Watch the summer solstice sunset at Parowan Gap
By Kaylee Pickering
Enjoy the day learning more about the petroglyphs at the Parowan Gap and viewing the summer solstice sun setting down the middle of the gap just as past Native Americans did. Summer solstice events start at 3 p.m. June 22.
Parowan Gap is a natural formation that features a number of natural rock outcroppings that cast shadows at various times of the year, thus supporting one use of the gap as a calendaring system, according to Nancy Dalton, Parowan Heritage Foundation secretary. These outcroppings were created as a result of earth movement, wind, and water.
Along with the outcroppings, there are hundreds of petroglyphs, a few dating back as far as 2,500–3,000 BC. The most prominent petroglyph is the “Zipper” glyph, which has at least two interpretations: one as a map showing tribal migration from north to south and the other as a solar calendar including the depiction of watching the summer solstice sun set down the middle of the gap.
The public is invited to attend any or all of the events which include an interpretive slide presentation, a BBQ dinner and the annual summer solstice sunset program at Parowan Gap:
—3 p.m.: Slide presentation on recent research comparing Parowan Gap petroglyphs to those found in Rochester Creek and Capitol Reef National Park. This free one-hour presentation will be given by archaeologist Garth Norman at the Parowan City Office Council Chamber located at 35 E 100 N In Parowan.
—6:30 p.m.: BBQ Dinner at Parowan Gap. COST: $15 per person. Can purchase tickets online by connecting to the Eventbrite link or at Parowan Visitor Center and Hamburger Patty’s in Parowan, UT; and at the Visit Cedar City Brian Head visitor center at 581 N Main St, Cedar City UT
—7:30 p.m.: Interpretive Program featuring guest speakers archaeologist Garth Norman and solar engineer Nal Morris. Attendees must bring chairs to sit in for this free program.
—8:30 p.m.: Walk a quarter of mile to the Summer Sunset carns (a rock monument) and watch the sun set down the middle of the gap as depicted on the “Zipper” glyph and as past Native American cultures did.
For more information, call (435) 463-3735.
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