Tour de N’Utah, Day 4, Zion National Park, 17 miles, 675 feet elevation | The Watchman’s Welcome

After breaking camp and having our last chat with Roy we were on our way to Zion National Park, however not before a quick coffee stop to check weather and schedule stays after Zion. Valley of Fire State Park is forecasted to be 100 degrees on Friday. 🔥 Ouch!

Between our bike ride and drive on Scenic Byway 12 yesterday, through Red Rock Canyon today and then entering Zion through the east gate on Highway 89, we were shocked at the views around every corner.

And then a small herd of big horn sheep decided to come out and say hello.

The Hebrew origin of the word Zion means “highest point”. Go figure. It’s majestic, massive, vibrant and awe-inspiring here.

I remember Checkerboard Mesa from my last visit. It’s aptly named wouldn’t you agree?

We are camping in Watchman’s Campground, its namesake, and just under it’s towering influence.

And lucky for us… look what’s located a half mile away.

Cars are still not permitted on the main road so as cyclists we have the whole road to ourselves in the park (well besides the shuttle buses).

Although different from Bryce Canyon and Grand Staircase Escalante, Zion National Park is equally breathtakingly beautiful and we can’t wait to make the most out of our brief two days here.