Hidden Trails Only Local Guides Know About in Zion
Zion National Park is world-famous for hikes like Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Observation Point, but what most visitors don’t realize is that these iconic trails are just the beginning. Tucked away from the shuttle routes and crowds are hidden trails that offer solitude, breathtaking views, and a deeper connection to the park’s rugged beauty.
The best part? These hidden gems are often only accessible — or even known — through guided Zion National Park tours led by locals who live and breathe this desert landscape. If you're looking to get off the beaten path, here's what you need to know.
Why Go Beyond the Main Trails?
While Zion’s main attractions are popular for good reason, they’re often crowded and heavily trafficked, especially during peak season. Hidden trails offer:
Quieter, more peaceful hikes
- Unique views not seen in typical photo spots
- A chance to connect with the wild, untouched side of the park
- Guided Zion National Park tours specialize in these lesser-known areas, providing not only access but also the knowledge and context to truly appreciate them.
Top Hidden Trails Only Local Guides Know About
1. Many Pools Trail
Located in the East Canyon, the Many Pools area features a network of water-filled sandstone potholes and winding slickrock routes. There’s no formal trail, so hiking here requires careful navigation — one reason it’s rarely visited without a guide.
On guided Zion National Park tours, local guides lead you across stunning slickrock landscapes while explaining the geology behind these natural pools. It’s quiet, scenic, and often feels like you have the entire park to yourself.
2. Canyon Overlook (and Beyond)
While the Canyon Overlook Trail is technically known, most tourists stop at the viewpoint and turn back. But local guides offering extended Zion National Park tours can take you farther — into secret side paths and slickrock plateaus beyond the overlook, where the views of Zion Canyon become even more dramatic.
These offshoots aren’t marked and can be dangerous without knowledge of the terrain, so they’re best explored with a professional guide.
3. Coalpits Wash
This remote and wild trail in the southwest corner of the park is rarely crowded and follows a desert wash through towering cliffs, ancient lava flows, and desert flora. Because the route is unmaintained, it can be easy to get lost — making guided Zion National Park tours a smart (and safe) option for exploring it.
Local guides also provide insight into the unique volcanic history of this area, which many self-guided hikers would miss entirely.
4. Parunuweap Canyon
Parunuweap is a stunning, remote canyon that rivals The Narrows in beauty — but is far more difficult to access. Permits are limited and the terrain is complex, with river crossings and steep climbs.
Some advanced Zion National Park tours offer guided backpacking or full-day adventures into this canyon, where you can explore waterfalls, rock formations, and historical petroglyphs in near solitude.
This is a true hidden gem that requires local knowledge, preparation, and respect for backcountry conditions.
5. South Guardian Angel
This off-the-map peak offers panoramic views of Zion that few hikers ever see. The route involves route-finding, slickrock scrambling, and elevation gain — but those who reach the summit are rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views in the park.
Local guides offering premium Zion National Park tours often include South Guardian Angel for experienced hikers looking to escape the crowds and challenge themselves.
Why Go With a Guided Tour for Hidden Trails?
Hiking Zion’s lesser-known trails isn’t just about avoiding the crowds — it’s about access, safety, and knowledge. Guided Zion National Park tours give you:
Safe navigation through unmarked or difficult terrain
Insight into geology, wildlife, and native history
- Gear and planning support, especially for backcountry hikes
Exclusive access to routes most visitors never hear about
Most importantly, local guides can adapt the hike to your skill level and interests — whether you want a peaceful walk through wildflower meadows or a technical climb up a remote summit.
Choosing the Right Zion National Park Tour Company
Not all tour operators are the same. When looking for a guide to explore Zion’s hidden trails, choose Zion National Park tours that:
Employ certified wilderness guides with local experience
- Offer small group or private options
- Are permitted by the National Park Service
- Have excellent safety records and guest reviews
Some top-rated tour companies even customize the entire experience based on your fitness, schedule, and photography goals.
Final Thoughts: The Zion Few People Ever See
Zion National Park is more than just Angels Landing and The Narrows. With a knowledgeable guide and a willingness to wander off the tourist path, you’ll discover hidden trails that showcase the park’s raw, untouched beauty.
If you’re seeking solitude, challenge, and a deeper experience, guided Zion National Park tours into these secret spots are your ticket to the wild side of Zion — the one most people never get to see.