The Zion National Park Discovery Center will be a prototype for conservation-focused development, regenerative design and accessible, inclusive experiences for visitors to national parks. It will serve as the east gateway for adventure into Zion National Park, and a point of departure for those headed to nearby Bryce Canyon National Park. The project demonstrates successful public/private partnership with collaboration across private stakeholders, the National Park Service, Zion Forever (non-profit partner), and the Zion Mountain Local Service District, a public utility that was formed in order to provide sustainably sourced and reclaimed water to the campus and its related projects.
The project is pursuing Living Building certification by the International Living Future Institute. Amenities to support agricultural tourism will include orchards, greenhouses, a farm stand, a café and headquarters for recreational activities. The new transit hub with EV shuttles will serve as a launch point to the vast trail system within the park while helping to alleviate the overcrowding of the west entrance and Zion’s main canyon. Collectively, these site features are part of an “Experience Corridor” that extends the Discovery Center into the landscape. Programming will feature interpretive exhibits, Ranger talks and docent-led activities highlighting the agrarian heritage of the region.
Certifications: International Dark Sky Association (IDA) Dark Sky Park Pursuant
In collaboration with Place Collaborative.
