Discover the standout hikes both within Zion National Park and in its scenic surroundings. Whether you're craving short and sweet walks or epic adventures off the beaten path, here’s your ultimate hiking guide—complete with tips, trail variety, and real visitor insights.
Top Hikes
Inside Zion National Park
1. Angel’s Landing
- Difficulty: Strenuous – about 2.5 miles one-way with ~1,500 ft elevation gain (Wikipedia, PlanetWare).
- Highlights: Spectacular panoramic views from a narrow ridge—bolted chains assist your final ascent. Permit required (lottery system) for access (PlanetWare, Wikipedia).
- Why go: It’s iconic and adrenaline-inducing. Not for those afraid of heights or pushing strollers.
2. The Narrows (Riverside Walk to Slot Canyon)
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous depending on how far you go (Visit Utah, National Park Service).
- Experience: Wade through the Virgin River beneath towering canyon walls—start with the paved Riverside Walk (2.2 miles round-trip) (Visit Utah, Vogue).
- Pro tip: Great for turning around whenever you please if time or energy runs short.
3. Emerald Pools Trail
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate, flexible based on route (Lower, Middle, Upper) (Visit Utah, zionponderosa.com, SFGATE, CitrusMilo Adventures).
- Why hike: Lush scenery, waterfalls, and cool vistas. Recently restored bridge reconnects the trail, making access seamless again (SFGATE).
4. Canyon Overlook Trail
- Difficulty: Easy, about 1 mile round-trip with minimal elevation (100 ft gain) (Wildland Trekking).
- Perks: Fast, accessible trail offering sweeping views just past the Mt. Carmel Tunnel entrance (Wildland Trekking, Visit Utah).
5. The Watchman & Pa’rus Trail
- Watchman Trail: Moderate, family-friendly with striking canyon views; great sunset or sunrise hike (Visit Utah).
- Pa’rus Trail: Easy, paved walk (≈3.5 miles), pet and wheelchair accessible, perfect for light strolls or cycling (Visit Utah, Citrus Milo Adventures).
Hidden & Less Crowded Gems
chinle Trail – 8 miles one-way, moderate to strenuous; wanders through desert terrain and offers unique fossilized wood, sweeping vistas, and solitude (Visit Utah).
Kolob Arch – A 14-mile round-trip quest to one of the world’s largest freestanding arches. Requires stamina and planning (Wikipedia).
Taylor Creek Trail – Located in Kolob Canyons, roughly 5 miles round-trip, adorned with natural arches and tranquil creekside scenery (Visit Utah, National Park Service, Reddit).
Beyond Zion: Surrounding Trail Highlights
Gooseberry Mesa Loop – 11.5 miles, difficult; iconic for dramatic panoramas, birding, and mountain biking. Best in spring/fall (Greater Zion).
Whipple Trail – 10.5 miles, difficult; rewarding forest and river views near Pine Valley, UT (Greater Zion).
Hiker Wisdom from the Trail (Redditors Speak)
“West Rim Trail is BY FAR the best trail in the park.”
“Taylor Creek Trail out in the Kolob Canyons section … was wonderful.”
“Canyon Overlook isn't on your list ... it’s a relatively short, pretty interesting trail, with a really good payoff.” (Reddit)
“All Trails was super helpful … Be sure to download the maps as there’s really no cell signal in the park.” (Reddit)
Final Thoughts
Zion offers diverse hiking experiences—from iconic adventures like Angel’s Landing and The Narrows to peaceful escapes such as Emerald Pools and Canyon Overlook. Craving less traffic and deeper wildness? Venture into Kolob Canyons or explore Gooseberry Mesa for exceptional views beyond the park's core.
Pro Tips:
Use the AllTrails app (download maps ahead of time) or grab a free trail guide at park entry (Reddit).
Kolob Canyons and trails like Chinle or Kolob Arch offer solitude and space during busier seasons.
Let me know if you'd like trail maps, seasonal advice, or a customized hiking itinerary tailored to fitness level or timeframe!