Last year saw record-breaking floods in the park and nearby Springdale.

“The National Park Service maintenance staff responded quickly to the damage caused by last year’s flood,” Zion National Park Public Information Specialist Jonathan Shafer said. “Thanks to their hard work, the park reopened the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway the day after Zion experienced flooding. Looking to the future, we have cleared drainage infrastructure to help protect roads, trails, and parking areas.”

Shafer advises everyone who visits Zion National Park during the monsoon season to check the forecast beforehand. And when in the park, speak with a park ranger to understand the hazards of flash flooding.

“Flash floods are a sudden increase in the depth and speed of water in rivers, streams, or washes due to rain,” Shafer said. “Flood waters carry large debris like tree trunks and boulders and can happen at any time in Zion National Park.”

According to the Zion website, flash floods are unpredictable and can be deadly, including blunt force trauma from large debris. Slot canyons are extremely hazardous and can even happen with sunny skies overhead. People are cautioned not to try to outrun a flash flood.

During the summer, Shafer encourages visitors to plan like a park ranger by keeping a few factors in mind:

• Find the forecast. Planning for the weather will keep you comfortable and away from events like floods or thunderstorms.
• Check current park conditions for information on road construction, temporary closures, and park Wilderness.
• Know where you will spend the night. Reserve space in a campground or hotel – these facilities fill quickly and may be booked by the time you plan your trip.
• Camping in the park is only allowed in campgrounds. You are not allowed to camp along roadsides, at overlooks, pullouts, trailheads, or other parking areas.
• Reduce wait times at park entrances. Have your interagency annual pass and ID ready to show to a ranger before you get to a park entrance station.
• Expect limited voice and data coverage on your phone.
• Get the National Park Service app before you arrive.

The Park is also exploring new options for managing floods in the future. During the floods in 2021, some of the South Entrance gates were rendered unusable and the park was closed.

“We are also assessing whether and how to make changes in the south entrance and South Campground areas that would help us improve road and trail circulation and include planning for these kinds of events,” Shafer said.

Superintendent of Zion National Park Jeff Bradybaugh spoke about some proposed options the Park is exploring during a public Zoom presentation in May. Some of the ideas discussed range from rehabilitating the south campground and how visitors circulate around the South Entrance, including Visitor Center, to the campgrounds, multiuse trail and the park’s shuttle system.

“It’s really important that we get this right, and we hope you’ll help us with that,” Bradybaugh said. “We’re in the initial stages of this project right now, considering your input, ideas and suggestions to make this proposed program more usable. Help visitors access the Park and, at the same time, protect park resources.”

He added that the Park had experienced a dramatic increase in visitation over the last decade, particularly in the previous 5-6 years. More than 5 million people visited the park last year alone.

The flash floods of 2021 damaged the South Entrance of the Park. Dr. Brian Carter, facility management program leader of the park, said it is challenging to manage floods and increase visitors. State Route 9 also has limitations, coming through Springdale.

“We’ve done our best to maximize our ability to provide a smooth entrance for visitors into the park,” Carter said. “However, once you get through the shuttle stations, there can be cross-traffic flow as visitors attempt to navigate to either the visitor center or onward through the park. This can cause some problems in traffic flow and some increases risk and safety.”

According to the Zion National Park website, helpful tips include:

Become familiar with the flash flood potential rating system:

Not Expected: Flash flooding is not expected. Your safety is your responsibility.

Possible: Some slot canyons, dry washes, and small streams may experience flash flooding.

Probable: Some slot canyons, dry washes, and small streams are expected to experience flash flooding.

Expected: Many slot canyons, dry washes, and small streams are expected to experience flash flooding.

Become familiar with signs of an impending flash flood:

• Surge in water

• Change in water color

• Roaring water sound

• Increased debris in the water

During a flash flood:

• Stay out of the water-do not attempt to cross or enter the water

• Six inches of water can knock you off your feet

• Stay as high as you can and be patient. It can take hours for flood waters to recede

• Flash floods happen quickly, so react quickly. Head for higher ground immediately. DO NOT take time to pick up your gear