Exploring Zion National Park and Kolob Reservoir

It was a spur of the moment trip, four guys, a Prius, and the goal of less than 100 dollars each for the trip from UCLA to Zion National Park. We arrived with no place to stay and were told to try outside the park up Kolob Terrace Road for free camping. We stopped quickly at a lower campground but decided to push on because we were told about a reservoir at the top. We were rewarded with a beautiful view at the top and a camping site around the reservoir. It was an hour long drive to the top so it took a while, but the views on the way up were second to none. Worth every second. It was 100 degrees down in the valley but up high it got to the 40s at night so it was a great escape from the summer heat. Even saw two bald eagles hunting in the reservoir for fish. The camping around it was free and we stayed two nights. Hiked the Narrows in Zion the first day (which is perfect for hot days because you hike through water) and then did Angels Landing the second day (which was a tough hike so you need to be in good shape for it). Both hikes were amazing. It was a wonderful three day trip and we all spent only 60 dollars a piece.