.