Zion National Park is one of the most beautiful National Parks in the United States.
The one thing that I love about Zion is its size and how easy it is to experience different areas of the park. In this article, I will share with you 5 iconic hikes in Zion National Park with different levels of difficulty.
The Narrows
One of the most iconic hikes in the Southwest and the best aquatic hike in Zion National Park. You will be walking upstream through the river between very tall walls of the canyon.
The most common way to do this hike is bottom up. The trail starts at the temple of sinawava from a paved route and connects to the river.
For this particular hike, a back country pass is not required and you can basically turn around whenever you want.
While this is rated as a moderate hike, one should consider the challenges that may arise by hiking in the water that goes up to waist level in some sections. Just be prepared!
To learn more about what to pack, how to get there, weather conditions and safety measurements, make sure to check my complete guide about hiking the Narrows.
Observation point
While I was not able to do this hike as the road was closed for weather conditions (We are talking December here :D), this is a very recommended hike.
It is an 8 miles uphill hike to an iconic view point. You will gain 2100 feet in elevation over the course of 5 to 6 hours, and that explains why it is rated Difficult. Make sure you have enough water, proper footwear, sunscreen and more water.
Angels Landing
Angels landing is arguably the most technical hike in Zion National Park. It has a reputation of being a dangerous hike and takes up to 6 hours to complete. The final stretch is a steep strenuous climb on a narrow ridge over 1400 feet above the canyon floor. Deaths have happened in this section but that doesn’t stop visitors from attempting to make it to the top and enjoy a spectacular view.
When I visited, this hike was at the top of my list. Unfortunately, during the government shutdown last year in December, the trail was closed and didn’t open until 4 pm. By the time we arrived to the last stretch it was already dark, the trail was covered in snow and we decided “Better safe than sorry”
My heart was broken for leaving this hike undone but I got to experience a beautiful fool moon from the canyon.
The Subway
This hike is still on my list but many friends and hikers find it to be very enjoyable and rewarding. It is a permit only hike and requires some technical competency especially for the up bottom route.
There was an incident in 2019 about a hiker getting stuck in a quicksand Recommendation? Know your limits, have enough water and food in case you get stuck and have fun with it 😀
Emerald Pool
Just to not make this article all about strenuous, nerve wrecking hikes; my last pick is Emerald Pool. It is an easy 3 mile long family and kids friendly hike.
These are my top 5 picks. Do you have a favorite hike in Zion National Park that I missed? Let me know in a comment below. I will be happy to add it to my never ending list 😀