Zion—Mount Carmel Highway – Zion–Mount Carmel Highway loop from Zion Human History Museum
Zion—Mount Carmel Highway – Zion–Mount Carmel Highway loop from Zion Human History Museum
3.4
(13)
26
riders
Zion—Mount Carmel Highway – Zion–Mount Carmel Highway loop from Zion Human History Museum
00:53
11.3km
300m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Zion National Park
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
2.35 km
Zion—Mount Carmel Highway
Highlight (Segment) • Mountain Pass
Tip by
5.68 km
Zion — Mount Carmel Highway Tunnel — West Entrance
Highlight • Structure
Tip by
7.81 km
Zion–Mount Carmel Highway
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
8.38 km
Rainbow Cutout
Highlight • Viewpoint
11.3 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.62 km
1.50 km
165 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
9.78 km
1.50 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,530 m)
Lowest point (1,230 m)
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Weather
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Today
Friday 26 June
38°C
16°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 28.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're seeking a touring cycling route that delivers iconic Zion views without being overly strenuous, the Zion—Mount Carmel Highway – Zion–Mount Carmel Highway loop from Zion Human History Museum is a fantastic choice. This moderate 7.0-mile (11.3 km) route, with 972 feet (296 metres) of elevation gain, can typically be completed in about 52 minutes, making it an accessible option for many cyclists looking to experience Zion National Park's unique landscapes by bike.
What to expect on Zion—Mount Carmel Highway – Zion–Mount Carmel Highway loop from Zion Human History Museum
This route offers a journey through varied terrain and scenery. You'll start near the Zion Human History Museum, likely on the paved Pa'rus Trail, which meanders alongside the Virgin River, providing pleasant views and opportunities to spot local wildlife like mule deer. As you transition to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, you'll be immersed in unparalleled beauty, cycling beneath towering red rock cliffs. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway section then presents stunning vistas of swirling rock formations, hoodoos, and the layered strata of rusty red, orange, and cream. While the Scenic Drive involves a light, steady climb, the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway has steeper grades and sharp curves, offering a more challenging but rewarding experience for confident riders.
Planning your visit
A crucial planning detail for this route is the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel: cyclists are not permitted to ride through it due to safety concerns, so you'll need to arrange for a ride through this 1.1-mile section. During peak season, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is largely closed to private vehicles, enhancing the cycling experience by reducing traffic, though you must still yield to shuttle buses. The Pa'rus Trail is unique as it's open to bicycles and pets, and is also wheelchair accessible. Parking is available near the Zion Human History Museum, and arriving early is always a good idea, especially during busy times, to secure a spot and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Trail details
- Distance: 7.0 miles (11.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 972 feet (296 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 52 minutes
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