Zion-Mount Carmel Highway

Zion-Mount Carmel Highway connects Zion National Park's east entrance with its south entrance and Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The 10-mile road ascends from the floor of Zion Canyon through the mile-long Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and out into a broad area of slickrock, ancient sand dunes that have been turned to stone and eroded into unusual shapes.

One highlight is Checkerboard Mesa, a weathered sandstone hill crosshatched with fissures in a checkerboard pattern; a turnout allows drivers to take a closer look at the formation. The Canyon Overlook Trail begins at the tunnel's eastern end.

Note: Vehicles wider than 7 feet, 10 inches (including mirrors) and/or higher than 11 feet, 4 inches must be escorted through the narrow tunnel; the round-trip fee is $15.