Before the creation of the park, Zion's geology provided pioneer farmers a combination rare in the desert: a wide, level place to grow food, a river to water it, and an adequate growing season. On the Colorado Plateau crops grow best between 5,000 and 7,000 feet, making Zion's elevations -- 3,666 to 8,726 feet -- almost ideal. Differences in elevation also encourage diverse plants and animals; mule deer and turkey wander forested plateaus; bighorn sheep and juniper prosper in canyons. It is recommended that to experience Zion, one must walk among the towering cliffs, to view the unique sandstone cliffs range in color from cream, to pink, to red. They are often described as sand castles crowning desert canyons.

Angel's Landing, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Geological formation; Trail; National park; Hiking trail

The Narrows, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Hiking trail; National park

Zion-Mt Carmel Highway, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Scenic drive

Canyon Overlook Trail, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Hiking trail; National park

Kolob Canyons, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Canyon

Riverside Walk, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Trail; Hiking trail

Weeping Rock Trail, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Trail; National park

Taylor Creek, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Canyon; River

Hidden Canyon, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Canyon; National park

Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Scenic drive

Temple of Sinawava Trail, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Hiking trail

East Temple, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Mountain

Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Scenic drive

Clear Creek Overlook, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Lookout

Court of the Patriarchs, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Landmark/point of interest; National park

Telephone Creek, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Hiking trail

Observation Point, Zion National Park
Attraction type: Lookout; National park