Zion National Park offers packed slate of spring hikes, workshops

Zion National Park is a spectacular destination year-round, but spring is one of the best times to visit. Wildflowers are blooming in the lowlands, deciduous trees are starting to leaf out, and the birds are singing.

While it’s a treat just to be there, you can make the trip educational as well by signing up for a workshop or class with the Zion Canyon Field Institute. The institute offers workshops all year, but in spring the schedule is particularly rich. Be sure to make a reservation, as classes fill up fast.

■ March 30, Spring Birds in Zion: This four-hour morning class involves observing birds along the Virgin River, the benchlands and lower slopes. Learn how to track year-round and migratory birds by ear. Be prepared to walk four miles on short hikes or one long hike. 8 a.m.-noon. Ages 16 and older. $45.

■ April 6, Mojave Wildflowers: Full-day workshop in the desert lowlands around St. George. Meets at 9 a.m. at the BLM office, 345 E. Riverside Drive, St. George, Utah. Ages 15 and older. $65.

■ April 13, Low Desert Wildflowers: Because of its location at the intersection of the Mojave, Great Basin and Colorado Plateau ecosystems, the park is home to about 1,000 plant species. This time of year the lowlands of the park are often covered with wildflowers. Short walks or one long walk of about 4 miles. Ages 15 and older. 9 a.m. $60.

■ April 18, Thursday Trek: Thursday treks involve an introductory look at the park’s flora, fauna, geology and cultural history. Easy hikes up to four miles or moderate hikes from four to six miles. Ages 15 and older. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. $45.

■ April 18, Ice Age Phantoms: This evening presentation concentrates on the flora and fauna that most people wouldn’t expect in Zion but which are nevertheless present. 7:30-9 p.m. at Canyon Community Center, 126 Lion Blvd., Springdale, Utah. Free.

■ April 20, Zion and the Colorado River Basin: This four-hour morning workshop explores the human relationship with the Virgin River and the Colorado River Basin. Visit hydrocentric locations on the floodplain and learn about river management and riparian ecology. Must be able to walk a few easy trails or one totaling around four miles. 8 a.m.-noon. Ages 14 and older. $45.

■ April 20, Zion Geology: This all-day workshop begins with an indoor presentation followed by trailside discussions on the geology of the park. Learn about the ongoing process of landslides, rock falls and geology and how water has played an important part in shaping the canyon. Ages 15 and older. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $60.

All workshops, except where noted, meet at the Zion Human History Museum. For reservations call ZCFI at 435-772-3264. For more information, visit zionpark.org.