The best walks and hikes in Kane County

The East Mesa Trail offers a unique journey through a quiet, forested mesa, leading to one of Zion's most spectacular overlooks. You'll traverse a well-worn old jeep trail, meandering through a mixed forest of Juniper, Piñon, and Ponderosa Pine, enjoying a subtle and peaceful atmosphere. The true highlight is the panoramic Observation Point View of Zion Canyon, where you'll gaze upon Angels Landing, Cable Mountain, and The Great White Throne from thousands of feet above.

Accessing the trailhead can be a bit of an adventure, as it requires driving on remote dirt roads that are often rough and can become muddy or icy after rain or snow; a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is frequently needed. This moderate hike covers 6.9 miles (11.2 km) with 707 feet (215 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 8 minutes. It's considered suitable for families comfortable with longer distances, as the difficulty stems more from length than steepness.

This trail is particularly notable as the primary route to Observation Point since the closure of the original trail from Weeping Rock. It often sees fewer visitors than other popular Zion trails, providing a more solitary experience. The trail's location on the upper east side of the park also means temperatures can be cooler than in the main canyon during hotter months, making it a pleasant escape.

This moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) hike takes you through the unique Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons, involving a total elevation gain of 548 feet (167 metres) over approximately 2 hours and 26 minutes. You will navigate through stunning red rock and sandstone formations, experiencing the tight squeezes of Spooky Gulch, which can be as narrow as 10 inches. Peekaboo Gulch offers a different experience with its beautiful ripple walls and natural arches, including a distinctive heart-shaped rock passage.

Reaching the trailhead requires driving 26 miles down the unpaved Hole-in-the-Rock Road, so plan for extra travel time and check road conditions. Always check the weather forecast before you go; flash floods are a serious risk in slot canyons, even if rain is far away. Due to the extremely narrow sections, this route is not suitable if you are claustrophobic.

These slot canyons are a geological marvel within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, carved by water over millennia into striking red rock and sandstone. Peekaboo Gulch showcases beautiful ripple walls and natural arches, while Spooky Gulch offers a more thrilling, extremely narrow passage. The wider Dry Fork Narrows section provides a scenic contrast with its pink-colored sand and towering walls, making this route a memorable desert adventure.

Embark on a unique desert hike along the Moqui Caverns Trail, a difficult route spanning 2.2 miles (3.5 km). You will experience a predominantly sandy path that leads to a scramble up a slick rock face, gaining 166 feet (51 metres) in elevation. The journey culminates in fascinating rock formations with 'windows' that offer expansive views of the surrounding orange cliffs, making for an engaging 57-minute adventure.

This trail is conveniently located directly off Highway 89, making it an easy stop for travelers exploring the area near Kanab, Utah. Parking is generally available at the trailhead, allowing for straightforward access to your hike. Be sure to plan your visit during cooler parts of the day, as the approach to the rock formations offers no shade, though the interior provides a cool respite.

The Moqui Caverns Trail offers a distinctive experience, showcasing intriguing patterns in the sandstone walls that tell a story of geological processes. It stands apart from the nearby Moqui Cave museum, which is a separate attraction, providing a more rugged, outdoor exploration. This route is perfect if you are looking for a short but challenging hike with unique natural features.

Embark on the Zion Narrows Top-Down Hiking Route, a challenging 20.5 miles (33.0 km) journey that takes you directly through the Virgin River. This unique "river-as-trail" experience involves hiking in water for much of its duration, gaining 2759 feet (841 metres) over an estimated 11 hours and 49 minutes. You will navigate towering canyon walls, with the canyon narrowing dramatically in sections like Wall Street, creating a truly immersive and cathedral-like environment.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to permits and conditions. A wilderness permit is mandatory for all Top-Down Narrows hikes, and these can be difficult to secure, especially during peak season. It is crucial to check weather forecasts for flash flood warnings and monitor water flow rates; permits are not issued if the Virgin River flow reaches 120 cubic feet per second or more. Be prepared for cold water temperatures in fall and winter, which may necessitate specialized gear like wetsuits.

This route is renowned as one of Zion National Park's most iconic slot canyons, showcasing the immense power of water erosion over millennia. As you progress, the scenery transforms, revealing numerous waterfalls and hidden side canyons carved into the rock. The journey culminates near the Temple of Sinawava, offering a profound appreciation for the natural forces that shaped this landscape.

Embark on the Zion Narrows Top-Down Hiking Route, a difficult adventure that takes you directly through the Virgin River. This unique trail spans 15.1 miles (24.3 km) and involves a significant elevation gain of 2067 feet (630 metres), typically requiring about 9 hours and 13 minutes to complete. As you hike, you'll be surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs, experiencing the dramatic shift from open areas to incredibly narrow sections like "Wall Street," where the canyon walls close in around you.

Before you go, remember that a wilderness permit is essential for this route, and securing one can be challenging, especially during busy times. Always check the weather forecast and current river flow levels, as the trail closes if there's a flash flood warning or high water. You will need specialized gear, including canyoneering shoes and a sturdy walking stick, to safely navigate the riverbed.

This route is renowned for its immersive experience, allowing you to wade through the river while surrounded by a cathedral-like environment. The scenery constantly changes, revealing numerous waterfalls and the vibrant colors of the rock formations as you progress. It's a truly distinctive way to explore Zion National Park, offering a perspective unlike any other trail in the region.

The Observation Point via Stave Spring Trailhead offers a journey through Zion's diverse landscapes, beginning on a tree-covered plateau before dropping into a lightly forested valley and ascending towards the iconic Observation Point. You'll navigate varied terrain, including rocky sections and switchbacks, with rock cairns guiding you through some canyon points, all leading to absolutely jaw-dropping views of Angels Landing, Cathedral Mountain, and the Great White Throne. This 4.6-mile (7.4 km) out-and-back hike, with 1116 feet (340 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes around 3 hours and 3 minutes.

Planning your visit to the Stave Spring Trailhead requires some foresight, as this route is a primary access point to Observation Point since the direct Weeping Rock trail closure. Be ready for the elements: deep snow can linger until late spring, while summer brings very dry and hot conditions, making plenty of water and electrolytes essential. Good hiking shoes are a must for the varied terrain and significant uphill climbs, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience.

This trail stands out as a challenging yet highly rewarding alternative for reaching Observation Point, offering some of the best views of Zion Canyon from an elevated perspective, often considered on par with, or even superior to, Angels Landing. It provides a more remote and solitary experience compared to other routes, with a diverse geological journey that includes dropping into Echo Canyon and navigating slick rock before the final ascent. The considerable elevation gain makes it a satisfying physical challenge for those seeking a rigorous hike.

Embark on an easy hike through Huntress Canyon, a 2.4-mile (3.8 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes to complete. You will gain 455 feet (139 metres) in elevation as you explore a landscape of swirling pastel sandstone walls. The trail transitions between broader washes and narrow slot canyon passages, offering a unique visual experience.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the trail is generally easy, some sections can be sandy and steep, particularly when climbing out of the canyon. Always carry enough water and sun protection, as parts of the route are exposed to the sun. Check local regulations for any permits or fees before you go, though none are typically required for this area.

Huntress Canyon is known for its distinctive geological features, including quirky toadstool formations and 'waves of sandstone' that create a memorable desert atmosphere. The route offers a chance to experience the Upper Huntress Slot Canyon, providing deep shade and a sense of discovery. This trail is a hidden gem, perfect for families looking for an accessible outdoor adventure near Kanab, Utah.

Embark on a moderate hike along the East Rim Trail to Overlook, a 2.4-mile (3.9 km) route that typically takes about 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete. You will gain 427 feet (130 metres) in elevation as you traverse varied terrain, from sandy washes to open slickrock areas. Keep an eye out for cairns guiding your way. The trail offers impressive views into and across Echo Canyon, where you can spot Cathedral Mountain and even the distant Angels Landing. It's a rewarding journey for its length and effort.

Before you set out, be aware that a major rockfall means this section of the East Rim Trail is currently an out-and-back route. It does not connect to the Zion Canyon floor at Weeping Rock, so plan your return accordingly. The trail is largely exposed to the sun, especially during summer months. Make sure to carry plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your hike.

As you hike, you will encounter unique geological formations, such as the distinctive crossbedding of Checkerboard Mesa. This trail is considered one of the top-rated Zion viewpoints accessible from the East Rim, offering a different perspective of the park's grandeur. The varied landscape and panoramic vistas make it a memorable experience within Zion National Park.

Hike the moderate 4.9-mile Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch Trail through stunning slot canyons in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.