Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel

The Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel is a 1.1-mile vehicle tunnel through Navajo Sandstone, linking Zion Canyon with the park’s east side. It’s a distinctive part of the drive, but you can’t stop inside. Passengers may catch quick canyon glimpses through its side galleries; treat it as a moving landmark, not an overlook. The Canyon Overlook Trail starts just east, but it’s a separate hike and stop.

If you’re driving a large RV or towing, check the current NPS vehicle limits before taking UT-9. The size and weight restrictions cover the whole stretch between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance, because of the tight curves, tunnel clearance and bridge limits.

The openings are construction galleries, not lookout bays. Crews cut them into the cliff to reach the tunnel face, clear blasted rock, and bring in light and ventilation. Today those openings frame quick views into Zion Canyon as vehicles pass.

The 25-mile Zion–Mount Carmel Highway and tunnel were built from 1927 to 1930 to carry drivers from the main canyon up Pine Creek Canyon and through the cliffs to the eastern plateau. The full project cost $1,896,000 and opened on July 3, 1930, turning the tunnel into the key link on the park’s east–west drive.

In 1958, a sandstone pillar collapsed near Gallery #3, damaging the opening and sending debris into the tunnel. The route was closed for several weeks. The area is now monitored electronically around the clock for possible rockfall.