BeneathZion’sBeauty: TheStoryWrittenin Stone
Explore the timeless geology of Utah’s most sacred terrain.
[ Read Feature → ] pg. 7
GhostTown:A Hauntinginthe Southwest
Forgotten Places, Echoes of the Past.
[ Read Feature → ] pg. 28
WaterWarsand SacredSprings:
At Pipe Spring, water is life and conflict. [ Read Feature → ] pg. 34
Smart.Sneaky. Essential: The Secret Life of Squirrels
[ Read Feature → ] pg 38
Z I O N P A R K B L V D
Page 07
Beneath Zion’s Beauty: The Story Written in Stone
Page 12
A Message from Mayor Barbara Bruno Mayor, Town of Springdale
Page 14
Zion Sunrise: A Perfect First Day What to Do, Where to Start?
Kids’ Corner (Series Premiere)
Episode One: The Adventure Begins Page 17
Page 28
Ghost Town: A Haunting in the Southwest Forgotten Places, Echoes of the Past
Water Wars and Sacred Springs: At Pipe Spring, water is life and conflict Page 34
Smart. Sneaky. Essential: The Secret Life of Squirrels
Page 42
Page 52
Page 58
This Is Not a Contest: A community invitation to share your view of Zion No winners, no judging just the magic of seeing through each other’s eyes
Published by Kindred Microzine™ Press, an imprint of The Vast Media Group Microzine™ is a trademark of Vast Media Group © 2025 Vast Media Group All rights reserved
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: [@ZionParkBlvd Stay inspired, stay connected.
East of Zion: A Cat’s Tale
ORTA True Tale of Magic, Loss, Betrayal and the Journey Home
“Not all wanderers are lost… some find their way back in the most unexpected ways.”
Many thanks to all who support this journey May we find joy, culture, and camaraderie in the pages that follow and may this work continue to bring us together in purpose and spirit
With gratitude and hope
Monica B Morrison Founding Editor & Creative Curator
How Time, Water, and Wind Shaped a Sacred Land Beneath Zion’s Beauty
To walk through Zion National Park is to walk through millions of years of time layered, carved, and exposed by forces far older than memory.
A L L E R Y
Before the first humans gazed up at its cliffs, before dinosaurs walked its floodplains, Zion was a sea. Then a desert. Then a canyon. What we now call beauty was once pressure, heat, and erosion the silent work of time itself
Zion’s signature cliffs are made of Navajo Sandstone, a glowing orange-pink rock formed from ancient sand dunes nearly 190 million years ago. You’re not just looking at rocks you’re looking at a fossilized desert, once part of a vast system of windblown dunes that stretched across what is now the American Southwest.
The Virgin River gentle today, but relentless over time is the artist behind the canyon. Though it may look small, it carries millennia of erosion in its current. Water, more than any earthquake or explosion, has been the force that shaped Zion.
When you stand at Angel’s Landing or gaze down from Observation Point, you’re looking into a world shaped by more than just natural forces You’re seeing the slow, deliberate story of earth, air, and water told over eons
Long before it was a national park, Zion was sacred. The Southern Paiute people called this place “Mukuntuweap,” meaning “straight canyon” or “straight-up land.” To them, the canyon was not just beautiful it was alive, inhabited by spirits, woven into their stories and identity
1) Zion’s sandstone cliffs rise up to 2,000 feet taller than the Empire State Building
2) The Navajo Sandstone was once part of the largest sand sea in Earth’s history, stretching across much of the western United States.
3) The Virgin River has carved the Zion Canyon over roughly 13 million years, and continues to shape it with every passing season
4) Over nine rock formations are visible in the park, spanning nearly 150 million years of geologic time
5) Zion is home to more than 1,000 plant species, 78 species of mammals, and nearly 300 species of birds a rich ecological system layered atop the geologic wonders.
It’s always a great time to visit Zion National Park, but spring is something special. With the Park shuttles now running, you can easily stay in the Town of Springdale, park once, and explore without the hassle of driving. You can even skip the line at the entry gate by walking into the Park, riding a bike, or using the convenient shuttle system. Most local lodging provides free parking, making it even easier to get around.
Springdale sits right at the South Entrance to Zion National Park, making it an ideal base for your visit As an International Dark Sky Community, we treasure our night skies join us for a stargazing event, or simply step outside and look up. You’ll be amazed by what you see.
Our parks and public spaces are here for you to enjoy. Visit our riverfront park, which offers dog-friendly areas, picnic spots, restrooms, hiking paths, and access to the Virgin River. At the Town Park on Lion Boulevard, you’ll find pickleball courts, volleyball, frisbee golf, a playground, and shaded picnic areas perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
If adventure calls, local guides and outfitters offer experiences like climbing, canyoneering, biking, hiking, and water sports throughout Zion and the greater surrounding area You’ll also find rentals for just about any activity, including gear for hiking The Narrows.
Our town is also known for its diverse dining scene, with a mix of long-time favorites and exciting new spots to enjoy. Many eateries offer take-out options for trail days or live music to wind down your evening. We take pride in our **locally owned and unique restaurants**, and we’re sure you’ll find something to love.
For exploring Zion by bike, many lodging properties and local shops offer e-bike and pedal bike rentals It's one of the best ways to take in the breathtaking views of Zion Canyon especially in spring.
To help plan your trip, visit the Zion Canyon Visitors Bureau website. It’s a valuable resource for lodging, dining, events, and trail information including access to the Angels Landing permit lottery.
In the unlikely event you need medical attention during your visit, a local clinic provides a range of services, including urgent care, family medicine, hydration treatments, and prescription delivery.
A quick note: Memorial Day weekend is the busiest time of the year for Zion If you prefer a quieter experience, you may want to plan your visit around that time
We look forward to w
What to Do, Where to Start?
Whether you’ve planned for months or just pointed your car toward red rocks and hoped for the best, your first day in this stunning park sets the tone for the rest of your journey.
Zion is magical at sunrise, and so are the parking lots (because they still have space). If you’re entering through Springdale, catch the first shuttle (typically around 6 a.m. in peak season). Early mornings = cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and better lighting for photos
Don’t overwhelm yourself with Angels Landing just yet. SuggestionRiverside Walk: Flat, paved, serene Great for all ages. Watchman Trail: Slightly more effort, but stunning views of the town and Virgin River. Both offer a powerful intro to Zion’s landscape and don’t require permits.
Visit the Human History Museum
This small but powerful stop near the park entrance helps place everything in context land, time, people, and purpose Plus: AC, water fountains, and restrooms.
Zion’s dry heat creeps up on you. Refill water at every chance, pack salty snacks, and take breaks in shaded canyon walls. A short nap under a cottonwood by the Virgin River? That’s peak Zion.
Don't Rush to the "Instagram Spots
The most memorable moments in Zion are often unscripted: a quiet turn in a slot canyon, the sound of the wind brushing across red rock, or a big-horn sheep sighting you didn’t expect. Leave time for wonder.
Bonus Tip: Talk to a Range
They’ll give you the most accurate advice on trail conditions, weather, shuttle updates, and safety.
O R N E R
Episode1
TalesfromtheTrail: “THEMESSENGER”
By: Monica B. Morrison
Brigitte Werner Illustrated:
The sun beat down on the red cliffs, casting long shadows across the canyon. Willow, the brown mare, felt the pull of the earth beneath her hooves. The wind whispered in and out of the the sagebrush, carrying the soft water flow of the Virgin River. She flicked her tail ready for adventure, ready for the day’s ride.
Maeve, her best friend and loyal rider, tightened the saddle cinch, the cool leather belt was a familiar comfort to Willow’s belly.
Maeve’s long braids bounced on her shoulders, and around her neck, along with her necklace that shined in the morning light turquoise, bone, and shell, strung together by her grandmother’s hands.
““This one’s for you, Grandma,” Maeve whispered, swinging into the saddle. She always loved that moment catching air for a split second before landing on Willow’s back, her braids flying behind her like ribbons.
They rode in silence at first, hoofbeats muffled by the sand, the trail surrounded by cliffs that rose higher each step of the way. The sun was hot as it bounced off the canyon walls, warming their backs. Maeve leaned forward, her hand resting gently on Willow’s neck.
“Grandma used this path, didn’t she?” she asked softly. “Right here, under the cliffs ” Willow gave a low snort in reply.
As they traveled deeper into the canyon, the world grew quieter. No birdsong. No rustling leaves. Just the rhythm of hooves and the mare’s steady breath beneath her They passed a hare sitting in its usual spot near a brush of prickly pear, nibbling in silence. It watched them like it always did calm, familiar, like an old friend waiting.
Then, Willow stopped.
Her ears snapped forward. Her body tensed stone and still like the rocks that surrounded them. Maeve straightened in the saddle.
“What is it, girl?”
But Willow didn’t move.
It was strange. Willow was Grandma’s horse, smart, steady, brave. She never spooked, never bucked, never hesitated. Maeve couldn’t remember a time Willow had acted like this
Maeve scanned the trail ahead Nothing obvious just rock, sand, and brush blending together. Then her eyes caught it.
Something was there. Watching.
It wasn’t clear at first it almost seemed a part of the canyon itself.
But it was looking straight at them. Still Patient Maybe it had been there for minutes. Maybe it had followed them for a while.
A trickster?
A messenger?
Maeve didn’t know.
But the canyon and everything around them had gone quiet for a reason.
" NEVER STOP CREATING. "
Project Generation is a visionary initiative designed to empower Native American youth by providing scholarships for trade school education. In return, graduates apply their skills by building tiny homes for the elderly in need of safe, dignified housing. The project creates a cycle of intergenerational care, cultural continuity, and community resilience investing in young people to honor and support their elders.
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PARTNERSHIPS ALLOWS US TO SHARE THE STORIES OF ZION AND BEYOND, ENSURING THAT THESE LANDSCAPES, RICH IN HISTORY AND WONDER, CONTINUE TO INSPIRE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME THANK YOU FOR HELPING US CONNECT PEOPLE TO THE LAND, THE STORIES, AND THE TIMELESS BEAUTY OF THE WORLD AROUND US
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Annette Baca L'Archevêque
Photography
Through her lens, Annette Baca L'Archvêque captures more than images she captures presence. her work is grounded in reverence and storytelling. We’re grateful to work alongside an artist whose photography reveals the spirit behind the scenery.
At Vast Realty Group, every real estate transaction supports a greater cause and brighter future. Their business model contributes to healing a generational gap and helping the elderly and young. We’re grateful for their support.
Whetheryou'repassing throughSouthernUtahor planninganextendedstay, SettlersJunctionRVResort offerstheperfectblendof adventure,comfort,and community.Locatedina stunningdesertlandscapewith easyaccesstoZionNational Park,localtrails,andnearby dining,ourresortisafavorite stopfortravelersseekingclean amenities,spacioussites,and genuinehospitality. Enjoyfullhook-ups,pool, laundryfacility,gym,shower roomsanddogparkand bathingarea.Apeacefulsetting thatletsyourelaxunderthe starsafteradayofexploring.At SettlersJunction,you'renotjust parkingyourRV you ' re settlingintoawelcoming retreat. Yourjourneystartshere!
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GHOSTTOWN:AHAUNTINGINTHESOUTHWEST
The American Southwest is a land of endless wonder a place where time lingers beneath vast, crystal-blue skies and red rock horizons. There’s a mystique in the air here, something ancient and otherworldly, as if the land itself remembers stories long forgotten. Traveling through this region can feel like stepping into a Western film or perhaps a dream where silence hums with possibility and every shadow holds a secret. Southern Utah, in particular, captivates the imagination. The sun-scorched cliffs and weathered mesas stretch across the landscape like nature’s cathedrals, telling tales etched in stone. Zion National Park, one of the crown jewels of the state and nation, draws millions each year with its towering canyons and spiritual stillness.
But among the many treasures of the Southwest, none are more haunting more whisper-filled than the ghost towns. Forgotten by time, these crumbling relics are more than just old wood and rusted tin. They are echoes of lives once lived… and perhaps, spirits that never left.
Among Southern Utah's many treasures is the ghost town of Grafton one of the many abandoned settlements scattered throughout Utah, offering a haunting glimpse into the past. These ghost towns whisper tales of pioneers, ambition, and the unyielding forces of nature. For those who seek a sense of history laced with mystery, these oncethriving communities serve as poignant reminders of a bygone era, frozen in time.
Along the banks of the Virgin River, just outside Zion National Park, Grafton remains suspended in a dreamlike state. Its few remaining buildings a schoolhouse, a barn, and several homes stand as silent witnesses to the 19th-century Mormon settlers who once called this town home. Established in 1859 with hopes of becoming a thriving farming community, Grafton was founded as part of Brigham Young's grand vision for a cotton-growing project. But the Virgin River had different plans.
Devastating floods in January 1862 destroyed the original settlement, then called Wheeler, forcing the residents to abandon their fields and resettle a short distance upriver. After the disaster, Wheeler was renamed Grafton and briefly flourished. However, the relentless flooding from the river, along with the silt deposited by those floods and the eventual development of more convenient settlements, hastened Grafton’s decline. By the early 1900s, the town had been abandoned, left to the mercy of the elements\
Today, Grafton’s haunting calm attracts visitors and photographers alike. The town seems to emanate a siren call, drawing visitors to reach for their cameras or smartphones. Not long ago, it captured a fleeting moment of the Wild West. Hollywood was also drawn to its charm—Tinseltown came calling in 1929 when Grafton served as the set for the first talking movie filmed outside a studio. More recently, in 1969, the town gained further fame as a filming location for the classic Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
A SHORT STORY OF CULTURE, HISTORY AND SURVIVAL
By Ian Harvey, CIG
What does "home" mean? Is it a place on a map or a feeling etched deep in memory? Is it the
scent of rain on desert soil, the rustle of cottonwood leaves, the stories handed down from one generation to the next?
At Pipe Spring National Monument, nestled on the remote Arizona Strip, the meaning of home flows as steadily as the spring itself quiet, life-giving, and eternal. For centuries, this water source has drawn people from vastly different cultures It has sustained life, sparked conflict, and stood as a symbol of resilience in the heart of the high desert.
ASacred Place Through Time...
Long before roads or borders marked this landscape, the Ancestral Puebloans lived along this land, building complex stone dwellings some with more than 100 rooms. Their connection to place lives on in nearby ruins, in sandstone walls that have stood the test of time, and in the cultural memory of their descendants.
For the Kaibab Paiute people, Pipe Spring has always been home This isn’t a footnote in history it’s a living relationship. The spring and surrounding lands are sacred, woven into spiritual beliefs, daily life, and oral traditions The Paiute people didn’t just survive here they thrived, in harmony with the rhythm of the desert.
In 1776, a bold expedition set out to connect Spanish missions across the Southwest. Franciscan priests Domínguez and Escalante, in search of an overland route between Santa Fe and Monterey, passed just south of Pipe Spring, forced to retreat by early snows. As they rested near the spring, their
livestock likely grazed on its lush grasses then, as now, a rarity in this arid terrain.
By the late 1820s, this quiet land became part of the Old Spanish Trail a trade network of caravans, culture, and commerce. Pipe Spring’s water remained a magnet for all who passed through.
By the mid-1800s, Latterday Saint (Mormon) settlers arrived, drawn by the spring’s promise of water and growth. Among the first was James Whitmore, a rancher from Texas who planted orchards, raised cattle, and worked the land But this chapter of history came with hardship. In 1866, Whitmore and his ranch hand were killed likely in a conflict with Navajo raiders and the Church responded by dispatching the Nauvoo Legion, a militia tasked with defending the site. Soon after, the Church began construction of a permanent fort.
In 1870, under the direction of Church President Brigham Young and managed by Bishop Anson P. Winsor, workers began building a sandstone fort above the spring. It would take two years and over 40 hands to complete the twostory structure designed more for protection of water and Church interests than for battle.
Today, Pipe Spring National Monument stands as a living time capsule preserving stories of resilience, connection, and coexistence Established in 1923 by President Warren Harding, the monument protects 40 acres of desert history, just across the Utah border. You’ll find restored grasslands, Paiute cultural exhibits, historic orchards, and even working livestock that echo the ranching days At the Visitor Center and Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians Museum, you’ll discover the layered history of the region from Native stewardship to Mormon settlement and beyond
Pipe Spring is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM MST, and it’s just a short drive from Kanab, UT or Colorado City, AZ. Whether you’re walking through Winsor Castle, hearing Paiute stories, or simply sitting near the spring and listening to the wind this place will speak to you.
More info, events, and tours:
www.nps.gov/pisp https://www.nps.gov/pisp Call: 928-643-7105
“FIRST IN TIME, FIRST IN RIGHT”
Rights were recorded not by those who lived there, but by those who arrived.
The doctrine of “first in time, first in right” was born not from justice, but from conquest.
Squirrels, small rodents often seen darting across parks and forests, are renowned for their remarkable memory and impressive survival strategies. One of their most notable behaviors is their ability to locate food especially in the winter months when resources are scarce. These furry creatures practice a behavior known as scatter-hoarding, where they bury thousands of nuts and seeds in various locations throughout their home range. This behavior is vital for their survival, particularly in the colder months when food is harder to come by.
The process of scatter-hoarding is intricately linked to the squirrels’ advanced spatial memory. Studies suggest that squirrels rely heavily on both spatial memory and visual landmarks to remember the precise locations where they have hidden their food. Their brains are specially adapted to support this ability, with certain areas of their hippocampus the region of the brain responsible for memory being larger than those of other mammals. This adaptation allows them to form a mental “map” of their territory, which is critical for locating the buried food during lean times.
Interestingly, squirrels have developed a sophisticated strategy for food retrieval. They use a combination of visual and environmental cues, such as the angle of the sun, the position of nearby trees, and even the scent markers they leave behind. These cues help them pinpoint the location of their buried food with remarkable accuracy. Some research has even shown that squirrels will use a process known as spatial learning, which allows them to recall the topography of their environment with impressive precision. They remember not only the specific locations but also the depth at which the nuts are buried, demonstrating a high degree of cognitive ability.
However, squirrels’ memory and problemsolving skills go beyond simple retrieval. These rodents have been observed engaging in a fascinating behavior known as deceptive caching. This strategy occurs when a squirrel suspects that it is being watched by a potential thief, such as a crow, another squirrel, or even a predator In these cases, the squirrel might engage in a behavior called fake caching, where it pretends to bury a nut in one location while actually moving to another spot to bury it for real. This strategic deception is not only a survival mechanism but also demonstrates a level of tactical thinking that is rare in the animal kingdom.
Such actions suggest that squirrels possess the ability to engage in ‘theory of mind’ the understanding that others may be observing their actions and potentially trying to outsmart them. This ability to anticipate the actions of others and to adapt their behavior accordingly is indicative of advanced cognitive functions and problem-solving skills. In fact, many studies have concluded that squirrels are capable of exhibiting a complex form of planning and decision-making that goes beyond simple instinctive behaviors.
In addition to deceptive caching, squirre ls also show a high degree of adaptability in their foraging habits. They will adjust their strategies based on environmental conditions, the availability of food, and the presence of competitors. For example, during years of abundant food, squirrels may hoard fewer nuts, relying on their foraging skills to find food as needed. However, during periods of food scarcity, they may engage in more intense hoarding behaviors, burying larger quantities of nuts and seeds in preparation for future hardships.
Furthermore, the ability of squirrels to rebury their food, particularly in the presence of other animals, indicates not only a heightened sense of awareness but also a strategy to protect their caches from being pilfered. This ability to detect and respond to threats whether from competitors or predators demonstrates a level of intelligence that is more commonly associated with larger mammals.
These behaviors are not only a testament to the intelligence of squirrels but also an example of how animals can evolve complex survival strategies based on environmental pressures. The intricate memory, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability displayed by squirrels show that, despite their small size, they are highly skilled at navigating the challenges of their environments. Their impressive cognitive abilities make them one of the most fascinating examples of animal intelligence, highlighting the often-overlooked complexity of the natural world.
“Stargazingin theSpiritlands”
Zion National Park has become a designated Dark Sky Park through the efforts of the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), an organization that works globally to preserve dark skies by advocating for the reduction of light pollution. In 2021, Zion officially received this designation, becoming one of the more prominent parks to do so.
TheDarkSkyInitiativeisa programaimedatreducinglight pollutionandpreservingnatural nightscapesforbothecologicaland culturalreasons.ZionNational Park,aswellasseveralsurrounding areas,isactivelyinvolvedinthese effortstoprotectthenightskiesand ensurethatfuturegenerationscan experiencethebeautyofthestars andconstellations.
WhatDoesBeinga DarkSkyParkMean?
To be recognized as a Dark Sky Park, Zion had to meet specific criteria outlined by the IDA, including:
(1)QualityofNightSkies
The park has an exceptional level of natural nightscapes, allowing visitors to witness the Milky Way, constellations, and other celestial phenomena in their full glory.
(2)PublicEducation andOutreach:
Zion offers a variety of programs and events that educate the public about the importance of preserving the night sky. This includes stargazing opportunities, special events like (Star Parties), and ranger-led night walks.
Photo: KlemenVrankar
3.LightPollution Reduction
Zion National Park has implemented measures to reduce artificial lighting within the park, using energy-efficient fixtures, lower-intensity lighting, and fixtures that direct light downward to minimize light spill. This helps maintain the integrity of the park's natural environment and its night skies.
4.Continued PreservationsEfforts
The park works in collaboration with nearby communities to reduce light pollution in surrounding areas like Springdale (the town just outside Zion), ensuring that the night skies remain visible not just within the park but in the region as a whole.
Zion National Park is a fantastic place for stargazing, offering clear, unobstructed views of the night sky With minimal light pollution and the park's elevation, it's ideal for observing celestial events like meteor showers, eclipses, and even the Milky Way during certain months. The dark skies also allow for amazing views of planets, constellations, and deep-sky objects
One of the park's most popular stargazing events is the Annual Zion Canyon Star Party, usually held in June, which brings amateur astronomers and visitors together to witness the night sky with telescopes and expert guidance.
While Zion is a standout as a designated Dark Sky Park, there are other areas nearby that participate in the Dark Sky movement or are working toward similar designations:
KolobCanyon Springdale
This is a more remote section of Zion National Park that offers excellent stargazing opportunities. It's located in the northwest corner of the park and often sees fewer crowds, which makes it an ideal spot for a quieter stargazing experience.
The town of Springdale, which lies just outside Zion National Park, has taken steps to implement Dark Sky-friendly lighting to ensure the surrounding nightscape is preserved. Springdale has received support for these efforts from the National Park Service and the IDA.
OtherNearbyAreas:
DarkSky-Ecological Impact: CulturalandHistoric Significance:
Other parks and areas in southern Utah, such as Bryce Canyon National Park (which is also a designated Dark Sky Park), and the surrounding lands of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, have similarly been proactive in protecting their night skies. Artificial light disrupts natural behaviors in animals, including migration, reproduction, and feeding patterns. In protected places like Zion National Park, preserving the dark sky is essential to maintaining the health and balance of local ecosystems. By reducing light pollution, we help ensure that wildlife can thrive in their natural rhythms without interference from humanmade illumination. Many Native American cultures have rich starbased traditions, and preserving the dark sky ensures that future generations can connect with this cultural heritage
through storytelling, ceremonies, and navigation based on the stars.
(2)Getawayfromartificial lights:
There is growing research on how artificial light at night can disrupt human health, including sleep patterns and mental well-being. Dark Sky Parks like Zion offer a natural remedy to that by encouraging people to disconnect from artificial lights and reconnect with nature under the stars.
HumanHealth: AstronomicalResearch:
A designated Dark Sky Park is also an important location for scientific observation. By minimizing light pollution, Zion contributes to a better environment for astronomers to study the night sky
Zion:
(1)Timing:
The best time to stargaze in Zion is typically from spring to fall when the skies are clearer and warmer. Winter skies can also be great but can be quite cold.
Zion is known for having several stargazing spots away from the lights of the visitor centers, such as the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Kolob Canyons, and Highway 9 The more you get away from the lights, the better your views of the sky.
(3)BringaRedLight:
Use a red flashlight when walking around at night to preserve your night vision and avoid disrupting the natural surroundings.
(4)ChecktheMoonPhases:
The best stargazing conditions are during a new moon when the moon's light doesn't interfere with the faint stars. Check a moon phase calendar before planning
(5)Ranger-LedPrograms:
Zion offers ranger-led programs like Night Sky Tours, where you can learn about the constellations, the park’s geology, and its history while enjoying the incredible views.
(6)JeepTours www.zionjeeptours.com
Outfitters like Zion Jeep Tours offer night sky excursions. Contact them directly.
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Nomad Kanab is more than just a stop it’s a vibe. Whether you ’ re rolling in with your RV or just cruising by for coffee, this locally loved café and campground combo brings travelers and creatives together over fresh-made wood-fired pizza, house-brewed coffee, and irresistible pastries. open mic, music, food, stay
With regular open mic nights, laid-back outdoor seating, and a welcoming atmosphere, Nomad Kanab is a place to park, connect, and kick back. Stay for a night or linger a while either way, you'll leave feeling part of something special.
Whereveryou’vecomefrom,and whereveryou’regoingnext,thisspaceisa smallpausealongtheway.Itwascleaned withcare notjusttoshine,buttooffer comfort.Thebedwasmadenotjustwith freshsheets,butwithhopethatyou’llsleep deeply.Thefloorwassweptnotjustof dust,butforwhateverwascarriedbefore yougothere.
Behindthescenes,someonepreparedthis placewithhandsthatunderstandhow muchthesmallthingsmatter.Awiped counter,afoldedtowel,awindowopened forfreshair alldonewiththequiet intentionofgivingyoupeace.
Andso,asyousettlein,wesimplyaskthat youmovethroughthisspacewithcare. Notoutofobligation,butoutofshared respect.Youarepartofacyclehere of carepassedfromonepersontothenext. Andjustbybeinghere,youcontinuethat rhythm.
“Everyspaceweclean,wesayasmall blessing:maythenextpersonwhoenters feelsafe,rested,andrenewed.”
FromallofusatCleanSlate Housekeepers,thankyouforbeingpartof thatblessing.
Ifyou'reseekingcleaningservicesforyour ownspace orknowsomeonewhois visitusat www.CleanSlateHousekeepers.com
Anddon’tforgettocheckthenextissueof ZionParkBlvdMagazineformoresoulful storiesonthoughtfulliving,hospitality,and thequietartoftravel.
From:
As we journey forward with Zion Park Blvd Magazine, we are inspired by the land, its rich history, and the resilient spirit of the Native peoples who have called this place home for centuries.
With every page, we honor their stories, their wisdom, and their deep connection to the earth, while embracing the future with a commitment to preserving the beauty and culture of the Southwest for generations to come.
"We are all just visitors here for a space in time, we walk this land not to own it, but to witness it."
P A G E 5 2
Zion National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty, is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. However, with increased visitation, the park faces challenges related to environmental degradation, leading to the rise or the “Leave No Footprint” movement. This initiative encourages visitors to minimize their impact on the park’s delicate ecosystems by following responsible practices. From staying on designated trails to packing out all waste, the movement promotes a deeper respect for nature and aims to preserve Zion’s pristine environment for future generations
The goal of the “Leave No Footprint” movement in Zion is to protect its iconic features, such as the towering sandstones cliffs, slot canyons, and diverse wildlife from the lasting effects of human presence By practicing Leave No Trace (LNT) principles, visitors are reminded to leave nature as they found it, ensuring that Zion’s unique beauty remains untouched The park’s efforts include education programs, trail maintenance, and sustainable visitors practices, all geared toward reducing the footprint od human activity. This growing movement reflects a collective effort to safeguard Zion’s natural heritage while fostering a culture of stewardship and respect for our national parks.
Zion Park Blvd. Magazine is part of our Microzine™ collection, a series devoted to exploring the diverse wonders of Zion National Park and its surrounding areas With a focus on natural sciences spanning biology, earth sciences, and human wellbeing we aim to illuminate the beauty, complexity, and resilience of this remarkable landscape
Our mission is to create space for reflection and understanding, inviting readers to engage deeply with the ecosystems that shape Zion. Rooted in the wisdom of ancient and local communities, we are committed to perspectives that honor the park’s cultural and ecological heritage timeless, interwoven, and sacred
Through these pages, we celebrate not only the science of the land but the enduring relationship that Indigenous and local communities maintain with this extraordinary place We invite all who walk these paths visitors and residents alike to discover the profound natural wonders and living stories that make Zion truly unique
Published by Kindred Microzine™ Press, an imprint of The Vast Media Group. Microzine™ is a trademark of Vast Media Group.
2025 Vast Media Group. All rights reserved.
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Original Work Only: By submitting, you confirm that the photo is your original work and that you hold the rights to share and publish it Please do not submit images sourced from stock photo sites or AI generated content
We believe everyone sees Zion a little differently and that’s the magic. Whether you ’ re a pro with a lens or someone who captured a perfect moment on your phone, we’d love to showcase your view Due to space limitations, we may not be able to publish every photo in the magazine, but some submissions may be featured online or in future issues Every image is reviewed with care and we ’ re truly honored to see Zion through your eyes.
By submitting your photos, you grant us permission to review and potentially publish them in print, online, or on social media always crediting you as the photographer.
Send your high-quality photo (JPEG or PNG)
Include your name, location, and a brief description or story behind the image
Let us know if you have any usage preferences (e.g., online only, no social media sharing)
No recognizable people; just nature, wildlife, and landscape preferred
We pay it forward - we invest 15% of every transaction into Real estate with purpose creating dignity-driven housing for elders and educational pathways for Native youth. “project generation”
