Kolob Canyons Alcove, Zion UT
• 5-star hike
• 5 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 560 ft | Peak 6,010 ft
• Zion National Park | Southwest US
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The immense scale of Double Arch Alcove on Taylor Creek.
Located on the periphery and isolated from the rest of Zion National Park, Kolob Canyons offers some of the greatest views in the Park with much lighter crowds making it a well worth a visit. And as a bonus it's located directly of Interstate 15. Those that do visit will mainly focus on driving out and back on the Kolob Canyon Road scenic drive, but we can absolutely recommend a hike that will help you enjoy more views from deep within a canyon.
From Middle Fork Taylor Creek Trailhead, the path follows alongside then repeatedly crosses the small stream that is Taylor Creek. The trail ahead is sandy and rocky and although there are few bridge crossings to help you pass over the creek, the many stream crossings are unlikely to result in wet feet. Keep right at the junction where the creek forks around the towering red rocks of Tucupit Point, and continue along the trail with rock walls rising to both sides of you. More creek crossings await as you make your way up to the immense Double Arch Alcove.
| ⬤ 5★ Middle Fork Taylor Creek Trail
4.8 mi out & back, moderate, gain 560 ft GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX? |
| $ NPS entrance fee |
We visited on a day that featured a rainstorm mid way through our hike, swelling the banks of the creek and making the return trip a little more difficult. Experienced hikers will know the importance of checking the weather before entering a canyon as we had, because severe rains can result in flash flooding and dangerous conditions. Our short rainstorm did produce one surprising feature however - a waterfall from the top of the Double Arch Alcove!
We highly recommend this family friendly hike but note that despite the trail's remoteness from the rest of Zion National Park, you will still be required to pay the full park entry fee. Also, be aware that if the marked trailhead parking location is full, there a several more parking opportunities a little further east up the road.
⚠ Heat Safety Tips: Shade is extremely limited on this trail. Please stay safe in hot weather by checking the forecast and planning your activities to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Recognize the danger signs of heat illness and turn back whenever necessary. Wear lightweight, non-cotton clothing and a head covering. Apply sunblock and UV lip balm, and bring more water than you think you need, along with salt and electrolyte supplements.
External links:
Zion National Park website
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