Kolob Canyons Zion National Park
A tranquil, separate district of Zion National Park featuring stunning red rock canyons and fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Kolob Canyons Zion National Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, separate district of Zion National Park featuring stunning red rock canyons and fewer crowds.
"Kolob Canyons offers Zion-level views with no crowds – a true hidden gem!"
🚗 Access via I-15
Kolob Canyons is easily accessible from I-15, making it a convenient detour.
🚶♀️ Less Crowded Hikes
Enjoy trails like Timber Creek Overlook and Taylor Creek with significantly fewer people than Zion's main canyon.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Drive
Kolob Canyons Road
A breathtaking 5-mile drive revealing towering red rock formations and panoramic vistas.
+1
Timber Creek Overlook Trail
End of scenic drive
An easy 1-mile roundtrip hike with jaw-dropping, expansive views of the canyons.
+1
Taylor Creek Trail
Trailhead near visitor center
A moderate 4.8-mile hike through lush canyons, crossing a creek multiple times to reach a double arch alcove.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds: Kolob Canyons
Plan Your Visit to Kolob Canyons
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Access via I-15
Kolob Canyons is easily accessible from I-15, making it a convenient detour.
🚶♀️ Less Crowded Hikes
Enjoy trails like Timber Creek Overlook and Taylor Creek with significantly fewer people than Zion's main canyon.
Visitor Center First
Stop at the visitor center for maps, trail conditions, and friendly advice from staff.
Check Trail Conditions
Especially in winter, check for snow and ice; microspikes might be needed for some trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Access via I-15
Kolob Canyons is easily accessible from I-15, making it a convenient detour.
🚶♀️ Less Crowded Hikes
Enjoy trails like Timber Creek Overlook and Taylor Creek with significantly fewer people than Zion's main canyon.
Visitor Center First
Stop at the visitor center for maps, trail conditions, and friendly advice from staff.
Check Trail Conditions
Especially in winter, check for snow and ice; microspikes might be needed for some trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking, expansive views and the peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere of Kolob Canyons. Many appreciate it as a less-visited alternative to the main Zion Canyon, offering stunning red rock scenery and accessible trails. Some note that it's a separate area and not all of Zion's famous landmarks are visible from here.
"The views are breathtaking! We didnt realize that you could not view the entire park from this location. This park has 3 hiking trails and an over look. The park pass is valid for 7 days and lets you in at all the entrances. There was not a huge crowd which was nice and lots of parking. We are definitely glad we got to see this side."
XYZ Colorado
"During our trip to Zion National Park we planned a day to explore the Kolob Canyon area. It was much less busy than the other side of the park which allowed for full access to the areas and less busy hikes. We went in February and with all the snow, we would recommend spikes or snow-specific shoes.
Prior to our hikes we went to the visitors center and the staff was very friendly and helpful."
Abbey Metzger
"Kolb canyon is such a hidden treasure which is right off highway 15. The red canyons are so amazing to see. It is the back side of Zion. Hardly any people and traffic just views upon views."
Scott Nance
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kolob Canyons is a separate district of Zion National Park, located about an hour's drive north of the main Zion Canyon. You'll typically access it via I-15.
Yes, Kolob Canyons is a distinct district within Zion National Park, offering a different perspective and fewer crowds than the main canyon.
Absolutely! A 5-mile scenic drive winds through the heart of Kolob Canyons, with numerous pull-offs and overlooks.
It's located right off I-15, but it's often missed because it's not visible from the interstate. Look for the signs for the Kolob Canyons exit.
Zion Canyon is the most popular area with iconic hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows. Kolob Canyons is more remote, less visited, and offers a unique, quieter experience with its own stunning landscapes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, your standard Zion National Park pass is valid for entry into the Kolob Canyons district. The pass is typically valid for 7 days.
Yes, the standard Zion National Park entrance fee applies. You can purchase this at any of the park's entrance stations or online.
The Kolob Canyons scenic drive and trails are generally open year-round during daylight hours. The visitor center has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally.
Unlike some popular hikes in Zion Canyon, Kolob Canyons does not typically require advance reservations for general access or the scenic drive.
Yes, your America the Beautiful Pass is accepted for entry into Kolob Canyons, as it is a national park site.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the easy Timber Creek Overlook Trail (1 mile RT), the moderate Taylor Creek Trail (4.8 miles RT) leading to a double arch, and the challenging Kolob Arch Trail (14 miles RT). +1
Yes, Kolob Canyons is generally kid-friendly. The Timber Creek Overlook Trail is short and easy, and the scenic drive offers many opportunities for short walks and enjoying the views.
You can experience the scenic drive and a short hike in 2-3 hours. For longer hikes like Taylor Creek, plan for a half-day or more.
Restrooms are available at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center and at some trailheads along the scenic drive.
Keep an eye out for desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, and various bird species. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance.
📸 📸 Photography
The Timber Creek Overlook offers stunning panoramic shots. The pull-offs along the scenic drive provide unique angles of the towering red rock formations.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting on the red rocks. Midday can be harsh but still offers vibrant colors.
Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including Kolob Canyons, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Please check the NPS website for current regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
The view from Timber Creek Overlook is iconic. The winding road itself, with the canyons as a backdrop, also makes for memorable shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The creek crossings on the Taylor Creek Trail can be a fun adventure for kids, but ensure they have appropriate footwear. Overall, Kolob Canyons provides a more relaxed and accessible way for families to enjoy Zion's stunning red rock landscapes.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
+1It's a perfect destination for a spontaneous detour or a planned day trip from nearby towns like Cedar City. The lack of crowds means you can enjoy the majestic scenery without feeling rushed, making it a refreshing break on a longer journey.
🚶♀️ Hikers Seeking Solitude
Consider tackling the Taylor Creek Trail for a longer, more secluded hike. The Kolob Arch Trail offers an even more remote experience for the truly dedicated hiker. Remember to be prepared for backcountry conditions if venturing onto longer trails.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Kolob Canyons
+1For a more immersive experience, the Taylor Creek Trail is a fantastic option. This 4.8-mile roundtrip hike takes you along Taylor Creek, requiring multiple creek crossings (be prepared to get your feet wet!). The trail meanders through a forested canyon floor, past historic homesteads, and culminates at the stunning Double Arch Alcove. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical interest.
More adventurous hikers can tackle the Kolob Arch Trail, a strenuous 14-mile roundtrip hike that leads to one of the world's largest freestanding arches. This is a serious undertaking, best suited for experienced hikers with proper preparation and potentially an overnight permit if planning to backpack.
The Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive
+1As you drive, you'll witness the distinct parallel canyon formations that give Kolob its name. The sheer scale of the red rock walls is awe-inspiring, and the changing light throughout the day can dramatically alter the scenery. Many visitors find this drive to be a peaceful and visually rewarding experience, a stark contrast to the busier main canyon of Zion.
+1Don't rush this drive. Take your time to stop at each overlook, read the interpretive signs, and simply soak in the immense beauty. It's a chance to connect with the raw, natural power of the desert landscape in a more intimate setting.
Planning Your Visit: Logistics and Tips
+1When visiting, it's advisable to stop at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center first. The rangers there are a wealth of knowledge, providing up-to-date information on trail conditions, weather, and any potential closures. They can also offer personalized recommendations based on your interests and fitness level.
Remember that services are limited in Kolob Canyons. There are no restaurants or extensive facilities, so be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and any other essentials you might need for your visit. Cell service can also be spotty, so downloading offline maps is a good idea.
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