Zion: The Story Behind the Scenery

Zion is a place where even unnamed features are magnficent. Surprises are everywhere. Some loom large, their splendor obvious from afar. Others adorn the landscape with a subtle grace. To explore this land is to witness earth's past and present glory.

Zion National Park, located in southern Utah, was first set aside in 1909 as Mukuntuweap National Monument, to preserve dramatic canyons and cliffs caused by erosive forces.

Frank R. Hayde studied English composition at the University of Kansas. He has worked as a ranger/naturalist at Zion, Redwood, and Canyonlands National Parks.

David Rachlis, educated as a geographer, worked as a ranger/naturalist at Zion National Park for nearly ten years. He now leads workshops and operates his own naturalist guide business in southern Utah.