Zion: Mount Carmel Highway Still Closed as of September 30, 2026

Developing story · 2 updates since the first story Jump to where it started

Timeline

1. September 30, 2026 at 9:40 p.m. MDTLatest update

   Closure Still in Effect as of September 30, 2026

   According to FOX 13 News Utah, the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway remains closed in both directions as of September 30, 2026. The road is still shut between Canyon Junction and the east entrance, and no reopening date has been announced so far. The tunnel and the viewpoints on the park's east side stay unreachable by this route. The same outlet says no information has been released about any injuries or property damage. If you're planning to reach the east side of the park, count on a detour until the road reopens.

   Official source : Rockfall closes major road through Zion National Park

2. September 30, 2026 at 9:38 p.m. MDT

   Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway Closed Between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance

   The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway is still closed between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance, with no reopening date announced. The Zion Canyon Visitor's Bureau has called the rockfall "major," according to St. George News. Access to Zion Lodge remains open in both directions despite the closure, again per St. George News. Shuttle service is running normally between Zion Lodge and the South Entrance. Stick to routes through the south side for now, and hold off on crossing over to the East Entrance.

   Official source : Traffic advisory: Portion of Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway closed due to apparent rockslide

3. August 31, 2026 at 9:37 p.m. MDTWhere it started

   Zion: Mount Carmel Highway Closed to Traffic After a Rockfall

   A rockfall has shut down Zion's scenic highway between the East Entrance and Canyon Junction. Here's what it means for your visit.

   If you're planning a trip to Zion, put this on your radar right now. The Zion Mount Carmel Highway is currently closed to traffic in both directions. The cause is a rockfall on the roadway. There's no reopening date at this point, so the closure stays in effect until further notice.

   The closed stretch runs from the park's East Entrance to Canyon Junction. It's a key route, since it connects the east side of Zion to the heart of the canyon. Right now, you can't cross the park east to west on this road. Travelers who were coming in through the East Entrance will need to rethink their approach and plan on entering from another side.

   

   This closure has real, on-the-ground consequences for your trip. The famous Zion Mount Carmel Tunnel and the views that go with it sit on this section. If your plan was to enter from the east and head straight for Springdale and Zion Canyon, you'll need to recalculate your route and budget extra driving time.

   Here's our advice. Before you go, check that the road has reopened and keep a plan B for reaching the South Entrance, the busiest one. Build some slack into your day, too, since a detour can add up the miles fast. In peak season, it's best to arrive early to beat the crowds at the entrances.

   To plan your visit around this setback, lean on our Zion National Park guide, where we break down the entrances, the shuttles, and the highlights you won't want to miss. And if you're putting together a bigger trip across the American West, take a look at our road trip itinerary that runs through the park to slot Zion into the right spot on your route.

   One thing is certain. A closed road doesn't ruin a visit to Zion. It just means adjusting your plan and showing up well informed.