Taylor Creek Trail Hike

Tho Kolob Canyon area of Zion National Park is often overlooked, especially by the harried traveler trying to see Bryce and Zion in a day or two. Given the easy access to this area of the park and the fact that the highlights can be covered in a half-day, this beautiful canyon area should not be missed if time permits.

One of the best moderate hikes in the Kolob Canyon area is the Taylor Creek Trail that leads to a magnificent double arch feature. The trail starts down to the creek level and then climbs easily along the creek, crossing it quite a few times. The canyon views grow increasingly close and majestic as the trail progresses. Several small cascades are found along the way, and mule deer are often spotted grazing along the creek. Just about 2.5 miles up the trail, the fantastic double arch, the key feature of this route, makes a great turnaround or lunch spot. Along the way the trail passes two well-preserved historic cabins from the 1930s.

NOTE: Photographers may want to time their hike so they reach the arches in late morning, when the sunlight is reflected off the opposite walls but has not yet hit the arch side to create excessive contrast. The color of the rock, especially contrasted with the green of the trees, makes a great shot, but make sure you have a wide-angle lens!