River of Zion
The 162-mile-long Virgin River created Zion Canyon.
Plan Around River of Zion
A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.
Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
River of Zion Details
The 162-mile-long Virgin River created Zion Canyon and continues to carve it deeper into the Earth. The river usually seems placid, but spring runoff and rainstorms fill the waters with abrasive sandstone particles. Catastrophic floods can occur in the canyon where rain melts the snow at the river's headwaters, which lie less than 25 miles above the main canyon. Within the Zion Narrows, this flooding can be swift and deadly. Inside the park, the river is home to four healthy populations of native fish species. Willows and cottonwoods grow along its banks, where mule deer can be seen coming down for a twilight drink. The popular two-mile Riverside Walk is a great way to experience this lush riparian habitat.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
Region
Zion Canyon
Nearby Parks Around River of Zion
Compare nearby parks around River of Zion when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around River of Zion
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond River of Zion while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Pa'rus Trail
This easy, paved trail provides an excellent introduction to Zion.
0.1 mi away
Watchman Trail
Leads to a plateau near the base of The Watchman.
0.1 mi away
Watchman Trail
A classic sampling of Zion National Park scenery.
0.1 mi away
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
Shuttles are Out of Service
