17 Best Hikes in Zion National Park

Deep in southern Utah, massive red-and-white cliffs tower over narrow canyons carved by ancient rivers.

Zion hides slot canyons and mysteries waiting to be discovered. The best hikes in Zion National Park range from easy strolls to thrilling climbs that reveal the canyon’s deepest secrets.

Some trails whisper their stories gently, while others dare you to discover what lies beyond the next switchback.

Planning Your Zion Hike: What to Know

The best hikes in Zion National Park require proper planning; know the seasons, permits, and gear you need before you hit the trails.

• Best Time to Visit: Fall (September-November) offers ideal conditions with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, while spring brings waterfalls and wildflowers; summer is hot and crowded, and winter features snow-covered scenery with some trail closures.
• Shuttle and Access: The park shuttle runs from March to November and requires advance reservations; alternatively, bike the scenic drive or access shuttle-free trails like Watchman, Canyon Overlook, and Pa’rus.
• Permits You’ll Need: Angels Landing requires a lottery permit, The Narrows top-down hike needs a wilderness permit, and The Subway requires an advanced lottery permit; all available through recreation.gov.
• Hydration & Footwear: Carry at least 1 gallon of water per person and wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support; sandals are not appropriate for Zion’s challenging terrain.
• Additional Essentials: Pack sun protection (hat and sunscreen), trekking poles for water crossings and steep sections, and a headlamp for early morning or sunset hikes.

Best Easy Hikes in Zion: Beginner-Friendly

The best easy hikes in Zion are beginner-friendly trails offering stunning views without technical challenges. Perfect for families and first-timers seeking red-rock beauty with minimal effort.

1. Pa’rus Trail

Source: Wherearethosemorgans

Zion’s easiest trail follows a flat, paved path along the Virgin River, offering stunning red-rock views. The only trail where dogs and bikes are allowed, perfect for all ages and abilities.

Distance: 3.5 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal (less than 50 feet)
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Paved, wheelchair accessible, dog-friendly, bike-friendly, Virgin River views
Trailhead: Zion Canyon Visitor Center
Best For: Families, sunset viewing, accessibility needs

2. Riverside Walk

Source: Tripadvisor

A paved riverside stroll through Zion’s narrowest canyon section, ending at the famous Narrows entrance. Watch for hanging gardens dripping from cliffsides and wildlife along this peaceful walk.

Distance: 2.2 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 57 feet
Time: 1-1.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Paved trail, leads to Narrows entrance, hanging gardens, wildlife spotting
Shuttle Stop: Temple of Sinawava (#9)
Best For: Families, photographers, accessing the Narrows

3. Canyon Overlook Trail

Source: NationalParkService

A short but rewarding climb to sweeping views of lower Zion Canyon and Pine Creek Canyon. No shuttle required, making it a convenient stop when entering or leaving the park through the east entrance.

Distance: 1 mile round-trip
Elevation Gain: 160-200 feet
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Quick views, no shuttle needed, Great Arch views
Trailhead: East of Mount Carmel Tunnel
Best For: Quick morning hikes, avoiding shuttle crowds, photographers

4. Watchman Trail

Source: Utah.Com

A moderately steep climb through desert terrain to a viewpoint overlooking the town of Springdale and lower Zion Canyon. Spectacular sunrise and sunset views, along with reliable wildlife sightings, make this a local favorite.

Distance: 3.3 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 370 feet
Time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: No shuttle needed, sunrise/sunset views, wildlife
Trailhead: Zion Canyon Visitor Center
Best For: Early risers, sunset chasers, and avoiding the shuttle system

Best Moderate Hikes in Zion

5. Lower Emerald Pool Trail

Source: Weseektravel

A gentle walk to a picturesque waterfall and pool surrounded by desert vegetation and towering cliffs. The trail passes under weeping rocks where water drips from overhead, creating a natural shower effect.

Distance: 1.2 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 69 feet
Time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Waterfall, accessible for most ages
Shuttle Stop: Zion Lodge (#5)
Best For: Families with older kids, waterfall lovers, short adventures

6. Middle and Upper Emerald Pools

Source: LaFave

Continue beyond Lower Emerald Pool on steeper, rockier trails to reach two more beautiful pools nestled beneath towering cliff walls. The upper pool sits in a dramatic amphitheater setting, making the extra effort worth it.

Distance: 2-3 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 350-450 feet
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Multi-tiered pools can be slippery
Shuttle Stop: Zion Lodge (#5)
Best For: Those wanting more challenge than Lower Pool, spring waterflows

7. Sand Bench Trail

Source: Joe’sGuideToZionHeritageNationalPark

A peaceful loop through sandy terrain offering stunning views of the Court of the Patriarchs without the crowds. This underrated trail provides a different perspective of the canyon’s famous landmarks.

Distance: 3-4 miles loop
Elevation Gain: 700 feet
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Sandy terrain, Court of the Patriarchs views, fewer crowds
Shuttle Stop: Zion Lodge (#5)
Best For: Avoiding crowds, unique perspectives, and desert landscape lovers

8. Taylor Creek Trail

Source: NationalParkService

A trip through a peaceful side canyon featuring historic pioneer cabins and ending at a spectacular double arch alcove. Multiple creek crossings and towering red walls make this remote hike feel like a hidden gem.

Distance: 5 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 450 feet
Time: 2.5-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Historic cabins, double arch alcove, creek crossings, off-the-beaten-path
Location: Kolob Canyons (1 hour from the main canyon)
Best For: Escaping crowds, history buffs, exploring beyond the main canyon

Best Challenging Hikes in Zion: Advanced

The best challenging hikes in Zion demand courage and experience but reward you with breathtaking views and heart-pounding thrills that beginners only dream about.

9. Angels Landing

Source: Utah.Com

Zion’s most famous hike climbs steep switchbacks before reaching an exposed ridge walk with chain assists. The final half-mile features dramatic drop-offs on both sides, leading to incredible 360-degree views.

Distance: 5.4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,488 feet
Time: 4-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous/Technical
Highlights: Iconic chains section, 360° views, Walter’s Wiggles switchbacks
Shuttle Stop: The Grotto (#6)
Best For: Experienced hikers, thrill-seekers, bucket list adventurers

Important: Permit Required (lottery system)

10. The Narrows

Source:10adventures

Wade and swim through the Virgin River as towering slot canyon walls rise 1,000 feet overhead. This unique hike goes as far as you want, with water depths varying from ankle to chest-deep.

Distance: 5-16 miles (flexible turnaround)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Time: 3-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Highlights: Hiking through the Virgin River, slot canyon walls, unique experience
Shuttle Stop: Temple of Sinawava (#9)
Best For: Adventure seekers, hot weather hiking, photographers

11. Observation Point via East Mesa Trail

Source: HikingGuy

Reach a viewpoint 1,000 feet higher than Angels Landing with sweeping views of the entire Zion Canyon. The East Mesa route provides easier access following the indefinite closure of the main trail.

Distance: 6.4-8 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 800-2,148 feet (depending on route)
Time: 3-5 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Highlights: Views above Angels Landing, panoramic canyon vistas
Trailhead: East Mesa (via dirt road)
Best For: Avoiding Angels Landing crowds, photographers, and experienced hikers

Note: The main trail from Weeping Rock is closed indefinitely

12. West Rim Trail

Source: AllTrails

Continue past Scout Lookout on the Angels Landing trail to explore Zion’s western rim with far fewer crowds. This backcountry route offers solitude and diverse landscapes from desert to forest.

Distance: Variable (continue past Scout Lookout)
Elevation Gain: 1,500+ feet
Time: 4-6+ hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Highlights: Extension beyond Angels Landing, fewer crowds, backpacking option
Shuttle Stop: The Grotto
Best For: Solitude seekers, backpackers, experienced hikers wanting alternatives

Expert/Permit-Only Hikes

Expert and permit-only hikes unlock Zion’s most guarded secrets, requiring lottery permits and advanced skills for experiences few ever witness.

13. The Subway

Source: CanyoneeringUSA

Steer through a stunning slot canyon featuring the iconic subway-shaped tube carved by rushing water over millions of years.

This challenging route requires scrambling over boulders, route-finding skills, and multiple stream crossings through narrow passages.

Distance: 9 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 800 feet
Time: 7-9 hours
Difficulty: Very Strenuous
Highlights: Iconic subway tube formation, route-finding, scrambling
Trailhead: Left Fork (Kolob Terrace Road)
Best For: Experienced canyon hikers, photographers, adventure seekers

NOTE: Wilderness permit required through competitive lottery system April-October. No permit needed November-March, but conditions can be challenging with cold water and ice.

Bonus Trails and Hidden Gems

Beyond the best hikes in Zion National Park lie bonus trails and hidden gems that most visitors never discover. These lesser-known routes offer solitude, adventure, and secret corners of the canyon waiting for bold explorers.

14. Many Pools Trail: The Unofficial Trail

Source: Joe’sGuideToZionHeritageNationalPark

An unmarked venture through a scenic side canyon featuring natural water pockets and pools carved into smooth rock.

This route requires careful guiding and scrambling skills to explore its hidden waterholes and quiet canyon beauty.

Distance: 2-4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Highlights: Natural pools, slot canyon sections, solitude
Trailhead: Court of the Patriarchs area
Best For: Thrill-seeking hikers, off-trail explorers, avoiding crowds

Note: This is an unofficial, unmaintained route requiring route-finding skills and experience. Trail conditions vary, and pools may be dry depending on season and recent rainfall.

15. Kolob Arch Trail

Source: Wikipedia

Trek through a remote wilderness canyon to see one of the world’s largest natural arches spanning nearly 300 feet. This long but relatively flat hike offers stunning canyon scenery and near-total solitude far from main canyon crowds.

Distance: 14 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 700 feet
Time: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Difficult (due to length)
Highlights: Massive arch, wilderness solitude, creek crossings
Trailhead: Lee Pass (Kolob Canyons Road)
Best For: Distance hikers, solitude seekers, and arch enthusiasts

Note: Located in Kolob Canyons section, about 1 hour from main canyon. Bring plenty of water as this is a long, exposed hike.

16. Timber Creek Overlook Trail

Source: Joe’sGuideToZionHeritageNationalPark

A short but steep climb to panoramic views of the Kolob Canyons’ finger formations and distant mountain ranges. This quick summit rewards hikers with 360-degree vistas and spectacular sunset views without the crowds.

Distance: 1 mile round-trip
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic views, sunset spot, minimal crowds
Trailhead: End of Kolob Canyons Road
Best For: Quick viewpoint stops, sunset watching, avoiding the main canyon

Note: Perfect quick stop when exploring Kolob Canyons. The road closes at sunset, so plan accordingly for evening visits.

17. Hidden Canyon Trail

Source: Hike 734

A thrilling trip along a narrow ledge with a chain assist to a hidden hanging canyon. The trail includes exposed sections with drop-offs before revealing a peaceful alcove and additional slot canyon exploration.

Distance: 2.4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 850 feet
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Strenuous
Highlights: Chain-assisted sections, narrow ledges, slot canyon exploration, solitude
Shuttle Stop: Weeping Rock (currently closed – add 1.4 miles from nearest stop)
Best For: Thrill seekers, those wanting a less-crowded alternative to Angels Landing, and photographers

Note: Requires comfort with heights and narrow ledges. The trail continues beyond the official end into an unmaintained slot canyon for those wanting extra exploration.

Safety and Leave No Trace

Zion’s beauty comes with real risks, including extreme heat, flash floods, and rugged terrain. Practice the Leave No Trace principles to protect this desert ecosystem for future generations.

• Heat safety and hydration: Drink 1 liter every 2 hours, start early, and watch for signs of dizziness that may indicate heat exhaustion.
• Flash flood awareness: Never enter slot canyons when rain threatens. Check forecasts at the visitor center before canyon hikes.
• Wilderness bathroom protocols: Pack out toilet paper in waste bags from trailheads. Stay 200 feet from water and trails.
• Foot protection: Wear broken-in boots with ankle support. Ankle sprains are Zion’s most common injury on sandy, rocky terrain.
• Respecting wildlife and vegetation: Stay on trails to protect fragile soil crusts. Keep 100 feet from wildlife and never feed animals.

Planning Your Zion Hiking Itinerary

Planning a Zion hiking itinerary helps you make the most of your time, whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer. Use the guide below to pick the best mix of iconic trails, scenic viewpoints, and less-crowded areas.

TRIP LENGTH	BEST HIKE PICKS
One Day	Angels Landing (if permitted), The Narrows (short), Canyon Overlook
Two Days	Emerald Pools, Watchman Trail, The Narrows, or Angels Landing
Three+ Days	Full canyon highlights plus Kolob Canyons and hidden gems

Where to Stay Near Zion?

Choosing the right base depends on your budget and preference for convenience versus solitude. Springdale offers the easiest access, while nearby towns provide affordable alternatives.

• Springdale options: Gateway town at park entrance with hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals. Free shuttles eliminate parking hassles during peak season.

• Camping in the park: Watchman and South Campgrounds offer reservable sites near the Visitor Center. Lava Point provides free primitive camping with solitude and cooler temperatures.

• Nearby towns (alternatives when booked): Hurricane (30 minutes) and St. George (45 minutes) offer affordable hotels. Rockville and Virgin provide quiet charm just minutes from the entrance.

Wrapping It Up

The best hikes in Zion National Park await your discovery, each trail holding its own magic and mystery.

Whether you choose the paved ease of Pa’rus Trail or dare the exposed chains of Angels Landing, you’ll witness landscapes that defy imagination.

Don’t just read about these trips; grab your boots, pack plenty of water, and start exploring. Your perfect Zion trip is calling, and these red cliffs won’t wait forever.