Checkerboard Mesa - This is more of a drive than a hike, but do get out and walk around rather than just driving through it. It is the area between the east entrance to the park and the tunnel taking you into the Zion valley. There are many pull offs for parking along the way. You can just get out and wander over the sandstone wherever you would like to go. Most places are not very steep and footing is good. Great area for the kids to explore. And quite beautiful. Many interesting rock formations that are different from those you find in the valley.