Hikers beware, the presence of toxic cyanobacteria and cyanotoxin algae have been found in popular sections of Zion National Park.
The impacted locations include:
- North Fork of the Virgin River
- North Creek (Tributary the Virgin River)
- La Verkin Creek (Tributary of Virgin River
This impacts the water found in the following areas of Zion :
- The Narrows
- Pine Creek
- Deep Creek
- Kolob Creek
- Orderville Canyon
- Emerald Pools
- Right Fork
- Left Fork (The Subway)
- Grapevine Spring
- La Verkin Creek
- Timber Creek
- Hop Valley Creek
The NPS has advised hikers to carry extra filtered water with them on hikes and avoid submerging their heads in the waterways
If you are exposed to cyanobacteria, seek immediate medical attention and contact the Utah Poison Control Center at (800) 222-1222. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
Additional information, including what you should do if exposed, can be found here (NPS.gov).