Kolob Terrace Road
Zion's serene Kolob Terrace Road offers breathtaking, uncrowded scenic drives, challenging cycling, and unique hikes, revealing the park's quieter bea...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Mild temps, fewer crowds
Kolob Terrace Road
Best Time
Mild temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Zion's serene Kolob Terrace Road offers breathtaking, uncrowded scenic drives, challenging cycling, and unique hikes, revealing the park's quieter beauty.
"A hidden gem of Zion National Park, offering spectacular views and peaceful drives away from the crowds."
🚗 Drive the Scenic Route
Enjoy the peaceful Kolob Terrace Road scenic drive for breathtaking, less-crowded views of Zion.
🚴 Cyclist's Paradise
Experience challenging climbs and epic descents on Kolob Terrace Road. Perfect for road biking enthusiasts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lava Point Overlook
End of Kolob Terrace Road
Panoramic views from Zion's highest accessible point. Witness vast desert landscapes and the park's dramatic geology.
Kolob Reservoir
Along Kolob Terrace Road
A tranquil spot for reflection or a picnic, surrounded by towering red rock formations. Offers a peaceful contrast to the park's busier areas.
Scenic Drive Views
Entire Kolob Terrace Road
Experience Zion's diverse scenery, from red rock canyons to alpine meadows. A truly varied and peaceful journey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds: Kolob's Serene Beauty
+1Plan for Elevation & Weather
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive the Scenic Route
Enjoy the peaceful Kolob Terrace Road scenic drive for breathtaking, less-crowded views of Zion.
🚴 Cyclist's Paradise
Experience challenging climbs and epic descents on Kolob Terrace Road. Perfect for road biking enthusiasts.
🥾 Hike Beyond the Road
Explore trails like Hop Valley (check closures) for a deeper immersion into Kolob's unique landscapes.
🦕 Dinosaur Track Hunt
Seek out ancient dinosaur tracks just outside Zion off Kolob Terrace Road. Directions are key!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive the Scenic Route
Enjoy the peaceful Kolob Terrace Road scenic drive for breathtaking, less-crowded views of Zion.
🚴 Cyclist's Paradise
Experience challenging climbs and epic descents on Kolob Terrace Road. Perfect for road biking enthusiasts.
🥾 Hike Beyond the Road
Explore trails like Hop Valley (check closures) for a deeper immersion into Kolob's unique landscapes.
🦕 Dinosaur Track Hunt
Seek out ancient dinosaur tracks just outside Zion off Kolob Terrace Road. Directions are key!
⬆️ Prepare for Elevation
Lava Point is over 8,200 ft. Bring layers as temperatures can change rapidly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kolob Terrace Road for its stunning, less-crowded scenery and peaceful atmosphere, calling it a 'hidden gem' of Zion. The scenic drive and opportunities for cycling are major highlights, though some note the need for preparedness regarding elevation and potential weather changes.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kolob Terrace Road is accessed from the north end of Zion National Park, off I-15. Take Exit 40 and follow signs for Kolob Canyons Road, which leads to the Kolob Terrace Road. It's a separate entrance from the main Zion Canyon.
Yes, Kolob Terrace Road is a paved scenic drive, making it accessible for most vehicles. However, conditions can vary, especially at higher elevations.
Driving the Kolob Terrace Road scenic drive is the primary way to experience it. You can stop at various viewpoints and trailheads along the way.
Unlike the main Zion Canyon, there are no shuttle buses on Kolob Terrace Road. You'll need your own vehicle to explore.
Generally, yes. The road is paved and suitable for standard vehicles. However, always check current road conditions, especially during winter or after heavy rain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Kolob Terrace Road is part of Zion National Park, so a valid Zion National Park entrance pass is required.
The entrance fee is for Zion National Park as a whole. There are no separate fees specifically for the Kolob Canyons area or Kolob Terrace Road.
Kolob Terrace Road is generally open year-round, but it can be subject to closures due to weather, especially snow and ice at higher elevations. Always check the official Zion NPS website for current conditions.
No timed entry reservations are required for Kolob Terrace Road itself, unlike some areas of the main Zion Canyon during peak season.
Yes, Kolob Terrace Road can close due to snow, ice, or other hazardous weather conditions, particularly in winter. Wildfires can also cause temporary closures.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular hikes include the Hop Valley Trail (check for closures due to wildfires) and trails leading to Lava Point. The Kolob Arch trail is also accessible from this area.
Absolutely! The entire Kolob Terrace Road scenic drive offers numerous pull-offs with stunning views. Lava Point provides the most expansive panorama.
You might spot deer, various bird species, and other desert wildlife. Keep a safe distance and never feed the animals.
Yes, it's a photographer's dream! The changing light on the red rocks, diverse landscapes, and fewer crowds make for incredible shots.
Lava Point offers breathtaking panoramic views of Zion National Park and the surrounding landscape. It's a great spot for photos and quiet contemplation.
🎫 🚴 Cycling & Activities
Yes, Kolob Terrace Road is a popular route for road cyclists, offering challenging climbs and spectacular scenery.
Cyclists often report rides of around 48 miles with significant elevation gain, over 5,600 feet, making it a strenuous but rewarding ride.
Indeed! Unmarked dinosaur tracks can be found off Kolob Terrace Road, requiring a short drive on Smith Mesa Road.
The Kolob Reservoir is located along the road and offers a peaceful setting, though organized water activities are limited.
The Kolob Terrace Fire was a wildfire in Hop Valley, Zion National Park, started by lightning. While it impacted trails, Kolob Terrace Road itself remained open.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While extensive hiking might be challenging for very young children, shorter walks from viewpoints are possible. The dinosaur tracks offer an exciting element of discovery that can captivate kids, provided you have clear directions. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as services are limited along this route.
🚴 Road Cyclists
+1Expect a less crowded experience than many other popular cycling routes, allowing for a more focused and enjoyable ride. The varied terrain, from canyon floors to higher elevations, provides a dynamic cycling experience. Be prepared for potential weather changes and carry all necessary repair kits and hydration.
📸 Photographers
+2The serene atmosphere and fewer crowds mean you can take your time composing shots without feeling rushed. Autumn brings vibrant colors, while the stark beauty of winter can also be compelling. Don't forget to explore the unique geological features and potential wildlife sightings for added photographic interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Kolob Terrace Road Scenic Drive
As you drive, you'll encounter stunning sandstone cliffs, sparkling reservoirs, and, in autumn, golden aspens. The drive culminates at Lava Point, Zion's highest accessible point, offering breathtaking, expansive views. This road is ideal for those seeking a more serene and less crowded Zion experience, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the park's natural beauty.
Key Takeaways for the Scenic Drive:
* Accessibility: Fully paved and suitable for most vehicles.
* Scenery: Diverse, from canyons to meadows.
* Crowds: Significantly fewer than the main Zion Canyon.
* Highlights: Lava Point, Kolob Reservoir, numerous viewpoints.
+2Cycling Adventures on Kolob Terrace Road
+1The panoramic views are a major draw, with cyclists experiencing the dramatic geological formations of Zion from a unique vantage point. The relative lack of traffic compared to other popular cycling routes adds to the appeal, allowing for a more immersive and focused ride. Many cycling groups and individuals have shared their experiences, highlighting the epic climbs and thrilling descents.
Cycling Tips for Kolob Terrace Road:
* Fitness: Be prepared for a strenuous climb.
* Gear: Ensure your bike is in excellent condition.
* Hydration: Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
* Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and any potential vehicle traffic.
+1Exploring Beyond the Pavement: Hikes & Tracks
For a truly unique discovery, keep an eye out for unmarked dinosaur tracks located just outside the national park boundary, accessible via a turn-off from Kolob Terrace Road onto Smith Mesa Road. Finding these ancient footprints requires careful attention to directions and landmarks.
Key Exploration Points:
* Hop Valley Trail: Offers backcountry hiking (check for closures).
* Dinosaur Tracks: A unique off-road discovery (requires specific directions).
* Trail Conditions: Always verify trail status before heading out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit