Zion National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Whether you’re looking for a short hike with stunning views or a multi-day adventure, Zion has something for everyone.
Here are five of the best hiking trails in Zion National Park⁚
- Angels Landing
- The Narrows
- Observation Point
- Emerald Pools Trail
- Weeping Rock Trail
Angels Landing
Angels Landing is one of the most iconic hikes in Zion National Park, and for good reason. The trail is a challenging but rewarding 5.4-mile round-trip hike that leads to breathtaking views of Zion Canyon. The trail is mostly uphill, with some steep sections and narrow passages. The final ascent to Angels Landing is via a narrow ridge with drop-offs on both sides. This section is not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are worth the effort.
Distance⁚ 5.4 miles round-trip
Elevation gain⁚ 1,488 feet
Difficulty⁚ Strenuous
Time⁚ 4-6 hours
Tips⁚
- Start your hike early to avoid the crowds and heat.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
- Be prepared for some exposure to heights.
- If you’re not comfortable with heights, you can still enjoy the views from the West Rim Trail, which leads to the same viewpoint as Angels Landing but without the narrow ridge.
Angels Landing is a must-do hike for anyone visiting Zion National Park. Just be sure to be prepared for the challenge and take all necessary precautions.
The Narrows
The Narrows is one of the most unique and challenging hikes in Zion National Park. The trail follows the Virgin River through a narrow canyon with towering sandstone walls on either side. The water is often waist-deep, and there are some sections where you’ll need to swim or wade through the river. The Narrows is a popular hike, so be sure to start early to avoid the crowds.
Distance⁚ Varies, depending on how far you hike
Elevation gain⁚ Minimal
Difficulty⁚ Moderate to strenuous
Time⁚ 4-8 hours
Tips⁚
- The Narrows is a wet hike, so be sure to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Bring a waterproof camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Be aware of the weather forecast before you hike. The Narrows can be dangerous in flash floods.
- If you’re not comfortable hiking in water, you can still enjoy the views from the Riverside Walk, which follows the Virgin River along the canyon rim.
The Narrows is a challenging but rewarding hike that is sure to leave you with lasting memories. Just be sure to be prepared for the wet and cold conditions;
Observation Point
Observation Point is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park, and for good reason. The trail offers stunning views of Zion Canyon, including Angels Landing, The Great White Throne, and the Virgin River. The hike is challenging, but it’s worth it for the breathtaking views from the top.
Distance⁚ 8 miles round trip
Elevation gain⁚ 2,100 feet
Difficulty⁚ Strenuous
Time⁚ 4-6 hours
Tips⁚
- Start your hike early to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there is no water available on the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty.
- Be prepared for some scrambling and exposure on the trail.
- If you’re not up for the hike to Observation Point, you can still enjoy the views from the East Rim Trail, which is a shorter and easier hike.
Observation Point is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers some of the best views in Zion National Park. Just be sure to be prepared for the strenuous hike and the crowds.
Emerald Pools Trail
The Emerald Pools Trail is a beautiful and easy hike that leads to a series of stunning pools and waterfalls. The trail is perfect for families and hikers of all ages, and it’s a great way to experience the beauty of Zion Canyon without having to do a strenuous hike.
Distance⁚ 3 miles round trip
Elevation gain⁚ 300 feet
Difficulty⁚ Easy
Time⁚ 1-2 hours
Tips⁚
- The trail is very popular, so it’s best to start your hike early to avoid the crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there is no water available on the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes or sandals, as the trail can be slippery in some places.
- Be prepared to get your feet wet, as you will need to cross the Virgin River several times.
- If you’re visiting Zion in the summer, be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is very little shade on the trail.
The Emerald Pools Trail is a great way to experience the beauty of Zion Canyon without having to do a strenuous hike. It’s perfect for families and hikers of all ages, and it’s a great way to cool off on a hot day;
Weeping Rock Trail
The Weeping Rock Trail is a short and easy hike that leads to a stunning overlook of Zion Canyon. The trail is perfect for families and hikers of all ages, and it’s a great way to experience the beauty of Zion without having to do a strenuous hike.
Distance⁚ 0.5 miles round trip
Elevation gain⁚ 100 feet
Difficulty⁚ Easy
Time⁚ 30 minutes
Tips⁚
- The trail is very popular, so it’s best to start your hike early to avoid the crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there is no water available on the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes or sandals, as the trail can be slippery in some places.
- Be prepared to get your feet wet, as you will need to cross the Virgin River several times.
- If you’re visiting Zion in the summer, be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is very little shade on the trail.
The Weeping Rock Trail is a great way to experience the beauty of Zion Canyon without having to do a strenuous hike. It’s perfect for families and hikers of all ages, and it’s a great way to cool off on a hot day.
The trail is named after the Weeping Rock, a sandstone cliff that seeps water from its surface. The water creates a beautiful weeping effect, and it’s a popular spot for photos.
The Weeping Rock Trail is a short and easy hike, but it offers stunning views of Zion Canyon. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the park without having to do a strenuous hike.
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