Spring Into the National Parks

Conditions are perfect right now for hiking many of the trails in Utah's national park country. I know because I hiked in Zion Park last weekend, exploring a scenic area in the park's backcountry.

Air temperatures are mild, warm but not hot, perfect for hiking. Wild flowers are budding, trees are greening up and wildlife can be seen everywhere.

I hiked to Kolob Arch, which is a spectacular rock span located about 6.2 miles from the Lees Pass Trailhead in Zion's Kolob Canyons section. I did it as a day hike and really enjoyed the route, which passes through classic Zion Park scenery. The trail is well marked and relatively level, with no difficult obstacles, but the out-and-back hike is rated as intense because of the distance.

Kolob Arch is also a popular destination for people who want to do an overnight backpack trip.

This is the perfect season for Kolob Arch and dozens of other national park hikes and drives. Below is a short list of some of my favorites.

• Dark Angel in Arches National Park
• Upheaval Dome in Canyonlands
• Cathedral Valley in Capitol Reef
• Spooky Gulch in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

Need more info on these places, and how to get to them? Well, glad you asked...

Utah.com has published a new edition of its popular Canyon Country National Park Map & Guide. Several of us worked to produce it, pooling our knowledge to create a detailed map that highlights the area's best attractions. The map shows roads and many trails, and includes photos and descriptions of the attractions.

It was a fun map to build. We love this area and, together, we have spent decades hiking its trails and searching out its hidden treasures. We're excited to share our knowledge with others.

The map has been well received - many people tell us it is simply the best resource available if you are planning a national park trip. That's gratifying.

This video describes the map and we've set up this website to provide more information about it. You can buy the map online and it is also sold in many gift shops and convenience stores throughout the national park country.

Get a copy of the map and join me on the trails - I hike almost every weekend.

Best of luck on your adventures.

- Dave Webb

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