Biking Down Zions National Park



Zions National Park is one of the most spectacular parks in the world.  Every year over 3 million people visit the park.  Zions National Park has many family friendly hikes as well as some extreme activities.  One of the best ways to view this amazing canyon is by riding down the canyon road on a bike.  In 1997 the park established a bus system that carries passengers up the canyon.   These buses also have bike racks on the front of the bus so you can take your bikes with you.  Each bus is equipted to carry three bikes.  There are nine stops along the bus route, and you can stop at any of them.  The most beautiful and safe area to ride down from is from the Pa'rus Trail bus stop.  The trail from here is off the main road, fully paved and very easy.  Even little kids with little biking experence will enjoy this paved trail.   Bikers travel under and over bridges and have some of the most amazing canyon views.





If you are looking for a longer ride you could start at Zions lodge and bike down from there.  This ride is for more experienced riders, ones who have an understanding of riding with traffic.  There is some traffic from the Zions Lodge, and you will need riders who understand staying out of the center of the road.  Buses do not pass bike riders, you will have to pull over and come to a complete stop for them to pass.  The ride from the Zions Lodge bus stop is beautiful, and you get views you won't get from the bus. 



Near Court of the Patriarchs




For the most amazing views, put your bikes on the bus and take shuttle bus all the way to the Temple of Sinawava.   Lock up your bikes at the top and take the short paved hike to the top of Temple of Sinawava.  The views are amazing and you won't regret taking this short very easy hike.  You may even want to pack some water shoes and let the kids play in the sand and water at the end of the hike. Stopping here and letting the kids play is a great way to break up the bike ride back down the canyon.  While traveling down from the top of Zions, you will have amazing views of the canyon.  Your views are completely unobstructed as you travel down on a bike. 

TIPS & TRICKS

• Review road safty BEFORE you travel down.  Make sure your kids understand what "Stay to the right" or "There's a car" means before you are on the road.
• Take water packs and make sure you drink.  It can get really hot on the road.
• Don't rush your trip.  Plan to spend time stopping and viewing the canyon.  Don't rush down the canyon.  If you are in a rush, take the bus.
• If your children get tired, don't push them too hard.  Just stop at the nearest bus stop and go back to the bottom or start back up again at Pa'rus Trail. 
• It is better not to ride in the heat of the day.  Bike early morning or in the afternoon. 
• If you want to go on one of the many hikes, don't forget a bike lock that can lock all the bikes up.  Many of the hike trail heads have metal bike racks. 
• You can take snacks or a picnic and make a stop at one of the areas and take a break.