Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive

Overview

Kolob Canyons is Zion’s quieter western district, accessed directly off I‑15 at Exit 40. The 5‑mile Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive winds past crimson, parallel box canyons and 2,000‑foot Navajo Sandstone walls—big views with none of the main canyon frenzy. Expect frequent pullouts for photos and direct access to a handful of standout hikes.

Getting There & Logistics

You’ll check in at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center to show your pass or pay the standard Zion entrance fee. There’s no shuttle here; you drive your own vehicle. The road climbs a bit over 1,000 feet to Kolob Canyons Viewpoint, where you’ll find vault toilets and a picnic area. Flush restrooms are at the visitor center; additional vault toilets sit at trailheads like Taylor Creek and South Fork.

Highlights Along the Drive

• Timber Creek Overlook Trail: 1.1 miles round trip from the end of the road to a wide-open panorama—especially lovely at sunset.
• Taylor Creek (Middle Fork): About 5 miles round trip along a shady creek to historic cabins and a double-arch alcove.
• Lee Pass to Kolob Arch (via La Verkin Creek): A strenuous ~14‑mile outing to one of the park’s largest arches; popular as a backpack with designated campsites (permit required).

Best Time to Visit & Photography

The district is open year‑round, but spring and fall are prime; October often brings ideal temps and fall color. Winter storms can shut the road temporarily. For photos, many cliffs face west—plan for afternoon light or sunset to avoid morning shadows. Parking at overlooks can tighten around midday and on weekends.

Conditions, Wilderness Rules, and Permits

Road closures can occur due to snow, ice, or rockfall; pedestrians are prohibited during plowing. Always check current conditions before you go. Kolob Canyons is designated Wilderness: affiliated groups over 12 are restricted to hiking only the Timber Creek Overlook Trail. There are no front‑country campgrounds here; backcountry sites along routes like La Verkin Creek require permits. Wilderness permits are not issued at the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center—get them at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.

Time Needed

• Scenic drive with photo stops: 45–90 minutes.
• Add Timber Creek Overlook: +30–60 minutes.
• Add Taylor Creek (Middle Fork): +2.5–4 hours.
• Full day/overnight: La Verkin Creek to Kolob Arch.

Don’t Mix It Up

Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive is different from Kolob Terrace Road (near Virgin, UT). Terrace Road is a separate, non‑fee route with its own trailheads and character; make sure you’re navigating to I‑15 Exit 40 for this drive.