Mt. Carmel / East Zion
Directly east of Zion National Park lies East Zion, an area replete with breathtaking natural wonders and amenities. East Zion includes the Coral Pink Sand Dunes and the towns Mt. Carmel Junction, Mt. Carmel, Orderville, Glendale, and Alton.
Mt. Carmel
The charming and breathtakingly colorful town of Mt. Carmel offers many of the same amenities found in other areas of East Zion, such as guided ATV tours, horseback riding, marked and unmarked hiking trails, and slot canyons galore. One of the most exciting tourist attractions in this little town, however, is the Maynard Dixon Gallery, or the Thunderbird Foundation for the Arts, just 13 miles from Zion’s east entrance. Maynard Dixon, a famous artist accredited with finding a new form of expression for the West, moved to Mt. Carmel in 1938 where he built his home and studio. These are now open for public tours from May to October. Tickets are $20 per person, and tours musts be scheduled in advance.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes
The Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park covers 3,730 acres of undulating, uninterrupted salmon pink dunes that are surrounded by high red cliffs, clear blue skies, and breathtaking views. It is a charming, secluded playground for hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, or simply playing in the sand. The park includes a 22-unit campground, hot showers, modern restrooms, and a sewage disposal system. Hikers not only have the option of exploring the boardwalk, overlook trails, and nature trail within the park, but they also have the opportunity of exploring the wide variety of hikes located just minutes from the park. The park is open year round and is 12 miles southwest of US-89 near Kanab.
Mt. Carmel Junction
In 1931, immediately after the completion of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, a young couple began homesteading the area known today as Mt. Carmel Junction. Though the land was initially prone to violent flash floods and was filled with gullies, quicksand, and layers of sand, the couple, Fern and Jack Hanson, successfully overcame these obstacles. They built the Thunderbird restaurant and lodge, the first restaurant and hotel in town.
Today there is much to do and see in Mt. Carmel Junction, making it an ideal stop for tourists visiting Zion National Park. In addition to the historic Thunderbird establishment, Mt. Carmel Junction offers a golf course, ATV guided tours, horseback riding, and the Zion Ponderosa Resort. Magnificent slot canyons also dot the area, including the Upper and Lower Red Caves, Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon, East Fork Slot Canyon, and Red and Spring Hollows. Checkerboard Mesa, an impressive mesa with unique cross bedding, and the Great Arch can be seen from the nearby highway. Also near the highway is Pine Creek Waterfall, a short hike and an inviting family respite.
Orderville
Orderville, so named because it was established by the United Order under the direction of Brigham Young in 1870, is a quiet but inviting town located just north of Mt. Carmel. In addition to hiking, slot canyons, and other natural nearby attractions, tourists can visit the Daughters of Utah Pioneer Museum. This museum, dedicated to preserving the unique history of the Mormon Orderville settlers, is located on Box Canyon Road, Orderville, and is open from May to September.
Glendale
The town Glendale was established in 1871 by Mormon pioneers and was also part of the United Order. An entrance to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument lies in the heart of town. Glendale is centrally located between the Grand Staircase, the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Zion National Park, and Bryce Canyon, making it an ideal place to camp or relax.
Alton
Alton lies at the base of the beautiful Sunset Cliffs, which are part of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The town was founded by, Wesley Roundy, who built two log cabins in the area in the early 1870s. At a community social in 1912, suggested names for the town were put into a hat, and the name Alton—taken from the Alton Fjord in Norway—was chosen. This quiet, little town, with its stunning scenery, is a perfect respite from the crowds and hustle of some of the busier parks and attractions.
Activities & Shopping
Bingham Gallery2200 South State Street Mount Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 435-648-2653 • Website: http://www.thunderbirdfoundation.com
Email:
Located in the beautiful setting so familiar to Maynard Dixon, one of the foremost painters of the Western States is his home, and studio. The gallery is devoted to many artists depicting the early and contemporary West.
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Juniper Spa at Zion Ponderosa
46 N. North Fork Rd. Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com
Email:
The Juniper Spa at Zion Ponderosa is proud to announce the addition of new combinations of aesthetic treatments and massages to their services menu.
Thunderbird Golf Course
Junction SR-9 and US-89 East Zion Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 435-648-2188 • Website: http://www.zionnational-park.com/
Email:
The Thunderbird Golf Course is located on the east side of Zion National Park. The course is a creative and well manicured nine-hole executive course nestled in the gorgeous mountains of Mount Carmel Junction. Besides the sand traps, two water hazards and a Texas sand trap the course offers a variety of obstacles. Low green fees! Vacation Golf Packages. Escape the summer heat of Saint George and Las Vegas and join us for relaxing golf amid the beautiful Mount Carmel mountains.
Zion Ponderosa Horseback Rides
5 Miles N. North Fork Road East - Zion National Park Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com/horseback.htm
Email:
Reservations may be made through the Resort main desk or central telephone number.
Zion Ponderosa Kid's Camp
5 Miles N. North Fork Rd. Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com
Email:
Let our counselors guide your kids on a day of adventure while you enjoy your own! Full Day: $75/50 Adventure Club 9am - 5pm (lunch included) Daily activities include education, pony rides, bungee trampoline, zip line, rock climbing wall, art & crafts, and swimming. Call 435-648-2703 to reserve a spot for your child today!
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort Climbing Wall
5 Miles N. North Fork Rd. Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com/rappelling.htm
Email:
Reservations may be made through the Resort main desk or central telephone number.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort Miniature Golf
5 Miles N. North Fork Rd. Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com/miniature-golf.html
Email:
Reservations may be made through the Resort main desk or central telephone number.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort Paintball
5 Miles N. North Fork Rd. Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://zionponderosa.com/paint-ball.htm
Email:
Reservations may be made through the Resort main desk or central telephone number.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort Wagon Ride/Dutch Oven Dinner
5 Miles N. North Fork Rd. Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com/paint-ball.htm
Email:
Reservations may be made through the Resort main desk or central telephone number.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort Zip Line
5 Miles N. North Fork Rd. Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com/zip-line.html
Email:
Reservations may be made through the Resort main desk or central telephone number.
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort/Canyoneering/Slot Canyons
5 Miles N. North Fork Rd. Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com/canyoneering.html
Email:
Reservations may be made through the Resort main desk or central telephone number.
Camping
East Zion RIverside RV ParkJunction SR-9 and US-89 East Zion Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 435-648-2203 • Website: http://www.zionnational-park.com/
Email:
The East Zion Riverside RV Park is nestled in a valley surrounded by towering mountains. Wooded acres overlook the lush green golf course and the head of the Virgin River. This nice RV park offers a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, on-site lodging and dining and you back your ride to the edge of the East Fork of the Virgin River. Location: 12 miles from the east entrance of Zion National Park at the Junction of Hwy 9 & 89 in Mount Carmel Junction. This is a convient place to stay for those that also want to visit Bryce Canyon and Grand Canyon National Park. The Coral Pink Sand Dunes is also a short jaunt away from Mount Carmel Junction. Reservations: 1.435.648.2203 Rates $15
Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort Campground
5 miles up North Fork Road Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com
Email:
Included in the beautiful Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort. Both tenters and RV-ers have access to the Resorts activity packages, and meals. Wireless internet, Coin op. showers and laundry facilities, picnic tables, and grills.
Lodging
Arrowhead Bed & Breakfast2155 South State Street P.O.Box 5561 Mount Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 888-821-1670 • Website: http://www.arrowheadbb.com
Email: duelj1@color-country.net
5 private luxury cabins, and 5 rooms at the Inn., on site Restaurant available. Hot Tub, Kitchenettes, Wheelchair accessible.
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Best Western Thunderbird
4565 S. State Street Junction SR 9 & US 89 Mount Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 888-848-6358 • Website: http://www.zionnational-park.com/
Email: eastzionbw@gmail.com
61 rooms, including a Honeymoon Suite. On site Restaurant, and Golf Course.
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Cedar Point Log Cabin
16 E Zion Ridge Drive Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 435-632-8279 • Website: http://www.zionbrycevacationrental.com
Email: cedarpoint@infowest.com
A luxurious 2 story log cabin with cathedral ceilings set on a wooded 1 acre parcel in a development overlooking Zion National Park. Amenities offered include a Theater Room with iPod stereo system, and Play Station 3 video games,a large private Hot Tub, jetted tubs in both master bath suites. A full size pool table is also available. Can sleep 20+.
Golden Hills Motel
4465 S State Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-648-2268 • Website: http://www.goldenhillsmotel.com
Email: gldnhills@color-country.net
Set at the junction for the road to Zion National Park, with On site Restaurant
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Mt. Carmel Motel, RV Park & Cabins
310 S. Hwy 89 Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 435-648-2323 • Website: http://www.staynearzion.com
Email: thecabin@color-country.net
6 motel rooms, each with fridge and microwave. Ten RV spaces, all pull through, free use showers in restrooms. Two cabins, one with full kitchen, one with kitchenette.
Sugar Knol B & B
2343 South State Highway 89 Mt. Carmel UT 84741
Phone: 435-648-2335 • Website:
Email: sugarknollbb@gmail.com
4 double rooms with breakfast. 2 rooms without breakfast - less expensive. sugarknollbb.blogspot.com
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Zion Mountain Resort
3 miles east of Zion Nat'l Park on Hwy 9 PO Box 45 Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 435-648-2555 • Website: http://www.zionmountainresort.com
Email: stay@zionmountainresort.com
52 private lodges, Restaurant, horseback riding, ATV rentals, live buffalo herd, and more.
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Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort
5 Miles N. North Fork Road East - Zion National Park Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com
Email: resort@zionponderosa.com
Multi-faceted Resort just East of Zion National Park offering Lodging, A Fine Dining Restaurant and Buffet. Many on site activities including ATV Rentals, Jeep Tours, Horseback Riding, and a shuttle service for Canyoneering within Zion.
See Google Map
Zion Trails Cabin
7 miles east of Zion National Park Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 702-270-0377 • Website: http://ziontrailscabin.com
Email: chris@ziontrailscabin.com
Beautiful fully furnished Log Cabin with 5 bedrooms to sleep 14. In home theater, outtside shower and fire pit. Next to Ponderosa Resort with access to horse riding.
See Google Map
Restaurants / Dining
Blue Belly Grill5 Miles N. North Fork Road East - Zion National Park Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com
Email:
Seasonal Fine Dining
Broken Arrow Restaurant
2155 S. State Street Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: (888)-821-1670 • Website: http://www.brokenarrowrestaurant.com
Email:
Upscale Southwestern cuisine prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Beer and wine available.
See Google Map
Buffalo Grill (at Zion Mountain Resort)
3 miles east of Zion National Park on Scenic Byway 9 P.O. Box 45 Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 435-648-2147 • Website: http://www.zionmountainresort.com
Email:
Enjoy indoor or outdoor patio dining. Offering a wide variety of meat and vegetable dishes, with fresh salads and delectable desserts.
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East Zion Pizzeria
12120 W. SS 9 East Zion UT 84755
Phone: 435-648-3302 • Website:
Email:
Subway
4490 S. Main St. Mt. Carmel Junction UT 84741
Phone: 435-648-3888 • Website:
Email:
Subway sandwiches.
Thunderbird Restaurant
4565 South Strate Street Junction SR 9 & US 89 Mt. Carmel Junction UT 84755
Phone: 435-648-2262 • Website: http://www.zionnational-park.com/
Email:
Located within the Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge. Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner with great desserts. Children's Menu available. Open daily 7.00 am to 10.00 pm.
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Zion Ponderosa Buffet
5 Miles N. North Fork Road East - Zion National Park Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com
Email:
Wide selection Buffet.
Tours
East Zion Tourism CouncilPO Box 5542 Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-733-5263 • Website: http://www.eastziontourismcouncil.org/
Email:
There is a fascinating world on the east side of Zion National Park. Let us help you discover Zion, Bryce, North Rim of the Grand Canyon and Cedar Breaks.
Maynard Dixion and Bingham Gallery
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Phone: 435-648-2653 • Website: http://www.thunderbirdfoundation.com
Email:
Summer home and property on Historic Highway 89. Docent guided tours available.
Roads End Scenic Tours
1
Phone: • Website: http://wwwroadsendtours.com
Email:
We specialize in tours: Slot Canyons, Underground Lake, Indian Petroglyphs, Indian Ruins, Hidden Arches, Sand Dunes and much more!
Windows of the West Hummer Tours
P. O. Box 168 Kanab Utah 84741
Phone: 1-888-687-3006 • Website: http://www.wowhummertours.com
Email: hummertours@kanab.net
Hummer tours offers Hummer rides ( not hard core 4x4 ) to some private slot canyons and other scenic overlooks. The hikes vary from 2 miles in sand to only twenty feet to the opening of a canyon. Tours can last 1 , 2, 4 hours and all day.
Zion Ponderosa ATV Rentals
5 Miles N. North Fork Road East - Zion National Park Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com/atv.htm
Email:
Reservations may be made through the front desk or the main telephone number.
See Google Map
Zion Ponderosa Jeep Tours
5 Miles N. North Fork Road East - Zion National Park Mt. Carmel UT 84755
Phone: 800-293-5444 • Website: http://www.zionponderosa.com/jeeptours.html
Email:
May be scheduled through the main desk or central telephone number.
See Google Map
