Update: Zion- Mt. Carmel Highway Reopens

The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway on the east side of Zion National Park, between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance, is closed to vehicles effective immediately. The area sustained high precipitation and several sections flash flooded including a ravine approximately a mile west of the small tunnel, where flood waters blocked a road culvert and undercut the road. Alternate east/west routes are available via Highway 59 from Hurricane, Utah to Fredonia, Arizona and Highway 14 from Cedar City, Utah to Long Valley Junction and Highway 89.

The closure will remain in effect overnight and likely tomorrow. Crews will evaluate the damage tomorrow and begin work to stabilize the road. Traffic advisory signs will be placed near Mt. Carmel Junction, near Virgin, Utah, and near the park’s South Entrance. The park’s short range radio broadcast systems at Mt. Carmel Junction, Hurricane, Utah, and both park entrances will also broadcast the temporary closure information.

The park visitor center, museum, Zion Lodge, campgrounds, and shuttle buses will be open and operating as normal.


NPS Photo

Date: September 12, 2013
Contact: Aly Baltrus, 435-772-0160

Yesterday, at 2:30pm, flood debris plugged a culvert under the Zion- Mt. Carmel Highway about a mile from the small tunnel. Water backed up, crossing the roadway and starting to undermine the opposite lane. Traffic was shut down through the park while the park's road crew worked heroically to save the road. No additional damage occurred over night, which allowed road crews to finish stabilizing the section and reopen it.

Drivers can expect a rough gravel patch for the next few days. Road crews will also be pouring cement caps on either side of the road to further stabilize the culvert. During that work, drivers should expect one-way traffic and up to 15 minute delays.

The east side of the park received over an inch of rain yesterday in just a few hours. The extraordinary volume of water overwhelmed the drainage system and damaged the road. More rain is expected over the next few days. Slot canyons, including The Narrows, are expected to experience flash flooding today and will likely experience flash flooding on Friday and Saturday, as well. Please consult the weather forecast and the Flash Flood Potential Rating before entering a narrow canyon.