Zion National Park 1.1 Mile Tunnel, Utah

The drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is awesome – a definite must-do and do not forget to bring your camera! There are a few pull-outs to enjoy the views, but be sure you have two people in the car – one to drive and the other to snap a few pictures out the passenger window!

The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway takes you to the infamous 1.1 mile tunnel at Zion – unlit except for cut-outs in the canyon walls, which in itself is fun to drive!

A bit about the 1.1 mile Zion National park tunnel ~

The tunnel was created in the 1930’s, so 1930-era sized cars were anticipated as the users. However, as we all know, cars have gotten bigger, and we now have 50’ Motorhomes and 40’ Fifth Wheels, which are too big to travel in the tunnel on the right side of the road. So for a $15 fee, the park service will allow vehicles and trailers (more than 7’10” in width, 11’4” high) to go through as they hold-up traffic on the other side. The park uses the term “tunnel escort”, but you’re not really escorted at all – you just drive through the middle of the tunnel, carefully watching the walls surrounding you.

Note – there are prohibited vehicles: those over 13’ 1” tall, semi-trucks, vehicles carrying hazardous materials, vehicles weighing more than 50,000 pounds, single vehicles over 40’ long, combined vehicles over 50’ long. In addition, all bicycles and pedestrians are prohibited. Oh, the $15 is good for two trips.

Why take the drive, besides the views and the fun of driving in the tunnel? Well, hiking of course! More about that tomorrow………