Comments on: Notes from Zion

By: Jim Stanger

Jim Stanger — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 01:10:13 +0000

Nice entry, Kyle! If you’re sleeping in the car I hope it was in the park. There are so many “no camping” signs in town I don’t want to know what happens if they catch you in a lot somewhere. That said, I enjoy Springdale a lot. As a veteran of the world of retail in my younger days I know how tough it is to cater to anyone and everyone. I have yet to meet a shop keeper or other resident that isn’t friendly and helpful.

If you’re camping at Zion the town is still very accessible. From the South Campgrounds walk over to the visitors center and simply catch a free shuttle into town. The shuttles operate pretty late and allow you to shop and feast after a great day of hiking.

My favorite eats in Springdale so far is the Pioneer Restaurant. You can get a nice steak and salad there for a good price. Also, as of a few months ago at least, the wi-fi is free.

As with any park entrance town, buy your batteries elsewhere or pay dearly.

By: Kelly King

Kelly King — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 13:52:13 +0000

Great post! My husband and I settled (for the moment) in southern Utah two years ago after living all over the United States. We are frequently asked by people from elsewhere how we ended up here, of all places. Our response is similiar to that of your fellow hiker. When we are at our wits’ end with the conservative climate, lack of good coffee shops and book stores, and lack of diversity, we simply drive 20 minutes up the mountain to take in a hike and the view of Cedar Breaks National Monument (amoung countless other views) … “oh yeah, that is why we live here!”

By: Alanna

Alanna — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 19:10:07 +0000

My sis just got back from Zion- a park I haven’t experienced yet but look forward to seeing someday soon. I did go to Salt Lake this year, however- those Mormons get crazy. See you soon Kyle!

By: Pat the Digital Vagabond

Pat the Digital Vagabond — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 18:44:44 +0000

Kyle, I suggest you dive into the heart of Mormonism and explore Mormon Square in Salt Lake City. But be warned, they are going to try to save your soul and make you tithe 10% of what ever you earn for ever.

By: Hal

Hal — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:21:50 +0000

I kinda drove through Zion by mistake on my way home to Texas once, but I WILL be back to do it proper. Great post.

By: joshywashington

joshywashington — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 20:11:41 +0000

Zion and Bryce Canyon are other worldly national parks. I was sad i couldn’t do the river walk when i was there in April…:(

can’t wait for more from you Kyle, great piece.

See you at Burning Man!!!

By: JoAnna

JoAnna — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 19:24:58 +0000

I’m so stoked you like Zion ~ it’s one of my favorite National Parks, and Angel’s Landing is one of the greatest hikes! Your experience of looking at Zion from the top of Angel’s Landing is the way I felt when I finally got into the Amphitheater in Bryce.

Cheers,
JoAnna

By: Jeff

Jeff — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:42:30 +0000

I loved Mean Beans as well – thought they had nice, strong espresso.

Zion is still my favorite National Park – nice post.

By: Megan Hill

Megan Hill — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:13:15 +0000

Zion remains one of my favorite places. If the Mean Bean’s still there, they have great green tea (and probably coffee) and raspberry scones. I went there three times. Great place to meet hikers and climbers getting ready for a day in the canyon.

By: Alan

Alan — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 17:53:08 +0000

Thanks for the story. If I visit some friend in Utah I’ll make sure to go check this out. It looks amazing.