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    Hikes/United States/Utah/Zion National Park

    Zion Ponderosa Checkerboard Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1-1.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    4.5 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    64 m
    User Ratings
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    The Zion Ponderosa Checkerboard Trail is an easy walk that the whole family can enjoy. This trail is shared by hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers alike. The views from this trail are fantastic, and this path is a great way to wind down after a busy day exploring Zion. The Zion Ponderosa Ranch is one of the only places you can have a dog with you in the park (as long as they are on a leash), so bring the pup here for a fun run in the desert ranchland.

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    Route Description for Zion Ponderosa Checkerboard Trail

    The Zion Ponderosa Checkerboard hike is a great little loop that is doable for all members of the family - even the four legged ones! This hike is one of the few places you can have your dog with you in Zion National Park - just make sure they are on a leash for the entire walk. The Zion Ponderosa Checkerboard trail is shared by horseback riders, hikers, and mountain bikers, so keep an eye out for folks trying to pass you by.

    Starting at the horse corral, head southwest to the start of the loop. This trail is fairly flat, so going clockwise or counterclockwise won’t matter. If you go counterclockwise, the Blackhawk viewpoint will be the first, followed by the viewpoint overlooking the Checkerboard mesa which will be recognizable by its distinct checkerboard pattern. These viewpoints are particularly gorgeous at sunset.

    After enjoying both viewpoints, the loop will take you back to where you started. Enjoy a stay at the Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort or find your way back to the car, and head on home.

    Getting to the Zion Ponderosa Checkerboard Trail Trailhead

    This trail begins at Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort off of North Fork County Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      camping available at Zion Ponderosa Ranch

    • When to do

      year-round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Lollipop

    Zion Ponderosa Checkerboard Trail Elevation Graph

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    Zion Ponderosa Checkerboard Trail Reviews

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