About the park
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The earliest established National Park of Utah's famous five, Zion is arguably the most loved due to the amazing hikes and geology that can be observed. Zion includes nine exposed formations, or layers, representing about 150 million years of sedimentation. The uplifting of the Colorado Plateau heightened these layers, and the flow of water off this plateau has created the stunning canyons of today.
These canyons, dotted with rocky outcrops, produce some of America's most popular hikes. The Narrows, where you hike along, and in, the Virgin River, is extremely popular in summer when river flow is low and air temperature is often in excess of 90F (32c). Angels Landing is an equally popular hike, which uses metal chain cables to reach the top, resulting in one of America's most famous trails. Elsewhere in Zion Canyon are five further trails of easier difficulty, including the Emerald Pools which is particularly beautiful in Spring when snowmelt and rainfall creates dramatic waterfalls. On the other side of the park, the quieter Kolob Canyons section hosts the 6th longest natural arch in the world.
Popularity of the park has increased massively over the past few decades, to the degree that personal vehicles are banned in the Zion Canyon from early April until late October, and an efficient shuttle bus service is offered instead. While on these buses, it is not uncommon to see people rock climbing, with a number of popular routes around the park. Guided horseback riding trips, canyoneering trips, and nature walks are also all offered in the park throughout much of the year. The increased popularity has meant that some hikes require a permit, namely Angels Landing, to ensure safety. Regardless of the activity, you cannot help but be in awe of the scale and beauty of the landscape when spending time in one of the country's most popular parks.
Can't miss
Angels Landing
Arguably what Zion is most famous for, this steep hike will test your resolve with metal chain cables helping you scramble the final ascent. While not one for those with a fear of heights, Angels Landing is one of the scariest but coolest hikes in America! Bear in mind before when planning your visit that the NPS now requires a permit to hike this iconic trail >
The Narrows
Another popular hike, the trail is essentially the Virgin River, weaving its way through towering canyon walls a thousand feet tall. Parts of the hike can be at knee and even chest depth, so sturdy footwear and a hiking stick or poles are recommended. Hikers can spend all day reaching Big Spring, a 10 mile round trip, or can simply venture just a few hundred metres into this impressive canyon.
Canyoneering
Combining hiking, scrambling, wading and abseiling, these half-day or full-day trips provide an adrenaline rush that can be tackled by adults and children alike. These trips in and around Zion National Park also offer the chance to experience the canyons of the Colorado Plateau from a totally different perspective.
Explore the park
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Points of interest
Top experiences
Trails
As ever, we recommend conducting some of your own research on hikes as well as talking to park rangers in order to find less populated trails that may be of interest, helping to prevent overcrowding and erosion of the park's best known routes. But here are a few suggestions to consider to get you started...
Gentle
The Watchman
Watchman Trailhead
Length (roundtrip): 3.3 miles
Approximate duration: 1.5-2 hours
Maximum elevation: 4412 ft
Max-Min elevation change: 368 ft
An easier and quieter trail than many others in Zion, this hike provides a great perspective of the canyon although not quite as scenic as its counterparts.
Located at the south end of Zion Canyon, the hike is conveniently located close to Springdale. As it is located close to the park entrance, it can be accessed without needing to use the park shuttle, which may be particularly tempting during peak season.
The hike begins alongside the Virgin river, before some switchbacks increase the elevation. Sandstone walls, cacti and rattlesnakes become more common as you climb to the summit of the hike, but there is little shade on the trail, so as ever make sure to bring plenty of water.
The top of the hike offers a relatively unique view, seeing the watchman and the western wall of the canyon, but also small roads and buildings of Springdale. A merging of modern society and nature. Why not try this hike for sunrise, to really appreciate the colours of the sky and Zion canyon.
Moderate
The Narrows
Temple of Sinawava Trailhead
Length (roundtrip): Variable, 2.0-9.4 miles
Approximate duration: 1-8 hours
Maximum elevation: 4500 ft
Max-Min elevation change: 334 ft
It is not often you get the opportunity to hike through a river, let alone surrounded by towering canyon walls hundreds of feet high. The Virgin river can be up to chest high in places, making it more challenging to hike than you might expect.
Day hikers can go as far as Big Spring, 4.7 miles upstream, before a permit is required. Those wanting the biggest challenge can apply for a top-down wilderness permit, starting from Chamberlain's Ranch to experience 16 miles of the Narrows, over one or two days. Find out more >
Canyoneering boots and a hiking stick are highly suggested, due to the very uneven terrain. Zion outfitters offers rentals of this equipment, and we recommend booking and picking up in advance, especially in summer when the park and hike are both extremely busy.
Deadly flash floods are possible in the Narrows even when it is not raining in the park itself.
Make sure to check the weather forecast for the whole of SW Utah, and speak to a ranger if you're unsure.
Demanding
Angels Landing
Grotto Trailhead
Length (roundtrip): 5.4 miles
Approximate duration: 3.5-4.5 hours
Maximum elevation: 5800 ft
Max-Min elevation change: 1488 ft
This awesome trail is one of the most popular, but also most dangerous, in the country. What makes it so unique is the final half mile, where you scramble and use chains to reach the summit. It definitely isn't for the faint-hearted. But those more nervous or scared of heights can wait at Scout lookout, having still witnessed awesome views of Zion Canyon during the first part of the hike.
While the trail is steep, it is relatively short. Walter's Wiggles, a series of 21 switchbacks, will test the legs of even the most experienced of hikers. Be prepared for the heat and crowds, so start early. 13 people have died on the trail since 2000, but once reaching the chain section, it is largely just a matter of being patient around other hikers, and staying sensible. Always put safety over getting the coolest photos for instagram. To ensure safety, numbers are slightly restricted through a permit system, so apply before your visit!
This hike is one of the main reasons why Zion is now more popular than both Yosemite and Yellowstone. But in a way it's easy to see why. The exhilarating feeling tackling this hike makes it a bucket list activity for any outdoor lover!
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When to visit
We recommend:
August to October - while still extremely warm, crowds start to ease and the Narrows is usually accessible
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