Pa’rusHiking Difficulty
Easy
Length
1.75 mi
Trail Traffic
Light
Route Type
Out and Back
Highlights
Trail Surface
Paved
Accessibility
Bathrooms Available
Suitability
Recommended Use
Hiking
Description
A beautiful little paved trail, the Pa’rus trail is a lesser known (and less trafficked) trail in Zion’s Canyon. You’ll meander through vegetation for 1.8 miles as you follow the Virgin River from Canyon Junction to the Visitor Center, which makes the trail very fitting for its name. After all, in Paiute, “Pa’rus” means “bubbling, tumbling water.”
Popular for bikers, and free from noise and heavy traffic, not only is the Pa’rus Trail is wide enough to accomodate bikes, wheelchairs, and strollers, it’s one of the few places you can bring your dog. The trail also connects the Visitor Center to the Museum, the ranger station, park offices, campgrounds and other sites. In fact, some enjoy it as an alternative way to get around without waiting for a shuttle or dealing with the crowds.
As you stroll along, enjoy views of the Watchmen, the Sentinel, and the highest point in Zion’s main section, the West Temple. Note that while the scenery is very pleasant, with several bridges and various types of vibrant plants and flowers, much of the trail is exposed to the sun, so it’s best to avoid mid-afternoon. And for bikers, riding that Pa’rus trail is preferred to riding the road to Canyon Junction when headed back to the Visitor’s Center.
Pictures
