Backpack Kolob Canyons, Zion NP

Overview

Starting at Lee Pass trailhead the trail descends down to run alongside the Timber Creek, past the open finger canyons of the nearby cliffs. At roughly mile 3 the trail will bend slowly to the left and climb up before descending again to run upstream and alongside La Verkin creek. Campsites 1-3 are before this point. The trail can be hard to follow when it gets down into the creek bed around the campsite 3 area, so keep your wits about you.

At roughly mile 6 the trail will split, with a separate trail branching off toward Kolob Arch, a great day hike if you don't want to camp overnight. These trails are posted. Campsites 4-10 will be before this point.

To continue on further to the remaining campsites 11-13, carry along the La Verkin Creek trail, you will climb up again and be faced with another split in the trail, again posted, one leading to the Hop Valley trail, the other continuing to the campsites, descend again to meet La Verkin Creek and eventually onwards into Beartrap Canyon and Willis Canyon. If you're planning to visit the Zion area for other cool hikes, don't miss the iconic Angels Landing hike.

What We Did

We picked campsite 11, roughly an 7-8 mile hike, located just off the descent where the trail splits with the Hop Valley trail. It took us just under 3 hours with frequent breaks. It gets extremely hot in the canyon, with little wind and at times little shade. You will need more water than you think.

Having said that, it was worth the hike, the campsite was serenely peaceful and we only saw 2 other people the entire hike, and not a single other tent. It's a perfect place to set up your hammock, sit by the crystal clear creek, watch the wildlife, and when night falls, gaze in awe at the stars. The surrounding canyon walls are beautiful, and the area is great for a little exploration.

I really wish we had another day to spend in the wilderness, to explore more, and take the extra mile trip to the colossal Kolob Arch.

I have listed our trip as advanced, but the closer to the trailhead you are the easier the hike. Bear in mind though, that campsites 1-3 rarely get water in the summer months.