A List of the Best Hikes in Zion
Zion National Park has some of the most memorable and fantastic hikes in the world, many of which are all-time favorites for many travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the hikes in Zion are world-renown, others are still considered best-kept secrets by frequent Springdale, UT visitors. Here are what many consider the ten best hikes in Zion National Park. How many have you experienced?
Weeping Rock
One of Zion’s shortest hikes can sometimes be crowded because of how easy it is to access and complete, but make sure not to skip it. Even in the winter months, the water dripping off the rock overhang is a sight to see. Length: 30 min or less.
Canyon Overlook Trail
This hike boasts one of the best viewpoints in the whole park; a wonderful overlook of Zion Canyon. Even children should be fine on this one. If you’re with the whole family, don’t miss this one. Length: 1 hour.
Emerald Pools
Another extremely popular trail with easy access, Emerald Pools is definitely one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. This one is easy at first but gets progressively more strenuous the further you go. Many stop at the first pool which is certainly rewarding. But continuing through to the middle and even upper pools will prove more challenging. Also, the further you go, the better the scenery and rock formations become. Length: between 2 and 4 hours depending on how far in you hike.
Riverside Walk
Very easy and very beautiful, this is one of the few paved and flat trails in Zion. This trail leads to the bottom of the Narrows which is so much fun and beautiful to see. Length: 1 to 2 hours.
Hidden Canyon
This moderately strenuous hike will allow you to explore an incredibly scenic canyon on trails the hung cliff sides with some sections that will remind you of another infamous Zion hike, Angel’s Landing, in that chains have been installed for stability and safety. Peak elevation here isn’t as high as Angel’s, but it gets a lot less foot traffic and the views are incredible. Length: 2-3 hours.
Angel’s Landing
Without question, the most popular hike in Zion, the viewpoint at the top is worth every strenuous step. With a total distance of about 5.5 miles, most consider this one of the most rewarding hikes in the US. Thrills abound with incredible heights, rock scrambling, and chain-assisted sections. This should be on everyone’s bucket list. Length: 3 to 5 hours.
Observation Point
I know we keep saying this, but this really is one of the best viewpoints in Zion. This hike is challenging and will cause your legs to burn as you steadily climb 2,300 feet a distance of 8 miles. Many Zion visitors call this their favorite hike in the park. A classic hike. Length: 4.5 to 6 hours
The Narrows
One of the best, if not the best, slot canyon hike in America. You’ll be hiking through water almost the whole time from ankle deep to neck deep depending on the section. Trekking through flowing water between towering cliff walls full of lush vegetation and some of the most incredible colors and rock formations you’ve ever see, this will be a life-changing experience for you. The full Narrows hike is 16 miles and quite strenuous. Length: several hours (bottom up) to 1-2 days (top-down).
The Subway
In many ways similar to the Narrows as you’ll trek through a lot of water, this one requires some things that the Narrows doesn’t, such as canyoneering skills to some degree. But that’s only when you hike it top-down. Taking the bottom-up route avoids rappelling and the very cold water. Either way, it’s technically challenging and somewhat strenuous with breathtaking scenery. Remember that the best views are seen on the top-down route. Length: a full day (10 miles top-down).
West Rim
As long as the Narrows at 17 miles, this lengthy and strenuous hike is full of amazing views and will likely provide you with a more solitary experience as it doesn’t get anywhere near the foot traffic as the trails in the main canyon. This is a great option for backpacking as well. If you’re looking for an all-day option, this is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park. Length: 9 to 12 hours.
