Superintendent's Compendium

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The contents below are a one-to-one copy of the contents of the Zion National Park Superintendent's Compendium, signed September 16, 2025. To request a copy of the original signed file, please email us.

 

 

ZION NATIONAL PARK
36 CFR 1.7(b), COMPENDIUM
2025

The Zion National Park Compendium as dated is hereby approved and will remain in effect until either rescinded or superseded.

 

Document with original signature on file in the Zion National Park Chief Ranger’s Office

 

Superintendent’s Compendium Described

The Superintendent’s Compendium is the summary of park specific rules implemented under Title 36 Code of Federal regulations (36 CFR). It serves as public notice, identifies areas closed for public use, provides a list of activities requiring either a Special Use Permit, Commercial Use Authorization or reservation, and elaborates on public use and resource protection regulations pertaining specifically to the administration of the park. The Superintendent’s Compendium does not repeat regulations found in 36 CFR and other United States Code and CFR Titles which are enforced without further elaboration at the park level.

The regulations contained in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, are the basic mechanism used by the National Park Service (NPS) to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources of the park and to protect visitors and property within the park. Part 1 through 6 are general regulations applicable to all areas of the National Park Service and Part 7 contains special regulations specific to individual parks. Each of these Parts has many sections and subsections articulating specific provisions. Within some of these Part 1-7 sections and subsections, the Superintendent is granted discretionary authority to develop local rules to be responsive to the needs of a specific park resource or activity, park plan, program, and/or special needs of the general public.

As an example, 36 CFR 1.5(a) Closures and Public Use Limits provides the Superintendent certain discretion in allowing or disallowing certain activities. The authority granted by the section, however, requires the Superintendent to comply with the Administrative Procedures Act (6 USC Section 551) which requires public notice on actions with major impact on visitor use patterns, park resources or those that are highly controversial in nature.

Another example is 36 CFR 1.6 Permits which allows the Superintendent to require a permit for certain uses and activities in the park. This section, however, requires that a list of activities needing a permit (and a fee schedule for the various types of permits) be maintained by the park.
A final example is 36 CFR 2.1(c)(1) Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources, which provides the Superintendent the authority to designate certain fruits, nuts, berries which may be gathered by and for personal use or consumption. This activity can occur, however, only if a written determination shows that the allowed activity does not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of a plant species or otherwise adversely affect park resources.

This Compendium should be used in conjunction with Title 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, to more fully understand the regulations governing the use and enjoyment of all areas of the National Park Service.

Laws and Policies Allowing the Superintendent to Develop this Compendium

In 2014, Congress enacted Title 54 of the United States Code (USC) National Park Service and Related Programs to clarify its intent as to the overall mission of the NPS. Title 54 conforms to the understood policy, intent and purpose of Congress in the original enactments or laws governing the National Park Service.
With the signing of Title 54, Congress clarified and reaffirmed the NPS mission and authority in a central location.

The National Park Service (NPS) is granted broad statutory authority under Title 54 USC to:

Promote and regulate the use of the National Park System by which means and measures that conform to the fundamental purpose of the System units, which purpose is to conserve the scenery, natural and historic objects and wild life in the System Units and to provide for the enjoyment of the scenery, natural and historic objects and wildlife in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations. (54 USC 100101(a))

In addition 54 USC 100751(a) allows the NPS, through the Secretary of the Interior, to “prescribe such regulations as the Secretary considers necessary or proper for the use and management of System Units.”
54 USC 100101(b) reaffirms the original intent of Congress in the establishment of the National Park Service by recognizing “…these areas, though distinct in character, are united through their interrelated purposes and resources into one National Park System as cumulative expressions of a single national heritage….”

54 USC 100101(2) reaffirms the high standard of protection defined in the original Organic Act by stating “Congress reaffirms, declares and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various System units shall be consistent with and founded in the purpose established by subsection (a) to the common benefit of all the people of the United States. “

54 USC 100501 defined the National Park System as “…any area of land and water administered by the Secretary, acting through the director, for park, monument, historic, parkway, recreational or other purposes.”

In addition to the above statutory authority, the Superintendent is guided by established NPS policy and found in the NPS Management Policies (2006). The Superintendent is also guided by more specific policies promulgated by the Director, National Park Service, in the form of Director’s Orders. As stated in NPS Management Policies, the primary responsibility of the NPS is to protect and preserve our national natural and cultural resources while providing for the enjoyment of these resources by visitors and other users, as long as the use does not impair specific park resources or overall visitor experience. The appropriateness of any particular visitor use or recreational experience is resource based and will vary from park to park; therefore a use or activity that is appropriate in one park area may not be appropriate in another. The Superintendent is directed to analyze overall park use and determine if any particular use is appropriate. Where conflict arises between use and resource protection, where the Superintendent has a reasonable basis to believe a resource is or would become impaired, then that Superintendent is obliged to place limitations on public use.

Consistency of This Compendium with Applicable Federal Laws and Requirements

The Superintendent’s Compendium is not considered a significant rule requiring review by the Office of Management and Budget under Executive Order 128666. In addition, this Compendium will not have a significant economic effect on a number of small entities nor does it impose a significant cost on any local, state or tribal government, or private organization and therefore does not fall under the requirements of either the Regulatory Flexibility Act or the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act.

The actions and requirements in the Superintendent’s Compendium are found to be categorically excluded from further compliance with the procedural requirements of the National Environmental Policy (NEPA) in the Department of Interior Guidelines 516 DM6, and as such, an Environmental Assessment will not be prepared.

Development of the Requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium

As outlined above, the NPS has broad authority and responsibility to determine what types of uses and activities are appropriate in any particular National Park System area. The requirements of the Superintendent’s Compendium are developed through an analysis and determination process. The decision criteria used during this process are:

• Is the use or activity consistent with Title 54 and NPS Management Policies (2006)?
• Is the use or activity consistent and compatible with the park’s enabling legislation, management objectives, and corresponding management plans?
• Will the use or activity damage the park’s protected natural and cultural resources and other protected values?
• Will the use or activity disturb or be in conflict with wildlife, vegetation, and environmental protection action and values?
• Will the use or activity conflict with or be incompatible with traditional park uses and activities?
• Will the use or activity compromise employee or public safety?

Applicability of the Compendium

The rules contained in the Superintendent’s Compendium apply to all persons entering, using, visiting or otherwise present on Federallyowned lands, including submerged lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the legislative boundaries of the park.

Enforcement of Compendium Requirements

NPS Law Enforcement Park Rangers enforce the requirements of United States Code, 36 CFR, and this Superintendent’s Compendium.

Penalties for Not Adhering to the Compendium Regulations

A person who violates any provision of the regulations found in 36 CFR, Parts 1-7, or provisions of the Superintendent’s Compendium, is subject to a fine as provided by law (18 USC 3571) up to $5,000 for individuals and $10,000 for organizations, or by imprisonment not exceeding six months (18 USC 3559), or both, and shall be adjudged to pay all court costs associated with any proceedings. You may receive a list of fines associated with any particular provision by contacting the Chief Ranger.

Comments on the Compendium

The Compendium is reviewed annually and revised as necessary. The park welcomes comments about its program and activities at any time. Written comments on the compendium may be submitted to:

Superintendent
Zion National Park
State Route 9
Springdale, UT 84767

Effective Date of the Superintendent’s Compendium

The Superintendent’s Compendium is effective on the approval date listed on the first page of the document and remains in effect until revised.

Additional Information

Some of the terms used in this Compendium is may have specific meaning defined in 36 CFR 1.4 Definitions.

 

Table of Contents

Authority 6

§1.5 Closure and Public Use Limits 6

Wilderness Use Limits 7
Road and Vehicle Closures and Use Limits 10
General Use Limits 10
Filming, Still Photography and Audio Recording 17

§1.6 Activities that require a permit 18
§2.1 Preservation of Natural, Cultural, and Archaeological Resources 19
§2.2 Wildlife Protection 20
§2.5 Research Permits 21
§2.10 Camping and Food Storage 21
§2.13 Fires 25
§2.14 Sanitation and Refuse 25
§2.15 Pets 26
§2.16 Horses and Pack Animals 27
§2.20 Skating, Skateboards, and Similar Devices 29
§2.21 Smoking 29
§2.50 Special Events 29
§2.51 Demonstrations and Designated Available Park Areas 29
§2.52 Sale or Distribution of Printed Material 30
§2.62 Memorialization 31
§4.10 Travel off road 31
§4.11 Vehicle Load, Weight and Size Limits 31
§4.21 Speed Limits 33
§4.30 Bicycles and E-bikes 33
§4.31 Hitchhiking 34
§5.3 Business Operations 34
§Appendix A – Demonstration Area Maps 36-40

 

ZION NATIONAL PARK
36 CFR 1.7 (b) Compendium

Authority

Under the authority of Title 54 USC Section 100751(a), and Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7, a Superintendent's Orders Compendium is established for Zion National Park. Regulations listed in this compendium are requirements in addition to those listed in the specific section found in Title 36 unless otherwise noted. The specific authority for this regulatory procedure is found in § 1.5, 1.6, and 1.7 of Title 36.

Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 36 CFR 1.5 (c), appear in this document identified as “justification.”

 

Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements, and Other Restrictions

 

§1.5 Closures and Public Use Limits

Note: Violations under this section should be cited under 36 CFR §1.5(f), but include the specific compendium section as a subheading on the citation. As always, mandatory appearance citations are an option in lieu of the collateral.

General Closures

(a)(1)(i) Government and concessionaire employee housing areas are closed to public access.

Justification: Restricting public access to government and concessionaire employee housing areas provides improved security and privacy to residents while not adversely impacting park visitors.

(a)(1)(ii) Coal Pits Firearms Range, Helispot and Equipment Storage Area (collectively known as the “Coal Pits Range”) are closed to public access.

Justification: Public presence, use and access are prohibited at the Coal Pits Range except for individuals conducting administrative business. The Coal Pits Range area encompasses approximately 20 acres of fenced NPS land accessed off of Utah St. Rt. 9 at mile marker 25, via small dirt road and fenced / locked NPS gate. The closed area is defined by the fence and posted signs for public safety. This closure is to improve visitor safety and the security of stored equipment.

(a)(1)(iii) Park Service Maintenance Operations Area and Oak Creek Maintenance Storage Road are closed to public access. Public use of the Oak Creek Maintenance Storage Road and Storage areas is prohibited without a valid permit from the Superintendent.

Justification: The Park Service Maintenance Area located up the Oak Creek drainage, west of the Park Service Headquarters Building, is closed to public presence, use and access except for individuals conducting administrative business. The Maintenance Area encompasses all Park Service developed areas on the south side of the paved Oak Creek utility road. The Oak Creek Maintenance Storage Road, accessed adjacent to the Park Service Maintenance Area and signed with a “DO NOT ENTER” road sign is also closed to public presence, use and access. The Oak Creek Maintenance Storage Road closure does not apply to NPS residents and their guests. This closure is to improve the security of stored equipment and prevent visitor injuries during frequent ongoing maintenance projects.

(a)(1)(iv) Traditional geocaching within Zion National Park is prohibited.

Justification: Due to the concerns of unchecked development of social trails in areas of archeological, scenic, and biological significance, and the concern of geocache placement in unsafe areas, traditional geocaches are prohibited. Geocaching also violates the following regulations: 36 CFR Section 2.22(a)(2), 2.1(a)(i), 2.31(a)(3)

(a)(1)(v) Launching, landing or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Zion National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.

Definition: The term “unmanned aircraft” means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.

Justification: Use of “unmanned aircraft” within Zion is not a compatible use with the purpose of Zion as detailed in the Park Management Plan (2001) for wilderness management, preservation of natural soundscape, natural resources and visitor experience based on noise, lack of appropriate landing sites, visitor safety, conflicts with wildlife including endangered species, conflicts with motor vehicle traffic, and intrusion on other visitors’ enjoyment of the park. Less restrictive use of “unmanned aircraft” will not provide the protection to wildlife such as Mexican Spotted Owls and Desert Bighorn or the visitor experience of solitude and natural quiet in Zion’s wilderness (90% of the park is designated or recommended as Wilderness and is managed as Wilderness).

(a)(1)(vi) All fires (wood, charcoal and cigarette) and/or stove use within the park may be reduced or temporarily banned by the Superintendent during times of high fire danger to protect park resources and reduce the public risk.

Justification: In the interest of protection of environmental and scenic values, protection of natural resources and public safety, these restrictions on fires are necessary.

Wilderness Closures

(a)(1)(vii) Cliff faces and rock formations occupied by nesting peregrine falcons and California Condors will generally be closed from March 1 through July 31. Condor Closures may extend beyond July 31 based on observed behavior. Climbing on faces, routes or formations closed under the authority of this order is prohibited.

Nesting territories often contain multiple nesting sites; therefore specific closures will be issued each season as nesting behavior is determined. A list of closed climbing routes and areas is available at the park Visitor Center and posted on the park website.

Justification: The peregrine falcon and California Condor require continued protection. These restrictions are necessary to provide an undisturbed opportunity to raise and fledge their young.

(a)(1) (viii) All travel up Hidden Canyon from 1/4 mile above small arch where posted, is prohibited.

Justification: This restriction is in place to protect critical breeding habitat for the spotted Owl from the increasing number of day hikers exploring the area. This area is intended to remain open as a canyoneering route regulated and monitored through the current permit system.

(a)(1)(ix) Heaps Creek from the Upper Emerald Pool to the base of the Navajo Formation and the three Emerald Pools are closed to swimming, bathing, and wading.

Justification: The integrity of the pools and creek has been drastically altered by human activity, especially the long tradition of swimming/bathing. This can create a negative visitor experience as the ability for visitors to enjoy the natural sounds of the area is diminished.

(a)(1)(x) Behunin Creek and Heaps Creek as they drop from Middle to Lower Emerald Pool, Echo Creek as it drops into Weeping Rock and the canyon south of Mystery Canyon as it drops onto the Riverside Walk trail are closed to climbing and any form of descending, including rappelling.

Justification: Due to the very fragile hanging gardens and beautiful waterfalls, ascending/descending at these locations conflicts with their inherent natural and scenic values. Additionally, all these areas are heavily used by park visitors, and ascending/descending at these locations presents an unacceptable safety risk to those below due to the potential for injury from dropped gear (ropes, hardware, etc.) as well as displaced rocks.

(a)(1)(xi) The Zion wilderness (including the area of the park within Kane County which has been recommended to congress for wilderness designation), is closed to the possession or use of any mechanical equipment for moving people or material in or over land, water, snow or air.

This includes, but is not limited to, non-motorized wheeled vehicles, conveyances and devices, such as bicycles, ebikes, Segways™ and other Electric Personal Assistance Mobility Devices (EPAMD), carts, game carriers, canoe dollies, wheelbarrows, wagons, ski kites, hang gliders and paragliders. Wheelchairs as defined in Title V Section 507(c) of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may be used by persons with disabilities.

Justification: The Wilderness Act of 1964 prohibits certain uses in areas included within the national wilderness preservation system including any form of mechanical transport.

(a)(1)(xii) Research Natural Areas (RNAs) are closed to all recreational use. They include the following areas:

Kolob Mesas: Mesa tops of Timber Top Mountain and Nagunt Mesa overlooking the Kolob Canyons. Also includes the canyon draining west from Timber Top Mountain.

Shune’s Creek: Shune’s Creek Canyon below the Navajo Sandstone cliffs along the southern boundary of the park, excluding the administrative zone around the water right diversion.

Hanging Garden: Five hanging gardens in Zion and Parunuweap Canyons. Includes the immediate vicinities of Grotto Spring, Weeping Rock, Sinawava Hanging Garden, and two unnamed springs in Parunuweap Canyon.

Isolated Mesa Tops: Isolated mesa tops that are surrounded by high cliffs of Navajo Sandstone. These include Burnt Mountain (south of La Verkin Creek), Greatheart Mesa, Inclined Temple, Church Mesa, three unnamed high mesas west of Horse Pasture Plateau, and two closely associated unnamed mesas north of Wynopits Mountain.

Goose Creek: The sandstone slot canyons and canyon walls of Goose Creek, which drains east from Lava Point and Horse Pasture Plateau. A five-mile long tributary of the North Fork of the Virgin River with deep narrow canyons and perennial stream flow in the lower reaches.

Crazy Quilt Mesa: The top of Crazy Quilt Mesa and adjacent slopes, west of Checkerboard Mesa

Slickrock: An area of slickrock buttes, slopes and traverses, south of Clear Creek, east of Gifford Canyon and around the head of Crawford Wash.

Southeast Pinyon Juniper: An area of relatively deep sandy soils supporting relict pinyon-juniper forests in the southeastern most corner of the park.

Parunuweap: Includes Parunuweap and most of Shune’s Creek Canyons below the Navajo Sandstone, and Transview Mountain above the Navajo Sandstone.

Justification: In concurrence with the approved General Management and Wilderness Management Plans, the above areas are closed to recreational use. These RNAs are field ecological areas designated primarily for research and education and/or to maintain biological diversity. Baseline inventory and long-term ecological observations will be emphasized in these areas, with the primary purpose of creating an ecological/environmental benchmark over time.

(a)(1)(xiii) The area between the arete 11 meters north of the route “Chimney” to approximately 1.8 meters west and upslope of the route “Roof to Hands” is closed to climbing. This closed area includes two established climbing routes, “Roof to hands” and “Left-facing Corner”.

Justification: In 2009 this area was closed to protect archeological resources in the area. Climbing route “Casual Sex,” has been removed from the closure after being reassessed by park archeologists.

(a)(1)(xiv) The placement of fixed climbing anchors, including climbing bolts, for the creation of bolt intensive face climbs, also called sport climbs, within the Zion Wilderness is prohibited.

Justification: “The establishment of bolt intensive face climbs is considered incompatible with wilderness preservation and management due to the concentration of human activity which they support and the types and levels of impacts associated with such routes.” NPS Director’s Order 41.

Road and Vehicle Closures and Use Limits

(a)(1)(xv) Travel by private vehicles on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive during the shuttle operation season (usually mid-March into November) is prohibited without a permit. When the road is open to private vehicle travel, vehicles that are greater than 19’ in length are not permitted to drive beyond the Lodge parking area without a permit/pass.

The types of uses and restrictions are outlined in the park SOP, entitled “Red/Yellow Permit Program – January 2013 revision”

Justification: Shuttle operation and restrictions on private vehicle use along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive permit large numbers of visitors to use Zion Canyon while significantly reducing traffic congestion, noise, parking problems and associated impacts to natural resources. When the road is open to private vehicles, those that are longer than 19’ often occupy multiple parking stalls, have difficulty negotiating the narrow road and tight turns, and block access to emergency vehicle response.

(a)(1)(xvi) Pedestrian traffic on Canyon Junction Bridge is prohibited.

Justification: Canyon Junction Bridge is not wide enough to safely accommodate both pedestrians and vehicle traffic. There are no shoulders, sidewalks or other pedestrian walkways on the narrow bridge. The Pa’rus Trail provides an underpass for pedestrians to safely cross this section of roadway. Photographs of Watchman Peak and the Virgin River may be taken from pedestrian bridges on the Pa’rus Trail that cross over the Virgin River.

(a)(1)(xvii) Cave Valley Closure (Cave and Surrounding Area – NPS boundary within 1 mile of Cave)

Justification: Cave Valley cave and adjacent NPS/Zion land will be closed to public access to protect sensitive cultural resources discovered in April 2022, at this site. This closure will remain in effect until archeological evaluations and Tribal consultations are complete.

 

General Use Limits

(a)(2)(i) Commercial traffic on roadways within the park is prohibited without a valid Commercial Use Permit issued for this purpose.

Commercial vehicles exceeding the size restrictions contained in §4.11(a)(1)(ii) of this Compendium are prohibited from traveling Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway through the park due to the nature of park roads and infrastructure.

Justification: Commercial vehicle travel through units of the National Park Service is generally prohibited by 36 CFR 5.6. Due to the proximity of Zion National Park to a major interstate highway, the growth and development of the surrounding area and the presence of a connecting road (Park Route 10, also known as the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway) through the park, the Superintendent has elected to allow limited commercial vehicle use, subject to regulation through the Special Use Permit (SUP), on a one permit per vehicle per day basis.

The following commercial vehicles are exempt from the Special Use Permit requirement:

• Commercial vehicles actively engaged in providing services to the park, recognized park residents, or valid commercial entities within the park.
• Vehicles which are commercial in nature but are being utilized solely for recognized non-commercial, recreational purposes.

(a)(2)(ii) Vehicles greater than 19’ in length (including vehicles towing a load that exceeds 19’ in length) are permitted to park only in the following locations, space permitting:

Kolob Canyon:
Year round parking (weather/snow conditions permitting) is available at the Kolob Visitor Center and the Timber Creek Overlook only.

Zion Canyon (Scenic Drive):

• Buses with reservations (“reservation” is defined as at least one night stay, a scheduled meal, or a schedule tour on the Lodge tram) at the Zion Lodge will be granted access to the Scenic Drive by the Zion Lodge Management in consultation with Zion Concessions Management Office. The Lodge Manager may give the access code to tour bus drivers that meet the above criteria.
• Any vehicle greater than 19’ in length, including buses, may not drive beyond the Zion Lodge parking lot. Vehicles longer than 19’ will park in the designed bus parking stalls in Lodge Parking lot.

Year round:

• The large vehicle parking lot (adjacent to the Visitors Center).
• The designated bus parking spaces on the lower tier of the Zion Human History Museum parking. Loading or unloading of passengers is not permitted in front of the museum; this area is reserved for the Zion Shuttle Bus system.
• Any of the paved pullouts between Canyon Junction and the west side Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel entrance as long as the vehicle completely fits within the pullout.
• The Checkerboard Mesa Viewpoint.
• Buses waiting to meet a park employee for an escort through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel may wait in the area commonly referred to as the “bullpen” or at Tunnel West kiosk parking area.
• Groups with academic fee waiver (school buses or charters) are exempt from the above parking regulations during the shuttle bus season provided they obey all other restrictions and do not interfere with active shuttle operations.

Justification: Due to the narrow roadway and parking congestion beyond the Lodge, cyclists using the road, and large groups of people walking on or alongside the roadway pose a safety hazard. Scenic Drive parking beyond the Lodge during the non-shuttle season is limited, the road is narrow and there are many tight turns. Vehicles exceeding 19’ in length can prevent emergency vehicle access to response areas. The Zion Canyon Visitor Center parking lot is narrow, congested, and tight corners increase the likelihood of a motor vehicle accident in this location.

(a)(2)(iii) All vehicles must have their vehicle engines shut off while parked unless passengers are actively loading or unloading.

(a)(2)(iv) Generators may not be left running on any vehicle. This does not apply to those generators utilized during approved generator hours on recreational vehicles occupying a campsite.

Justification: The noise and air pollution associated with generators and diesel-powered buses left running for any period of time on any occupied or unoccupied vehicle within the park is unacceptable. An exception is made for those vehicles in approved campsites due to the limited amount of time and specific times of the day that are set aside for generator use in that area.

(a)(2)(v) Whenever any vehicle shall have been left unattended in violation of an existing traffic control sign, or parked in such a manner as to compromise public safety, damage park resources, or damage government property, the person in whose name such vehicle is registered or rented shall be subject to the penalty for such violation. This section does not apply to vehicles being used without the consent of the owner.

Justification: Due to limited availability of parking spaces, the unpredictable and ubiquitous presence of pedestrian and bicycle traffic, and the close proximity of valuable natural resources and government property to park roadways, the imposition of this condition of use is required to allow management to hold vehicle owners, leasers, or renters accountable for their actions or the actions of those they have allowed to operate their vehicle.

(a)(2)(vi) The Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel is closed to any vehicle transporting hazardous materials in such quantity as to require an identification placard (as specified by USDOT regulations).

Justification: In order to minimize the potential for closure of the tunnel, it has been determined that vehicles which carry hazardous materials in such a quantity as to require a placard designating the type of material being transported may not travel through the tunnel. As an alternative, these vehicles may utilize either of the two state highways which border the park to the north and south.

(a)(2)(vii) Transport of any unprocessed plant, soil, or stone materials is prohibited, unless packaged, contained or covered in a manner that prevents their scattering or release.

Hay, straw, mulch or feed grain that is certified weed-free by the Utah Department of Agriculture or comparable authority and documented as such is exempt from this requirement.

Justification: The spread of invasive, non-native plants is having a serious impact on park ecosystems. These plants can be spread by attaching to vehicles and/or as a propagule transported in hay, feed, soil and stone products. This regulation conforms generally to requirements of the Utah Noxious Weed Act.

(a)(2)(viii) Pedestrians and bicycle riders (including e-bikes), are prohibited within the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. Bicycles and pedestrians must be transported through the tunnel by a motor vehicle.

Justification: To ensure their safety and that of passing traffic, bicyclists and pedestrians must be transported through the 1.1 mile, unlit tunnel in a motor vehicle.

(a)(2)(ix) The Kolob Terrace Road, and the Lava Point Road, within the boundaries of Zion National Park, can be closed to all vehicles, except snowmobiles, when it is determined by the Superintendent that road conditions due to snow are either unsafe or susceptible to unwarranted damage due to vehicular traffic.

Snowmobile travel as regulated by §7.10 is allowed.

This closure will be accomplished with gates, signing, and press notification. Snowmobile use during this time will be restricted to established unplowed roadways only. Snowmobiles are defined as vehicles specifically manufactured and designed for over snow travel through the use of a track.

Justification: In the past, wheeled vehicles and snowmobiles have traveled the same sections of snow-covered roadway. The mixed-traffic use resulted in hazardous conditions where wheeled vehicles had broken through the snow, causing damage to the underlying roadway and snowmobiling surface. The National Park Service will close the road to vehicles, except snowmobiles, to eliminate the hazard, road damage, and to lessen conflict between snowmobiles and motor vehicles.

Executive Order 11644 (2/8/72) and Order 11989 (5/24/79) direct that units of the NPS are closed to snowmobile use unless specifically opened in a given area and only allowed where it will not adversely affect the natural, aesthetic, or scenic values of the parks. The above does allow for the required access to private lands.

(a)(2)(x) Any use of any off-highway vehicle (OHV), all-terrain vehicle (ATV), utility vehicles (UTVs) or other motorized conveyance manufactured for recreational non-highway, off-road, or all-terrain travel regardless of registration status (all-terrain type I or type II “street legal” vehicles, as defined by Utah State Code Annotated 41-22-2 or 41-6a-102) is prohibited within Zion National Park.

Under NPS management policies, (8.2.3.1), on-duty NPS employees may use OHVs or UTVs on a case by case basis as part of their official work duties when the use of an OHV or UTV with specific advantages is essential to promoting efficiency for a project, promoting employee safety, and supporting parkwide sustainability goals. Under this allowance, staff will predominately use administrative roads within Zion that are closed to the public and avoid public roads within Zion whenever possible. Only street legal OHVs may be used by park staff and all requirements (licensed driver, safety belts, required equipment) must be met.

Justification: The recreational and general use of off-highway vehicles such as OHVs, ATVs UTVs, and other motorized conveyances manufactured for recreational non-highway, off-road, or all-terrain travel poses a significant risk to park resources and conflicts with other park visitors and wildlife. These risks and conflicts cannot be appropriately mitigated, or be sustained without causing unacceptable impacts. The use of such vehicles is, therefore, not consistent with the protection of the parks and monuments. Use by on-duty Zion employees will be limited to instances when other alternatives to a OHV/UTV are not available and the use of the OHV/UTV is essential to the project’s efficiency or employee safety such as hauling large amounts of heavy materials over rough terrain.

(a)(2)(xi) The Pa’rus Trail is open to use by bicycles (solely powered by human as defined by 36 CFR) and class 1 e-bikes (see section 4.30). Portions of the Pa’rus Trail are generally accessible to wheelchairs and other means of mobile conveyance for those that require assistance. It is closed to all other vehicles and forms of conveyance both motorized and non-motorized except for those authorized under § 2.20 and to the use of motorized carts, wheelchairs or Segways for recreational purposes.

The first quarter mile of the Riverside Walk Trail is generally accessible to motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs.

All trails in Zion, with the exception of those identified, are closed to all other vehicles and forms of conveyance that do not serve to assist those with an accessibility need.

Justification: These provisions protect the park’s natural, scenic, and aesthetic values, while contributing to minimal disturbance to wildlife or park resources. Additionally, due to the narrow width of the trails, safety considerations preclude the use of any vehicles other than those identified above. Motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs are not recommended beyond the first quarter mile of the Riverside Walk Trail. Motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs are not recommended for use on all other trails in Zion due to trail character and conditions.

(a)(2)(xii) The portion of the Petroglyph Canyon drainage north of the main park road is limited to groups of 12 persons or less.

Justification: Due to the limited size of the areas from which to view the petroglyph panels, group size limits are needed. Sandy soils in this area also cannot support high visitor traffic.

(a)(2)(xiii) Group size in the Zion Wilderness (including the area of the park within Kane County which has been recommended to Congress for wilderness designation), shall not exceed 12 people sharing the same affiliation (school, church, club, scout group, family, friends, etc., or combination thereof) in the same drainage or on the same trail on the same day. The group size limit for the Narrows north of the Orderville junction, Left Fork, Orderville, Pine Creek, and Keyhole Canyons is also 12. The group size limit for all other canyoneering routes in the Zion Wilderness is 6. Canyoneering is defined as any hike within any canyon which normally involves the use of rope, webbing, or other device for descent or ascent.

This applies to people traveling or camping together, and it applies to day use as well as overnight use.

Groups larger than 12, sharing the same affiliation, may divide into groups smaller than 12, provided they do not occupy the same drainage or the same route on the same day.

Justification: Group size limits were determined through Zion National Park's 2001 General Management Plan and 2007 Backcountry Management Plan. (In 2009 the backcountry of Zion was declared Wilderness and the area formerly known as backcountry is now referred to as wilderness). Larger groups have been shown to create unacceptable resource impacts as well as noise impacts that adversely affect the experience of other visitors when traveling through the wilderness of Zion National Park. It has been demonstrated that large groups traveling and/or camping in the same drainage or on the same route routinely divide into smaller groups only to reassemble at some point along the trail.

(a)(2)(xiv) The portion of the North Fork of the Virgin River and any tributaries within Zion National Park above Big Spring is closed to hiking when the river is flowing in excess of 120 cfs.

The portion of the North Fork of the Virgin River and all tributaries that enter the Narrows below Big Springs within Zion National Park between the end of Riverside Walk and Big Spring is closed to hiking when the river is flowing in excess of 150 cfs.

The entire Kolob Canyon drainage is closed when the North Fork of the Virgin River is flowing in excess of 120 cfs; the individual sections of Kolob Canyon listed below are closed when the Washington County Water Conservancy District’s official stated release to Zion National Park from Kolob Dam exceeds the corresponding limit:

• Kolob Reservoir to Oak Creek: 5 cfs
• Oak Creek to MIA Route: 10 cfs
• MIA route to North Fork: 15 cfs P

(a)(2)(xv) All Canyons within the park are closed to hiking, and permits will not be issued once a flood warning has been issued by the National Weather Service. During this period, the portion of the North Fork of the Virgin River within Zion National Park beyond the end of Riverside Walk is also closed to all entry. Permits will not be issued until 2 hours after the flood warning has been lifted or the CFS level has dropped below closure limits, whichever is later for single cell or isolated storms.

If a scattered storm system is moving through the area, and a flashflood warning has been issued, a closure may remain in effect, until the entire system has cleared the area for more than 24 hours. Law Enforcement Supervisors (GS-11 and above) may, in the interest of public safety and regardless of whether a flood warning has been issued by National Weather Service, close all, or portions of drainages based on observed weather conditions occurring in the Zion area that present a flash flood risk. Reopening a closed area will be based on the stipulations above. During spring runoff/snowmelt, the CFS level must remain below closure limits for 24 hours. If it is unclear whether an event is due to flash flood or spring runoff/snowmelt, the spring runoff/snowmelt regulation is applied.

Flow rates for the North Fork of the Virgin River will be determined using the USGS gage 09405500 (North Fork Virgin River near Springdale).

During spring runoff, the flow rate will be determined to be the maximum flow recorded during the preceding 24-hour period. During periods other than spring runoff, the flow rate will be determined using current readings.

Justification: The limits are based on staff experience as well as the 1997 “Streamflow effects on Hiking in Zion National Park, Utah” completed by Shelby, Whittaker, and Hansen. Average visitors cannot safely travel the length of the Zion Narrows when flow rates are in excess of 120 cfs. Average visitors can not travel through the section of the North Fork of the Virgin River below Big Springs at flows in excess of 150 cfs.

When the Washington County Water District releases water from the Kolob Reservoir, potentially deadly conditions can be created in Kolob Canyon. Experience has shown that there are upper limits for safe hiking for the average hiker through this area.

The National Weather Service recommends that the canyons remain closed until two hours after a flash flood warning has been lifted to ensure that floods have the opportunity to travel the length of drainage. The recommendation was provided in the fall of 2012 and allowed the removal of the previous eight hour lag time.

Scattered storm systems, such as a tropical depression, remnants of a hurricane, or monsoonal storm activity moving through the area often brings intermittent rain and flooding that can extend for hours or days. These systems can be interrupted by several hours of dry conditions; however, the potential for flooding still exists until the entire system has moved through the area. Due to the length of time many of the hikes in Zion require, it is prudent to allow adequate time for large storm systems to pass through the area before prematurely opening a hike that could be impacted by a cell that’s part of a larger system. This provision also prevents the inconsistent, back-and-forth changes to safety-closures every 2 hours that would otherwise occur, and avoids confusion by the public.

(a)(2)(xvi) Permits for through hikes of the Left Fork of North Creek ("the Subway") and tributaries flowing into Left Fork, will not be issued when the measured snow water equivalent (SWE) at the Kolob Snow Telemetry (Snotel) station exceeds 35 inches. The closure will begin April 16th and remain in place until the SWE at the Snotel station drops below 10 inches. A through hike is defined as any hike that originates upstream of the Subway’s Keyhole waterfall. The Zion NP Chief Ranger may modify the closure date or the opening date based on conditions observed by NPS employees, regardless of the snotel SWE level.

Justification: During the spring of 2011, multiple canyoneering parties had significant difficulties trying to negotiate the Left Fork route during high water due to snow melt. Similar issues occurred during the spring of 2005, another high water year. The increase in flows due to snow melt does not generally cause difficulty for the average Left Fork canyoneer in an average snow year. This rule is intended to address only the predictable condition where high streamflow will introduce difficulties well beyond those expected by most hikers of the "Subway," and does not address other hazards inherent in this hike.

There is no river gauge to measure flow along the Left Fork of North Creek. The Kolob snotel snow survey station is the closest snow survey station to the Left Fork drainage and provides the only real time measure of potential flow through the drainage. It is located 14.5 miles north, northeast and 700 feet in elevation higher than the headwaters of the Left Fork. The peak snow water equivalent (SWE) at the station in 2011 was 43.10 inches and it occurred from April 11th through 13th. The peak (SWE) in 2005 was 54.80 and occurred on April 15th. Canyoneers had some difficulty but no major issues during the spring of 2010 when the maximum snow water equivalent topped out at 32.10 on April 14th. 35 inches of SWE has been measured at the Kolob snotel station seven times between 1980 and 2011, and the level is 150% of the average snow pack at the station. During those years, the mean peak date was April 16th and the mean date when the SWE dropped below 10 inches was June 10th. During the spring of 2010, rangers hiked through the Left Fork when the SWE was 9 inches and they found water levels to be near normal.

It is imperative that visitors and employees recognize that there is not an exact correlation between the snow pack at the Kolob snotel site and the water flows in the Left Fork, and that daily weather patterns will have a significant influence on actual flows. This regulation is intended to improve visitor's safety, but it does not guarantee safe water flows in the Left Fork. Visitor's safety is their responsibility. All visitors entering the Left Fork must evaluate their skill levels against the flows that they experience and they must be ready to leave the canyon prior to negotiating the first obstacle if they experience high flows.

(a)(2)(xvii) Domesticated Caprinae (sheep and goats) are prohibited from entering the Park, not withstanding 36 CFR definition of a pet (a dog, cat or any animal that has been domesticated).

Justification: Consistent with protection of natural resources, domesticated Caprinae subfamily carry and can spread disease to the Park’s desert bighorn sheep. Restraining pets that are in the Caprinae subfamily will not provide sufficient separation because desert bighorn sheep frequent areas where pets are permitted (roads, parking lots, Pa’rus trail, etc.).

(a)(2)(xviii) The Large Vehicle Lot (east of Visitors Center) is reserved for vehicles longer than 19’ and/or wider than 9’, motorcycles, or vehicles towing an object that combined, is longer than 19’. Vehicles that typically fall into this category include, many recreational vehicles (RV’s), tour buses, and standard vehicles towing a trailer.

Justification: Parking in Zion is limited and in high demand, especially for vehicles that are “large” or that exceed the definition above. Further, the Zion National Park Visitors Center parking lot is a confined area of concentric loops with tight turns and standard parking stalls. For this reason, the “large vehicle” parking lot was created. This provision establishes a definition of what is considered a “large vehicle” in order to prevent motor vehicle accidents in the Visitor Center parking lot, provide an alternative parking location for large vehicles, and assist with traffic management and flow. Motorcycles are also permitted to park in the “large vehicle” lot because they require a minimal amount of space and it’s safer for motorcycle operators to negotiate the more open parking area and avoid the congested Visitor’s Center lot.

(a)(2)(xix) Within Zion National Park it is prohibited for anyone to hang, or affix to any natural or cultural feature, any banner, flag, or sign. A person or group may display by holding, or hanging from their personal equipment a banner, flag, or sign no larger than fifteen square feet (e.g., 5 feet x 3 feet), or a series or combination of banners, flags, or signs that total no more than fifteen square feet in aggregate, unless authorized by permit. Affixing or displaying a banner, flag, or sign of any size not officially sanctioned by Zion National Park to the exterior of a facility is also prohibited, unless authorized by permit.

Justification: This restriction is necessary to preserve the natural and cultural values of the park and leave them unimpaired from resource damage or disruption of the natural viewshed. Facilities owned and operated by the National Park Service must also be protected from physical damage and maintain the aesthetic standard to which they were designed. This restriction is also necessary to maintain public safety, as it prohibits draping items that could endanger and interfere with permitted or allowable unpermitted climbing activity.

(a)(2)(xx) Within Zion National Park it is prohibited for a person or persons to attempt to reserve a parking stall by standing or sitting in it.

Justification: With limited parking in Zion National Park, stalls fill on a first come, first serve basis. It is unsafe for pedestrians to attempt to reserve empty stalls for their party’s vehicle.

(a)(2)(xxi) Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905.

Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.

Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.

If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.

Justification: Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit, and implements federal law.

 

§1.6 Activities Requiring a Permit

(f) The following activities, enumerated by individual sections, are a compilation of those activities which require a permit issued by the wilderness permits office or other administrative personnel, subject to cost recovery charges and/or additional requirements as applicable. See listed section for specific terms and conditions associated with the specified activity.

Some filming, still photography, and audio recording (depends upon the facts and circumstances; contact the park for more information). 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2)(xxi) and 54 U.S.C. 100905.

§1.5(d) The following activities related to Public Use Limits and required Permits

1.5(d)(i) Narrow Canyon Day Hike Travel that requires a permit

• Any through day hike of any tributary of the North Fork of the Virgin River, regardless of direction of travel.
• Any hike along any portion of the Subway route from the Northgate Peaks Trail to the Left Fork Trailhead, regardless of direction of travel, to include all portions of the Left Fork of North Creek drainage between Russell Gulch and the Left Fork Trailhead exit trail.
• Any activity within any canyon in the park which normally involves the use of rope, webbing, or other device for descent or ascent including but not limited to canyoneering, ice climbing, and rock climbing.
• All travel above Big Spring in the North Fork of the Virgin River and direction of travel must be downstream.

Justification: Due to the unique and often-times pristine quality of Zion’s narrow canyons, resource impacts must be carefully monitored and managed. Permits provide a means to assess the amount of use a particular canyon is receiving and manage visitor use in specific canyons. Permits are an effective management tool to achieve the desired conditions outlined in the Wilderness Management plan. A permit allows a group to travel through the canyon one time. An additional permit is required for an additional trip.

1.5(d)(ii) A permit is required for any wilderness activity that has a planned duration in excess of 24 hours.

Justification: Activities occurring in the wilderness that have a planned duration in excess of 24 hours (e.g. marathon hikes or climbs not involving “camping”) in Zion wilderness may negatively impact the wilderness characteristics of solitude and untrammeled character and impact wildlife behavior when animals are exposed to conditions of additional and extended human activity not normally encountered in a wilderness setting.

1.5(d) (iii) Watercraft use in all watercourses in the park, to include the Virgin River, requires a permit and must meet
the following conditions:

• The types of watercraft permitted must be specifically designed and manufactured for whitewater use.
• Operators must be equipped with USCG-approved personal flotation devices (PFDs).
• Operators will not board a shuttle bus with their watercraft. This restriction includes the attempt to secure the watercraft to the shuttle bus bicycle rack. Operators must arrange for a Yellow Permit/Pass in order to transport their watercraft to the launch site in their private vehicle.
• Recreational inflatable tubes are not allowed on any watercourses within the park boundaries.

CFS limitations: The above watercraft will be allowed by permit only on the North Fork of the Virgin River during periods of the year when the flow in the river exceeds 150 cubic feet per second (cfs) at USGS stream gage 09405500 (North Fork Virgin River near Springdale).

Justification: While the use of watercraft is generally not considered appropriate, it is recognized that during certain times of the year and under certain conditions, runoff through the North Fork of the Virgin River makes floating this stretch of water a unique, challenging, and rewarding recreational experience.

During the busier visitation months, conflicts with other park users have indicated that watercraft use is not in keeping with the unique and spiritually refreshing qualities afforded by a quiet desert stream such as the North Fork of the Virgin River.

The shuttle bus cannot accommodate watercraft, including inflatable pack rafts. The bicycle rack is intended for bicycles, not watercraft.

The Virgin spinedace spawning season is approximately from mid-March to July 1st. Water levels during significant runoff events in late spring would be high enough that spinedace would not likely be affected by the type of watercraft mentioned above.

1.5(d)(iv) Angels Landing (chains section Permit Pilot Program) permit required

Beginning April 1, 2022, a permit is required to hike the Angels Landing Trail (chain section). Permits to hike this trail can be obtained at rec.gov.

Justification: The Angel’s Landing Trail is an extremely narrow section of trail, no more than a few feet wide in several locations with exposed vertical 1000 foot cliffs on either side. In places, only one person at a time can traverse the narrow sections. In recent years, thousands of visitors would attempt to hike Angels Landing each day. This was leading to long lines, with wait times lasting several hours, severe congestion, frustrated visitors and creating hazardous hiking conditions. The Angels Landing permit regulates the number of people accessing this trail and spreads hikers out over the course of the day, reducing the concerns identified.

Convoy permits for restricted use on Zion-Mt. Carmel Road: See Section 1.5 §(a)(2)(i) of this Compendium

See the appropriate section for terms associated with each activity.

§2.10 (a) Overnight wall climbers (“camping” on the cliff face)
§2.50 Special Events - Special Use Permits (Events, Races, Weddings etc.),
§2.51 First Amendment Activities such as public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and public expressions of views
§2.52 Sale and distribution of printed material
§2.62 (b) Memorialization (Scattering of Ashes)
§5.3 Commercial Use Authorizations
§5.5 Commercial filming permits
§5.6 Commercial Vehicles (travel through park) See Section 1.5 for use limitations

 

General Regulations

 

§2.1 Preservation of Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources

(a) The gathering, possession and consumption of all wild fruits, berries and nuts or domestic fruit, berries and nuts are limited to quantities which are consumed by a single individual the same day or 1 pound per individual and limited to a total of 5 pounds for groups of 5 or more people.

Justification: This limited use of these renewable resources will not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproduction of any plant species, or other park resources.

 

§2.2 Wildlife Protection

(a)(2) The feeding of wildlife through bird feeders, baiting or improperly stored food is prohibited in Park housing areas and in any established campsite in any campground, including camp-host sites in concurrence with 36 CFR 2.2(a)(2).

Justification: Bird feeders, food items and trash are at high risk of being subject to opportunistic feeding by local animal populations. This activity poses health concerns to the animals over time and has proven to create an aggressive animal population. Park residents are subject to the same regulations as visitors.

(d)(i) The transportation of lawfully taken wildlife over publicly owned park lands is allowed on the Kolob Terrace Road, all roads open for public travel within the Lava Point road network (except within Lava Point Campground), those roads on park lands necessary for egress from private inholdings, the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, and the Horse Ranch Mountain Road. Taken wildlife must have a valid state tag attached to the animal in accordance with all applicable state regulations.

Justification: The Superintendent is given the authority under this section to establish conditions and procedures for transporting lawfully taken wildlife through the park. It is the intent of the Superintendent to allow transport of lawfully taken wildlife through only those areas of the park on the direct route of travel between the place where a legal taking of wildlife has occurred and the residence of the individual who has performed that legal taking.

(d)(ii) A permit is required to track and remove lawfully taken animals that were mortally wounded outside the park boundaries then enter the park. Permits can be issued to hunters in the field and can only be obtained in the event of these described circumstances.

Justification: There have been multiple instances of hunters legally shooting animals outside the park only to have the animal enter park land. Possessing live or dead wildlife inside the park is illegal even if it was originally shot legally. Hunting licenses in the state of Utah are not valid on areas closed to hunting, therefore possessing an animal in a closed area is also a violation of state law. This permit provides a mechanism to allow hunters to legally retrieve their animals. Extended tracking of wounded animals in the park constitutes hunting and must be evaluated on a case by case basis to determine if a permit should be issued. It is recognized that humanely putting down dying animals is desirable, however, it is possible for wildlife to survive being wounded. Rangers will follow their SOP for determining whether a permit should be authorized and the conditions of the permit.

(e) The park is closed to the use of artificial light for purposes of viewing wildlife.

Justification: Spotlighting may potentially disturb wildlife; this activity is prohibited to minimize this chance of disturbance.

(f) The use of wildlife and/or varmint calls, audio attractants or other artificial or natural means of attracting or disturbing wildlife (including rattling antlers or verbal bugling or howling imitations) are prohibited.

 

§2.5 (a) Research Collection Permit

Permits are applied for through the online Research Permit and Reporting System (RPRS) system and approved by the Chief of Resource Management. Individuals must keep a copy of the signed and approved permit with them and present it upon request.

Justification: Research is a vital part of the NPS mission and researchers should understand the need for proper accounting and tracking of projects to avoid any conflicts.

 

§2.10 Camping and Food Storage

(a)(1) A wilderness permit is required for all wilderness camping.

Justification: Due to the unique and often pristine quality of Zion’s wilderness, resource impacts must be carefully monitored and managed. Permits provide a means to assess the amount of use a particular area is receiving, as well as providing management with a tool to limit the number of users so that the resource is protected and visitor experience is maintained.

Wilderness camping in Zion National Park is limited to those areas outlined in the current edition of the Zion National Park Wilderness Planner. Additional areas where wilderness camping is allowed are:

• Climbing routes. Camping is allowed on cliff faces.
• Heaps and Imlay Canyons.

The Wilderness Planner map is the primary means for identifying legal camping areas. The format of the map does not allow climbing routes and some canyoneering routes to be identified as available for at-large or dispersed camping.

Throughout the park’s wilderness, no camping is permitted in the following areas:

• within 1 mile of any road (other than climbing routes),
• within ¼ mile of a spring,
• within ¼ mile of the park boundary,
• within sight of trails,
• under rock overhangs, or
• on private land inholdings.

Justification: In heavily used areas (LaVerkin Creek, Hop Valley, Southwest Desert, West Rim, and Narrows), camping is limited to designated campsites to limit resource damage. In less used areas, locations have been identified as available for dispersed camping.

(a)(2) Checkout time of campsites in developed campgrounds is 11:00 a.m.

Justification: Zion’s developed campgrounds fill to capacity on a regular basis and incoming campers are inconvenienced when campsites are still occupied by the previous night’s tenants. It is reasonable to expect campers will be able to make all necessary preparations to vacate their campsite by 11:00 a.m.

(a)(3) With the exception of Watchman Campground Loop E and the 4 group sites in South Campgrounds (large group campsites), developed campgrounds are limited to the following:

• A maximum occupancy of six persons.
• A maximum of three tents. Tents must fit within the developed area of the campsite.
• A maximum of two vehicles, or four motorcycles, or one RV or camping trailer.

For purposes of this regulation, a person is considered to be any individual over the age of 24 months and a vehicle is considered to be any car, RV or trailer. Vehicles must be parked completely in the delineated parking area provided at each site. Tents must be placed within 20 feet of the fire ring in sites in South Campground and within the boundaries of constructed tent pads in Watchman Campground. In the Lava Point Campground, tents must be placed within 35 feet of the fire ring. In all campgrounds tents must not be placed on vegetation of any kind. Parties larger than six persons must occupy more than one campsite. Three large tents will not fit within most campsite boundaries.

Justification: Placing a limit on site occupancy, number of tents and number of vehicles is necessary to limit the impacts on other campers and park resources. Allowing for more tents at the discretion of the campground supervisor provides those campers who wish to utilize multiple small tents the ability to do so provided they do not cause resource damage in the process.

(a)(4)(i) The F loop in Watchman Campground is closed to all recreational vehicles. C, D, and E loops are closed to recreational vehicles (truck and trailer) 19 feet and greater, combined.

A recreational vehicle is defined to include any vehicle, driven or towed, equipped with permanently installed sleeping, cooking, and/or water storage facilities.

Justification: Tent camping loops were designated as such to provide campers with a degree of separation from large recreational vehicles. The parking pads in C, D, and E loops do not accommodate vehicles 19’ and longer without potential damage to the resource. F loop is designed for walk-in tent camping only.

Many smaller “crossover” type vehicles are on the market and available for rent which meet the definition of a recreational vehicle but in a “family-sized” vehicle. These do not detract from the benefits of a tent-only loop, provided these vehicles do not exceed the size of a standard vehicle. Utility trailers, necessary for the transport of bikes and other camping supplies do not meet the definition of recreational vehicles and are considered to be a second vehicle.

(a)(4)(ii) Watchman Campground B loop sites 18abc and 53 abc are limited to recreational vehicles. Tent camping is not permitted.

A recreational vehicle is defined to include any vehicle, driven or towed, equipped with permanently installed sleeping, cooking, and/or water storage facilities.

Justification: The campsites were not designed to allow for space to erect tents.

(a)(4)(iii) Group camping is only available during the reservation season with a seven-day per stay limit and a cumulative total of 14 days during a calendar year.

Group camping in the Watchman designated group camping area (E loop) and the group sites in South Campground is limited to the established maximum number of occupants and maximum number of vehicles established for each specific site.

• E1, 15-30 people, 6 parking spaces
• E2, 15-30 people, 6 parking spaces
• E3 20-40 people, 8 parking spaces 1 oversize vehicle space
• E4 20-40 people, 6 parking spaces
• E5 7-15 people,4 parking spaces
• E6 20-40 6 parking spaces
• E7 20-40 people 7 parking spaces
• South Campground A,B,C,D: 7-15 people and 4 cars per site or 2 RVs.

Vehicles may be parked only in the designated parking area for the assigned campsite or in the designated overflow parking area.

Justification: These regulations are necessary to allow for equitable allocation and protection of resources.

(a)(5) The use of electrical generators is prohibited at all times in all loops of Watchman Campground.

The exception is during power outages when generators may be used during the periods between 8am to 10 am and 6 pm to 8pm. Reservation holders in A & B loop with medical conditions necessitating use of a generator during additional hours will be determined on a case by case basis.

The use of electrical generators is prohibited in South Campground and Lava Point campgrounds, except for the periods between 8am to 10am and 6pm to 8pm.

Justification: Watchman Campground has two loops that have electrical hookups for campers. South Campground and Lava Point Campground do not offer electrical hookups and use of electrical generators is permitted on a limited basis. In the interest of protecting natural and aesthetic values associated with camping, the noise associated with electrical generators must be limited.

(a)(6) Camping in developed campgrounds (for non-group camping) is limited to a cumulative total of fourteen days for the same party, regardless of reservation name, during March through November. It is limited to thirty days outside of this season for a total of forty-four days a calendar year.

Camping in the wilderness is limited to 14 days per permit, with the exception of a one-night limit in the Virgin River Narrows and in Hop Valley Site A (when used as a horse camp). After camping for 14 days, persons must wait a period of 14 days before camping again within the park’s wilderness.

Justification: In the interest of equitable allocation and use of facilities, certain restrictions are needed on camping activities. Limitations on camping days provide the opportunity for a camping experience to the greatest number of people in heavy use campgrounds and assure the park is not used as a semi-permanent residence beyond the intent in providing the facility.

(a)(7) Attaching or suspending any item from trees which may cause tree or limb damage is prohibited, as is attaching any item to trees or vegetation with nails, wire or chains. Candles or lanterns are not to be hung from tree limbs by any means. Clotheslines longer than 15 feet or numbering greater than one per campsite are prohibited. “Tree tents” are not permitted due to the number and length of guy lines exceeding the footprint of the campsite. The use of hammocks and slacklines are prohibited. Nothing can be attached to, or hung on park structures.

Justification: Certain items and methods of attachment cause damage to park resources or detract from scenic values and are not consistent with the purpose for which the campgrounds were developed. Finding trees of adequate size (10” in diameter) to suspend a hammock or slackline from within the footprint of each campsite has proven to be difficult and has resulted in tree damage and campers encroaching on other sites.

(a)(8) Installation or use of any sports equipment that requires the placing of stakes or other items into the ground or whose use would cause resource damage or creates a public safety hazard is prohibited. Examples of such equipment includes, but is not limited to, horseshoe stakes, volleyball nets, lawn darts, group football games, etc.

Justification: In the interest of protecting environmental and scenic values and protection of natural resources and aesthetic values associated with the experience of camping in a National Park, restrictions must be placed on the participation in certain sports activities and the use of certain sports equipment which would negatively impact park resources and the visiting public.

(d) Throughout Zion National Park, all food products and garbage must be stored in a bear resistant container (vehicle, food storage locker, ursacks, bear canister, or other securable hard-side container). Backpacks and/or daypacks containing unsecured food items may not be left unattended. Storing food at least 10 feet above the ground and 4 feet horizontally from a post, tree or other object is also acceptable for backcountry campsites. These restrictions do not apply to food that is being transported, consumed, or prepared for consumption. For the purpose of the following food storage restrictions, "food items" shall be defined as food, drinks, toiletries, cosmetics, pet food and bowls, and odoriferous attractants. Garbage (including empty cans, food wrappers, etc.) must be stored or disposed of consistent with these regulations. Coolers, dirty stoves, grills, non-disposable tableware and cookware must be washed, or stored in the same manner as food.

Justification: Food items and trash left unsecured are at high risk of becoming subject to opportunistic feeding by the local animal population and may also attract nuisance insects. This opportunistic feeding may pose health concerns to the animals over time, has proven to create an aggressive animal population and has resulted in avoidable visitor injury and property damage. The primary purpose of these regulations is to maintain public health and safety, and to avoid conflict between visitor use activities and natural resources.

 

§2.13 Fires

(a)(1) Conditions on Lighting or Maintaining a Fire

A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.

Justification: This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – creates serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign informing visitors of the risks of using certain materials to light or maintain a fire, would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.

(a)(1)(i) Fires in developed areas are allowed only in designated government receptacles such as found in the campgrounds and picnic areas or in private enclosed grills where no scorching of the ground surface occurs. If a private enclosed grill is used, all ashes must be thoroughly extinguished, cooled, and removed from the park or placed in trash receptacles. Fires in the developed area of NPS employee housing are permitted if kept in designated receptacles.

Justification: In the interest of protection of environmental and scenic values, protection of natural resources and public safety, these restrictions on fires are necessary. These restrictions do not affect the use of stoves or lanterns for camping purposes.

(a)(1)(ii) Fires (except for self-contained lanterns and stoves) are prohibited in non-developed areas.

Justification: In the interest of protection of environmental and scenic values, protection of natural resources and public safety, these restrictions on fires are necessary. These restrictions do not affect the use of fuel stoves or lanterns for camping purposes.

 

§2.14 Sanitation and Refuse

(b)(1) All Wilderness Permit holders must carry solid human waste out of the wilderness in personal wilderness toilet bags. All Wilderness Permit groups must carry at least one personal wilderness toilet bag per person while hiking . Toilet paper must be carried out. Climbers must remove their human waste while on all climbs.

Justification: Human waste is a threat to public health and environmental and scenic values.

(b)(2) Disposal of human waste from developed campgrounds is permitted only at designated campground dump stations by registered campers. Those disposing of human waste carried out of the wilderness or off climbing routes in human waste disposal systems, should do so according to the disposal system’s manufacturer.

Justification: The Superintendent is limiting the amount of human waste disposed of in the park due to concerns regarding disposal costs and dump station vault space.

(b)(3) The use of solar showers in campgrounds requires gray water collection and proper disposal per established campground regulations. "Gray water," defined as the waste water produced by showering, bathing, cleaning, rinsing, etc. any person or object with soap or other cleaning products, must be collected and disposed of at either a designated campground disposal area, a dump station designed for the disposal of human waste products or removed from the campground in a tank designed for holding such waste.

Justification: Soapy run-off and gray water disposal directly on the ground is inconsistent with maintaining a natural park environment. Gray water is a waste product that may contain chemicals or other pollutants that may harm the sensitive desert ecosystem, disrupt natural processes, and pollute pristine park surface and groundwater reserves. Facilities for proper disposal of this waste are provided at South and Watchman Campground.

 

§2.15 Pets

(a)(1)(i) Pets (as defined by 36 CFR 1.4(a) to be a dog, cat or other animal that has been domesticated) are prohibited on all trails (with the exception of the Pa’rus trail), more than 10 feet from paved roads, and in the wilderness. This prohibition does not include Service Animals. Service animals are not subject to the park’s pet Policies and, when accompanying an individual with a disability, they are allowed wherever visitors are allowed. A service animal means any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability.

No pets, other than service animals, are allowed on the park transportation shuttle buses.

Pet excrement must be picked up and properly disposed of by the pet/service animal owner from all areas within Zion National Park.

Park residents (employees/volunteers residing in the park) may keep pets in accordance with Zion National Park Housing Plan, excluding Caprinae (sheep, goat and related subfamilies), which park residents may not keep as pets.

Properly restrained pets are allowed in developed campgrounds, picnic areas, on the grounds of the Zion Lodge, and along public roads and parking areas within 100 feet of the road surface.

Justification: Consistent with public health and safety, protection of natural resources and avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities, pets must be restricted. The burden is placed on pet owners to assure their pets do not destroy park values for others in those areas where they are allowed. Pet excrement disposal stations are provided along the Pa’rus Trail for this purpose.

(a)(3)(i) Pets (as defined by 36 CFR as a dog, cat or other animal that has been domesticated) may be left unattended secured in a cage or tied to an object in developed campgrounds provided all other requirements of §2.15 are observed. Unattended pets observed making unreasonable noise will be considered prima facie evidence of failure by the owner to meet requirements of §2.15(a)(4). Leaving a pet unattended in a vehicle with environmental conditions that pose a health risk to the animal is prohibited.

Justification: Consistent with public health and safety, protection of natural resources and avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities, pets must be restricted. The burden is placed on pet owners to assure their pets do not destroy park values for others in those areas where they are allowed. Environmental conditions that pose a health risk to the animal may be determined by NPS personnel observing ambient temperatures, the probability of unhealthy conditions within the vehicle, and observing signs of distress from an animal. If NPS personnel determine an animal is in imminent danger action may be taken to prevent further harm to the animal.

 

§2.16 Horses and Pack Animals

(a) “Saddle stock” is defined, for purposes of the Zion National Park General Management Plan, as stock carrying either riders or equipment/supplies and is limited to horses, mules, and burros.

“Pack animals,” for purposes of 36 CFR 2.16(a) are defined as horses, mules and burros. Llamas, goats, dogs, and all other animals are specifically excluded for use as pack animals within Zion National Park.

(b) The use of saddle stock or pack animals is prohibited, except in the following areas:

The following trails are open to horse or pack animal use:

• LaVerkin Creek Trail west of Beartrap Canyon
• Hop Valley Trail
• Connector Trail
• Northgate Peaks Trail
• Wildcat Canyon Trail
• West Rim Trail north of Cabin Spring
• Sawmill Spring Trail
• Telephone Canyon Trail
• East Mesa Trail east of the Observation Point Trail junction
• East Rim Trail south of Stave Spring
• Deer Trap Mountain Trail
• Cable Mountain Trail
• Chinle Trail
• Sandbench Trail (open to public use from November 1 to March 1 only)

Off-trail use of horses or pack animals is permitted only in:

• Lower Coalpits Wash from the trailhead to the junction with Scoggins Wash
• Scoggins Wash
• Huber Wash

Saddle stock or pack animal use on wilderness trails is prohibited during spring thaws, during unusually wet periods, and at other times when, at the Superintendent’s discretion, use would cause undue trail damage.

NPS administrative uses are exempt in these areas for the purpose of resource/visitor protection and the utilization of minimum tool for trail maintenance.

(g)(1) Grazing of saddle stock or pack animals within park boundaries is prohibited.

Saddle stock and/or pack animals must be fed only certified weed-free feed 24 hours prior to entering the wilderness. Stock users are required to pack feed such as grain or pellets that are certified as weed-free. This feed must be protected from wildlife depredation and any unused feed must be packed out. A feed bag must also be used in the wilderness. Stock manure must be collected upon unloading and loading from trailers with the manure removed from the park to reduce the potential for exotic plant introduction.

(g)(2) Overnight camping with saddle stock and/or pack animals is limited to Hop Valley Site A, and is permitted for one night only.

(g)(3) Saddle stock and/or pack animals will be hobbled or tethered on a high line (6-7 feet) between trees, or otherwise restrained in a manner preventing damage to trees. Animals will not be picketed or tied to a single tree.

(g)(4) Saddle stock and/or pack animals will be kept more than 200 feet from any spring, stream, or other water source unless in the act of watering, riding or leading the animal near or across the water as a necessary function of wilderness travel.

(g)(5) A maximum of 6 saddle stock or pack animals are allowed in any single party traveling in Zion National Park. These groups may not be split up as referenced in section 1.5 (a)(2)(xiii).

The contracted concessionaire is excluded from this restriction while traveling along the Sandbench Trail for commercial horse trail rides.

Justification: Saddle stock are defined as horses, mules, and burros and pack animals are defined as mules and burros for the purpose of this regulation. Stock use within the park is historically documented and their continued presence is conditionally permitted. Consistent with public health, protection of environmental values and natural resources, and avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities, the Superintendent has determined that restriction of saddle stock and pack animals is necessary.

The LaVerkin Creek drainage is not suitable for overnight-pack stock use due to designated campsites that are heavily used and not adequate for stock tethering, picketing, or high-lining. Tying of animals is necessary to minimize resource damage, pollution of water sources and destruction of vegetation.

The Kolob Arch trail is not appropriate for saddle stock as it involves scrambling over large boulders, steep slickrock, and stream bottom areas.

Beartrap Canyon and Willis Creek are narrow canyons characterized by no maintained trail, a number of steep banks, slopes, and stream bottom areas, which make the route unsuitable for stock use.

The East Mesa Trail below its junction with the Observation Point Trail and Zion Canyon trails from the rim to the canyon floor are heavily traveled by hikers, and the trails are often steep and narrow.

Restricting the presence of animals in developed areas is necessary to maintain a non-offensive and sanitary condition in these areas of intensive use.

For the safety of riders, the Sandbench Trail is closed to non-concessionaire use during the operation of the concessionaire-contracted trail rides.

The Taylor Creek Trail, a front country route, is characterized by numerous steep creek banks, steep slopes, and numerous short stream crossings. Large groups of stock with riders create unacceptable resource impacts while standing/stopping in fragile riparian and canyon areas.

Due to problems with the spread of noxious/exotic weeds, all stock using Zion National Park must be fed only certified weed-free hay and feed 24 hours prior to entering the park and using park trails.

 

§2.20 Skating, Skateboards, and Similar Devices

(a) The use of roller skates, inline skates and two wheeled, non-motorized scooters is permitted on the Pa’rus trail, the paved roadways within Watchman and South Campgrounds, and employee housing areas only. Skateboards and all other similar devices are prohibited throughout the park.

Justification: The areas listed are either closed to motor vehicles or have a speed limit low enough to minimize conflicts between these devices and motor vehicles.

 

§2.21 Smoking

(a) Public access areas of public buildings and areas within 25 feet of the building are closed to smoking including e-cigarettes.

Non-developed and wilderness areas (including trails) are closed to traditional smoking (one that contains a spark or ignition source) from May 1 through September 30 of each year unless the individual is in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or clear to mineral soil.

Justification: In the interest of fire prevention and public health, this prohibition is consistent with state law, past practice and fire restrictions in the Color Country area.

 

§2.50 Special Events

(a) A special use permit is always required to hold an event within the boundaries of Zion National Park. These events include wedding ceremonies, scattering of ashes (§2.62), and when groups of greater than 25 people (§2.51) plan gatherings or activities. Permit applications are accepted up to 1 year in advance and no less than 3 weeks prior to event date.

Weddings are permitted at the following locations with corresponding group size: Temple of Sinawava (35), Menu Falls (10), Zion Lodge Lawn (75), South Campground Amphitheater (100), Zion Nature Center North Lawn seasonally Sept-early May (50) and Timber Creek Overlook (20).

 

§ 2.51 Demonstrations and Designated Available Park Areas

(b) A permit is required for a public assembly, demonstrations, meetings, etc. involving more than 25 people. Park will respond to permit applications within 10 days of receipt of complete application.

Justification: To ensure public safety and the protection of park resources and values, and to avoid assigning the same location and time to two or more activities, for groups larger than 25 persons, the park will issue permits that specify/organize the time, location, number of participants, use of the facilities, and number and type of equipment used, but not the content of the message presented.

Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit in designated Park areas only. Group size is limited to 25 persons at any one time and location, without a permit.

Justification: Zion National Park will accommodate the use of park land for activities protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Activities include demonstrations, picketing, speechmaking, marching, holding vigils or religious services and all other like forms of conduct which involve the communication or expression of views or grievances, engaged in by one or more persons, the conduct of which is reasonably likely to draw a crowd of onlookers.

The following park areas are designated as areas for public assemblies not requiring a permit:

Zion South Entrance Monument Parking Lot (150 people maximum)
Location is the first 5 parallel parking stalls in the southern end of the parking lot and not to extend into the lot pass-through lane, traffic island, or South Entrance vehicle queuing and exit lanes.

Zion Canyon Visitor Center (25 people maximum)
Location is between flagpole and parking lot and not to extend off the “plaza” or into the roadway or parking lot or impede visitor access.

Zion Human History Museum (25 people maximum)
Location is along the stone and spilt rail fence south of the Natural Bridge Viewpoint Interpretative Sign not to impede visitor access to the Human History Museum or Patio.

South Campground Amphitheater (100 people maximum)
Location is within the amphitheater by South Campground not to impede visitor access to campsites or the Pa’rus trail.

Kolob Canyons Visitor Center (25 people maximum)
Location is the west end immediately adjacent to the parking lot of the L shaped sidewalk. The sidewalk runs from the Northeast at the picnic area, in front of the Visitor Center and around the parking lot to the west.

Demonstrations involving 25 persons or fewer may be held without a permit in designated Park areas. Groups of more than 25 people will require a permit. Groups will not unreasonably interfere with other demonstrations or special events no matter the size. Counter protests or competing groups that do not require a permit will be respectful of each other’s First Amendment Rights. If two non-affiliated groups exceed 25 persons, the group to occupy the space first will be allowed to remain, and the non-affiliated group will be offered another designated First Amendment area. Individuals and small groups who take advantage of the permit exception may make use of hand-carried signs, but not stages, platforms, or structures. Maps of these locations are in Appendix A, in this document (See Appendix A).

 

§2.52 Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter

A permit is required for the sale or distribution of printed matter or other materials within designated park areas by more than 25 persons. (See section §2.52(b) for permit requirements.)

Sale or distribution activity of printed material by 25 persons or fewer may be conducted without a permit in the designated areas listed in preceding section.

Distribution of non-printed material (CDs, DVDs, audiotapes, etc) by 25 persons or fewer may be conducted without a permit in the designated areas listed in preceding section, provided there is no attempt to obtain compensation for these materials. Sale of non-printed material requires a permit.

Justification: Zion National Park will accommodate the use of park land for activities protected under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution including the distribution of printed material provided the group will not unreasonably interfere with other demonstrations or special events. Recent direction from the NPS Director (February 5, 2014) have clarified that non-printed material can be distributed without a permit under first amendment rights provided there is no attempt by the group at obtaining compensation.

 

§2.62(b) Memorialization

The scattering of ashes is permitted with a Special Use Permit on the Watchman Trail, the large field on the east of the Pa’rus Trail between the second and third bridge north of the Watchman Housing Road and Angels Landing Trail. Memorials or plaques are not permitted.

Justification: The Superintendent has identified areas where families can scatter ashes while ensuring other park visitors are not impacted.

 

Vehicles and Traffic Safety

 

§4.10 Travel off road

(c)(1) Tracked vehicles manufactured to be operated as over snow vehicles may be driven on those routes within the park defined by 36 CFR section 7.10 during periods when the roads have been closed to wheeled motor vehicles due to snow and weather conditions. Vehicle use is restricted to the established unplowed roadway. All off-road use is prohibited.

Justification: During periods when the Kolob Terrace Road is closed to wheeled vehicles due to snow and weather conditions, land and home owners north of the park have a need to access their properties. Over snow tracked vehicles provide reasonable safe access and do not damage the snow surface for snowmobiles.

 

§4.11 Load Weight and Size Limits

(a)(1)(i) The Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel is closed to all vehicles at or exceeding 7'10" (main body) in width and/or 11'4" in total height, except under the auspices of a Special Use Permit as allowed under §1.6 and§7.10(a).

All non-retractable attachments (mirrors, awnings, bumpers, etc.) are considered part of the main body.

Justification: After consultation and multiple survey by the Federal Highway Administration, the determination was made that this tunnel has insufficient clearances to safely allow traffic exceeding this size to pass through, except under escort as provided for by Special Use Permit.

(a)(1)(ii) The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway between the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the East Entrance of the Zion National Park is closed to the following “oversized” vehicles:

• vehicles greater than 13'1" high
• vehicles with a single or combined gross weight greater than 50,000 pounds
• single vehicles greater than 35’ 9” long
• combined vehicles that are greater than 50' long
• combined vehicles where the distance between the hitch attachment of the towing vehicle and the rearmost axle of the towed vehicle exceeds 26 feet

Justification: Restricted use on this portion of road is necessary to maintain traffic safety on a narrow road with sharp curves, which also has one narrow low-clearance tunnel.

• Vehicles greater than 13'1" high will not physically fit in the tunnel due to their height.
• Vehicles with a single or combined gross weight greater than 50,000 pounds – Zion’s historic bridges are rated for vehicles weighing less than 50,000 pounds.
• Single vehicles greater than 35’ 9” long will involuntarily cross over the double yellow line, 18 times between the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the East Entrance.
• Combined vehicles that are greater than 50' long will involuntarily cross over the double yellow line.
• Combined vehicles where the distance between the hitch attachment of the towing vehicle and the rearmost axle of the towed vehicle exceeds 26 feet will involuntarily cross over the double yellow line.

(a)(1)(iii) The Weeping Rock Parking Area is closed to all vehicles or combinations thereof exceeding nineteen feet
(5.85 meters) in length.

Canyon Overlook Parking (North side of road) is closed to all vehicles or combinations thereof exceeding nineteen feet (5.85m) in length

The Lava Point and West Rim Roads and the Lava Point Campground are closed to all vehicles or combinations thereof exceeding nineteen feet (5.85 meters) in length.

Justification: Vehicles exceeding this length cannot safely negotiate the small turning radius within the Weeping Rock parking area and, if allowed into this area, create traffic congestion that is unacceptable and a great inconvenience for other area users.

Vehicles exceeding this length do not easily fit into designated stalls at Canyon Overlook parking without blocking or impeding egress from the parking lot.

There is insufficient space within these areas to allow vehicles exceeding the specified length without causing safety and congestion problems.

(a)(1)(iv) Dump trucks, cement trucks and truck tractors carrying or towing either trailers or semitrailers are prohibited on the Kolob Terrace Road from April 2 to June 30 of each year, except for farm trucks, farm tractors, fuel trucks and vehicles with permits. A farm truck is a truck used by the owner or operator of a farm solely for his or her own use in the transportation of farm products, farm supplies, and animals. Permits issued by Washington County or Zion National Park are deemed valid for purposes of this section.

Justification: This section is adopted from Washington County, Utah code 6-1-1. The purpose of this section is to protect highway foundation, surfaces and structures on the Kolob Terrace Road from damage and deterioration caused by climatic conditions by restricting the use of certain vehicles during certain times of the year.

 

§4.21 Speed Limits

(b) The speed limit on all park roads is 35 mph unless otherwise posted.

The speed limit on the Pa’rus Trail for authorized uses, including bicycles and e-bikes is 15 mph.

Justification: Due to the character of park roads, 35 mph is the maximum speed limit, unless otherwise posted or when conditions for safe travel dictate less. Due to the congested/multi-use nature of the Pa’rus Trail that passes through South Campground, the post speed limit is set at 15 mph for all cycles in order to prevent collisions and conflicts.

 

§4.30 Bicycles and E-bikes

(f, i(7)) Cyclists (bicycle and e-bike riders) must yield to approaching shuttle buses, provided it is safe to do so (ie: there is a place for the cyclists and e-bike riders to safely pull off), when traveling on Park roads in the same lane of travel. Shuttle bus drivers will allow cyclists and e-bike riders to find a safe pullout location and come to a complete stop before attempting to pass when the cyclists and e-bike riders are in the same lane of travel.

Bicycles and e-bikes entering Zion National Park must be equipped with a bell to alert other visitors and wildlife of their presence and approach.

Groups of cyclists using park roads must break into groups of 6 riders or less with groups separated by one quarter mile. Cyclists must ride single file on all park roadways.

Justification: Shuttle buses with trailers have limited visibility which prevents passing moving cyclists in a safe manner. Large bicycle and e-bike groups prevent vehicles from passing them in a safe manner on the narrow park roads. Due to the congested/multi-use nature of the Pa’rus Trail and the Scenic Drive, a bell is required on all cycles entering Zion National Park to act as a warning device to other visitors and wildlife to avoid collisions.

(i) The term “e-bike” means a two- or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (1 h.p.).

E-bikes are allowed in Zion National Park where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.

A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23 and 4.30(h)(2)-(5).

Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Zion National Park is governed by State Law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited.

The Pa’rus Trail is the only trail within Zion National Park that is open to bicycles (devices that are propelled solely by human power).

(7) The use of a pedal-assist e-bike is prohibited within Zion National Park except on park roads open to the public and the following paved or hardened trails located primarily in frontcountry areas where traditional bicycles are allowed:

• Pa’ Rus Trail.

Class of e-bikes allowed:

• Class 1 e-bike: are electric bicycles equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.
• Class 3 e-bike: ***For Law Enforcement and Emergency Response Use Only*** are electric bicycles equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour.

Justification: The Pa’rus Trail, a 10’ wide concrete path, is the only trail within Zion that can accommodate bicycles and e-bikes without suffering resource damage. Class II e-bikes, which are throttle assisted e-bikes and per policy, only authorized to be used where public motor vehicles can go, are prohibited in Zion National Park because it would be unsafe to ride one through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and because the Pa’rus trail does not allow for motor vehicle use. Manufactures of e-bikes are producing e-bikes that can switch classes. In order to prevent illegal use of a Class II ebike on the Pa’rus Trail and from entering the tunnel as well as to assist law enforcement in readily differentiating between the classes, Class II e-bikes are prohibited. Class III e-bikes are also prohibited (excepting law enforcement and emergency response personnel) because the speed of 28 MPH is too fast for the congested, multi-use Pa’rus Trail (15 MPH speed limit) and narrow public road corridor in Zion’s main canyon, often congested with pedestrians, vehicles, shuttle buses, bicyclists, and parked vehicles.

 

§4.31 Hitchhiking

(a) Hitchhiking is allowed only in established roadside pullouts.

Justification: It is occasionally necessary for park visitors to solicit transportation from others in order to reach their destinations and in order to transit the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. In order to provide for this transportation need and the safety considerations associated with hitchhiking, it will be allowed only in established roadside pullouts.

 

Commercial and Private Operations

 

5.3 Business Operations

Commercial businesses are prohibited from engaging in business within the park without a written permit, contract, or agreement. The exception to this rule is the commercial transportation to the park area of passengers by motor vehicle, such as commercial buses, for a direct or indirect fee with no services provided except for on-board interpretive services (these services are confined to the motor vehicle itself, and established roadways, pullouts, and parking areas). All commercial use is prohibited within the designated and recommended wilderness of Zion.

Justification: Commercial businesses are allowed to operate within the park provided they have a contract with the park or obtain a written Commercial Use Authorization and meet all terms and conditions of their CUA.

Groups whose commercial activities are confined to the commercial transportation of passengers to the park area with all services being limited to onboard interpretative services have been determined to have limited impacts on park resources and thus are permitted to enter the park without a formal agreement in place.

Commercial use authorizations (CUAs) in the following categories are available to commercial operations which provide services that result in the incidental use of the park’s resources:

• Commercial Interpretive Services (Commercially Guided Hiking Tours) are defined as a commercial entity receiving compensation to provide clients with park and area information, often including natural and cultural resource information. These services are performed in vehicles and/or on certain authorized trails. Terms and conditions for these CUA holders are determined by group size (under 15 or between 16 and 50 people) as defined by Interim Commercial Services Plan.
• Commerical Taxi and Recreational Shuttle Services provide park visitors with point-to-point pick-up and drop-off within Zion at designated parking areas, pullouts and developed areas.
• Commercial Bicycle Tours are a continuation of one-way, regional, leader-accompanied bicycle tours through designated portions of Zion.
• Commercial Motorcycle Tours are a continuation of one-way, regional, leader-accompanied motorcycle tours through designated portions of Zion.
• Commercial Photography and Painting Workshops provide technical and artistic instruction on composition of photographs and paintings related to the unique natural and cultural resources of Zion.
• Commerical Rental RV/Trailer Delivery provide delivery of rental recreational vehicles/camper trailers/motorhomes in pre-reserved electric sites in Watchman Campground.
• Any commercial operation with a valid CUA is allowed pedestrian use up to 100 feet off of the developed roadway or designated trails, by using existing disturbances or by staying on hardened surfaces.

Other categories of CUAs outside of the above listed categories may be added during the year with the additions noted in the compendium the following year. The park will maintain a list of approved CUA activities and companies.

Note: Non-profit organizations engaging in the activities administered under the CUA program are also required to obtain a CUA from the park. A nonprofit organization is an organization that has been determined by the Internal Revenue Service to be exempt from Federal income taxation as a nonprofit or not-for-profit organization under the terms of the Internal Revenue Code. To receive non-profit consideration from the park when applying for a CUA, a nonprofit organization must state in writing that it will derive no taxable income from its activities in the park area, and, if requested, further substantiate this statement to the satisfaction of the superintendent. Taxable income is income that is subject to Federal income tax under the terms of the Internal Revenue Code.