The Zion Forever Project announced Wednesday it has finalized an agreement securing 145 acres bordering Zion National Park’s eastern entrance.
The land runs along State Route 9, protecting wildlife habitat, watershed resources, and open space near the park entrance. It will remain privately owned and the landowner is keeping title but managed to preserve its natural character, with the Zion Forever Project overseeing long term compliance.
The parcel includes some of the most prominent views along State Route 9 and shapes the visitor experience entering from the east. It connects to neighboring public lands and existing and planned trails, supporting future nonmotorized recreation, outdoor education, and visitor programming.
Private donations funded the acquisition, made possible through cooperation between landowners and local businesses.
The deal a major step for Zion’s future, protecting wildlife corridors and water sources while preserving the scenic character of the park’s eastern approach, habitat that doesn’t stop at the park boundary.
The protected land ties into the upcoming Zion National Park Discovery Center, which will provide visitor orientation, interpretive programs, ranger activities, permitting support, education, and retail. Together, the center and the conserved land are meant to create a more natural arrival experience with unobstructed views and visible conservation efforts.
The Discovery Center is slated to open in 2027 and will connect to a broader planned network of transportation, trails, and recreation across East Zion.
