Zion National Park houses not only a varied species of animals and plants but it is also popular for its beautiful rock formations and sites. It had been a trail route for adventure seekers and nature lovers for all its splendid views. Mother Nature has proved herself miraculous as she carved the beautiful caves and canyons of Zion National Park. Usually, one of the spots to visit within the state of Utah. Hikers seek the best trails and embark on an unparalleled journey to discover new and beautiful scenery. The best of trails are cradled within the canyons and along the wet trails. To guide you, here we have listed the best hiking trails in Zion National Park, USA.
1. The Narrows
It is the narrowest part of the Zion canyon, therefore earning its name, “The Narrows”. The hike takes up a day to two, depending on which trail you choose to hike. An option would be a bottom-up hike from the Temple of Sinawava, which would not require a permit. An easier trail would be going through the river and experiencing the narrowest parts of the path, consuming about an hour. Another trail would be through the Big Spring, which would be a day’s hike, taking about 10 miles (16 km) worth of walking. For hikers who opt a longer trail, another option would be a top-down hike from Chamberlain’s Ranch, unlike the hike entering from the Big Spring. This would require a permit and would take a day to two. Entering the park through Chamberlain’s ranch, hikers must be ready to take a ride for about an hour to the starting point and then proceed with the hike.
The Narrows
Address: Zion National Park 1 Zion Park Blvd. State Route 9 Springdale, UT
Website: The Narrows
Tip from Content Creator
Some of the most important tips we have for walking the Narrows in winter are to make sure your neoprene booties don't have any cuts/holes in them and are well sealed, and make sure to watch for large icicles and avoid walking close to the canyon walls if possible. Bring a lot of water to stay hydrated. Even though it is cold outside, walking the Narrows takes a lot of effort because you constantly find yourself fighting the currents and trying to balance yourself. It can be quite a workout!
2. Angels Landing
This is considered to be one of the world’s most famous hikes because of its unforgettable scenic views. You can admire the breath-taking views while holding onto a chain that is bolted into a cliff, giving all hikers a series of chills and thrills. This 5-mile (8 km) round trip trail, starting from the Grotto trailhead to Zion Canyon, is definitely not for the frail hearted and absolutely not for the ones afraid of heights. Anyone with a good physical condition can make it to the end of the trek, however, the difficulty level quite high. The hike is strenuous due to the trail’s steepness with exposure to long drop-offs. Despite the complexity of the hike, the beautiful sceneries surrounding the trail make it worth the adventure. The name itself, Angels Landing, seemingly pertains to a path from heaven to earth - majestic and powerful!
Angels Landing
Address: Zion National Park, UT
Website: Angels Landing
3. Riverside Walk
Riverside Walk has a paved trail that is fairly easy to hike, making it perfect for beginners. With this, both adults and children can take a leisurely walk along the Virgin River, indulge in the lush greens of the trees and bushes close by, and wade in the trickling water. The trail leads to the entrance of the Narrows, which is a different hike. The Riverside Walk is a must on your visit if you would like to bask in nature’s glory.
Riverside Walk
Address: Trailhead at Temple of Sinawava, Zion National Park, UT
Website: Riverside Walk
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4. Weeping Rock
A short but worthwhile hike that present to you magnificent views of the rock formations, subtle tear-like phenomena as a treat. This is caused by the mist covering the rocks like teardrops as it cascades down. Reaching the pantheon, you may admire and gaze at the surrounding. Although steep, it is definitely a short but breathtaking hike. Remember to wear good shoes as wet rocks tend to be slippery. Also, carry water and a camera.
Weeping Rock
Address: Zion National Park, UT
Website: Weeping Rock
5. Observation Point
After trekking the Weeping Rock, arrive at the Pantheon, and then you may further hike to the observation point. It is a fairly strenuous hike of about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) to reach the Observation Point. From the site itself, you’d be standing 700 feet (213 meters) higher than Angel’s Landing and hover above the majestic view of the main canyon it. Recently, it has been closed because of a rock sliding and blocking the entrance at Weeping Rock but in due time, hopefully, this trail would be back open soon.
Observation Point
Address: Zion National Park, UT
Website: Observation Point
6. Hidden Canyon
Seeking a trail with less crowd? Hidden Canyon will give you the serenity that other trails don’t have. With an elevation of 940 feet (287 meters), a distance of 3 miles (4.8 kilometers), and a moderate difficulty, this trail will offer you 2 to 3 hours of scenic canyon views that can trigger vertigo. The long-drops during the hike will scare those with a fear of heights, but will absolutely satisfy the adrenaline junkies. It also comes with chains that hikers can grab to keep their balance.
Hidden Canyon
Address: Zion National Park, UT
Website: Hidden Canyon
7. Canyon Overlook Trail
Shyly peeking at Highway 9 near the ranger station for the tunnel, you may enter the canyon-overlooking trail. Immediately upon starting the hike, you will gain an elevation that is fairly steep. Although it is a fairly hard trail there are railings for safety. The view from the top is beautiful beyond words. There are hidden caves for those who want to rest and stop for pictures but if you are alone or with a group of adults, we suggest reaching the top of the hike to enjoy the scenery for longer.
Canyon Overlook Trail
Address: Zion National Park, UT
Website: Canyon Overlook Trail
8. Kayenta
A fairly easy 2-mile (3.2 km) hike that would end at the Emerald Pool’s upper pool, and offer a breathtaking view of the rock formations and the glistening water as you reach the point. Although quite near to its exit point, we would still recommend bringing water to rehydrate since it is a steep trail going to the upper portion of Emerald Pool.
Kayenta
Address: Zion National Park, UT
Website: Kayenta
9. The Watchman Trail
The Watchman Trail is a 3.2-kilometers (2 miles) hike round trip that can be completed within 2 to 3 hours. The trail is an easy walk with approximately 456 feet (139 meters) ascent along the foothills of the massive Bridge Mountain making it conducive for beginners. This trail offers a fantastic view of other Zion National Park landmarks which include Towers of the Virgin, Altar of Sacrifice, Beehives, and the West Temple. Aside from these, you can also witness a mesmerizing number of cacti in different sizes and heights. Anyone can hike this trail all-year-round, but during summer, it is advised to go very early in the morning to avoid too much heat of the sun.
The Watchman Trail
Address: Zion National Park, Utah
Website: The Watchman Trail
10. Emerald Pools (from USD 384.0)
The hike leads you to a lower, middle and upper pool, which lo and behold, offers impressive views. The lower pool is much accessible and would be less of an effort to reach, although to make your experience worth the while opt to walk until the upper pool where you may find amazing rock formations as well as clear waters. The hike up would be strenuous, and we would recommend bringing water and a pair of extra dry clothes, as you are bound to get wet. Overall, it is a great place to venture out.
Zion National Park Private Day Trip From Las Vegas
Duration: 11 hours
Bask in Zion National Park's jaw dropping beauty
Nature in all its grandeur beholds its beauty in forms undescribable. Yet it is best etched in memory and kept in photographs. It presents itself in a way to be discovered and enjoyed. Let us help conserve the earth we live in for the future generations to see. Hopefully, Zion National Park stays for generations to come. Truly, visiting these trails will leave you in awe.
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