Taylor Creek (Middle Fork) is a fun day hike in the Kolob section of Zion National Park. The trail follows the middle fork of Taylor Creek through a narrow canyon with immense sandstone cliffs on either side. It is an out-and-back trail totaling about 4.5 miles and takes about four hours at an easy pace. The Taylor Creek trail is is well-maintained and pleasant but doesn't attract as many visitors as Zion's most popular trails, so you'll experience wonderful quiet and solitude. It also offers plenty of diversions along the way.
Getting There
The Taylor Creek trailhead is located on the Kolob Canyons Road in Zion National Park, 2.12 miles off of I-15, past the Kolob Canyon Visitor’s Center. You may want to stop at the visitor's center and ask a ranger about the hike and the day's conditions. There is a small parking area at the trailhead.
Be Prepared
Hiking four hours through the desert requires a little preparation. Make sure you have plenty of sunscreen and a basic hiking first aid kit. Bring at least one liter of water per person, plus a lunch or some snacks in a day pack or fanny pack. Bring appropriate clothing for changing weather conditions.
You'll definitely walk through some shallow water, so I would recommend two options for footwear. If you like getting your feet wet, wear hiking sandals like Keens, Tevas or Chacos. If you want to keep your feet dry, wear water-resistant ankle-high hiking boots and wool or synthetic hiking socks. However, you'll be okay with any hiking footwear, including running or walking shoes.
Hazards
The main hazard at Taylor Creek is the water itself. Visit the Kolob Canyon Visitor's Center before your hike to check on water conditions. Rattlesnakes also pose a hazard on this trail. Avoid walking through the brush, don't stick your hand in any holes or rock crevices, and consider carrying a hiking stick. There are no hazardous cliffs or drop-offs on this hike.
The Trail
The trail begins with some steep stairs to take you down into the creek wash. It then follows the creek and remains relatively flat, gaining only 500 feet of elevation in 2.5 miles. The trail crosses the creek dozens of times - 51 crossings each way by our count. When crossing the creek look for rocks lined up to guide you to the trail on the other side. It's possible to lose the trail while crossing the creek, but if this happens you can just hike in the creek bed until you find the trail again. The trail leaves the creek bed at times and takes you through woods and up some sandy slopes.Fun Along the Way
Everyone seems to love running water, so the creek itself is one of this hike's main attractions. You'll have plenty of opportunities to play, splash and get your feet wet. The scenery along the trail is spectacular, with immense sandstone cliffs rising on either side of the narrow canyon. The trail also passes through some beautiful shady woods with scrub oak, pines, junipers, aspens, birches and other types of vegetation.
During the hike you'll pass by two historic pioneer cabins, which are also a lot of fun to look at. You can't go inside, because the cabin walls are not stable.
