While trying to get away from the spring break crowds in Zion National Park, Utah, we discovered Kolob Terrace in the central part of the park.
To get there from Zion Canyon, you exit the park on the south, travel west to Virgin, and go up Kolob Terrace Road where you re-enter the park. (Note, this is a different place than Kolob Canyons.)
Along the 23 mile road you’ll find lots of scenic vistas as the terrace rises to over 8,000 feet. The only people up there were the ones hiking the subway whose cars were in the parking lots. Aside from the cars, we only saw a couple of people the whole time we were up there.
We wanted to check out Lava Point, but discovered that vehicles over 19 feet are not allowed and our Big Baby Blue is 20 feet. We also didn’t go on any of the trails because no dogs were allowed.
But still there were lots of places to pull off on the side of the road and enjoy some scenic views.
Please click the image to view a larger version.
Admittedly, our trip to Zion wasn’t quite what we hoped for this year. Between me being sick, the bad weather (a bit of a shock after 3 months of sunny 80 degree days), and the spring break crowds, it could have been better. But even with all that, Zion is so spectacular it’s hard to come away without at least a few breathtaking views.
This is a breathtaking shot. Thank you.
I haven’t been back to Zion in years and years, for the very reasons you touched on. A couple years ago I was near, coming in from the north. I thought maybe I’d do Angel’s Landing again just for old time’s sake. But then I got to the part where the big sign lays out where you have to pay a fee and be escorted through the tunnel if you were a certain size. I was right “there” in size restrictions with maybe an inch or two to spare. I figured I don’t need this added “adventure” right now, drive all the way to the tunnel only to find out I was too big after all and would have to pay. So I motored on and left Zion in my rear view mirrors. Back home I looked up Angel’s Landing just for fun and was shocked to see photos of long lines of hikers backed up at the top!! Egads!!! Not the way it was back in the 70’s. I want no part of that. Same reason I am done with Half Dome. Wonderful photos you have which makes me feel I was there and am good with that.
Wow, discovering an uncrowded part of Zion National Park that was so picturesque must have been a memorable highlight of your visit!
Really very beautiful shot Anne…
The small photos is very nice, but the big photo looks amazing… Great shot.
What a beautiful photo! I’ve been spending a lot of time in the main Zion Canyon, but have yet to make it to Kolob. This post motivates me to start planning my next trip! Thanks! Kristen