Why Is Zion National Park Called Zion Unveiling The Names Origin

Zion National Park, one of America’s most breathtaking natural wonders, draws millions of visitors each year with its towering red cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and lush valleys. But beyond its geological grandeur lies a story embedded in language, faith, and history—the story behind its name. Why is it called \"Zion\"? The answer weaves together indigenous heritage, religious symbolism, and early American settlement, revealing far more than just a label on a map.

The Biblical Roots of “Zion”

The word “Zion” originates in ancient Hebrew scripture, where it first referred to a fortress in Jerusalem captured by King David around 1000 BCE. Over time, “Zion” evolved from a physical location into a powerful spiritual symbol representing peace, sanctuary, and the promised land—a place of divine presence and ultimate refuge.

In the Old Testament, Zion is often used poetically to describe Jerusalem or the Land of Israel as a whole. In later Christian theology, especially during the Second Great Awakening of the 19th century, “Zion” took on renewed significance as a metaphor for an idealized utopia or a community living in harmony with God’s will.

“Zion has always been more than a place—it’s a vision of holiness, safety, and divine belonging.” — Dr. Miriam Feldman, Religious Historian at Brigham Young University

This symbolic weight would eventually influence how early settlers named the majestic canyonlands of southern Utah.

Early Exploration and Naming by Mormon Settlers

In the mid-1800s, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), commonly known as Mormons, began settling parts of what is now Utah and northern Arizona. Seeking both refuge and fertile land, they dispatched explorers into remote regions, including the deep canyons carved by the Virgin River.

In 1858, a group of Mormon pioneers led by Isaac Behunin established temporary farms near the area now known as Springdale, at the entrance to the main canyon of the park. Struck by the towering sandstone walls and the verdant valley floor, they felt they had discovered a sacred haven—something akin to the biblical Zion.

Behunin reportedly said, “This is a place of refuge; a little heaven on earth,” and began calling the canyon “Little Zion.” The name resonated deeply with fellow settlers who saw their westward journey as a modern exodus toward a promised land.

Tip: When visiting historical sites like Zion, take time to learn about the original names and meanings given by Indigenous peoples and early settlers—it adds depth to your experience.

From “Mukuntuweap” to “Zion”: A Name Change with Consequences

Long before European contact, the Southern Paiute people inhabited this region. They called the canyon *Mukuntuweap*, which linguists interpret to mean “straight canyon” or possibly “a place where waters meet.” This name reflected not only the geography but also the spiritual connection the Paiute had with the land.

When the U.S. Geological Survey began officially mapping the region in the late 19th century, they adopted the name “Mukuntuweap” for the canyon. In 1909, President William Howard Taft designated it Mukuntuweap National Monument to protect its unique landscape.

However, local settlers—many of whom were LDS church members—continued using “Zion.” By the 1930s, political pressure grew to rename the monument. In 1919, Congress passed legislation to establish it as a national park, and the name was officially changed to **Zion National Park**, overriding the original Indigenous designation.

This shift wasn’t merely administrative—it reflected broader cultural dynamics of the era, where Euro-American narratives often displaced Native histories and languages in public memory.

A Comparative Look: Original vs. Adopted Names

Name	Origin	Meaning	Historical Context
Mukuntuweap	Southern Paiute (Numic language)	Possibly “straight canyon” or “place where waters meet”	Used for centuries before European arrival; reflects geographical and spiritual understanding
Zion	Biblical Hebrew, via English translation	Sanctuary, holy place, promised land	Applied by 19th-century Mormon settlers; adopted officially in 1919

The Cultural Legacy of the Name “Zion”

Today, “Zion” carries layered meanings. For many visitors, it evokes awe and reverence—not necessarily tied to religion, but to the sublime beauty of nature. The name has become synonymous with sanctuary, wonder, and escape from the modern world.

Yet the legacy of renaming remains complex. While “Zion” conveys a sense of spiritual elevation, it also represents the erasure of Indigenous voices. In recent years, the National Park Service has made efforts to acknowledge the Southern Paiute presence and incorporate their perspectives into educational programs and signage.

As awareness grows, some scholars and tribal leaders advocate for dual naming—using both “Zion” and “Mukuntuweap” in official contexts—to honor both the settler history and the deeper, older connection of Native peoples to the land.

Real Example: Reclaiming Voice Through Education

In 2022, a collaborative project between the Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians and Zion National Park introduced a new audio tour narrated entirely in the Southern Paiute language. One segment explains the meaning of *Mukuntuweap* while describing the seasonal flooding patterns that shape the canyon. Visitors reported feeling a deeper emotional and intellectual connection to the landscape after hearing the original name spoken aloud.

This initiative illustrates how names are not static—they can be reclaimed, reinterpreted, and shared in ways that promote inclusivity and historical honesty.

How to Honor the Full History When You Visit

Understanding the origin of “Zion” isn’t just an academic exercise—it can transform how you experience the park. Here’s a checklist to help you engage more thoughtfully:

• Learn about the Southern Paiute people and their ongoing relationship with the land.
• Use respectful language when discussing the park’s history—acknowledge both “Zion” and “Mukuntuweap.”
• Support tribal-led tourism initiatives or cultural exhibits when available.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment for future generations.
• Share what you’ve learned with fellow travelers to spread awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Zion National Park always called Zion?

No. It was originally designated Mukuntuweap National Monument in 1909. The name was changed to Zion National Park in 1919 after lobbying by local residents and religious groups.

Does “Zion” have any connection to African American spiritual traditions?

Yes. Beyond its Hebrew roots, “Zion” appears frequently in African American spirituals and gospel music as a metaphor for freedom, salvation, and homeland—especially during periods of enslavement and migration. This broader cultural resonance adds another layer to the name’s significance.

Can I visit areas associated with the Southern Paiute within the park?

Yes. Several trails and overlooks pass through ancestral lands. Rangers often include Southern Paiute history in guided talks, and the visitor center features exhibits on indigenous life and culture.

Conclusion: A Name That Holds Many Truths

The name “Zion” is more than a label—it’s a convergence of faith, colonization, nature, and memory. It speaks to humanity’s enduring desire to find sacredness in the natural world, even as it reminds us of the cost of forgetting whose stories came first.

When you stand beneath the towering cliffs of Angels Landing or walk the floor of The Narrows, you’re not just in a national park. You’re in a place shaped by millennia of human meaning-making. Recognizing the full origin of its name allows you to appreciate not only its beauty but its complexity.

💬 What does the name “Zion” mean to you? Whether it’s spiritual, historical, or purely scenic, share your thoughts and help foster a deeper conversation about place, identity, and remembrance.