Kolob Canyons maps released

The Utah Geological Survey recently created two maps for the Kolob Canyons region of Zion National Park. The maps show the geology of the area in greater detail, while also illustrating selected roads and hiking trails.

The Kolob Canyons are similar to Zion Canyon, only smaller. Opening wide at the mouth of the canyon, they narrow to the width of a slot canyon in the upper reaches. The enormous walls of the canyon are made of Navajo sandstone, while volcanic rock covers parts of the floor.

Funded by the Utah Geological Survey and the National Park Service, the maps will provide "detailed geologic information for land-use management decisions," UGS Senior Geologist Bob Biek said in a news release. He also described the maps as an "educational resource for visitors" and hopes that they will "stimulate further geologic research in and near the park."

The maps are available at the Natural Resources Map & Bookstore, at 1594 W. North Temple, Salt Lake City. For more information visit www.mapstore.utah.gov.