Zion National Park Gearing Up For Summer Season

With winter's grip loosening on southern Utah, additional visitor facilities are opening for the summer at Zion National Park.

The Zion Human History Museum reopens today. Hours of operation are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. The museum highlights the interaction of humans with the natural resources of Zion Canyon. The park's 22-minute orientation film is shown in the museum auditorium by request on the hour and half hour from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Rotating art exhibits, books, and other items of interest can be found at the museum bookstore operated by the Zion Natural History Association, the park's non-profit partner.

South Campground also reopens today. South Campground's 127 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Watchman Campground, which is open for the winter on a first-come, first-served basis, will require reservations beginning March 5. Reservations for Watchman Campground can be made by calling 877-444-6777 or visiting www.recreation.gov.

Canyon Trail Rides, the park horse concession operator, will offer one and three-hour guided horse trips on the Sand Bench Trail starting Saturday, March 12. For more information or to make a reservation, call 435-679-8665 or visit www.canyonrides.com.

The Zion Canyon Visitor Center and Kolob Canyons Visitor Center are open year-round. Current operating hours for the Zion Canyon Visitor Center are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. The Kolob Canyons Visitor Center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Both visitor centers offer park information, backcountry permits, and bookstores.