Hiking Trail from East Rim to Jolley Gulch Overlook (Zion National Park)
Exploring the Jolley Gulch Trail in Zion National Park
The Jolley Gulch Trail, named after an early settler who is the main character in a local horror story, offers a unique and captivating hiking experience within Zion National Park.
Located at the East Entrance of the park, the East Rim Trailhead serves as the starting point for this trail. It can be found next to the East Entrance Ranger Station on Zion–Mount Carmel Road. This trailhead is also used for hikes to Observation Point, a popular viewpoint with stunning vistas of Zion [1][4].
To reach the Jolley Gulch viewpoint, you'll travel from Zion Ponderosa via Lewis Lane. This trail is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour roundtrip hike and is situated outside the main Zion Canyon area. The trail sometimes offers views of a temporary waterfall [2].
The trail itself is accessible and suitable for hikers of various fitness levels. It is wide and the grades are gentle, requiring only light hiking gear or fitness clothes. The trail does meander through rock formations, canyons covered in pines, and offers stunning views of Checkerboard Mesa and Jolley Gulch. It's worth noting that the trail is sandy, so low gaiters may be beneficial [3].
The trail does not continue beyond the initial trailhead, so hikers should return the way they came. It is recommended to bring at least 1L of water for the hike, as the trail is mainly exposed and can get hot in the summer [5].
The Hayduke Trail, a famous 800-mile thru-hike from Arches NP to the Grand Canyon to Zion Canyon, includes the Jolley Gulch section. The trail's name is derived from a character in Edward Abbey's book [6]. Speaking of Edward Abbey, his books are recommended reading for those interested in the area's history and culture [7].
The story of Jolley involves him moving to the area with his family before Zion became a National Park in 1919. Tragedy struck when, due to dehydration, Jolley is said to have pushed his family off a cliff and then committed suicide [8].
Despite this dark history, the Jolley Gulch Trail provides a breathtaking journey through the pristine wilderness of Zion National Park, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the park in relative solitude [9]. The trail's location just minutes from the park entrance ensures easy access for visitors looking to escape into nature. The unique geological formations, particularly Checkerboard Mesa's checkerboard appearance due to ancient sand dune layers and winter cracking, add to the trail's allure [10].
So, whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, the Jolley Gulch Trail offers a captivating and memorable hiking experience within Zion National Park.
Make sure to pack sufficient hiking gear, including maps, for navigating the Jolley Gulch Trail in Zion National Park.
The East Rim Trailhead, located next to the East Entrance Ranger Station on Zion–Mount Carmel Road and used for hikes to Observation Point, serves as the starting point for the Jolley Gulch Trail.
Bring adequate water, at least 1L, for the hike as the trail is mainly exposed and can get hot, especially during the summer months, when exploring the wildlife-rich trails of Zion National Park.
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