The north side of Zion National Park, Kolob Canyons is a designated wilderness area home to stunning views, winding trails, and a must-see scenic drive.
"Kolob" is a word from Mormon scripture that means "start closest to heaven". You might agree as you round that first corner in the Kolob scenic byway. These canyons are often considered hidden in plain sight as most travelers aren't aware of the wonder that is waiting just minutes from Interstate 15.
Planning Your Visit
As part of Zion National Park, national park service fees and day-use policies apply. Before exploring Kolob visitors need to check in at the Kolob Visitor Center to either purchase a day pass or show their National Parks Pass to the rangers.
*Due to a recent rock fall Kolob Canyons Road is closed to vehicle traffic beyond the Taylor Creek South Fork parking lot. For information and updates visit nps.gov/zion Perfect for an afternoon walk, the trail follows the ridge to a small peak, offering views of Timber Creek…
The trail follows the middle fork of Taylor Creek in Kolob Canyons; winding past two homestead cabins ending at the Double Arch Alcove. The trail does cross the creek at several points. The trail is accessible year-round if the scenic drive is open.
The La Verkin Creek Trail to the Kolob Arch allows hikers outstanding opportunities for solitude in a primitive area of Zion Wilderness. The trail begins at Lee Pass with stunning views of the Kolob Canyons as it crosses Timber Creek and continues to descend toward La Verkin…
Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive
5 miles | 30 minutes | exit off I-15 18 miles south of Cedar City
Starting at the Visitor Center, the road will make a sharp turn and the enormous natural cutaway of the Markagunt Plateau will unfold, and Zion’s tallest peak, Horse Ranch Mountain will rise above you. As the road climbs farther, it curves around a box canyon cut by the south fork of Taylor Creek. The route will traverse along a ridgeline, climbing over 1,000 feet in elevation until it ends at a turnabout known as the Timber Creek Overlook. Timber Creek features an absolutely breathtaking view of the Kolob Terrace and Pine Valley Mountains to the west. Keep your camera ready. The light in the afternoon to twilight can be the best time for photography and this area is one of the best places for panoramic shots.
Grade and Elevation
>4%. Elevation is from 5,000 feet to 6,300 feet.
