Kolob Canyons

I love it when I discover a new hiking treasure!  I found one this weekend in Kolob Canyons located just off I-15 a mere 17 miles south of Cedar City.   The trail we took was called Middle Fork of Taylor Creek and led to Double Arch Alcove.  Kolob is Morman lingo for the place where God lives.  The name aptly applies to this extremely beautiful and often overlooked area of Zion National Park.  Because Kolob Canyons is part of Zion NP you will be required to pay the entrance fee of $25 per car.  The entrance fee is good for 7 days so make sure to include Kolob in your next trip to Zion!

Taylor Creek Trail

Taylor Creek trail is a serene walk through a beautiful forested area to a double arch alcove,  a distance of 5 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of only 450 feet.  A perfect hike for the entire family!  You will cross the small stream which is Taylor Creek numerous times (too many to count) and you will pass two historic cabins built in the 1930s before reaching the final destination of Double Arch Alcove.  The scenery is breathtaking! 

 

This picture shows how small Taylor Creek is.

One of two cabins you will pass on the trail.

Double Arch Alcove

Once you finish your hike be sure to take the Kolob Canyons scenic drive of only 10 miles roundtrip for more gorgeous canyon views.

Wildflower of the Week

This bright red wildflower is called Eaton's Penstemon and was scattered all along the Taylor Creek trail.  I always thought this one was a honeysuckle, but not so.  Eaton's Penstemon is a member of the snap dragon family. 

CraZy Hiker Chicks Top 10 Reasons to Hike

#10 Hiking is an excellent cure for boredom.

#9 Hiking will strengthen your legs.  You may even notice calf muscles.

#8 On hiking trails you meet the most friendly people.  And even friendlier dogs. 

#7 Winter hiking allows you to escape the inversion in the valley and breathe CLEAN, FRESH AIR! 

#6 Hiking relieves stress, worry and anxiety - GUARANTEED!

#5 If you are lucky you will see a variety of wildlife on your hike.  Keep your eyes open!  And look around!

#4 Hiking will improve balance, coordination and bone density because you are walking on very uneven surfaces.

#3  Hiking increases feelings of well-being and lowers depression. 

#2  Hiking gives a greater appreciation for the beauty of our natural world.

******Miles hiked tally     

beginning March 22, 2013

47.8