Introduction
Zion National Park is a hikers paradise. With towering red and white cliffs, canyons, rivers, and hiking trails galore, Zion is a place that every hiker should experience. The best time to hike in Zion is during the spring or fall when the temperatures are milder. However, if you’re up for a challenge, hiking during the summer months can also be rewarding.
No matter what time of year you decide to hike in Zion National Park, you’re sure to find a trail that suits your needs. Here are some of the best hikes in Zion National Park:
The Narrows: This is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park and for good reason. The Narrows hike takes you through a canyon with walls that tower over 1,000 feet tall in some places. The Virgin River runs through the entire length of the canyon and provides hikers with refreshing swimming holes along the way.
Angels Landing: This hike is not for the faint of heart. Angels Landing is a strenuous 5-mile round trip hike that takes you to the top of a 1,488 foot tall cliff. The last half mile of the trail is particularly challenging as it consists of nothing but steep switchbacks with drop offs on either side. But trust us, the views from the top are worth it!
Observation Point: Another great option for those looking for an epic view is Observation Point. This 8-mile round
Best Hikes In Zion National Park
Assuming you are starting from the Zion National Park Visitor Center, the best hikes are:
The Narrows- This is one of the most popular hikes in Zion and involves hiking through a river for miles. Be sure to bring water shoes and plenty of sunscreen. The hike can be dangerous if the river is running high, so check with a ranger before starting out.
Angels Landing- This is a strenuous hike that rewards hikers with incredible views. The last half mile of the hike is along a narrow ridge with steep dropoffs, so it is not for those who are faint of heart. Again, check with a ranger before starting out to make sure conditions are safe.
Emerald Pools- This hike is shorter and less strenuous than the others, making it a great option for families or those who want to take things easy. The trail leads to several small waterfalls and pools, which are especially pretty in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming.
Angels Landing Hike
Angels Landing is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park. The trailhead is located at the Grotto Picnic Area. The hike is 5 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 1,488 feet. The trail is mostly exposed with some shade near the top. There are several sections of the trail where you will need to use your hands for balance and traction. The last 0.5 miles of the trail is a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs on either side. Angels Landing is not recommended for children or those with a fear of heights.
Observation point trail
The Observation Point trail is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. The trailhead is located near the Visitors Center, and the hike itself is about 6 miles round trip. The trail takes you up to Observation Point, which offers stunning views of Zion Canyon and the Virgin River. Along the way, you’ll also see a variety of plants and wildlife.
The Narrows
The Narrows is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. The trail takes you through a slot canyon with walls that are only a few feet wide in places. The hike can be done as an out-and-back or as a loop, and there are several options for different starting points. The Narrows is a great hike for all skill levels, and it’s a great way to see some of the amazing scenery that Zion has to offer.
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
The Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. The trail takes you to an overlook of the canyon, and the views are simply stunning. The hike is short, but it is very steep. You will need to be in good shape to make it to the top. The trail is well-marked and there are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way. Once you reach the top, you will be able to see all of Zion Canyon. This is a must-do hike when you visit Zion National Park!
Pa’rus Trail
The Pa’rus Trail is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park for several reasons. First, it is one of the easiest trails in the park, making it great for families or those who are not looking for a strenuous hike. Second, the trail offers stunning views of some of Zion’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Great White Throne and Angel’s Landing. Finally, the Pa’rus Trail is a great option for those who want to experience Zion without having to hike all day – the round trip distance is only 3 miles.
Riverside Walk
Zion National Park is home to some of the most beautiful and popular hiking trails in the United States. One of the most popular trails is the Riverside Walk. The Riverside Walk is a 2.2-mile round trip hike that starts at the Temple ofSinawava and ends at the Emerald Pools. The trail is easy to follow and is suitable for all levels of hikers. There are several highlights along the Riverside Walk, including:
-The Temple of Sinawava: The Temple of Sinawava is a large rock formation that is located at the start of the Riverside Walk. It is one of the most popular photograph spots in Zion National Park.
-The Virgin River: The Virgin River runs parallel to the Riverside Walk and provides hikers with a beautiful view.
-The Emerald Pools: The Emerald Pools are a series of three waterfalls that are located at the end of the Riverside Walk. They are one of the most popular destinations in Zion National Park.
The Subway
The Subway is a popular hike in Zion National Park for its unique features and stunning views. The trailhead is located at the end of the Kolob Canyons Road, and the hike can be done as a out-and-back or loop. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow.
The first part of the hike takes you through a canyon with tall walls on either side. Soon, you’ll reach a fork in the trail. To continue on the Subway, take the left fork. You’ll know you’re going the right way when you see a sign for “Subway.”
As you hike further into the canyon, you’ll start to see some of the unique rock formations that make this hike so special. The light from the sun shining through the canyon creates beautiful colors and patterns on the rocks.
Eventually, you’ll reach another fork in the trail. This time, take the right fork to continue on to an area called “The Bottomless Pit.” This section of the canyon is especially narrow and deep, with sheer walls on either side. Be careful not to get too close to the edge!
After admiring The Bottomless Pit, turn around and head back the way you came. If you took the loop option, you’ll now be on a different trail that will take you back to your car. Either way, enjoy your hike back and soak in all of Zion’s beauty!
The Watchman Trail
The Watchman Trail is one of the most popular trails in Zion National Park. The trailhead is located at the Visitor Center, and the trail winds its way up to the top of a hill with incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, and it’s a great hike for all skill levels.
Court of the Patriarchs
The Court of the Patriarchs is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. The trailhead is located at the end of the road near the Visitor Center. The hike begins with a moderate climb up a series of switchbacks. After about a mile, the trail levels out and continues through a meadow with views of the nearby cliffs. After another mile, the trail reaches a viewpoint of three of the park’s iconic rock formations: The Sentinel, Temple of Sinawava, and Great White Throne. From here, hikers can continue on to Angel’s Landing (another popular hike in Zion National Park) or turn around and head back to the trailhead.
Hidden Canyon Trail
The Hidden Canyon Trail is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. The trailhead is located near the Weeping Rock shuttle stop. From the trailhead, the trail winds its way up to a hidden canyon. The canyon is narrow and has high walls. There are several waterfalls along the way. The trail ends at a viewpoint of the Virgin River.
Taylor Creek Trail
The Taylor Creek Trail is one of the most popular trails in Zion National Park. The trailhead is located near the visitor center, and the trail winds through a canyon with red rocks and cliffs. The trail is about 3 miles long, and it ends at the Emerald Pools.
Timber Creek Overlook Trail
The Timber Creek Overlook Trail is a short but sweet hike that offers stunning views of Zion National Park. The trailhead is located just off of the scenic Byway 12, and the trail itself is only 0.6 miles long. Although it is a short hike, the trail does gain 400 feet in elevation, so be prepared for a bit of a workout. The views from the top are more than worth the effort though, as you’ll be able to see all the way to the Virgin River and beyond.
La Verkin Creek Trail
The La Verkin Creek Trail is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. This trail is a great option for those looking for a moderate hike with some amazing views. The trailhead is located just off the Kolob Terrace Road, and the trail itself is about 7 miles out and back. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to see some incredible views of Zion Canyon, as well as some of the park’s more unique geological features.
Red Hollow Slot Canyon
Red Hollow Slot canyon is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. The trail is only 1.1 miles long but the scenery is incredible. The slot canyon walls are red and orange and the sun shines down through the narrow opening in the top of the canyon. The trail is easy to hike and there are no major obstacles.
Spring Creek Canyon
Spring Creek Canyon is one of the most beautiful and secluded hikes in Zion National Park. The trailhead is located just outside the park boundary, so it is a great option for those who want to avoid the crowds. The hike follows Spring Creek as it winds its way through a deep canyon. The scenery is spectacular, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. The trail can be challenging in places, but it is well worth the effort.
Kanarra Canyon & Falls
Kanarra Creek runs through a slot canyon just outside of Zion National Park, making for a great half-day hike. The trailhead is located about an hour from Zion, so it’s the perfect spot to add to your itinerary if you’re spending a few days in the park.
The hike itself is relatively easy, with only a few mildly strenuous sections. The payoff is worth it though, as you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the canyon and Kanarra Falls. Be sure to bring your camera, as you’ll want to capture the memories of this beautiful place.
