Zion shuttles begin operating Thursday

ZION NATIONAL PARK — The Zion Canyon Transportation Shuttle System will begin operation on Thursday for the 2010 season.

This will mark the 11th season of operation for the popular free shuttle system in Zion National Park and in Springdale. The park shuttle loop provides access to points of interest, trailheads and the Zion Lodge along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

While the shuttle system is in operation, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles. All other roads in the park, including the Zion — Mount Carmel highway through the park — are open to private vehicles.

The daily schedule begins with an express shuttle departing the Majestic View shuttle stop at 6:35 a.m. and the Zion Canyon Visitor Center at 6:45 a.m. Initially, the last park shuttle will depart at 9:30 p.m. from the visitor center and the last town shuttle will depart the Zion Canyon Theater shuttle stop at 10 p.m. The hours of operation will expand as the summer season progresses.

For additional information, visit the park's Web site at www.nps.gov/zion or call 435-772-3256.