Visit Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is a breathtaking scenic drive that connects Zion National Park to the east entrance near Mount Carmel Junction. This 25-mile stretch of road is renowned for its stunning red rock formations, dramatic switchbacks, and the iconic Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, which was an engineering marvel when it was completed in 1930. The highway offers numerous pullouts and viewpoints, allowing visitors to soak in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Zion's towering cliffs and deep canyons. It's a must-do for anyone visiting the park, combining adventure with unparalleled natural beauty.

• ✓Spectacular Scenery: The highway offers some of the most stunning views in Zion National Park, with towering cliffs and vibrant red rock formations.
• ✓Engineering Marvel: The Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel is a historic feat of engineering that adds a unique element to the drive.
• ✓Access to Trails: The highway provides access to lesser-known but equally breathtaking trails like Canyon Overlook Trail.
• ✓Photography Opportunities: Countless pullouts and viewpoints make it a paradise for photographers.

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The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway was constructed in the late 1920s to provide better access to Zion National Park from the east. The centerpiece of the highway is the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, a 1.1-mile-long tunnel blasted through solid rock, which was one of the longest tunnels of its kind at the time. Completed in 1930, the tunnel and highway were considered engineering feats and remain a testament to early 20th-century road construction. The highway was designed to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, preserving the park's beauty while making it accessible to visitors.

• •Arrive early or late in the day to avoid heavy traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• •Be prepared for narrow roads and sharp turns, particularly if you're driving a large vehicle or RV (note: oversized vehicles require a tunnel permit).
• •Bring a camera—the viewpoints along the highway offer some of the best photo opportunities in the park.
• •Check for seasonal road closures or construction updates before your visit.

Visitors rave about the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway for its jaw-dropping scenery and thrilling drive through the tunnel and switchbacks. Many describe it as a highlight of their trip to Zion National Park, praising the easy access to stunning viewpoints and the sense of adventure it provides.