Zion Lodge

Located in Zion National Park, Zion Lodge is a model of environmental sustainability. The property dates back to the 1920s and is operated by Xanterra Parks & Resorts, a company considered in the vanguard when it comes to eco-tourism. Efforts here to save the planet range from composting and filtering drinking water to serving organic cuisine and offering beer on tap rather than from bottles. One hundred per cent of the lodge's electricity use is from wind power, and along with motel-style rooms and historic cabins, there are six "green suites" featuring bamboo floors and recycled carpet content. As well, all accommodations feature biodegradable soaps and compact fluorescent lighting. Not only does this lodge aim for minimal environmental impact, it even strives to improve its surroundings with a program to restore native grasslands.