Kolob Arch dayhike

Upon a recommendation from an old work colleague, my wife and I (plus a friend whose husband ended up being too sick to come) decided to embark on this hike from the less popular Kolob Canyons western entrance to Zion National Park. 14 miles round trip via the La Verkin Trail, with straightforward class 1 most of the way, until the final half-mile detour to the famous Arch, which involves some moderate class 2 up a scenic canyon. We picked mid-October as one of the best times to be out and about in the park, and we were not disappointed as the maturing leaves furnished us with a riot of fall colors, and the temperature was cool enough for us to maintain a brisk pace. There are many reservable backcountry campsites along the trail, a good half of which were unoccupied, which could prove ideal for a future outing (say, a backpack up to Beartrap Canyon, or eastwards along the Hop Valley Trail). Kolob Arch itself is spectacular, well worth the stroll, and a series of wonderful vistas opened out for us as we hiked there and back again. A fine dayhike indeed; but a longer backpacking trip would doubtless be a more rewarding way to experience this gorgeous corner of Southern Utah.

Great photos! Thanks for posting

Turkey season is quickly approaching too. Love to see that they are still hanging out over there! Can't wait.