On Monday afternoon, a significant disturbance occurred at Zion National Park, where a rock slide forced the closure of a key roadway. As per KUTV, the incident was reported near Big Bend, affecting the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Amanda Rowland, a spokesperson for the National Park Service, confirmed that thankfully, no one was hurt in the incident, and they promptly closed the road, pending assessment for safety resumption.
The road closure has left questions around duration and access, even impacting one of the park's central arteries. According to FOX13, the physical scientists will dictate the opening of the road, stating that it will reopen "when deemed appropriate by the physical scientist." The report further clarified that those guests staying at Zion Lodge will still maintain access, ensuring a semblance of normalcy amidst the disruption.
The size and impact of the rockslide are yet unspecified. A park ranger informed ABC4 that the complete road was shuttered, saying, “We’ve closed the road at Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.” He added, “Guests that are staying at the lodge are allowed up to the lodge, but at this time we’ve closed the whole road in order for our folks to do an assessment.” These closures may affect the plans of unexpected park visitors, directing attention to the park's dedication to guaranteeing the safety of its patrons and the integrity of its natural landscape.
The rockslide occurred around 3:20 p.m., and news teams were dispatched to the scene for coverage and further investigation. The park officials, confronted with the task of clearing the rockslide, undetermined in its expanse, are working diligently to address the aftermath. Crews are engaged in clearing the rockslide, and it is the park's visitors who are being kept waiting, with anticipation, for updates on the road's status. Providing such updates, including the timeline for reopening, remains a primary concern for park officials as they navigate the procedural aftermath of the natural event.
