Crowds and Parking Tough at Zion? Try These Southern Utah Hiking Alternatives

(I-TravelNewswire.Com, July 31, 2012 ) CEDAR CITY, Utah -- For the same gorgeous views as Zion, hiking enthusiasts can check out a variety of other paths that range from easy to moderate in difficulty.

Try the Bristlecone Walking Trail in Dixie National Forest. This out-and-back trail traverses through a strand of Spruce and Fir trees, terminating at a strand of ancient Bristlecone Pines. Backpackers will get excellent views of the back of Zion National Park and the north fork of the Virgin River.

Another trail system not to be missed is at Cedar Breaks National Monument. Cedar Breaks is a giant amphitheater high atop the Markagunt Plateau, over 2,500 feet deep and more than three miles across. With spectacular colors formed by an abundance of mineral deposits, Cedar Breaks National Monument is breathtaking to behold. Try the Alpine Pond Trail that weaves you through the monument’s wildflower fields to a surreal alpine grove and pond.

For something a little different, try canyoneering in Kanarra Creek Canyon. Kanarra Falls, as it’s also known, is located just outside the boundaries of Zion National Park, making it a more affordable and easy to access canyoneering spot that doesn’t require expensive gear, permits or park entry fees. At 3.5 miles round trip, Kanarra Creek’s slot canyon is much shorter than most canyoneering routes, and logs, ladders and ropes placed throughout the canyon allow even beginners and adventurous children to traverse the canyon’s most technical spots. Kannara Creek Canyon offers spectacular slot canyon scenery, including two gorgeous waterfalls, the year round flows of Kannara Creek, and smooth red rock canyon walls.

Visitors to the Southern Utah and Cedar City area can find a variety of hikes to suit their group on the Cedar City Brian Head Tourism Bureau’s website

http://www.scenicsouthernutah.com/outdoor_activities/hiking.shtml.

For more information, contact Bonnie Char at the tourism bureau at bchar@ironcounty.net or at (435)586-5127.

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Cedar City-Brian Head Tourism Bureau

Bonnie Char

435-586-5127

bchar@ironcounty.net

Source: EmailWire.Com