Zion National Park – Zion National Park is initiating a transportation study this week to evaluate the current in-park shuttle system and provide the park with visitor-use data along the Scenic Drive, the 6-mile road leading into Zion Canyon.
Zion’s mandatory shuttle system was started in May 2000, reducing vehicle congestion and accidents along the Scenic Drive and enabling more visitors to gain access to Zion Canyon. Last year, the park’s visitation was just under 3 million visitors.
This transportation study will provide the park with a range of information about how visitors are utilizing the shuttle system, what effects the shuttle system might be having on resource conditions and visitor experiences, and recommendations to mitigate any negative resource impacts in Zion Canyon.
Visitors might see researchers and volunteers administering the study throughout the main canyon during the week. They will be counting visitors getting on and off at shuttle stops and at a few trails, asking for visitors to take a five-minute survey about their experiences at Zion, and looking for impacts near shuttle stops including social trails and noise levels.
Resources
- Questions may be addressed to Aly Baltrus: Email [email protected] | Telephone: 435-772-0160
Submitted by: Zion National Park
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @STGnews
I was a major skeptic when they first instituted the shuttle system back in 2000, but it has turned out to be a really great thing for the summers. It completely eliminates the parking dilemma in the canyon and it runs frequently enough that you spend very little time waiting.
I can’t praise the shuttle service enough! It has changed the whole experience of going to Zion from one of frustration over the traffic and finding a parking spot, to being a great, energizing experience.
I was very impressed with the shuttle system, having first used it only this past May. The ride was pleasant and the drivers very courteous. Short of increasing the numbers of shuttles to reduce wait time, I can’t think of anything needed to improve upon it.