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Zion National Park Facts & Worksheets

Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah, USA. It is known for its stunning red rock canyons, towering cliffs, and diverse wildlife.

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Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah, USA. It is known for its stunning red rock canyons, towering cliffs, and diverse wildlife. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Key attractions include the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Angels Landing, the Narrows, and Emerald Pools.

See the fact file below for more information on Zion National Park, or you can download our 28-page Zion National Park worksheet pack to utilize within the classroom or home environment.

Key Facts & Information

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

  • Zion National Park has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area has been inhabited by various Native American groups for over 8,000 years, including the Ancestral Puebloans, Southern Paiute, and Kaibab Paiute tribes. 
  • These indigenous peoples left behind evidence of their presence in the form of rock art, artifacts, and dwellings.
  • In the mid-19th century, European American settlers began exploring and settling in the area. Mormon pioneers established communities nearby, and in 1858, Isaac Behunin named the area “Zion,” inspired by the Bible.
  • The exploration and appreciation of the natural beauty of Zion gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Artists, writers, and photographers, including Frederick S. Dellenbaugh and John Wesley Powell, brought attention to the area’s unique landscape and its stunning canyons.
  • Efforts to preserve the region began in the early 20th century. In 1909, President William Howard Taft designated Mukuntuweap National Monument to protect the area. In 1919, the monument’s name was changed to Zion National Park to reflect its biblical significance.

GEOLOGY OF ZION NATIONAL PARK

  • Around 250 million years ago, Zion National Park was part of a vast desert plain near the equator. Over time, layers of sand, mud, and other sediments were deposited, which eventually turned into rock formations. These sedimentary rocks, such as sandstone, shale, and limestone, are prevalent in the park today.
  • Approximately 75 million years ago, the region experienced uplifting and tectonic forces that uplifted the Colorado Plateau. This uplift exposed the layers of sedimentary rocks, creating the dramatic cliffs and canyons that define Zion National Park.
  • Around 15 million years ago, volcanic activity in the area resulted in the eruption of lava and the formation of volcanic rocks, including basalt. These volcanic rocks can be seen in certain areas of the park, such as the Checkerboard Mesa.
  • The Virgin River, which flows through the park, has played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of Zion. Over millions of years, the river has carved deep and narrow canyons, known as slot canyons, through the layers of rock. 
  • Nine recognized exposed Formations are covered by the geology of this park. The great staircase is a result of the rocks’ continuous erosion, tilting, and elevation throughout time. 
  • Between Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon, vivid cliffs extend. The Grand Canyon forms the upper layer of Zion, and Bryce Canyon forms the bottom layer.
  • The striking sandstone cliffs and rock formations found in Zion National Park are primarily attributed to the geologic processes of erosion and weathering. 
  • The combined forces of water, wind, freezing and thawing cycles, and the movement of sediment have sculpted the stunning and varied landscapes within the park.

ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES OF ZION NATIONAL PARK

  • Due to early civilization way back 10,000 years, there are different archaeological sites found throughout Zion. From cave paintings to granaries, several signs indicate this park was a home far before Europeans arrived.
  • One such site is the Archeology Trail, where visitors can observe petroglyphs left by the Native American tribes who once inhabited the area. These rock carvings depict various symbols and figures, offering a glimpse into their cultural and spiritual beliefs. 
  • Another site is the Anasazi Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the Ancestral Puebloans who lived in the region centuries ago. These archaeological sites contribute to the park’s cultural heritage and offer visitors a chance to connect with its past.

ACTIVITIES IN ZION NATIONAL PARK

  • Backpacking: Travel carrying one’s belonging in a backpack.
  • Wilderness Day Hikes: A short hike that can be completed in a single day.
  • The Narrows: This Zion Park’s narrowest section requires a hike along Virgin River.
  • Stock Use: Usually, horses have been used to explore the park, though dogs, goats, camels, and llamas are also used. Stock animals are also allowed, like burros and mules.
  • Canyoneering: It is the ultimate activity since it incorporates trekking, swimming, rappelling, and route mapping. However, in the park, this type of activity requires a wilderness permit. Regulations and rules must be followed.
  • The Subway: The two ways to go through this trail are the Bottom-up hike and the Top-down Canyoneering route. Both require a wilderness permit.
  • Rock Climbing: Climbing on rocky cliffs. 
  • River Trips: This kind of activity requires a wilderness permit, along with the use of all kinds of watercraft. 

TRAILS IN ZION NATIONAL PARK

  • Emerald Pool (Easy): This is the Historic Zion Lodge that may lead hikers into three different mini pools. But swimming in the pools is prohibited to protect the natural ecosystem.
  • Zion Canyon Overlook Trail  (Easy to moderate): This trail is ideal for a first-time hiker and park visitor because it is short and follows rocky ridges without any technical difficulties. This route is quite beautiful.
  • Taylor Creek Trail (Easy to Moderate): Located in the Kolob Canyon region. Due to its elevation, the temperature becomes cooler. The end of this trail is the breathtaking Double Arch Alcove.
  • Watchman Trail (Moderate): For those looking for a beautiful sunset hike, this stroll is perfect. This trek gives a breathtaking view of the towering cliffs and natural rock formations. It is located close to the main canyon.
  • The Narrows (Moderate to strenuous): If you are looking for a great workout, this trail is perfect for you. There might not be many walkers on this trail. As it goes beneath the walls made of Narvajo sandstone, the hike can take two to three hours. By using this route, you may go close to the North Fork of the Virgin River, where the water may be waist-deep.
  • Hidden Canyon Trail (Strenuous and Challenging): This trail may require endurance throughout as it is quite challenging. This trek features sandy switchbacks and an upward ascent. This route ends at the canyon itself; more exploration is possible but may involve unstable terrain.
  • Observation point (Moderate to Strenuous): This trail will give you stunning views. This trail is another good option if you are looking for a great workout because this 7-mile round-trip hike will take you to over 2000 feet of elevation.
  • Angel’s Landing (Strenuous and Challenging): They call it Zion’s most iconic path. You’ll travel just 2.4 miles to reach a height of more than 1,500 feet. A stunning cliff view can be seen in the final half-mile section, which is like a knife-edge ridge. You will have a 360-degree view as soon as you reach the peak.

Zion National Park Worksheets

This fantastic bundle includes everything you need to know about Zion National Park across 28 in-depth pages. These ready-to-use worksheets are perfect for teaching kids about Zion National Park. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Key attractions include the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Angels Landing, the Narrows, and Emerald Pools.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

  1. Zion National Park Facts
  2. The Land of Zion
  3. Test Your Knowledge
  4. Know Where to Hike!
  5. Figures: Zion National Park
  6. Zion’s Timeline
  7. Adventuring in Zion National Park
  8. The Weeping Rock
  9. Let’s Scale Them!
  10. Flora and Fauna
  11. Digesting Knowledge

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Zion National Park located?

Zion National Park is located in the southwestern United States, in the state of Utah. It is situated in the southwestern part of Utah and covers parts of Washington County and Kane County.

What are some popular attractions within Zion National Park?

Some popular attractions within Zion National Park include Angels Landing, a challenging hiking trail with breathtaking views; The Narrows, a hike through the narrowest section of the Zion Canyon with walls towering above you; Emerald Pools, a series of beautiful waterfalls and pools; and Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, a scenic road that offers stunning vistas of the canyon.

How do I get to Zion National Park?

Zion National Park can be accessed by car, shuttle, or private tour services. If you’re driving, the main entrance is located along State Route 9 in Springdale, Utah. The nearest major airports are Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (approximately 2.5 hours away) and Salt Lake City International Airport (approximately 4 hours away).

When is the best time to visit Zion National Park?

The best time to visit Zion National Park is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and the park’s natural beauty is at its peak. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter may have limited access due to snow and ice.

Are there camping opportunities within Zion National Park?

Yes, there are several campgrounds within Zion National Park. Some of the popular ones include South Campground and Watchman Campground. These campgrounds offer different levels of amenities and have varying levels of accessibility. It’s advisable to make reservations in advance, especially during the peak season, as camping spots can fill up quickly.

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Use With Any Curriculum

These worksheets have been specifically designed for use with any international curriculum. You can use these worksheets as-is, or edit them using Google Slides to make them more specific to your own student ability levels and curriculum standards.

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