As someone deeply immersed in capturing the essence of our national parks, I was thrilled to learn that Zion National Park is leading the way in sustainability. This week, they rolled out the first of an entirely new fleet of battery-electric buses, thanks to a $33 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Honoring The Old 

The propane-powered buses that have served the park for over two decades deserve to be celebrated. These buses have been essential to the Zion experience, enabling millions to enjoy the park’s majestic landscapes while reducing traffic congestion. Here are some portraits I’ve captured over the years to pay tribute to these reliable workhorses.

Welcoming The New
 Jeff Bradybaugh, Superintendent of Zion National Park, rightly said, “The Zion Canyon Shuttle System has a bright future.” The future is promising with partners like Zion Forever, the National Park Foundation, UDOT, Utah Clean Cities, and the Town of Springdale.

These electric buses signify more than just technological advancement; they represent a commitment to environmental stewardship, aligning with the natural beauty that Zion has to offer.

The transition comes when visitor numbers are at an all-time high, hitting a record 5 million in 2021. As we look forward to experiencing Zion more sustainably, let’s also take a moment to appreciate the journey that has brought us here.

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