USA Pa’Rus Trail, Zion National Park

The paved Pa’Rus Trail in Zion National Park is the only trail where bicycles are permitted. Except for e-bikes, motorized vehicles are not allowed. Despite its proximity to the visitor center, it gets surprisingly little bike or foot traffic for such an enjoyable and scenic stroll. The trail crosses the clear water of the Virgin River via 5 or 6 sturdy footbridges and has numerous river access points designated by signage. The park is serious about not forging your path, so DON'T DO IT! The park recently posted signs at the “Canyon Junction” road bridge warning that stopping, standing, or walking that bridge is now illegal. This bridge is where tens of thousands of visitors have congregated at sunset over the years to snap the iconic photo of the Virgin River with the majestic “Watchman” mountain in the distance. This prohibition became necessary due to clueless tourists parking on the road near the bridge and/or standing in the middle of the bridge seemingly oblivious to the vehicles they were blocking. Fortunately, many spots along the 1.7 miles of the Pa’Rus afford excellent similar compositions.

Best on a cloudy day or late afternoon/early evening. Also a good location for nighttime photography. There are numerous locations along the trail, at the river’s edge, or on the footbridges to compose great shots of the river and mountains beyond.

From the Zion National Park Visitor Center, walk north and cross the bridge across the Virgin River, then cross the road to the South Campground. When the park shuttle isn’t operating for a month or so in the winter, you can drive your vehicle down the scenic drive north of Canyon Junction and park at the shuttle stop or one of the pullouts along the road. Alternatively, there is limited parking on the right side of the road about 50 yards past the bridge.