Creative Thinking Unleashed

Okay, I have a confession to make: I am obsessed with Utah.

There is just something magical about the landscape. I love it all—Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches National Park over in the East. But today? Today I want to zero in on of the big ones: Zion.

Whenever you plan a trip, the biggest headache is always deciding where to rest your feet after a long day of hiking. Zion has the usual assortment of hotels, motels, and tourist hideaways, mostly clustered around the main entrance.

But, I’ve found a “secret lair” that is way cooler than your standard hotel.

The Secret of the East Side

Most people visit Zion by coming in off Interstate 15 and taking Highway 9 into the west side of the park. That’s where the crowds are.

But if you want the secret experience, you have to keep driving. Go through the park, traverse the tunnel, and pop out on the East side. That is where you’ll find a hidden gem called Zion Mountain Ranch.

Why makes ZMR so cool?

• The Vibe: It is a legitimate working ranch. We are talking horses and actual buffalos roaming around! 😀
• The Rooms: They have what they call “cabins”, but honestly, they are so nice I call them apartments.
• The Food: There is a surprisingly decent eatery on-site called “Cordwood.”

The Ultimate Base Camp

The best thing about the Ranch isn’t just the buffalo; it’s the location. It is central to some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States.

Check out these drive times:

• Zion National Park: Literally 5 minutes away.
• Bryce Canyon: About 1 hour away.
• Lake Powell: About 1.5 hours away.
• Grand Canyon (North Rim): About 2 hours away.

It is easily the best spot to station yourself if you want to see it all. Yes, I know I sound like a total fanboy right now… but sue me! 😀

The Commute is the Best Part

Honestly, one of the biggest perks of staying at Zion Mountain Ranch (ZMR) is just getting there. Since you have to drive through Zion National Park to reach it, your “commute” involves some of the best scenery on earth.

The roads are super well-maintained, and there are tons of turnouts where you can pull over to just stare at the views or hop out for a quick hike.

A Heads-Up on the Weather

Utah weather loves to keep you on your toes. Depending on the time of year, you might get beautiful sunny days, rain, or snow. Heck, sometimes you get all three in a single afternoon!

Here is what you need to know to survive the elements:

Respect the Sun: You are at high elevation here—between 4,000 and 8,000 feet. The thinner air means the sun is way more intense than you might realize. Sunscreen is absolutely mandatory… unless you actually want to feel somewhat broiled. 😀

The Temps: Summer usually hovers around 85–90°F, while winters chill down to the low 40s.

Pack Layers: Conditions change fast. It is always smart to keep a vest or light jacket in the car. You never know if the temperature will drop while you are out exploring.

The image below was taken during a day trip on the Zion Scenic Drive. The trip started with sunshine and ended with snow and sleet.

As I mentioned earlier, they have buffalo on the ranch. ZMR is a working ranch, the buffaloes are not just a decoration. And keep in mind since they are not props, you need to be careful around them like any other wildlife.

You’ve already made it to the east side (the cool side). You are perfectly positioned for some epic day trips. Seriously, Zion Mountain Ranch is basically the hub for a “Greatest Hits of Utah” tour.

Bryce Canyon (1 Hour Away)

If you think Zion is impressive, just wait until you see the Hoodoos at Bryce. It is an alien landscape of red rock spires that looks like it belongs on Mars.

• A Must Do: Hike the Navajo Loop to Queens Garden trail. It gets you right down into the amphitheater.
• Pro Tip: Catch the sunrise at Sunrise Point. The way the light hits the rocks is life-changing.

Lake Powell (1.5 Hours Away)

Craving some water in the middle of the desert? Head east to Lake Powell. It is a massive blue oasis surrounded by red canyon walls.

• The Vibe: Renting a boat or taking a tour is the way to go. You can also hit up Antelope Canyon or Horseshoe Bend near Page, Arizona, while you’re there.
• Warning: It gets hot here. Like, really hot. Bring extra water!

Grand Canyon North Rim (2 Hours Away)

Most people go to the South Rim (where the big crowds are). The North Rim is higher, cooler, greener, and way more peaceful.

• Why I Love It: The drive takes you through meadows and forests. Then, you suddenly hit the edge of the world.
• The View: Walk out to Bright Angel Point for a view that will make you feel tiny in the best possible way.