The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway reopened to through traffic on Friday, Oct. 9, according to a report published Oct. 15. This reopening restores a major transportation connection between Kane and Washington counties following a large rockfall that damaged the roadway and forced its closure for more than a week.
The National Park Service announced the reopening after crews cleared rock debris and completed temporary repairs to a damaged section of State Route 9, located between Canyon Junction and the Great Arch Pullout. The highway had been closed since Sept. 30, when a large rock formation collapsed onto the roadway, blocking traffic and damaging the pavement.
On Oct. 6, the park had reopened approximately 7.5 miles of highway between the East Entrance and Great Arch Pullout, allowing visitors to access scenic overlooks and recreational areas from the Kane County side, though through traffic remained prohibited until the Oct. 9 reopening.
Crews removed fallen rock and damaged asphalt before placing temporary gravel to restore vehicle access. Approximately 130 feet of roadway remains unpaved, and permanent resurfacing is planned for a later date.
The reopening restores direct access between Springdale and communities east of Zion, including Mt. Carmel Junction and Kanab. During the closure, motorists traveling between the two sides of the park were required to take lengthy alternate routes through southern Utah.
Existing restrictions on oversized vehicles remain in effect, as vehicles exceeding the park’s established size or weight limits are prohibited from traveling the historic highway. Motorists are urged to slow down and exercise caution while traveling through the repair area, where workers and construction equipment may still be present.
The park’s South Entrance, shuttle system and Zion Canyon Scenic Drive continued operating during the closure. Park officials thanked Kane County for its support during the recovery effort and stated that additional roadway repairs will be completed as conditions permit.
