#1 - National Park!

Court of the Patriarchs - Zion National Park

Trip advisor recently published rankings for the best national parks in the United States.   Zion National Park not only made the top-ten but was top-of-the-list.

Waterfalls appear in Zion during spring and during rainstorms.

Here’s what trip-advisor had to say about Zion National Park.  “The stunning red monoliths and canyons of the park invite visitors to explore its beauty by camping, biking, touring by car, hiking and more.   Adventurous travelers can embark on the exciting Angel’s Landing hike and the views make the daring climb well worth it. “   Speaking of Angel’s Landing,  Trip Advisor also qu0ted a park visitor as follows, “It’s the best view in the entire park, and best hike I have ever done!  Do not miss it!”

Michele Perry, vice president of global communications for Trip Advisor had this to say about travel in 2009.  “As Americans look for inexpensive travel ideas this summer, many are seeking out the amazing natural beauty that lies in our country’s own back yard.  National Parks can offer travelers an active, affordable and often awe-inspiring escape outdoors.”

Zion is 30 miles in length and over 15 miles across at its widest point.   Elevations in  the park range from 4,000 feet on the valley floor to over 8,700 feet at the highest point.    Zion is one of the most easily accessed national parks with roads that traverse the valley floor and others that bring travelers close to scenic overlooks.   April through October there is a very convenient shuttle-system that transports visitors into the main canyon.    In other words you can experience the park without ever leaving a vehicle, but visitors also have myriad options for easy and moderate walking/hiking trails.   For those with a passion for a little more adventure, there are breath-taking rewards on trails such as Angel’s Landing and Observation Point.  

View of the Valley Floor mid-point on the Angel's Landing Trail.

The world-famous Zion Narrows is accessible to those with a willingness to walk in the shallows of the Virgin River.   If desired, local outfitters can provide water-shoes and other gear for hiking in this slot canyon.   Zion National Park has two major entrance points, on the southwest and east side of the park.    Visitors to Zion National Park will find great lodging, dining and other services in the towns of Springdale, Hurricane and St. George, Utah.   Visit www.AtoZion.com to learn more about planning a trip to Zion National Park.  

For more details on this story from Trip Advisor - click here:Â
http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/tripadvisor/37961/