Virgin, Utah

Why Go

People pass through Virgin for one reason: Kolob Terrace Road. It climbs out of the town and up onto the Kolob Terrace plateau, which our hikes index describes as a high-elevation district with fewer crowds and sweeping views. It sits well away from the crowds of Zion Canyon.

What It Means for a Zion Trip

Virgin is the trailhead-access town for a different Zion. The Kolob Terrace hikes are on a road you drive yourself, so plan for a car. Northgate Peaks is one approachable outing - a 4.2-mile round trip through ponderosa pine forest with about 100 feet of gain. Our scenic drives for photographers page also describes the road. The image on this page shows Zion's east side, not Virgin.

Where to Stay and Eat

We have not reviewed specific businesses in Virgin. Look for small local lodging and cafes and check current listings. Most visitors sleep in Springdale, so see where to stay near Zion and where to eat.

Getting There from Springdale

Virgin lies west of Springdale. We do not give a drive time because the site has not sourced one, so look up current directions. For the full list of areas of the park, browse the hike guides, and for other towns and parks see places near Zion.

Who Virgin Suits

It suits hikers who already know they want the quieter plateau side of the park, and drivers who enjoy a scenic road. Our hikes index also lists other areas of the park to compare. First-time visitors usually start in Springdale and Zion Canyon, then add Kolob Terrace as a second day.