Pa'rus Trail

The Pa’rus Trail in Zion National Park is a paved, ADA accessible pathway that runs along the Virgin River and offers great views for minimal physical effort. Although most wouldn’t consider it a “destination hike”, the Pa’rus Trail is still quite scenic, perfect for families, and is also the only multi-use trail in the park being open to bikes and pets on leash.

The trail is best began at the visitor center, where water and restrooms are available. Follow the signs across the bridge and to the Pa’rus Trail. From here the pathway meanders alongside the Virgin River for the entirety of its length. Pa’rus is actually Paiute for “the river” - so this trail is quite appropriately named.

On the left during this first stretch of trail is the South Campground. A recent small fire burned through here and you’ll see evidence of the damage. Continuing onward, the trail will cross the Virgin several times via picturesque footbridges. At one point you’ll notice a small cascade along the river. This is actually not a natural cascade, rather the result of a diversion dam that shunts part of the river’s flow to the town of Springdale.

Near the end of the trail you’ll pass by some trees that provide a bit of shade, and ultimately underneath the Highway 9 Bridge to the end of the trail at a shuttle bus stop. This is your turn around point - follow the trail back the way you came to the visitor center, or (if the shuttle busses are running), catch a bus back to cut this hike’s distance in half.