Zion National Park's East Side: Exciting Developments You Can't Miss
Entering Zion National Park from it's East Entrance
Zion National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, from towering cliffs to deep, narrow canyons. While many visitors flock to the southern section of the park, there’s a hidden gem that’s rapidly gaining popularity—East Zion. Known for its untamed wilderness and breathtaking scenery, East Zion National Park is becoming a hub for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore beyond the main canyon. This area is not only home to some of Zion's most famous trails and landmarks but is also undergoing significant development to enhance visitor experience and access to the park’s lesser-known eastern side.
East Zion National Park’s Hidden Treasures
East Zion offers a unique perspective on the park's beauty, away from the more crowded southern entrance. It's the gateway to some of the park’s most iconic spots, such as Chamberlain’s Ranch, the starting point for the renowned "Top-Down" hike through the Narrows. This part of Zion is also currently the only way to access the East Rim Trail, which leads to Observation Point—a vantage point that rivals Angel’s Landing but without the same level of crowds. These trails provide an unparalleled opportunity to experience Zion's majestic landscape in a more serene and secluded setting.
Additionally, the construction of the new East Zion Visitor Center, developed in collaboration between the Zion NPS, Kane County, and Zion Forever Project, is a testament to the growing popularity and development of this area. This visitor center aims to provide more facilities and resources for those exploring the east side, making it a perfect starting point for adventures in this less-traveled region of the park.
The Applecross Mountain Bike Trail System
One of the most exciting developments in East Zion is the newly completed Applecross Mountain Bike Trail System. This trail network, located just a quarter-mile onto North Fork County Road in Orderville, is designed to immerse riders in the natural beauty of Zion. Surrounded by pinyons, pines, and junipers, the trail offers a thrilling ride through a diverse landscape.
The Zion National Park Forever Project, in partnership with the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation and local businesses like Zion Cycles, spearheaded this project to enhance recreational opportunities and promote sustainable tourism. The Applecross Trail System is part of a three-phase initiative, with phase two recently completed. This phase added several miles of new trails, catering to mountain bikers of all skill levels. Whether you're an experienced rider seeking a challenging route or a beginner looking for a scenic ride, the Applecross trails provide an ideal setting.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony for phase two was a vibrant event that just happened this past July, attended by professional mountain bikers like Tyler McCaul and Jaxson Riddle, local officials, and members of the community. This celebration marked not just the opening of new trails but also the positive impact these developments have on the local economy and community spirit.
📸 by Shuntavi
Owners Scott & Heidi Attend Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
📸 by Shuntavi
The Thrills and Skills Mountain Bike Festival in Kanab
As the popularity of East Zion grows, nearby towns are joining in on the excitement. Kanab, located just 20 minutes away from the Applecross Trail System, is hosting its first-ever mountain bike festival, aptly named "Thrills and Skills." Scheduled to run from Friday, September 13th, through Sunday, September 15th, 2024, the festival is set to be a highlight of the mountain biking season.
The event, organized by the town of Kanab and the Kane County Tourism Board, promises a weekend filled with activities for all ages and skill levels. There will be local vendors, clinics for beginner and advanced riders, guided rides through some of the area’s best trails, and much more. For families, there are kids' bike games and Strider races, ensuring even the youngest riders can join in the fun.
Adults can look forward to sunset group rides, mountain bike movies under the stars, trivia contests, and live music. A beer garden will provide a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, while vendors offer the latest in biking apparel and outdoor gear. Attendees will also have the chance to test out new bikes, with demo models available for rent and trial rides. You can register for the event online at skillsandthrills.com.
Trills and Skills Events and Clinic List:
Trail Building Clinic
Youth New Rider Clinic
Tire Repair Clinic
Bike Maintenance Clinic
Bunny Hop and Wheelie Clinic
MTB Movie Presentation
Live Music by Moonsoon Fever
Guided and Skilled Rides
Sustainable Tourism and Community Growth
The developments in East Zion are not just about creating more recreational opportunities; they are also focused on promoting sustainable tourism and supporting local communities and teams like the Flying Tigers. The collaboration between organizations like the Zion Forever Project, local businesses, and the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation demonstrates a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Zion while enhancing the visitor experience.
Owners Scott and Heidi with the Flying Tigers MTB Team. 📸 by Shuntavi
The growth of East Zion as a destination also brings economic benefits to nearby towns like Kanab and Orderville. Local businesses are seeing increased traffic from visitors eager to explore new trails and experiences, and events like the Thrills and Skills Mountain Bike Festival highlight the strong community spirit that defines this region.
Planning Your Visit to East Zion
Experience the breathtaking views of Applecross with Zion Cycles—let us guide you there! 📸 by Shuntavi
With all the exciting developments happening in East Zion, now is the perfect time to plan your visit. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor, the east side of Zion offers something for everyone. From the thrilling new mountain bike trails at Applecross to the serene beauty of Observation Point and the Narrows, East Zion provides a unique and unforgettable experience.
To fully immerse yourself in the adventure, consider renting a mountain bike at our East Side location at Clear Creek Ranch. With a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, you'll be able to explore the rugged beauty of East Zion at your own pace. RENT AND BOOK TOURS HERE.
If hiking is more your style, don't miss out on a journey through the Narrows starting from Chamberlain's Ranch. Our shuttle service makes getting to the trailhead hassle-free, so you can focus on the incredible scenery and experience of one of Zion's most famous hikes. Chamberlain’s Ranch Shuttle.
With the planned new visitor center and expanded trail systems, it's easier than ever to access this beautiful area and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Avoid the crowds and embrace the tranquility of East Zion for a more intimate encounter with one of America's most beloved national parks.
Whether you're biking, hiking, or simply soaking in the views, East Zion is ready to welcome you with open arms. Start planning your adventure today and be among the first to experience the new and exciting opportunities that await on the east side of Zion National Park.
