Hiking onto the mystery that’s Kolob Canyon?

Kolob Canyon is a stunning area located within Utah’s Zion National Park. Known for its dramatic landscapes and stunning hiking trails, Kolob Canyon is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore the best hikes in Kolob Canyon and share tips for planning your trip to this breathtaking destination.

Planning Your Trip

When to Visit Kolob Canyon

The best time to visit Kolob Canyon is from late spring through early fall, when temperatures are mild and the weather is dry. However, visitors should be aware that temperatures can still be hot during the summer months, and thunderstorms are common in the afternoons. Winter visitors should be prepared for snow and cold temperatures, as some of the hiking trails may be closed due to weather.

How to Get to Kolob Canyon

Kolob Canyon is located within Zion National Park, which is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, Nevada or a 4.5-hour drive from Salt Lake City, Utah. Visitors can access Kolob Canyon by taking exit 40 off of Interstate 15 and following Kolob Canyon Road to the park entrance.

Entrance Fees and Permits

Visitors to Kolob Canyon must pay the standard entrance fee to Zion National Park. The fee is $35 per vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, and $20 per person for those entering the park by foot or bicycle. Annual passes are also available for $80. Some of the hiking trails within Kolob Canyon require a backcountry permit, which can be obtained from the park’s visitor center.

Safety Tips for Hiking in Kolob Canyon

Kolob Canyon Visitors should be aware of the potential dangers associated with hiking in remote wilderness areas. It’s important to bring plenty of water and food, as well as appropriate clothing and footwear. Visitors should also be prepared for sudden changes in weather and should check trail conditions before heading out on a hike.

Best Hikes in Kolob Canyon

Taylor Creek Trail: A Scenic Hike to a Historic Cabin The Taylor Creek Trail is a 5-mile round trip hike that leads to the historic Larson Cabin, which was built in the early 1900s. The trail follows the creek through a scenic canyon and passes by towering sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations.

Kolob Arch Trail: A Challenging Hike to a Natural Wonder The Kolob Arch Trail is a 14-mile round trip hike that leads to one of the world’s largest natural arches. The hike is challenging, but the stunning views and unique rock formations make it well worth the effort.

Timber Creek Overlook Trail: A Moderate Hike with Stunning Views The Timber Creek Overlook Trail is a 1.5-mile round trip hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail leads to a scenic overlook that provides panoramic views of the canyon below.

La Verkin Creek Trail: A Long but Rewarding Hike through a Canyon The La Verkin Creek Trail is a 14-mile round trip hike that leads through a scenic canyon and past several waterfalls. The trail is long, but the stunning scenery and peaceful surroundings make it a rewarding hike.

Hop Valley Trail: A Picturesque Hike through a Valley The Hop Valley Trail is a 6-mile round trip hike that leads through a picturesque valley surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great place to spot wildlife.

Middle Fork Taylor Creek Trail: A Secluded Hike to a Stunning Waterfall The Middle Fork Taylor Creek Trail is a 5-mile round trip hike that leads to the Double Arch Alcove, a stunning rock formation that houses a beautiful waterfall. The trail is secluded and peaceful, making it a great option for those seeking a quiet escape.

Northgate Peaks Trail: A Moderate Hike with Panoramic Views The Northgate Peaks Trail is a 4-mile round trip hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail leads to two rocky peaks that offer stunning views of the canyon below.

West Rim Trail: A Challenging Hike with Breathtaking Views The West Rim Trail is a 16-mile round trip hike that leads to the top of the canyon’s rim, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is challenging, but the stunning views make it well worth the effort.

Subway Trail: A Unique Hike through a Water-Carved Tunnel The Subway Trail is a 9-mile round trip hike that leads through a water-carved tunnel known as the Subway. The hike is challenging, but the unique geological features and stunning scenery make it a must-do for adventurous hikers.

Lee Pass Trail: A Scenic Hike with Diverse Landscapes The Lee Pass Trail is a 8-mile round trip hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including towering cliffs and unique rock formations. The trail also passes through diverse landscapes, including pine forests and open meadows.

Hop Creek Trail: A Peaceful Hike through a Forested Area The Hop Creek Trail is a 4-mile round trip hike that leads through a peaceful forested area. The trail follows a creek and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

South Guardian Angel Trail: A Challenging Hike with Incredible Views The South Guardian Angel Trail is a 9-mile round trip hike that leads to the top of South Guardian Angel, offering incredible views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is challenging, but the stunning views make it well worth the effort.

North Guardian Angel Trail: A Technical Hike to a Summit The North Guardian Angel Trail is a 5-mile round trip hike that leads to the summit of North Guardian Angel. The hike is technical and requires some scrambling, but the stunning views from the top make it a must-do for experienced hikers.

Huber Wash Trail: A Scenic Hike with Unique Geological Features The Huber Wash Trail is a 3-mile round trip hike that leads through a scenic canyon with unique geological features, including towering rock formations and a natural amphitheater.

Kolob Canyons Viewpoint Trail: A Short Hike with Panoramic Views The Kolob Canyons Viewpoint Trail is a short, easy hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is a great option for those with limited time or mobility.

Other Activities in Kolob Canyon

Camping in Kolob Canyon

Visitors can camp at the Lava Point Campground, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and easy access to several hiking trails.

Scenic Drives in Kolob Canyon

Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives through Kolob Canyon, including the Kolob Canyons Scenic Byway and the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway.

Wildlife Watching in Kolob Canyon

Kolob Canyon is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can spot these animals while hiking or camping in the area.

Conclusion

Kolob Canyon is a stunning destination with some of the best hiking trails in the world. From easy hikes with stunning views to challenging hikes with unique geological features, Kolob Canyon offers something for hikers of all levels. Listed are some of the best hikes in Kolob Canyon, in addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy camping, scenic drives, and wildlife watching in this breathtaking area. So, plan your trip to Kolob Canyon today, travel the mystery, and experience the beauty of one of Utah’s most stunning natural wonders.