Top 4 Hikes in Zion National Park
Zion National Park provides an abundance of great hiking options, and in this guide we’ll go over my list of top hikes in Zion National Park. From flat pavement trails to rugged canyons and off-trail nooks and crannies, Zion has a lot of different terrain. No matter what you’re in the mood for, there is sure to be a trail that meets all your needs.
If you’re looking for a less crowded experience during peak summer months, spring and fall are better times to go if you prefer some peace and quiet.
1. Angels Landing
Angels Landing is one of the most iconic and infamous hikes in Zion National Park. The view from the top is out of this world. This is why it makes #1 on my top hikes in Zion National Park.
Preparing for your day
Angels Landing trail is a steep and difficult hike that leads to one of Zion National Park’s iconic viewpoints. Due to its popularity during peak season, be sure to plan your trip ahead of time and prepare yourself for an extensive day on the trail. Also check the National Park Service site to get a permit to hike Angels Landing. It is now required for all hikers.
Angels Landing is best visited during shoulder seasons in Spring and Fall when temperatures are slightly cooler and sun exposure on canyon walls is reduced. Plus, these times offer you a chance to avoid crowds that can become an issue during peak season.
What it’s like to hike Angels Landing
Angels Landing is not for the timid; with some difficult stretches that have seen tragic deaths due to falls from heights, hiking can be a life-altering experience. Nonetheless, with patience and understanding you can savor the views while staying safe at the same time.
Once you reach the ridge, begin climbing up a narrow spine that rises almost 1500 feet above the canyon floor. As the trail follows along this spine, you’ll get breathtaking views of the canyon as it ascends towards its summit. Marvel at how canyons are formed from rock faces and take some great sunset photos from this viewpoint!
On this trail, you’ll encounter a series of switchbacks. They offer breathtaking views but can also be intimidating due to their sheer dropoffs. If heights are an issue for you, consider turning around early or waiting at Scout Lookout before continuing onward.
Walter’s Wiggles is another section of the trail worth noting, featuring 21 switchbacks with breathtaking views. Be patient on this stretch as it can get quite crowded, but you’ll be pleased when you reach the summit!
As you hike along, you’ll notice that the chains on this section of the trail are quite sturdy and can help prevent you from falling off. However, be wary of other hikers on the trail who might attempt to bypass you by letting go of their chain in an effort to pass by.
Some of these sections can be intimidating. This is part of what makes this hike just that much more exciting. Once you reach the top, you’ll forget all about the height and the steep drop-offs as you’re looking over the valley and back at the hike you just accomplished. It’s a truly magical feeling.
2. The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk
Overview of the Zion Narrows River Walk
The Zion Narrows is next on this list of top hikes in Zion National Park. It is one of the most popular and accessible hikes. The Riverside Walk offers visitors a chance to appreciate The Narrows without getting wet. Starting from Temple of Sinawava, this paved trail follows alongside Virgin River until reaching The Narrows.
This picturesque path is lined with cottonwood trees and features plenty of hanging gardens along the river’s steep slopes. It provides an inspiring introduction to The Narrows with little elevation gain – perfect for families wanting to experience Zion National Park from a convenient vantage point.
As you stroll up the path, be sure to notice all of the vibrant plants and flowers that grow here. Some are rare in the desert, while others are just plain exotic!
There are plenty of places to pause and take a break for refreshments or just admire the stunning scenery. This path also offers great chances to spot local wildlife such as lizards and birds; just remember to keep your distance from any creatures that may appear along the way!
Hiking into the Narrows River
Flash floods are commonplace in the Narrows, so it’s always wise to check the weather forecast and river potential before hiking into the canyon. If you decide to venture in, wear a waterproof jacket and bring extra clothing just in case. It is also wise to have canyoneering shoes, and neoprene socks. There are plenty of stores around Zion that offer rentals for shoes, socks, hiking poles, etc.
In springtime, snowmelt raises the Virgin River to above 150 cubic feet per second (CFS), making it difficult or even impossible to walk upstream in some sections of The Narrows. Conversely, in autumn water levels decrease and walking becomes much easier.
If you’re uncertain whether the Narrows are open, contact the park visitor center or call ahead. In some cases, Narrows may be closed due to high water levels, toxic Cyanobacteria blooms in the river, and other factors.
When hiking the Narrows, be sure to pack extra food and drinks in case of emergencies. There are restrooms and water stations along the trail so that you can restock as needed. Additionally, bring along a waterproof backpack to keep your valuables dry.
3. Emerald Pools Trail
The Emerald Pools Trail is a short loop hike that leads to three stunning waterfalls and pools. It’s popular during the summer months, but can get busy during peak periods like midday. To reduce congestion during these times, the park provides shuttle service for added convenience.
The Emerald Pools Trail begins at Zion Lodge and leads either to Lower Emerald Pool or Middle Emerald Pool by following a path behind the waterfall (where you may spot a frog!). Although not particularly strenuous, these trails do involve some elevation gain.
Reaching Lower Emerald Pool offers breathtaking views of the canyon and Virgin River below. A staircase winds its way down from rocks overlooking this small pool, where two streams cascade over a thin waterfall into it.
After reaching Lower Emerald Pool, you can hike a bit further to Middle Emerald Pool – though this section of the trail may be harder than before due to its amazing vantage points with breathtaking views of Mount Zion, Lady Mountain and even the Great White Throne!
Another fantastic aspect of the trail is that it offers numerous photo vantage points, making it a perfect spot for family photo sessions. Plus, because the cliffs aren’t too high, groups can easily take pictures together without feeling lost or blocked by other hikers.
If you have the time, I highly recommend hiking both Upper and Lower Emerald Pools. They are both stunningly beautiful, making for a wonderful finale to your hike!
Hiking with a guide can be a good option for visiting Emerald Pools, as they supply you with all necessary gear and meals. Furthermore, they can help you avoid some of the more hazardous parts of the hike such as crossing creeks or scaling waterfalls.
No matter which trail you select, allow yourself a full day to finish the hike and enjoy all its pools and waterfalls. Be sure to pack plenty of water too – summer weather can be hot and unpredictable!
4. Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail offers stunning views of Zion National Park without the crowds found on other popular hikes like Angels Landing or Emerald Pools. Here, you’ll have plenty of secluded spots to take in the scenery – and maybe even catch sunset from this viewpoint!
Although you must drive into the east canyon of the park to access this hike, it’s worth the effort. Additionally, if you don’t plan on using the shuttle bus inside of the park (it is outside of its designated “shuttle bus only” area), walking here could be a viable alternative.
Overview of Zion Overlook Trail
Begin your hike at Canyon Overlook Trailhead and ascend a series of natural stone steps that lead you up a ledge that offers stunning views of Pine Creek Narrows and Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel.
The trail then climbs a bit more, passing sections of railing along steep cliffs. There are even a few wooden platforms where the rock path becomes too narrow.
From atop the cliff, you can take in stunning views of the towering Virgin and Bridge Mountains as well as the Streaked Wall and Zion-Mt. Carmel highway in the distance.
This hike is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Kids will adore the small bridge, and in certain spots you might even spot bighorn sheep roaming wild!
Hiking this trail can get quite hot, so be sure to bring sunscreen. Since there is little shade along most of the trail, you should also bring a hat and sunglasses for protection from harsh sun rays.
You’ll have to navigate a series of rocky steps, slippery rock and sandy paths as you make your way through the canyon. Although well-maintained with railings for safety, this trail isn’t recommended for beginners or those with weak hearts.
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is an out-and-back trail that takes approximately one mile to complete. The hike can be relatively easy or moderate in difficulty, making it a good option for first time visitors to the park; however, those with health issues, children, or fears of heights should not attempt this trail.
Final Thoughts
Zion is a very special place. It is filled with so many beautiful views, scenic drives and of course incredible hikes. This list is by no means, exhaustive. It is just a starting place to give you an overview of 4 of my favorite hikes, and some of the most popular places to start as you explore Zion. If you want to explore more Utah National Parks, check out my Guide to the Mighty 5, which overviews Utah’s 5 National Parks.