Best Hikes in Zion National Park: Top 10 Adventure Trips
Zion National Park, Utah
Inside this article:
Utah, Zion National Park is known for the variety of natural relief features, rather unusual flora (800 plant species), and diverse fauna. Situated in southwestern Utah, this park will astonish you with its sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, mountains, monoliths, rivers, and natural arches. Established in 1919, it spans over 146,000 acres and offers a stunning mix of red-rock formations, forested plateaus, and the iconic Zion Canyon—a dramatic 15-mile gorge carved by the Virgin River. Zion National Park hikes, such as Angels Landing with its heart-pounding cliff-edge trails, and The Narrows, where you wade through a stunning river-carved slot canyon, are extremely popular. In short, Zion is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, drawing millions of visitors each year.
Top 10 Hikes in Zion National Park, Utah
Angels Landing
Emerald Pools Trail
The Narrows
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
The Watchman Trail
East Rim Trail
West Rim Trail
Pa’rus Trail
Taylor Creek Trail
Grotto Trail
Angels Landing
Overview: Angels Landing is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. It hikers a heart-pounding journey along steep switchbacks and narrow ridgelines to a summit that rewards you with awe-inspiring views.
Location: Zion Canyon; accessible from the Grotto Trailhead via the West Rim Trail
Best Time to Hike: Spring and fall are ideal for hiking because temperatures are pleasant and crowds are fewer. Early morning hikes are recommended year-round.
Highlights:
Angels Landing is famous for its dramatic final ascent—a narrow ridge with sheer drop-offs on either side and chains bolted into the rock for support.
The hike climbs nearly 1,500 feet, offering sweeping panoramic views of Zion Canyon below.
Though challenging and not for the faint of heart, it rewards adventurers with some of the most breathtaking vistas in Utah.
Due to its popularity and technical sections, a permit system is now in place to help manage hiker flow and safety.
Emerald Pools Trail
Overview: The Emerald Pools Trail is one of the most quintessential Zion National Park hikes. It features a series of waterfalls and shimmering pools set amidst tall red rock cliffs.
Location: Zion Canyon; the trailhead is accessible from the Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop #5) or via the Kayenta Trail from The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6).
Best Time to Hike: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are recommended because of pleasant temperatures and active waterfalls. Early mornings or late afternoons are recommended to avoid crowds.
Highlights:
This trail system gives hikers a customizable experience, ranging from easy walks to more moderate climbs, making it suitable for all skill levels.
The trail features three pools: Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools.
The Lower Pool is easily accessible via a paved path, making it family-friendly.
The Middle Pool offers views of cascading waterfalls, while the Upper Pool, set beneath a towering cliff, provides a tranquil oasis.
The full round-trip to all three pools is approximately 2.5 miles, offering hikers a diverse and scenic experience.
The Narrows
Overview: The Narrows is one of Zion National Park, Utah's most iconic and unique hikes. The trail is the Virgin River itself. Hikers wade and sometimes swim through towering canyon walls that stretch up to 1,000 feet high, offering a surreal and unforgettable experience.
Location: Zion Canyon, starting from the Temple of Sinawava via the Riverside Walk.
The Best Time to Hike is late spring through early fall (May–September). Eater levels are lower, and temperatures are warmer. Always check for flash flood warnings before hiking.
Highlights:
The Narrows is a must-do adventure, where you can hike, wade, and even swim through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls.
Photography, nature spotting, and adventurous through-hiking are popular activities.
You can choose a shorter "bottom-up" hike or apply for a permit for the longer "top-down" experience starting from Chamberlain's Ranch.
The route winds between narrow sandstone walls, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Good water shoes, a walking stick, and dry gear are essentials for making the most of this extraordinary journey.
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
Overview: The Zion Canyon Overlook Trail is one of Utah's shorter Zion National Park hikes. Despite that, it is a rewarding hike that offers panoramic views of the park's majestic landscapes. Spanning just 1 mile (1.6 km) round trip, this trail is accessible to most hikers and makes for a quick adventure with captivating views.
Location: The trailhead is east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel on the park's east side.
Best Time to Hike: The trail is open year-round. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and to experience the canyon bathed in soft light.
Highlights:
Despite its brevity, the trail encompasses a variety of terrains, including sandstone steps, a wooden bridge, and sections with protective railings.
You can explore shaded alcoves and a small cave-like grotto along the way.
The trail culminates at a breathtaking overlook, offering expansive views of Zion Canyon, the Great Arch, and the towering formations known as the Towers of the Virgin.
It’s perfect for sunrise or sunset walks when the light makes the cliffs glow beautifully.
You can also spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep.
The Watchman Trail
Overview: The Watchman Trail is a moderately challenging 3.3-mile (5.3 km) round-trip. It offers a rewarding ascent with panoramic views of Zion Canyon, the town of Springdale, and the towering Watchman Peak.
Location: Trailhead begins at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center (near the park's south entrance in Springdale). No shuttle is required to access this trail.
Best Time to Hike: Spring and fall are the best time of the year for this hike, thanks to pleasant temperatures.
Highlights:
This trail is a convenient option for those looking to experience Zion's beauty without venturing deep into the park.
It features a steady incline with switchbacks, leading hikers through a desert landscape adorned with junipers, cacti, and other native flora.
Upon reaching the overlook, you'll be treated to sweeping views of Zion Canyon, the Virgin River, and prominent formations such as the Watchman and Bridge Mountain.
The trail's accessibility, combined with its scenic rewards, makes it a favorite for both novice and seasoned hikers seeking a shorter yet fulfilling adventure.
East Rim Trail
Overview: The East Rim Trail is a challenging and scenic 10.8-mile (17.4 km) route that traverses Zion's eastern plateau. It is a diverse landscape of sandstone cliffs, pine forests, and panoramic canyon vistas.
Location: The trail begins near Zion's East Entrance and is accessible via the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (SR-9). The trailhead is located to the west of the entrance station.
Best Time to Hike: Late spring and fall are great times to hike the East Rim trail, given moderate temperatures and clear weather conditions.
Highlights:
This trail is ideal for experienced hikers seeking solitude and expansive views away from the park's more crowded areas.
From the East Entrance, the trail ascends through a ponderosa pine forest, which provides a cooler and shaded environment. As you progress, you'll encounter Jolley Gulch, a dramatic canyon offering impressive views.
The trail then crosses a plateau before descending sharply through Echo Canyon, characterized by its narrow passages and towering walls.
Along the way, you can take spur trails to Cable Mountain and Deertrap Mountain, both of which offer unique perspectives of Zion Canyon.
The journey concludes near Weeping Rock, after a 2,300-foot descent.
Overnight camping is permitted with a wilderness permit, though no established campsites are along the trail.
West Rim Trail
Overview: The West Rim Trail is one of the best long-distance hikes in Zion National Park, Utah. It stretches approximately 16.2 miles (26 km) from Lava Point to The Grotto. This trail offers hikers a journey through diverse terrains, from high plateaus to deep canyons, showcasing some of the park's most spectacular views.
Location: The trail begins at Lava Point, the highest point in Zion National Park. The trailhead is accessible via the Kolob Terrace Road.
Best Time to Hike: Late spring through fall (May–November) is ideal, given temperate weather, which is perfect for hiking.
Highlights:
The trail offers panoramic views of Zion's majestic landscapes, including canyons, mesas, and rock formations.
It’s a great trail to experience solitude, especially beyond the popular Angels Landing junction.
The descent through the White Cliffs into Zion Canyon provides a dramatic finale to the hike.
For those seeking a shorter adventure, the trail can be accessed from The Grotto, ascending to viewpoints before returning.
Pa’rus Trail
Overview: The Pa’rus Trail is a 3.5-mile (5.6 km) round-trip, paved path that offers an easy and accessible way to experience Zion’s stunning scenery.
Location: The trail stretches from the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to Canyon Junction, following the Virgin River and crossing it via several footbridges.
Best Time to Hike: Year-round, early mornings or late afternoons are recommended during summer months to avoid heat and crowds.
Highlights:
Pa’rus, meaning “bubbling water” in Paiute, lives up to its name as it meanders alongside the Virgin River.
The trail offers panoramic views of Zion’s iconic red cliffs, including landmarks like The Watchman and Bridge Mountain.
Wildlife sightings are common, with mule deer and various bird species often spotted.
Multiple river access points and trailside exhibits enhance the experience, making it perfect for leisurely walks, photography, and stargazing.
It is ideal for families, cyclists, and those with mobility aids, it’s the only trail in the park open to both pets and bikes.
Taylor Creek Trail
Overview: The Taylor Creek Trail is a moderate 5-mile (8 km) round-trip hike featuring a serene journey through a narrow box canyon, historic cabins, lush vegetation, and the striking Double Arch Alcove at its end.
Location: The trailhead is 2 miles past the Kolob Canyons Visitor Center, accessible via I-15 Exit 40. It follows the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek.
Best Time to Hike: Late spring through fall (March–November) is ideal. The trail can be icy in winter, and summer offers shaded relief from the heat.
Highlights:
The trail meanders alongside Taylor Creek, requiring multiple stream crossings, and is lined with tall Navajo sandstone walls. Hikers encounter two historic 1930s cabins—Larson and Fife—before reaching the impressive Double Arch Alcove, a massive, streaked rock formation.
The path is adorned with firs, pines, and cottonwoods, providing a tranquil and scenic hike.
Grotto Trail
Overview: The Grotto Trail is an easy, family-friendly 1-mile (1.6 km) round-trip hike that connects Zion Lodge to The Grotto Picnic Area. This relatively flat, shaded trail offers a leisurely walk along the canyon floor.
Location: The trail begins at Zion Lodge (Shuttle Stop #5) and ends at The Grotto Picnic Area (Shuttle Stop #6) in Zion Canyon. It follows the canyon floor through a pleasant wooded meadow and runs alongside the Zion Canyon Road.
Best Time to Hike: The Grotto Trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. However, spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures.
Highlights:
This short trail provides scenic views of Zion Canyon's towering cliffs and offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as birds, wild turkeys, and mule deer.
The trail can be combined with the Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trails to create a loop.
It is suitable for hikers of all ages and fitness levels.
Why Choose AdventureTripr for Zion National Park, Utah Tours?
At AdventureTripr, your Zion National Park experience should be as extraordinary as the landscapes you explore. Our expertly curated tours combine thrilling adventure with comfort and safety, ensuring every trip is unforgettable. We partner with trusted local guides who know the best hikes in Zion National Park inside out. Our itineraries are well-researched, personalized, and perfect for all skill levels. Plus, you'll enjoy a more immersive experience with small group sizes. Trust AdventureTripr for your Zion adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Question 1: Do I need a permit to hike in Zion National Park?
Answer 1: Some hikes, like Angels Landing and overnight trips on the West Rim and The Narrows, require a permit. Check the NPS site before you go.
Question 2: Is the Angels Landing hike dangerous?
Answer 2: It is challenging and has exposed sections with steep drop-offs. Proper preparation and caution are essential.
Question 3: What should I pack for a day hike in Zion?
Answer 3: Essentials include plenty of water, sturdy hiking shoes, snacks, sun protection, and a detailed trail map.
Question 4: Can I camp inside Zion National Park?
Answer 4: Zion has three campgrounds: South, Watchman, and Lava Point. Reservations are highly recommended, especially in peak season.
Adventure together
Share the love:
