NPS/MIKE LARGE
Switchbacks on Zion-Mount Carmel Highway
May 1, 2010
Superintendent Jock Whitworth has announced that major roadwork will occur in Zion National Park from approximately mid-May to October, 2010. The work will occur on a section of the Zion-Mt Carmel highway known as "The Switchbacks", from the junction of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to the west portal of the Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel. The project will be administered by the Federal Highways Administration (FHWA). Although there will be delays and short term road closures affecting travel between Zion Canyon and U.S. Highway 89, all park visitor facilities and the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive will remain open for visitor enjoyment.
People visiting Zion Canyon via the park's South Entrance who are camping, accessing the shuttle system, staying at the Zion Lodge or in the town of Springdale will not be in the construction zone. Visitors in Zion Canyon are encouraged to use the town shuttle to avoid possible delays entering the park.
Travelers going through Zion from the South Entrance to the East Entrance, or vice versa, should expect delays and some temporary closures. Park management and the FHWA are working to manage the construction schedule for the least impact possible on travel through the park. Construction schedules are not yet available, but if much of the work can be accomplished at night, delays of up to an hour or more will occur throughout the day. If most of the work must occur during the daylight hours,daytime delays or closures may be up to 3 hours. Check this website weekly for updates on the construction schedule.
Bicyclists wishing to cross the park during construction will need to arrange for a private vehicle to take them through the construction zone and Zion-Mt Carmel Tunnel.
Alternate routes of travel between U.S Highway 89 and Zion Canyon are Utah State Route 59 from Hurricane, Utah to Arizona State Route 389 and Fredonia, Arizona (better for large vehicles) or Utah State Route 14 from Cedar City, Utah to Long Valley Junction (high elevation/steep grades). Visitors traveling during the construction period may want to consider using one of these roads between Zion Canyon and Bryce Canyon or Grand Canyon National Parks.
Click here for a map of Alternate Routes
Click here for Drive Time Estimates
For updated information, Call 435-772-3256 (press 1, then 4) or continue to visit this website regularly.
