Zion National Park is a hiker's haven since there are many trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels that provide access to the picturesque scenery. Even if you aren't a hardcore hiker, you will want to see the impressive landmarks that make Zion National Park famous. Free guided and interpretive tours are available. Below are brief descriptions of the main trails.
The trail to Lower Emerald Pool is one of the easier paths and is paved for handicap accessibility. It starts across from Zion Canyon Scenic Drive from the Zion Canyon Lodge. Since it is just .2 miles, it is the perfect trek for the family. The trail ends at a beautiful pool that is fed by a waterfall accented my hanging gardens. You can continue on towards Middle Emerald Pool that cascades over the waterfall into the Lower Emerald Pool on an unpaved path. If you still want to continue on, you can reach the Upper Emerald Pool on an uphill and sometimes rocky path. The upper pool is at the foot of a cliff and is surrounded by trees that provide shade as you stay in the beautiful part of Zion National Park. Please note that entering the water to swim or wade is prohibited.
The trail to Angels Landing is perhaps the most strenuous in the Zion National Park and starts at the Grotto Picnic Area. Despite its difficulty, the view of Zion Canyon from the landing is well worth the five mile trek. From the landing you will see a panoramic view of the canyon including the beautiful red mountains the meandering Virgin River. The half-mile stretch before the trail arrives at the landing has a narrow ridge that is surrounded by steep 1,500 foot drop-offs. Thus, this trail is not recommended for those who have a fear of heights.
From Weeping Rock you can hike to Observation Point to enjoy a spectacular view of Zion Canyon and the rest of Zion National Park as you rise about 2,100 feet. This eight mile trek on a paved trail that follows the East Rim Path takes you out of Echo Canyon to Observation Point. The view from this point is absolutely stunning and is well worth your exertion on the trail. This path connects with trails going to Hidden Canyon, Cable Mountain, Deertrap Mountain, and the East Mesa Trail.
Starting at Horse Pasture Plateau, the West Rim Trail is a 14.4 mile long trail that usually takes two days to complete. On the trail you will loss over 3,000 feet of elevation. Along the path you will see peaceful ponds and dramatic views of Phantom Valley, Heaps Canyon, and other areas of Zion National Park. Perhaps a highlight of the hike is a view of Great White Throne - one of Zion's preeminent landmarks that rises more than 3,400 feet above the canyon floor. Towards the end of the hike, hikers will encounter 21 switchbacks between Scout Lookout and Refrigerator Canyon that are known as Walter's Wiggles. If you choose to camp during your hike, Potato Hollow and Cabin Spring are the spots to stay. Please note that open fires are not allowed. |
Maps
banner text 
