As you surely already know from the camping article we wrote about Zion National Park, this is a location that is perfect for nature lovers. If you also enjoy biking besides nature, why not combine the two? Zion National Park gives you access to just that and the experience is much more impressive than you may believe.
Many believe that biking in Zion National Park is not that great because bikes are currently forbidden on most trails. Cross country biking is actually completely prohibited. However, even with these things in mind, Zion National Park is still among the best bike friendly parks you could visit. There are some trails that are designed especially for biking, allowing you to have a great experience.
Pa’Rus Trail
This bike trail is short, just under 2 miles. It runs along Virgin River, starting at the south entrance of the park in South Campground. It takes you up to Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (more on that below). This bike trail covers various creeks and rivers, with really good views of West Temple, Sentinel, Watchman and some lower canyon formations. You will be happy to know that the trail is completely open to cyclists and paved but it is also open to pets on leashes, pedestrians and wheelchairs. Make sure you are cautious.
Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
During the months of April to October, this is a trail that is open, going beyond the intersection between Mt. Carmel Highway and Zion, for practically anyone except private motor vehicles. Only the motorists with a reservation at the Zion Lodge can use it. Given the fact that the drive is open to cyclists and hikers, this is when you want to visit. However, shuttle busses can also pass so attention needs to be paid to cars once in a while. You can also ride the bikes on various other park roads so you have to ask. The Zion to Mt. Carmel Tunnel does not allow bicycles.
Mountain Biking
Except the above mentioned Pa’Rus Trail, mountain biking is not allowed in Zion National Park. However, outside the park, usually on state owned property, you can take advantage of the numerous jeep trails that are rugged and quite great for those that enjoy mountain biking. In addition, you have around 100 miles of cross country slickrock trails together with single track trails. The best possible destination for mountain biking is Gooseberry Mesa. You can also consider the Grafton Mesa trails.
