Unseasonably warm weather in November resulted in a significant increase in visitation to Utah's oldest national park. According to Superintendent Donald A. Falvey, 121,720 people made Zion a destination during November, an increase of 31.8 percent over the 1994 figures.

Last year with much more normal weather, visitation amounted to 92,368. So far, through the first 11 months, visitation is up 6.8% for the year with 2.396 million visitors.Falvey said the average daytime high for November is 63. Yet last month, there were 18 days with highs between 71 and 79. As a result, both daytime and overnight campground use saw significant increases.

Falvey reminds area residents that both the Kolob and Zion Canyon visitors centers will be closed Monday for Christmas.

But with continued mild weather, the holiday period between Christmas and New Year's could be a great time for visitors to experience the winter beauty of Zion in quiet and isolation not found during much of the rest of the year. With the exception of Dec. 25, the Zion Canyon Visitors Center is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Kolob Canyons Visitors Center will also be closed on New Year's Day, but otherwise will be open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.

Because of the current lack of snow, most trails in the park remain open. However, overdue storms could change these conditions overnight. Prospective hikers should check on current conditions before beginning a trip. Hikers are reminded that all overnight trips into the Zion back country require a permit.

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For more information, prospective visitors may call (801) 772-3256, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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