Welcome back to National Parks and other public lands with T!

We drove from Las Vegas to the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park, about an hour northwest of the main entrance. This quieter end of the park felt like a hidden gem. A single paved road winds five miles through the red rock landscape, offering scenic overlooks at every turn.

At the end of the road, we parked and set out on the Timber Creek Overlook Trail. This short ridge hike offered a perfect introduction to Zion. The trail stretched just half a mile to the top, with an elevation gain of about 100 feet. It was enough to stretch our legs after the long drive from Vegas.

The steady climb felt moderate, though the higher elevation had me huffing and puffing at times. I welcomed every excuse to pause and take photos. Each stop revealed a more stunning view than the last—Kolob’s red rock canyons to one side and the snow-covered Pine Valley Mountains to the other.

The contrast between the warm red sandstone and the cool white peaks was breathtaking. The trail had a few other hikers, but it never felt crowded. We could still enjoy the sounds of nature and the peaceful views in every direction.

Since the Timber Creek Overlook Trail isn’t a loop, we retraced our steps back down the same half mile. The return hike was easier and just as beautiful. It was a wonderful way to begin our time in Zion National Park—simple, scenic, and full of anticipation for what lay ahead.

Zion Park Posts➤

• Kolob Canyons Section
• Zion National Park
• Kolob Canyon 5-mile Drive
• Timber Creek Overlook Trail
• Emerald Pools
• Canyoneering
• Hidden Canyon
• Scout Lookout
• Angel’s Landing
• Pa’Rus Trail

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Location: 3752 E Kolob Canyon Rd, New Harmony, Utah
Designation: National Park
Date designated/established: November 19, 1919
Date of my visit: April 9, 2017