Zion in May

we did the Zion Traverse in 2014 on April 5. temps were nice, no snow, but water was scarce. May might be a bit warm, but you never know. it was a great adventure! not much the 4 of us would change. we went west to east. this offered a bailout option at mile 36 or so for those who wanted it (none took it). I think more people go east to west but either option works great. going east we lost the trail for 20 minutes around mile 42 or so because the route turned to cross country for a short distance and we had trouble finding the cairns. you problably would not have this issue going east to west. but this was just a short 1/4 mile section. all the rest is good trail and easy to follow. we used only 1 water drop (mile 14 going east, right on the route). there is another spot for a water drop (mile 22?) but it is 1/4 to 1/2 mile off route. a couple of Skurka’s water places were dry, and one was a mud puddle. guess it depends on the snow season. check with the rangers about the water sources before starting. this route requires 2 cars unless you hire someone to drive you. Skurka’s link below is probably the best source of info. Skurka Zion Traverse p.s. we did this route in 16 hours, so I assumed you were talking about a one day go. but this may be presumptuous. a multi day hike will be lots of fun too, just plan the water very well.

I did it a couple of years ago in April and indeed, the water was scarce. May should be better but also hotter so plan on carrying some water. I would never do it West to East. I much prefer the more gradual increasing grade doing it East to West. Take your time and enjoy the views. Running it is generally for bragging rights (I guess) but you would be better served at a more leisurely pace (particularly camping high up on the West Rim). Water sources: http://www.citrusmilo.com/zionguide/transziontrek.cfm We used these guys for shuttle services (drove us from the East Rim to Kolob to start the trek): http://www.zionadventures.com/zion-shuttles/zion-western-region-trailheads/ Map and other information: http://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/loader.cfm?csModule=security/getfile&PageID=437158

more on water … this description is west to east. Leave Lee Pass. a good stream around mile 5-6. there may have been a couple other options before that, can't remember. from there, the next8-9 miles is Hop Valley, cattle country. you will be crossing a wide stream (small river) multiple time (not deep). but this is cattle country and not advisable to drink the water unless you have a serious purification device. mile 14 ish is a trailhead/road. many use this for a water drop. mile 14 -22 don't remember the water sources being active. mile 22 ish Lava Point picnic/view area is another common water drop spot. mile 22 -36 only one of 3 water spots was active and it was a trickle. miles 36 Grotto – a good water faucet and restrooms. miles 36-37 – walk along road, don't remember water at 37. 37-48 – do not remember any water spots but there may be one if you can find it.

Dave – how come fast guys never get the benefit of the HYOH philosophy on this site ? lets not turn this thread into an argument about pace.

Thanks for all the info! I looked up Skurka's traverse link previously. What camp sites did you guys use? we plan on doing the traverse in four days, so it will be a super lesiurely pace.

Art – I always answer according to the OP. In this case, "My wife and I are planning to do the Zion Traverse in May 2016. Looking for any and all info. Best water locations, best camp sites" This suggests a backpacking trip with camping. Great that you ran it. Now you can call yourself a 'fast guy.' Martin, I stayed at the following sites: a.) Kolob to just berfore Kolob Arch (the turnoff to). Only took about 3 hours – we had flown in and driven from Las Vegas. b.) Lava Point c.) #4 on the West Rim (amazing views). We trekked out the East Rim, but you can free camp past Echo Canyon. With the last link that I posted, there is a map of campsites which should give you an idea of distances.

( hmmm. still no HYOH graciousness from Dave … ) regarding doing it eastbound or west bound, the west terminus at Lee Pass is only 400 ft higher than the east terminus. so you will be doing roughly the same amount of climbing (10,000 ft) no matter which way you choose to go. I think it really depends which day into your trip you want to hit the crowds as you pass thru the main part of the park.

The elevation is similar but the gradient is far different and far more gradual. Yes, you can HYOH. So given that, please recommend some campsites on the Trek to assist the OP.

Isn't Stave Soring in that Mike 37-48 section as described by Art? That's been a good source when I've been there.