Highlight • Trail
West Rim Trailhead South
Hiking
4.8
(138)
Cycling
5.0
(2)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Zion National Park
Tips
May 31, 2020
Hiking
•
August 15, 2017
Hiking
•
October 28, 2019
Hiking
Safety before speed is important
•
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Nearby routes
Best routes near West Rim Trailhead South
5.0
(32)
427
hikers
3.60km
01:51
390m
50m
The Angels Landing Trail is a truly unique experience, taking you from the lush Virgin River banks through the cool confines of Refrigerator Canyon, then up the ingeniously carved Walter's Wiggles. The final push along the narrow, chain-assisted Angels Landing Spine offers an exhilarating, exposed scramble to a summit with unmatched panoramic views of Zion Canyon. It's a difficult 2.2-mile (3.6 km) hike with 1274 feet (388 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 51 minutes, best suited for experienced hikers without a fear of heights.
Planning your visit requires careful attention to the Angels Landing permit system; you'll need to secure a permit through an online lottery to access the chains section beyond Scout Lookout. The trail is accessed via the Zion National Park shuttle, which drops you at The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6). Be aware that slippery conditions can make this already challenging route even more dangerous, so check the weather before you go.
What makes Angels Landing so notable is its blend of historical engineering, like the 1926 trail construction, and the sheer mental and physical challenge it presents. The iconic final half-mile along the knife-edge ridge, holding onto fixed chains, provides an unparalleled sense of adventure and exposure, making it a true bucket-list hike for many visitors to Zion National Park.
4.7
(109)
910
hikers
4.87km
01:24
110m
110m
The Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trail Loop offers a captivating journey through Zion's diverse landscapes, transitioning from expansive canyon views to lush, water-fed oases. You'll experience the unique sensation of walking behind waterfalls at the Lower Emerald Pool and discover serene reflection pools on your way to the dramatic Upper Emerald Pool, all while enjoying panoramic vistas of Zion Canyon from the Kayenta Trail. This easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike, with 354 feet (108 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hours and 23 minutes, making it an accessible option for experiencing some of the park's most iconic natural features.
To access this popular route, you'll typically start from the Grotto shuttle stop (Stop 6) and connect to the Kayenta Trail. Be aware that a bridge closure as of May 2023 means the Kayenta Trail is currently the main way to reach the pools, so expect it to be busy, especially during peak times. Planning your visit for spring or after a good rain can offer the most spectacular views of the waterfalls and lush greenery.
This trail system is notable for showcasing three distinct desert oases, each with its own character, from the vibrant Lower Pool to the cliff-framed Upper Pool. The opportunity to walk under a weeping rock wall at the Lower Emerald Pool is a particularly memorable feature. Keep an eye out for maidenhair ferns clinging to the red rock walls and the chance to spot local wildlife like deer, adding to the immersive natural experience.
4.6
(36)
360
hikers
4.79km
01:18
70m
50m
The Sand Bench and Kayenta Trail offers an easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hiking experience in Zion National Park, featuring diverse terrain and rewarding views with just 223 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 17 minutes. You'll traverse the unique, sandy Sand Bench Trail, which provides panoramic vistas of the "Court of the Patriarchs" and the Virgin River, before connecting to the firmer Kayenta Trail with its rock stairs and continuous canyon views. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a less strenuous way to explore Zion's iconic scenery.
When planning your visit, be aware that the Sand Bench Trail is shared with horseback riders, so you might encounter horses and their waste. The route is largely exposed, so pack ample water, especially during summer. The Kayenta Trail is a popular connector to the Emerald Pools, offering a scenic and often less crowded alternative, but remember that dogs are not allowed on this section.
This trail is notable for its geological significance, particularly the Sand Bench section which sits atop ancient landslide debris from The Sentinel mountain. It provides a different perspective of Zion Canyon compared to more direct routes, blending the unique sandy environment with the more traditional rocky paths. It's a great choice if you're seeking less crowded hikes while still experiencing some of Zion's most beloved viewpoints.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,300 m
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Saturday 27 June
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Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h
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