10 Best Hikes in Zion National Park | Top Trails & More
Are you wondering where to go on your next trip? If you love stunning natural scenes and have a strong liking for hiking, then Zion National Park is the place for you. Even more popular than the Rocky Mountain National Park, Zion has plenty of gorgeous trails for you to discover.
Its iconic red sandstone formations topped with white stone are something you need to experience for yourself to fully grasp their grandeur. What better way to experience these natural wonders than to try out some of Zion National Park’s best hikes?
Utah has some of the best hiking trails, and there are ones to suit every level of fitness and experience outlined in this list of the best hikes in Zion National Park.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.
Map
Below is a Google map of the best hikes in Zion National Park.
What To Pack For The Best Hikes At Zion
- Sunscreen: Utah gets HOT! Even in the winter, we were hiking in bright sunny weather at times. >Buy Sunscreen
- Hiking Boots/Shoes: If you use tennis shoes, you can easily hurt your toes by hitting a rock by accident (Trust me, I have done it so many times before). >Check Out My Hiking Shoes
- Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps you prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
- Water Reservoir: Water reservoirs help prevent me from getting dehydrated while hiking. The great thing about this reservoir is that it doesn’t have a plastic taste. >Here Is My Water Reservoir
- Water: Stay nice and hydrated.
- Sunglasses: It can get sunny, so make sure to pack some sunglasses. >Check Out These Sunglasses
- Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, and energy bars. Clif Bars are great for hiking.
- Camera: The Sony A6000 was one of the first cameras I started traveling with. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography. >Buy Sony Camera Here
- First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started going on adventures. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
- Day Pack to carry all your things: The REI bag I have linked, we have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
- Headlamp: A headlamp is an absolute must in case you get stranded in the dark! It is a lot more portable and easier to use than a flashlight. >Buy A Headlamp Now
- Leggings or shorts: Shorts are good for hot days and if you are hiking the narrows! >Click For These Cute Shorts
- Breathable sweat-wicking shirts: Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
- Sports Bra: For women. >Buy One Here
- Jacket: In case you go during the winter months. >Buy My Favorite Jacket
- Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the ideal sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
- Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here
- National Park Pass: I highly recommend getting a year-long America The Beautiful Pass. >Get It Here
- Sandals: If you are hiking the Narrows then I suggest good sandals. >Click Here For These
- Trekking Poles: I highly recommend this if you are hiking the narrows. It really helps with balance. >Buy Some Here
- Map For Zion: A map is essential so you don’t get lost. I usually bring with me AllTrails+ map on my phone, and a physical map. I love National Geographic’s maps. They are good quality >Buy One Here
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How To Get To Zion National Park
The easiest way to get to Zion National Park is to fly into Harry Reid International Airport, rent a car and then drive three hours to the park. Flying into Las Vegas is usually pretty cheap compared to other cities and the drive is pretty easy.
Tours in Zion National Park
From guided hikes to helicopter rides, here are a few recommended tours in Zion National Park.
Crimson Slot Canyon Exploration
Getting to ride in a UTV and visit a slot canyon is a dream come true. This 2-hour tour is perfect for a bite-size experience of Zion.
The Zion Narrows Hike
This popular guided hike of the Narrows—one of the park’s most famous trails—leaves from Springdale and includes lunch. Perfect for those who would prefer a guide.
Greater Zion Scenic Hiking Tour
Choose between a half-day and full-day hike on this guided hiking tour with a professional guide customized to suit your interests and experience.
Half-Day Canyoneering Experience
This canyoneering guided tour is the best way to experience Zion’s thrilling terrain for intrepid adventurers. The tour is suitable for beginners and all equipment is provided.
Zion National Park and Canaan Cliffs Helicopter Tour
This 30-70 minute helicopter tour will take you over West Zion as far out as 55 miles for a bird’s eye view of the canyons.
Where to Stay Around Zion National Park
Apart from Zion Lodge and some campgrounds inside the park, there are plenty of convenient and comfortable lodgings nearby to facilitate your visit to Zion.
2 Cranes Inn – Zion (Mid-Range)
Charming and quirky, you’ll feel instantly at home with the eclectic decor. Situated 4.7 miles from the South Gate of the park, this inn offers barbecue facilities, free Wi-Fi, mountain views, and private bathrooms. The sun terrace and garden are delightful.
Under Canvas Zion (Luxury)
Glamping in the desert has never been this luxurious. With comfy white fabrics and wooden accents, this glamping site offers yoga sessions and an American or vegetarian breakfast every morning.
Holiday Inn Express Springdale (Upper Mid-Range)
This hotel is gloriously decorated both inside and out and offers stellar facilities, including a fitness center, seasonal pool, and hot tub. Located only 1.5 miles from Zion National Park, every room boasts a mini-fridge and cable TV. It’s also pet friendly, and the Wi-Fi is free.
Bumbleberry Inn (Upper Mid-Range)
The architecture may be humble, but the views of the mountains from the private patios are breathtaking. Only a 5-minute drive from the entrance to Zion National Park, this inn boasts a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. Each room has its own seating area, en-suite bathroom, and free Wi-Fi.
Cable Mountain Lodge (Luxury)
Adjacent to the Zion National Park Visitor Center, this luxury lodge offers scenic canyon views to enjoy with its heated pool, air-conditioned rooms, and jacuzzi. There’s even a convenience store and gift shop on site, as well as a private picnic and beach area for guests.
Read More: Where To Stay in Zion National Park
Best Trails in Zion National Park
Grab your best hiking shoes and your water bottle, because here are some of the best trails suitable for hikers of all experience levels to enjoy.
Angels Landing
- Distance: 4.4 Miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,604 ft
- Time: 2-3 Hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- Type of Trail: Out And Back
- Trail Guide: Link
The most popular trail that everyone has probably heard of is the amazing Angels Landing. Angels Landing is the reason why I started traveling to more national parks and why I blog about it. Which is why this hike has a special place in my heart. The first time I hiked it there were no permits but since it has gotten very crowded recently, the NPS has added a permit system.
I am actually glad they put in a lottery system as this hike felt pretty sketchy in some areas and I can’t imagine navigating around certain locations with large crowds. When we hiked Angels Landing we saw someone almost fall! Not an exaggeration, so please take good hiking shoes, take your time, and watch your step.
The person that almost fell off the cliff was in a hurry and slipped and fell and was sliding off the edge and luckily a small rock stopped him. I don’t like scaring people into not hiking but at the same time, I want people to be careful. My husband and I still talk about this experience to this day.
Anyways, if you are ok with a challenge (and you are careful) then make sure you get a lottery before you head out to this trail. You can get a day before lottery or a seasonal lottery. You can find out more information here.
What makes this hike so amazing is how narrow the trail becomes in certain sections. Luckily they have metal chains for you to hold on to. This trail is not for the faint of heart, and if you are afraid of heights proceed with caution.
Even if you are not into hiking to Angels Landing or you just couldn’t get a permit, I recommend at least hiking to Scout Lookout. Many people with young kids do this instead of Angels Landing, and the views are still pretty cool here. We even had lunch at this spot. You can see the location of it, shown on the map above.
Read More: 15 Best Things To Do in Zion National Park
The Narrows
The Narrows is another iconic hike that I feel everyone needs to do at least once in their life. It is a one-of-a-kind hike, and I still have not hiked anything else that resembles it. The reason why it is so popular is because you have to hike in the river! It is so much fun and it is a great thing to do in the summer.
You hike in between tall canyons throughout the trail and the best part is that there is no elevation gain. The water cools you off during the terrible Utah heat waves and the views are spectacular.
I have been lucky enough to hike this trail in the winter and in the summer. Hiking in the winter is not as terrible as it sounds although it can be more expensive. Since the water is frigid cold it is best to rent gear so you wont get as cold. You can rent the gear here. It is recommended to rent the suit from September through December.
even if you go in the summer, I think it is best that you bring good shoes and trekking poles. Keeping balance while hiking in the narrows is a little difficult. I forgot my trekking poles, but I found one of the last wooden poles near the entrance. It is not gauranteed you will find one though.
Read More: One Day in Zion National Park
Emerald Pools Trail
- Distance: 3 Miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 620 ft
- Time: 1-2 Hours
- Difficulty: Easy-moderate
- Type of Trail: Loop
- Trail Guide: Link
On the way to upper pools- Lower Pool
My new favorite trail at Zion National Park is the Emerald Pools Trail. This trail is spectacular and the trailhead is located in front of the Zion National Park Lodge.
Bring plenty of water because the hike can be pretty exposed in certain areas, and do not drink or swim in the pools. It is not allowed.
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What I loved most about the trail was how family friendly it was, and the stunning views throughout. We could not stop taking photos! When you cross the bridge from the lodge take a right. This is the way most people hike the trail. On the way back down though I highly recommend finishing the loop, instead of going out and back. If you hike the loop the views are a bit different and with more elevation.
There are upper and lower emerald pools. We did both but I enjoyed the lower pools even more than the upper pools. Pictures do not do any of these places justice!
Watchman Trail
- Distance: 3.1 Miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 636 ft
- Time: 1-2 Hours
- Difficulty: Easy-moderate
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Trail Guide: Link
As one of the more leisurely hikes, the Watchman Trail has beautiful views to savor. This trail starts at the Visitor Center and is a moderately strenuous uphill climb — though the incline is gentle enough to make the hike family-friendly.
Although named for the Watchman peak, the trail doesn’t actually lead to climb it—rather, it gives a better vantage point to view the famous Watchman.
As you head upwards, you’ll loop around a small valley before heading west, where the path will take you to the viewpoint. Charming vistas of the main canyon are to be had, with the Visitor Center below and the town of Springdale in the distance.
It may not be the highest viewpoint in the park, but it’s still worth merit. It’s one of the best hikes at Zion National Park for avoiding crowds and enjoying pleasant views of the scenery. It’s especially good if you aren’t up to more strenuous trails. It gets full sun though, so it’s best to tackle this trail on a cloudy day or early in the morning.
Riverside Walk Trail
- Distance: 1.9 Miles
- Elevation Gain: Mostly flat
- Time: Approximately 2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Trail Guide: Link
The paved Riverside Walk trail is infinitely popular for its ease, accessibility, and scenic surroundings. You’ll walk alongside the babbling Virgin River, enjoying the lush vegetation that springs up around it. Take note of the tall canyon walls that weep thin films of water along their façades.
Several spots along the way allow for access to the shallow river, should you want to cool off your feet on a hot day. There’s a good chance you’ll see mule deer at dusk, wild turkeys, or blue herons in the water. Don’t feed any animal you come across, though, as tempting as it might be.
The starting point for this gentle walk is at Sinawava, the last shuttle stop in the heart of the canyon. The trail ends where the banks do, at the beginning of the more strenuous Zion Narrows hike, where you’ll turn around and head back the way you came.
This is one of the best hiking trails in Zion National Park for beginner hikers, elderly strollers, or families with younger children. It’s perfectly short, easy to walk, the views are stunning, and it’s even wheelchair-friendly.
If you’d rather tackle this trail without the full heat of the sun on you, it’s best to go for a late afternoon walk, as the trail will be in shadow at that point.
The Subway Trail (Bottom-Up)
- Distance: 7.0 Miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,305 ft
- Time: 5-9 Hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Trail Guide: Link
Also called the Left Fork, the Subway trail is gorgeous for all that it’s practically subterranean. Hiking through the tubular cove carved out of the rock over eons is a unique experience, making it one of the best trails in Zion National Park.
It’s quite a demanding hike, taking you through ankle to knee-deep water and forcing you to scramble over large boulders for approximately four miles. The rest of the time, you’ll likely be treading slippery wet rock, so take your time and don’t rush this one. The incredible waterfalls and carved formations in the Subway more than make up for any discomfort, though.
The descent to the streambed is fairly steep with some loose rock and sand, though it isn’t too treacherous. The Lower Subway is the place to stop for photos, with awe-inspiring carved formations and emerald pools of water, potholes, and weeping walls.
This is generally the turn-around point for this hike. You can also continue a little further through unpredictably-deep water to the Waterfall Room, where a 20-ft waterfall cascades.
There’s a top-down option for this route that involves swimming, rappelling, and canyoneering for a more technical experience of this beautiful slot canyon in Utah. The bottom-up route discussed here is non-technical, but can be a little strenuous. Take note of the exit signs by the black volcanic rock where you enter the streambed, as you might accidentally hike past on your way back.
This trail is one of the Zion National Park hikes that require a Zion Wilderness permit, which you can reserve in advance.
Summer or Fall are the best seasons to hike through the cold water, especially as spring run-off can make the river higher than usual. If there is a threat of rain, do not attempt this hike as there is a risk of flash flooding.
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Observation Point Trail
- Distance: 7 Miles
- Elevation Gain: 702 ft
- Time: 3-5 Hours
- Difficulty: Moderate-difficult
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Trail Guide: Link
Possibly the most iconic hike in Zion National Park the Observation Point is breathtaking. When you reach Echo Canyon, about 1,000 ft above the valley, the temperature cools, and canyon walls reach skyward on either side of you. There’s a brief break in elevation gain before the trail continues its steep ascent through the upper White Cliffs. Eventually, you’ll find yourself standing on the sandy plateau.
One mile more of essentially flat terrain and you’ll have made it to one of the most gorgeous views Zion has to offer. With a 270-degree view, Observation Point offers some of the most dramatic and beautiful scenery in the park.
The colors of the red and white peaks play off of the green trees that cling to their sides, and the visual strata of the earth is a delight.
Currently, this route is closed due to a large rockfall that took place in 2019. But hopefully, in the near future, it will be reopened again for new hikers to enjoy.
Until then, the leisurely East Mesa trail joins up with the Observation Point trail close to its pinnacle. It’s far less taxing and only accessible by driving along dirt roads. But once you reach the Observation Point, the views are just as sublime.
Canyon Overlook Trail
- Distance: 1 Mile
- Elevation Gain: 187 ft
- Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Trail Guide: Link
Although it’s fairly short, the Canyon Overlook trail is a moderately challenging route with a slight elevation gain. After the initial steps chiseled out of the Slickrock of the canyon, the trail levels out onto a rocky and uneven dirt trail.
This is one of the Zion National Park trails that really show off the beauty of the natural rock formations. The meandering route will take you on a tour around impressive sandstone formations above the Pine Creek slot canyon below.
Halfway through this little route, you’ll find is a shaded alcove with seeping sandstone walls where lush ferns grow along the base, perfect for a break from the sun. The trail ends at the Canyon Overlook lookout point.
Although many hikers take to the trail during the day, it’s a glorious choice for an evening hike to take in the sunset views. Just make sure to bring a flashlight or headlamp with you.
There are railings in place, but it’s best to be aware of your surroundings as certain spots are a little exposed and could pose a danger to unsteady feet. After a rainstorm, it can be muddy, so bring your best hiking shoes.
It’s a rather popular trail for hikers and walkers alike, located in the Upper East Canyon. You’ll need to drive Route 9 and go through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel to reach it.
Canyon Overlook
- Elevation Gain: No gain
- Time: However long you want
- Type of Trail: Lookout point
As the point at which the Canyon Overlook Trail ends, the view from the Overlook is without parallel and one of the quickest to access from such a short hike. An old metal plaque turned turquoise from exposure to the elements indicates the most prominent landmarks laid out for you.
Bridge Mountain sits to your left, the highest point on that side of the canyon, with the Pine Creek stream gently winding its way along the bottom of the canyon.
The East Temple stands to your right. It’s a breathtaking rock formation reaching out of the earth at a 7,709 ft elevation, composed completely of Navajo sandstone. The brilliant shade of red makes it seem as though the mountain peak is glowing from within, especially at sunset or sunrise. It’s particularly beautiful in winter when dustings of snow sit in stark contrast on the red peaks.
Grotto Trail
- Distance: 1.2 Miles
- Elevation Gain: 78 ft
- Time: 15-45 Minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Type of Trail: Out and back
- Trail Guide: Link
This short Zion trail connects Zion Lodge to the Grotto Picnic area. It’s a pleasurable walk along the canyon floor that leads through a delightful meadow with lush green grass and tall spindly trees before following the Zion Canyon Road. Keep a lookout in the grasses as you pass—you might just spot wild turkeys or deer.
The trail is sandy and unpaved and mostly flat and wide, except for one section where it gets a little narrow and rocky. It ends at the Grotto Picnic area, where you may choose to stop for lunch and a rest before continuing your day of hiking.
Many hikers use this short trail as a connecting point to other closeby trails such as the Emerald Pools or Kayenta Trails to form a loop. The Canyon Shuttle also runs this route, from the 5th stop at Zion Lodge to the 6th stop at Grotto Picnic Area. You might prefer to avoid the shuttle queues and rather enjoy the short walk.
West Rim Trail (Bottom-Up)
- Distance: 8.5 Miles – 13.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 3,100 ft
- Time: 9-12 hours with a light day pack, 10-16 hours with overnight backpacking gear.
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Type of Trail: Out and back or a loop
As one of the more strenuous trails in terms of endurance, the West Rim Trail is also one of the best hikes in Zion National Park for scenic views. Starting at The Grotto, the 6th stop on the shuttle, the intensity of this hike begins almost right away with a path zigzagging up the walls of Zion Canyon.
This leads to Refrigerator Canyon, aptly named for its cooler temperatures from lack of sunlight. Once this section has been traversed and you emerge on the ridge above, you’ll arrive at Scout’s Landing. This point is where many people choose to continue to Angel’s Landing, but if you keep with West Rim, you’ll find the paths less crowded and the views spectacular.
You’ll eventually make it to the upper plateau chiseled out of the white cliffs. Here you can either turn back or head along the 5-mile lollipop loop through the forested plateau. Enjoying the scenic views of the Grand West Canyon from this vantage point is incredible and highly recommended.
You can also do the West Rim Trail from the top-down, starting at Lava Point and ending at The Grotto, if you’re seeking a longer and more demanding experience. Either way, the West Rim Trail is one of the best Zion hikes.
Zion National Park Hike FAQ
If this is your first time going to Zion, there may be a couple of questions nagging at you. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers.
Are There Restrooms at Zion National Park?
There are a few bathrooms situated throughout the park, often near shuttle stops, water fill stations, and in larger buildings. But not all of them are plumbed with running water, and some trails have a definitive lack of toilet facilities.
Do Rockfalls Occur in the Park?
Yes, rockfalls are quite common, some on larger scales than others. It’s good to note that no one has ever been killed because of a rock fall in Zion National Park’s history.
Are There Bears in Zion National Park?
Encounters with bears in the park are very rare, although not unheard of. If you think you’ve sighted a bear, it’s best to notify the park officials. It’s best to know the procedure for what to do in the event of a bear encounter just in case.
Zion National Park Hike Tips
- Check the weather forecast in advance so you can see how it’ll impact your visit. You can then prepare by planning ahead, and packing the right clothing and enough food and water for your outing.
- Bring sun protection and environmentally-friendly insect repellent to save yourself from bug bites and uncomfortable sunburns.
- Check the regulations and guidelines for the trails you intend to take in case a change is effected, such as a permit requirement being instituted. You can follow Zion National Park on social media to keep up to date with any changes.
- Bring proper hiking gear with you, especially if you plan on tackling the longer or more strenuous hikes.
- Parking areas fill up fast from March to November, usually by 8:00 am or 9:00 am. Parking along the roadways or in a manner that restricts traffic is strictly prohibited. Either arrive very early to secure a spot, or park in Springdale and catch the town shuttle to the park. The wait for this shuttle in busy seasons can be more than an hour, depending on when you arrive.
Read More: The Best National Park in Utah – All 5 Ranked From Best to Worst
Best Time to Visit Zion National Park
Zion is open year-round to intrepid hikers, although each season has pros and cons. It’s the most popular park in Utah with millions of visitors every year. Zion’s hiking trails tend to be more crowded in spring, summer, and Fall.
The peak months are April to October, but the temperatures in summer can soar to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Spring similarly has its risks, especially for serious hikers who want to tackle the canyon, as run-off from melting snow can make the hike difficult or even dangerous.
As a result, the best time to visit Zion National Park is Fall, when the temperatures are more tolerable and the trees are colored in a palette of warm autumn hues.
Winter can also be a good option for those seeking to avoid the crowds, as long as you don’t mind a touch of snow and the lack of shuttle service.
How to Get Around Zion National Park
The Zion Canyon Shuttle usually runs from early March to mid-November and halts for the winter season. It operates from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm every day of the week and has nine stops.
Biking is also an option, though you are limited to only biking on the Pa’rus trail. There are bicycle racks at the Visitors Center and at each shuttle stop.
There are also options to drive to various points in a car, although the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is off-limits to private vehicles when the shuttle is running. Utah State Route 9, Kolob Terrace Road, and Kolob Canyon Scenic Drive remain open, though.
Final Thoughts on Zion National Park Best Hikes
Whether you come to the park in search of the top hikes in Zion or simply to bask in the atmosphere of the scenery, there is no wrong way to spend a day in Zion National Park.
Each trail has the potential to bring you unique memories you’ll treasure forever, from meandering easy routes to the challenging—but gorgeous—trails. No matter your age or experience level, this is a place worthy of the hype.
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