One of the nicest things about Zion National Park is the wide variety of hiking trails that it offers -- there is usually a path suited to every family member's ability level. Among trails that children find especially enjoyable are the Weeping Rock Trail, because it leads to a fascinating rock that oozes water; and the various Emerald Pools trails, which take you to a series of attractive little pools, where you just might see -- or at least hear -- some frogs. The only problem at the Emerald Pools is that kids (and adults, too) have to resist the strong urge to submerge their toes in the dark green water.
Older youths -- perhaps young teens -- who are in good physical condition will enjoy hiking into the Narrows from the end of the Riverside Walk, where a hike is almost a swim, and you're staring up from the bottom of a 1,000-foot ravine. However, the Narrows can be very hazardous, so everyone planning to hike it should discuss their plans with park rangers before setting out. See chapter 4, "Hikes & Other Outdoor Pursuits in Zion National Park," for additional hiking information.
Park rangers also run special programs just for children. Kids up to 12 years old can join the Junior Rangers/Explorers, participate in a variety of hands-on activities, and earn certificates, pins, and patches. Morning and afternoon sessions, each lasting 2 1/2 hours, take place daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with children meeting at the Nature Center in the South Campground. There's a one-time fee of $2 per child, and the age range is strictly enforced.
Kidding Around -- Kids love the huge screen and dramatic photography in the Zion Canyon -- Treasure of the Gods production at the Zion Canyon Theatre.
