Family Friendly Hikes in Zion: South Fork of Taylor Creek Trail Hike in Zion National Park

Trail: South Fork of Taylor Creek in Zion National park

Location: Kolob Canyon in Zion National Park

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Distance: 2.4 miles round-trip

Average time: 2–4 hours

Total elevation: 500-feet

Family-friendly: Yes

Access

Take Interstate 15 to the Kolob Canyons exit (exit 40). Kolob Canyons is located in Zion National Park, so stop at the visitor center to show or purchase a pass. Drive 3.2 miles. A large parking lot is on the left after a hairpin turn to the right. (Special Note: Kolob Canyons Road is closed for repairs May through October 2018.)

The trail

Cross the road to find the trail to the left of the canyon. After a bit of hiking, the trail diverges into lower and upper trails. As they lead to the same destination, take one on the way in and the other on the way out so as to be sure not to miss the unique scenery offered by each one.

Initially, you will be hiking in the sun. Soon, the trail enters a shady, forested area where the trees offer cool picnic areas in a verdurous, Edenesque setting.

Pitted sandstone walls seem to touch the sky as you enter the narrow portion of the canyon. You may notice shiny bolts on the wall as this is a popular climbing spot. To fully experience the immensity of the wall, stand beneath it and look up. This is a great place to take pictures, but the walls near the end of the canyon offer a better perspective.

A dry fall marks the end of the trail, Turn around and head back.

As always, pack a camera, plenty of water, and snacks. Due to the elevation, late spring, summer, and early fall are the best times to do this hike.