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Zion National Park Sets June 7 Ban on Large Vehicles on Zion–Mount Carmel Highway

Park leaders say the limits protect visitors by keeping oversized vehicles off a narrow, historic route.

Overview

  • Restrictions cover the 10.7-mile stretch between Canyon Junction and the east entrance, barring vehicles over 35 feet 9 inches long, 7 feet 10 inches wide, 11 feet 4 inches tall, or 50,000 pounds.
  • Combined vehicles may not exceed 50 feet overall, and trailers are limited to 26 feet from hitch to rear axle, according to the park’s finalized specifications.
  • Fee rangers will enforce the policy at entrance gates using physical measurements and, when needed, lidar, with vehicles turned back before reaching the highway and reduced staffing at tunnel approaches.
  • Large vehicles retain conditional access via the south entrance if they can park in the large-vehicle lot, hold a Zion Lodge pass, drive the Scenic Drive in shuttle off-season, or have campground reservations.
  • The move follows decades of studies citing tunnel, switchback, and bridge constraints, with officials reporting broad local support despite expected disruptions for some ranchers and tour operators.