La Verkin Creek Trail

La Verkin Creek Trail is the main route through the Kolob Canyons backcountry, starting at Lee Pass and dropping down past Timber Creek before following La Verkin Creek itself through Zion's Kolob wilderness. It's one of the park's better options for solitude, with far fewer people than the main canyon. Most day hikers turn around well short of its far end; the trail continues to the spur for Kolob Arch and beyond toward Hop Valley.

What to know

• Starts at the Lee Pass trailhead off Kolob Canyons Road, reached from I-15 exit 40 — not the south entrance near Springdale
• Rated strenuous over its full length, with designated backcountry campsites along the creek
• Overnight stays require a Zion wilderness permit, reservable online