The Seasoned Wrench

Best Motorcycle Routes Near Zion National Park: Top 3 Scenic Options

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Chase Manhattan

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Owner and Editor at The Wrench Network

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Hey y’all, it’s Chase Manhattan! I’m a life-long automotive and motorcycle enthusiast with a knack for diagnostics that I hope to share with you! Lately, I’ve been running my own motorcycle rental business, which you can read about here, and it has been a great experience that has allowed me to own numerous bikes that I probably couldn’t justify otherwise. Plus, it’s been a great way to experience new places while on vacation. If you haven’t heard of them before, I definitely recommend checking out the Riders-Share platform if you get the itch to ride while away from home, or if you want to explore a cheaper way to own and ride motorcycles!

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When it comes to scenic motorcycle routes near Zion National Park, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to several remarkable options. The 54-mile Zion Canyon Drive offers striking views of towering landmarks, while Kolob Canyons Road provides a more tranquil ride amid stunning red rock formations. For those seeking a historic perspective, Zion-Mount Carmel Road features a unique tunnel and access to breathtaking geological vistas. Each route presents its own charm and challenges, but which one stands out as the ultimate ride?

Quick Takeaways

  • Zion Canyon Drive offers a 54-mile scenic route with iconic landmarks and multiple overlooks for stunning photography.
  • Kolob Canyons Road is a peaceful 5-mile ride through striking red rock formations, perfect for those seeking solitude.
  • Zion-Mount Carmel Road connects the canyon to the east entrance, featuring the historic mile-long tunnel and breathtaking viewpoints.
  • Early morning rides on these routes are recommended to avoid heavy traffic, especially during peak seasons.
  • Each route provides access to various trailheads for hiking and exploring the stunning landscapes of Zion National Park.

Scenic Route 1: Zion Canyon Drive

Zion Canyon Drive offers motorcyclists an unforgettable journey through one of America's most stunning national parks. This 54-mile scenic route showcases breathtaking views of towering cliffs and unique rock formations that will leave riders in awe.

Along the way, they'll encounter iconic landmarks like Angels Landing, the Great White Throne, and the Court of the Patriarchs, each begging for a stop and a closer look. For motorcycle enthusiasts seeking to enhance their adventure, the rental market is expanding, allowing riders to experience various motorcycles without the costs of ownership.

For those craving adventure, the road features multiple pullouts and overlooks, perfect for capturing the diverse landscapes through photography. However, it's crucial to keep in mind that heavy traffic can mar the experience during peak seasons.

To embrace the freedom of the ride fully, early morning visits are highly recommended, providing a more tranquil atmosphere and fewer distractions.

While private vehicles can access Zion Canyon Drive from December to mid-March, motorcyclists must rely on a shuttle service from mid-March to late November.

This scenic route not only satisfies the spirit of exploration but also delivers a liberating experience, making it a must-ride for any motorcycle enthusiast looking to soak in the natural beauty of Zion National Park.

Scenic Route 2: Kolob Canyons Road

Nestled in the heart of Zion National Park, Kolob Canyons Road offers motorcyclists an enchanting 5-mile journey through striking red rock formations. This scenic drive invites riders to escape the hustle and bustle, immersing them in the tranquil beauty of nature.

With fewer visitors compared to other park routes, it guarantees a peaceful ride, allowing the mind to wander and the spirit to soar.

Along the way, Kolob Canyons Road features multiple trailheads, including the La Verkin Creek Trail and Timber Creek Overlook Trail, perfect for those keen to stretch their legs. Adventurers can explore the stunning landscapes or take in picturesque views of waterfalls and towering sandstone peaks—ideal for photography enthusiasts enthusiastic to capture the essence of Zion.

Accessible most of the year, except during winter closures, Kolob Canyons Road beckons those seeking a liberating experience. Riders can indulge in the natural beauty that surrounds them, creating memories that linger long after the ride is over.

Whether you're a seasoned motorcyclist or a newcomer, this route promises an unforgettable escape into the heart of Zion National Park.

Scenic Route 3: Zion-Mount Carmel Road

A thrilling ride awaits on the Zion-Mount Carmel Road, a 14-mile scenic route that seamlessly connects Zion Canyon to the park's east entrance. This enchanting road invites motorcycle enthusiasts to experience breathtaking views of Zion's iconic landscapes.

Riders will encounter the historic Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, a mile-long marvel carved through solid rock, offering an exhilarating journey with hairpin turns and mesmerizing vistas.

As you cruise along this scenic route, the diverse geological formations reveal brilliant red rock cliffs and towering sandstone peaks, each twist and turn revealing striking contrasts in colors and textures.

The road also provides access to several trailheads, including the Canyon Overlook Trail, where stunning viewpoints of Zion Canyon await those who dare to step off their bikes.

With year-round access, the Zion-Mount Carmel Road offers the freedom to explore its scenic beauty in any season. However, caution is advised during winter months due to potential road closures.

Wrapping Up

As the sun sets over the rugged cliffs of Zion, motorcyclists can feel the thrill of the open road and the embrace of nature's masterpiece. Each route, a ribbon of adventure, weaves through breathtaking landscapes, inviting riders to explore and capture unforgettable memories. Whether it's the grandeur of Zion Canyon Drive or the serene beauty of Kolob Canyons Road, these scenic paths beckon with promises of exhilaration and wonder, leaving every rider yearning for more.

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