Trip Report: Trail Running Across Zion NP - Zion Traverse


Trail Running Across Zion NP - Zion Traverse
By Frank Bouchard
HIKE 05/01/2026 EXT
Participants: Kerry R, Frank B, Steph S, Nathan C, Bryan M, Tali B, Jorge T, Kiki M, Eric W, Eric L, Katie L, Colin S, Jimmy S, Colton W, and Joslin H

As the WMC running group has expanded, our weekly Wednesday runs have become a breeding ground for ambitious destination runs. One that was discussed was the Zion Traverse. Spanning 37 miles of mind-blowing terrain, the route begins in Kolob Canyon, winds through the serene Hop Valley, and skirts the West Rim before a quick descent into the main canyon via the Walter's Wiggles switchbacks.

Fifteen of us drove south on Friday, establishing a basecamp on BLM land just south of the Kolob entrance. We all got to bed early in anticipation for a massive day. The 'first-halfers' woke up in the dark and got on the trail just when the sun was rising. The first half of the route is mostly through Hop Valley, which although plagued by sandy trails and many river crossings, is about as scenic as the main canyon but without the crowds. The 'second-halfers' were parked at the Hop Valley trailhead where they were able to relieve those who were done running, and resupply the hardy souls that wanted to continue on. They then met the runners again at Lava Point where a few others dropped out and the 'second-halfers' joined the group for the rest of the route.

The runners continued to the West Rim and descended into the main canyon where they caught the Zion shuttle to the visitor center. Eventually everybody made it to Springdale where we could get showers, cold drinks, and a warm meal before heading back to the campsite for the night.

The weekend was also peppered with some side-excursions: Nathan and the Erics did some multi pitch climbing routes. Frank rode his bike 38 miles on dirt roads from Lava Point back to Kolob Canyon. A group of five attempted a Sunday morning trek to Toquerville Falls, but the oppressive desert sun and steep grades forced them to retreat early.

The weekend was exhausting and fun. Steph, Jimmy, and Jorge all crossed the finish line having completed their longest mileage runs to date. Everybody pushed themselves and were rewarded with some amazing views and good company.

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