Best Hikes in Zion National Park You Shouldn’t Miss
Zion National Park in Utah is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the United States — and for good reason. Known for its towering red cliffs, dramatic slot canyons, and lush river valleys, Zion offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in the American Southwest.
With over 90 miles of hiking trails, Zion National Park caters to every type of adventurer — from easy riverside walks to challenging summit climbs.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best hikes in Zion National Park, including trail details, difficulty levels, highlights, and essential tips to help you plan your visit.
1. Angels Landing
Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 1,488 feet
Best Time to Hike: Spring & Fall
Permit Required: Yes
Angels Landing is Zion’s most iconic hike and a bucket-list adventure for thrill seekers. The trail begins with a steady climb before reaching Walter’s Wiggles — a series of steep switchbacks carved into the rock.
After Scout Lookout, the final half-mile becomes a narrow ridge with chains for support. The exposure is intense, but the reward is a sweeping view of Zion Canyon and the Virgin River far below.
2. The Narrows
Distance: Up to 9.4 miles round trip (Bottom-Up)
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Best Time: Summer & Early Fall
Permit Required: Top-Down only
The Narrows offers a completely different hiking experience — you walk directly through the Virgin River instead of on a traditional trail.
Towering canyon walls surround you as the river winds deeper into the canyon. The water keeps the hike cool in summer, but hikers should always check flash flood conditions before entering.
3. Observation Point
Distance: 8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time: Spring – Fall
Observation Point offers one of the most impressive panoramic views in Zion. Standing at 6,507 feet, it looks down on Angels Landing and across Zion Canyon. The original route from Weeping Rock is closed due to rockfall, but the East Mesa Trail provides an alternative route.
Unlike Angels Landing, the hike is less nerve-wracking and more manageable for those who don’t like heights. The reward at the top is extraordinary, with sweeping views that many hikers consider the best in the park. If you want the feeling of being above it all without the exposure of Angels Landing, this trail is your answer.
4. Emerald Pools
Distance: 1.5 – 3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best Time: Year-round
The Emerald Pools trails are some of the most family-friendly hikes in Zion. There are three pools: Lower, Middle, and Upper. Each offers waterfalls, shaded alcoves, and pools of water that reflect the red cliffs. The Lower Pool trail is paved and accessible, while the Middle and Upper Pools require more effort.
This hike is particularly beautiful in spring when the waterfalls are strongest, and in autumn when colorful leaves surround the pools. Because of its accessibility, the Emerald Pools trail is often one of the busiest, but it’s the best hikes in Zion National Park for families, casual hikers, or anyone short on time.
5. Canyon Overlook Trail
Distance: 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Best Time: Sunrise or Sunset
Canyon Overlook is one of the shortest hikes in Zion but delivers an incredible payoff. The trail begins just outside the east entrance of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel and leads to a viewpoint overlooking Pine Creek Canyon and Zion Canyon.
The trail is relatively easy, with some rocky steps and guardrails in exposed areas. At the overlook, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views that are especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset. Because of its short distance, it’s ideal if you’re pressed for time or want a quick hike before or after tackling longer trails.
6. Riverside Walk
Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Best Time: Year-round
Riverside Walk is a paved trail that follows the Virgin River from the Temple of Sinawava to the entrance of The Narrows. It’s one of the easiest hikes in the park and suitable for families with strollers or anyone needing an accessible trail.
The path is shaded in many areas, with hanging gardens, birds, and small waterfalls along the way. It’s a peaceful stroll and a perfect introduction to Zion. For those planning to hike The Narrows, this is the warm-up section of the journey.
7. The Subway
Distance: 9 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Permit Required: Yes
The Subway is one of the most unique slot canyon hikes in Zion National Park. The trail follows the Left Fork of North Creek, where you wade through shallow water, scramble over rocks, and navigate a rugged streambed. The payoff is the famous tunnel-shaped rock formation known as the Subway, with smooth, curved walls and emerald pools.
A Wilderness permit is required for both the bottom-up and top-down routes. The bottom-up hike is the most popular option. It does not require technical gear but still demands endurance and good navigation skills. Expect a long day, usually between six to ten hours. The top-down route, by contrast, is a technical canyoneering trip that requires ropes, harnesses, and rappelling experience.
8. Taylor Creek Trail (Kolob Canyons)
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Located in the less-visited Kolob Canyons section of Zion, Taylor Creek Trail is a hidden gem. The hike follows the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek through a narrow canyon, passing two historic homestead cabins before ending at the Double Arch Alcove.
The hike is shaded in parts and less crowded than trails in the main canyon, giving you a quieter experience. The Double Arch Alcove, with its colorful walls and natural acoustics, is a highlight that feels worlds away from the busier parts of the park.
9. Kolob Arch Trail
Distance: 14 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Kolob Arch is one of the largest freestanding arches in the world, spanning 287 feet. Reaching it requires a long hike through the Kolob Canyons wilderness. The trail is demanding, with multiple creek crossings and elevation changes, but the reward is seeing this massive natural arch tucked into a remote canyon.
Because of its distance, this hike is often done as a long day trip or an overnight backpacking trip. If you’re looking for solitude and a challenging adventure, Kolob Arch delivers.
10. Pa’rus Trail
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
The Pa’rus Trail is a paved multi-use path that begins at the South Campground and follows the Virgin River. It’s open to both hikers and cyclists and is one of the few trails in Zion that allows dogs.
The trail offers wide views of the canyon walls and is especially scenic at sunset when the light reflects off the cliffs. Because it’s flat and accessible, it’s a great option for families, bikers, or anyone who wants a leisurely stroll.
Best Tips for Hiking in Zion
- Start early to avoid crowds and heat
- Use the shuttle system
- Stay hydrated
- Wear proper footwear
- Check flash flood conditions
- Secure permits in advance
How to Choose the Right Hike
For beginners: Emerald Pools, Riverside Walk
For thrill seekers: Angels Landing, The Narrows
For photographers: Observation Point
For solitude: Taylor Creek, Kolob Arch
For families: Pa’rus Trail
Final Thoughts
Zion National Park offers some of the best hiking experiences in the world.
From thrilling ridge walks to peaceful river trails, these hikes showcase the park’s incredible beauty.
With proper planning, the best hikes in Zion National Park will give you an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
