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Zion National
Park General Information
Mission Statement
The Zion National Park mission is to preserve the dynamic natural
process of canyon formation as an extraordinary example of canyon
erosion and to protect and preserve the valuable cultural, geologic,
vegetation and wildlife resources while providing safe, sustainable and
cost-efficient access for visitors experience and enjoyment. In
addition, the park aims to educate both visitors and the general public
about this exceptional environment.
Established
1909 as Mukuntuweap National Monument; renamed Zion National Monument in
1918; expanded and established as Zion National Park in 1919; Kolob
Canyons National Monument established in 1937 and added to Zion National
Park in 1956.
Name
Zion, interpreted by Mormons as a place of safety or refuge, was given
to the canyon by Mormon pioneers in the 1860's. Kolob, in Mormon
theology, as a place close to God.
Significance
Established to preserve and protect aesthetic and scientific
values:
- Zion features stunning scenery found nowhere else on Earth.
- Zion is a geologic showcase with sandstone cliffs among the
highest in the world.
- Zion features one of the last mostly fee-flowing river systems
on the Colorado Plateau.
- Zion features a large, diverse plant and animal community.
- Zion features evidence of Human occupation both historic and
prehistoric, including excellent examples of Civilian Conservation
Corps work.
Size
229 square miles (147,551 acres).
Elevation
Lowest: 3,666 ft (1,128 m), Coalpits Wash in the southwest
corner.
Highest: 8,726 ft (2,660 m), Horse Ranch Mountain.
Precipitation
Average: 15 inches.
Humans
Evidence of ancestrial Puebloans, known as the Anasazi, date
from 2,000 years ago; Paiutes from about 800 years ago to present.
Mormon settlers arrived in the 1860s. Park visitation in 1920 was 3,692;
In 1996 it reached 2.5 million.
Plant Life
Richest diversity of plants in Utah - almost 900+ native
species. Differences in elevation, sunlight, water, and temperature
create "microenvironments," like hanging gardens, side canyons, and
isolated mesas that lend to this diversity.
Animal Life
75 species of mammals, 291 birds, 44 reptiles and amphibians, 8
native fish. Commonly seen animals include Mule Deer, lizards, and many
species of birds. Rare or endangered species include the Peregrine
Falcon, Mexican Spotted Owl, Southwest Willow Flycatcher, Desert
Tortoise, and the Zion Snail, found nowhere else on Earth.
Zion Canyon Shuttle
Includes 30 propane buses. In 2004, there were 2.6 million
riders. Each bus/trailer combination replaces 28 cars. |
