Our history
The Story Behind Our Stewardship.
Our Story
A History of Protecting the Greater Zion Region
1923
Political leaders and dignitaries such as President Warren G. Harding visit Zion for the first time.
1929
Early Zion residents begin serving visitor needs for park information.
1930
Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) builds park infrastructure, including the Zion Tunnel, connecting Zion with Bryce Canyon and Grand Canyon North Rim preservation efforts.
1947
Union Pacific Bus Tours make Zion a Regular Stop on "America's Most Scenic Roadtrip."
1948
Books, brochures, and other publications were sold to educate the public about the plants, animals and history of the park. Publishing expenses were not publicly funded, and rangers could not operate stores. Interpretive organizations filled this need.
1961
Visitation increased steadily, especially on weekends and holidays, as America took advantage of greater mobility & post-war prosperity. Outdoor recreation became popular as an escape from indoor jobs which were replacing agricultural occupations.
1966
1966 brought a new Park Headquarters in Zion. The Zion Natural History Association also hired its first Executive Director this year, Dr. Bryant Mather.
1971
Kolob Canyons was added to expanded park boundaries in 1968, and the Kolob Visitor Center opened in 1972, providing convenient views of the park to visitors traveling the new I-15 Freeway.
1978
Desert bighorn sheep were re-introduced to Zion in 1978, restoring the historic herd that once inhabited the park. Greater public awareness of endangered species such as the Peregrine Falcon and eventually, California Condors, led to funding efforts such as the Adopt-a-Bighorn program.
1984
The National Historic Preservation Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Wilderness Act were introduced during this period of preservation and modernization. Zion's annual visitation reached the 1 million mark in 1980.
1990
Annual visitation reaches 2 million visitors in 1990. Zion becomes Utah's most visited national park.
1993
Kolob Canyons Visitor Center opens in 1993. Park Store is included, extending retaial operations to a fourth location.
2000
New Visitor Center opens at the South Entrance of Zion National Park in 2000. Early funding and support for this project came from Zion Forever Project.
2002
ZNHA's first website was launched in 2002. The development of the internet, especially social media sites, helped to create an explosion of growth in park visitation.
2003
Zion Canyon Field Institute launched in 2003 as the education arm of ZNHA, followed by the ZNHA Foundation, in 2007, to generate revenue outside of retail operations.
2009
Once a major stop on "America's Greatest Scenic Tour," crowds began to return to Cedar Breaks after SR 143 was designated a Scenic Byway and access improved.
2014
Annual park visitation reaches 3 million. Recreational vehicles became a popular way to travel, leading to new visitor management concerns.
2016
As the NPS celebrates its Centennial, Zion's visitation reaches the 4 million mark in 2016, making it one of the most visited national parks in the entire country.
2017
In 2017, ZNHA consolidates its organization to become the Zion National Park Forever Project. Retail, Education and Philantrhopy now fall under one umbrella. A complete re-brand is implemented, and launch events are held in 3 locations.
2019
To celebrate Zion's centennial in 2019, the Forever Project gifted the park a new film and invited musical artist Sting to perform a concert in support of our work.
2020
Emerald Pools trail is re-opened in 2020 through funding generated by the Zion Forever Project and its partners.
2023
Pipe Spring celebrated its Centennial in 2023, with numerous events throughout the year.
2023
Ground is broken for the Zion Discovery Center east of Zion in 2023. ZFP has been instramental in every phase of this project.
2024
Cedar Breaks National Monument Visitor Contact Station opens in 2024, funded through efforts by Zion Forever Project.
2024
Zion launches the first NPS's all-electric shuttle fleet in 2024. They are quiet & air conditioned.
2024
Dixie National Forest partnership with Zion Forever Project.
Forever is Now
The work continues.
Zion's cliffs have stood the test of time, but its future depends on all of us. Our work isn't about reacting to a single moment — it's about building a foundation that ensures Zion's legacy endures for generations to come.
Your support helps bridge the gap between what is needed and what is possible.
A New Resource Management Exhibit for Zion’s Museum
Inside Zion National Park’s Human History Museum, you will find displays featuring the history o...
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Sense of Air-gency – PPE and Ventilation Equipment for SAR
Zion National Park’s Visitor and Resource Protection division responds to approximately 75 fire-...
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Support for Search and Rescue Annual Trainings
Search and Rescue Rangers encounter some of the toughest situations daily in Zion National Park....
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Coming Soon
Discovery Center
We are working to bring the East Zion Discovery Center to life, a future hub for education, exploration, and conservation on the eastern edge of Zion National Park. Once completed, the Discovery Center will serve as a gateway for visitors to connect with the park’s unique landscapes, history, and ongoing stewardship efforts. Through interactive exhibits, hands-on learning experiences, and guided programs, the Discovery Center will inspire the next generation of park stewards. This project reflects our commitment to protecting Zion and fostering a deeper appreciation for its natural wonders.
