A schedule change revolving around the upcoming rehabilitation work on the trail leading to Angels Landing in Zion National Park means the trail will only be closed for one day this week, not two as originally planned, according to park officials.

Closures for route repairs and improvements were originally announced for this coming Wednesday and Thursday due to helicopter activity and movement of materials and equipment, park officials said. Now, though, "this activity will occur on September 16 only, allowing the route to remain open for visitor use on September 15. Climbing routes on the cliff faces of Angels Landing will also be open on September 15."

The remainder of the project schedule will remain in effect as previously announced:

* On September 16 and September 20 through 23, the West Rim Trail will be closed from the Grotto to Scout Lookout. The Angels Landing route will also be closed from Scout Lookout to the summit of Angels Landing. All climbing routes on the cliff faces of Angels Landing will be closed on those days.

* From September 27 to October 14, the Angels Landing route from Scout Lookout to the summit and climbing routes on the Angels Landing cliff faces will be closed Monday through Thursday. The Angels Landing Route and climbing routes will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The West Rim Trail from the Grotto trailhead will be open at all times for those hikers wishing to visit Scout Lookout or the West Rim of Zion Canyon. Alternate hikes with similar views are available on the Observation Point and East Rim trails.

When open, the West Rim trail to Scout Lookout and further up to the canyon rim is also very rewarding. Rangers at any of the park visitor contact stations can help with alternate trip planning or you can visit the park website at www.nps.gov/zion.

Visitors are reminded that their safety is their responsibility. Even with the route improvements, exposed cliffs and great heights present situations where lack of situational awareness can have life threatening consequences. Any location with vertical exposure can be dangerous and should not be underestimated. Attention to the terrain and focus on footing are essential for a safe experience.