EAST ZION HISTORY TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Into East Zion’s Forgotten Veins: An Abandoned Mine Tour
A two-hour off-road and short-hike exploration from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort to a historic mine mouth with backcountry views of the Narrows and West Temple — this guide tells you what to expect and how to prepare.
Into East Zion’s Forgotten Veins: An Abandoned Mine Tour.
East Zion’s high country remembers another life: a small mining community whose scars and relics survive beneath sweeping canyon vistas. The Abandoned Mine Tour departs from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort, rides an off-road vehicle into the backcountry outside Zion National Park, and finishes with a short hike to a mine mouth where cart tracks and the remnants of the operation remain for visitors to inspect.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Mine Remnants and Cart Tracks
A short walk into the mine reveals mine cart tracks and the physical remains of the historic operation — tangible traces of the area’s mining past that guides interpret on-site.
Off-Road Transfer and Short Hike
The route includes an off-road vehicle ride from the resort to the trailhead, then roughly a 1/4-mile hike past antique mine equipment to the mine mouth — part of a roughly one-mile outing rated easy to moderate.
Backcountry Vistas Outside Zion
Because the mine sits just outside Zion National Park, the trip offers sweeping backcountry views of the Narrows, the West Temple, and other prominent park landmarks from the surrounding trail and transfer route.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
The experience moves from a resort meeting point into roughback roads aboard an off-road vehicle, then shifts to foot as you hike a short quarter-mile past antique equipment to a mine mouth. A knowledgeable guide narrates the history and local stories; for the bold, a brief walk into the cave exposes cart tracks and the mine’s interior, while the outward hike can feel steep for some travelers.
THE HISTORY
Mine Remnants and Cart Tracks
A short walk into the mine reveals mine cart tracks and the physical remains of the historic operation — tangible traces of the area’s mining past that guides interpret on-site.
THE ROUTE
Off-Road Transfer and Short Hike
The route includes an off-road vehicle ride from the resort to the trailhead, then roughly a 1/4-mile hike past antique mine equipment to the mine mouth — part of a roughly one-mile outing rated easy to moderate.
THE VIEW
Backcountry Vistas Outside Zion
Because the mine sits just outside Zion National Park, the trip offers sweeping backcountry views of the Narrows, the West Temple, and other prominent park landmarks from the surrounding trail and transfer route.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits — and who should be cautious.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Wear durable shoes that can get wet or muddy, dress warmly in the off-season, and bring water for the two-hour outing.
The tour departs from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort and runs approximately two hours total; the outing covers about one mile overall.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Abandoned Mine Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
Where do we meet for the tour?
The tour departs from Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort.
How difficult is the hike?
The trip is rated easy to moderate, covering about one mile overall with a short 1/4-mile hike to the mine mouth; note the hike out of the mine can be steep for some travelers.
Can visitors enter the mine?
Yes — a short walk into the cave reveals mine cart tracks and remnants of the operation; entry is permitted for those who are brave and able to navigate the interior.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear durable shoes that can get wet or muddy, dress warm during off-season months, and bring water.
Are there age or pricing restrictions for children?
Children under 3 are free.