USA Pa’Rus Trail

The paved Pa’Rus Trail in Zion National Park is the only trail in the park where dogs and bicycles are permitted. Aside from recently introduced e-bikes, motorized vehicles are not allowed. Despite it’s close proximity to the visitor center, the trail 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 iron and wood/composite pedestrian bridges and has numerous river access points designated by signage.

Park managers recently posted signs at the road bridge at “Canyon Junction” warning that stopping, standing, or walking on the 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 tourists parking on the road near the bridge and/or standing in the middle of the bridge seemingly oblivious to vehicles they were blocking at this very busy intersection. Fortunately, there are many spots along the 1.7 miles of the Pa’Rus that affords excellent similar compositions. Also a good location for nighttime photography.

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 where the trail begins. When the park shuttle isn’t operating during a month or so in the winter, you can drive your vehicle 40 yards down the scenic drive north of Canyon Junction and park at the “Canyon Junction” shuttle stop, via an access trail at the Zion Human History Museum parking lot or at one of the pullouts along the road. Alternatively, there is limited parking on the right side of the road about 50 yards east of the road bridge at Canyon Junction. The parking area at the visitor center is very large but frequently fills by 9:30 AM. The visitor center includes informative park displays, a souvenir shop, the BackCountry Desk where park rangers are available to answer questions and administer permits. There are also restrooms and water filling stations.