Such has been the successful partnering of Zion and Springdale that an internal training film was made by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to showcase the model of park relationships with gateway communities. It is called "The Road to Tranquility."

The hand-holding goes beyond transportation, however, with regular meetings held among town and park officials to address issues that arise.

Both town and park employees are aware of the keenly symbiotic relationship they share and know that in the years to come, the majesty of Zion and the hospitality of Springdale will shape the visitor experience.

Of course, not all who visit leave. Or if they do, they come back to stay.

Cluff was one such visitor who frequented the area to "kick dirt" and decided 18 years ago to bid Salt Lake City farewell and move to Springdale.

Active in nonprofit organizations in Salt Lake, particularly those that promote art, she soon found herself on the art council in Springdale and later on the town planning commission.

"It didn't suit me," Cluff said.

A desire to establish a community center and library led her to the mayor's seat, and she admits, "I never, ever, wanted to be mayor of anything."

She said the area is one with a special allure.

"It is one of those places that if it grabs you, you can't stop yourself."

Cook, who has managed hotels all over the country, agrees.

"You can't beat it," he said, gesturing toward the red rocks of the canyon outside the Best Western Zion Park Inn that he runs.

"If you've had a bad day at work and you're stressed and it's 'that's enough,' all you have to do is walk outside. Look at it. You don't get that kind of view from a high-rise in Houston."

E-MAIL: amyjoi@desnews.com