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ZION NATIONAL PARK — As I stood at an overlook during a hike in Zion National Park’s Kolob Canyon, I gazed upon the seemingly endless miles of majestic sandstone cliffs and thought what the early settlers did: that this is where heaven and earth must meet.
If you are looking for solace, it might be worth your while to hike in Kolob. Before hiking in the canyon, be aware that all trails in Kolob Canyon have a group size limit of 12 people.
Here are two short hikes worth doing:
South Fork Taylor Creek
Finding solitude or time with your loved ones without crowds, is something that the South Fork of Taylor Creek will provide.
This 2-mile out and back hike is not an official trail that is maintained by the National Park Service, but don’t let that deter you. It has just enough foot traffic to keep up a well-defined trail for hikers, and the less traveled roads give a backcountry feel that is not found in many of the more popular hiking trails.
The trailhead is located about 3 miles from the Kolob Canyon Visitor’s Center off of exit 40 on 1-15. When you reach the trailhead, you will see the trail split, at which point you will go right as you head into the South Fork Taylor Creek. As with all trails, there will be offshoots, but stay on the most-used trail for the ease of hiking.
About halfway up, you will find yourself in a sandy area with tall conifers that block the canyon views, but still provide breathtaking views in the process.
Some hikers choose this as a turnaround point, but the trail does go on for another half mile or so, where you will meet up with some falls and steep varnish stained walls that are popular attractions for rock climbers.
One thing to keep in mind is that this is a flood area, so pay attention to weather. And even though there is some shade, it can get hot, making spring and fall perfect times to experience this one-of-a-kind hike in Kolob.
Timber Creek Overlook
If after a long day of hiking the busy trails in the south part of Zion National Park, you want to unwind with a nice stroll to watch one of the most stunning sunsets around, or if you are looking for an easy hike for young children, the Timber Creek Overlook will provide just what you need.
This 1-mile round trip hike is accessed at the end of the Kolob Canyon Road, and is an easy 150-foot ascent to the overlook. But once you get there, you will be glad you went. At the top, you will have a spectacular view of the valleys and peaks to the south, including the majestic Red Butte off in the distance.
If you get a chance to hike these or any trails in Kolob, you will be counted among those who, as the hymn says found, “pure space,” or quite possibly where heaven and earth meet.
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