About This Route
La Verkin Creek Trail in Zion's Kolob Canyons district provides a 7-mile one-way backpack to Kolob Arch, extendable via Hop Valley for 2-day loops. Start at Lee Pass Trailhead; camps at La Verkin Creek or Hop Valley. Permits required, limited availability. Lush creek-side hiking contrasts with slickrock climbs, showcasing the park's diverse backcountry.
Safety Considerations
Flash floods surge through narrow La Verkin sections; heed NPS warnings and exit if thunder rumbles. Poison ivy lines creek banks; wear long pants and wash with tecnu soap post-hike. Bears absent, but aggressive bighorn sheep charge in rut; yield trail. Heat exhaustion peaks midday; hike pre-dawn. REI stresses bear bag hangs 12 feet high, though rodent bags suffice officially.
Essential Gear
Pack bug headnet for mosquitoes near creek. Use Gregory Baltoro pack for creek crossings.
Emergency Tips
Ford creeks upstream of narrows during floods; identify poison ivy (three leaflets) and treat rashes promptly.