This short scenic trail is named after the Paiute word for “bubbling water”. Photo by John Manard licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
One of the best trails in Zion for first-time visitors
If you’re looking for easy Zion hikes to try out on your first visit, look no further than the Pa’rus Trail, one of the finest (and most overlooked) trails the park has to offer. This is a completely paved route that starts at the Watchman Campground next to the visitor center, meanders along the Virgin River, and ends at the Canyon Junction tram stop.
Several bridge crossings will have you explore both sides of the river, with splendid views of the surrounding cliffs and mountains. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the park wildlife, such as mule deer and foxes, playing in the sparse wildflower-strewn forest.
During monsoon season (roughly from June through September) the water level rises significantly and the Virgin River becomes a force to be reckoned with. Standing on a bridge above the torrent of rushing water was one of the most exciting and humbling experiences of my life. Besides heavy rains, the monsoon season brings a whole new level of complexity and beauty to the park. After heavy rains, you’ll see waterfalls pouring down the cliffsides, while the east side of Zion Canyon will be flash flooding.