Zion Canyon: Treasure of the Gods

Zion Canyon: Treasure of the Gods is a breathtaking 1996 documentary that takes you on a journey through the stunning Zion National Park in the southwestern United States. The film is directed by Kieth Merrill, and narrated by Michael Robert Berger.

The documentary starts with a beautiful aerial shot of the park, showcasing its unique and striking beauty. As the camera flies over the vast landscape, we are introduced to the history and geological significance of the rock formations in the park. We learn how a small river turned into a powerful force that carved through the canyon walls over millions of years, creating the incredible landscape we see today.

We also meet N. Paul Enciso, a Native American who lived in the park's surrounding area, and who shares his ancestral knowledge and spiritual connection to the canyon in his narration throughout the film. Enciso, along with his son Sunrise Eagle Enciso, takes us through the park's hidden treasures and teaches us about the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the park.

Throughout the documentary, we explore the park's various ecosystems and wildlife, including the tiniest of creatures like the ant, to the biggest of predators, such as the mountain lion. The narrators guide us on a tour of different trails, pointing out unique rock formations such as Checkerboard Mesa and the Great White Throne. We experience the park's beauty through the eyes of climber and mountaineer Conrad Anker, who shares his personal experiences of climbing Zion's towering peaks.

The film also touches upon the Native American history of the park, and we learn how the Paiutes and other tribes used the canyon as a sanctuary for centuries. We discover how the Zion National Park was created, and how it became a national symbol of preserving the natural beauty of landscapes.

One of the highlights of the documentary is the incredible footage captured by director Keith Merrill. Through time-lapse photography, viewers can see the park's dramatic changes as the day turns into night. The documentary also features stunning aerial shots, showcasing the vastness of the park and its surrounding mountain ranges.

The cinematography is stunning and captures the serene beauty of the park, along with its awe-inspiring views. The soundtrack features soft, natural sounds mixed with a haunting and uplifting score, creating a spiritual and meditative mood that allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the park.

In conclusion, Zion Canyon: Treasure of the Gods is a brilliantly made documentary that serves as a tribute to the geological wonder and natural beauty of Zion National Park. The film is filled with stunning visuals and philosophical narration from the Native American perspective, making it a must-watch for fans of nature documentaries.