Best Hikes in Zion National Park You Shouldn’t Miss
With millions of hikers a year, Zion National Park, Utah, is among the USA’s most popular parks and one of the best places to hike. Zion is characterized by its high red cliffs, deep slot canyons, and green river valleys, all of which create a beautiful visual effect.
The park has more than 90 miles of trails that can satisfy every adventurer’s taste. Zion offers easy riverside walks to steep climbs that will give your endurance a test, some of the most enjoyable hikes in the American Southwest.
This guide covers the Best Hikes in Zion National Park that you shouldn’t miss, including trail details, highlights, and tips to help you plan your trip.
Angels Landing
Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation gain: 1,488 feet
Best time: Spring and fall
Permit required: Yes (via lottery system)
Angels Landing is one of the best hikes in Zion National Park and quite possibly the entire National Park System. Trek through a serpentine path which is known as Walter’s Wiggles after which comes the Scout Look-out. From there, the real challenge begins. The final half of the mile is as narrow as a ridge with steep drops on both sides. You will find chains that are bolted into the rock for support.
The view from the top is nothing short of breathtaking. The canyon below displays the Virgin River winding through it, with sandstone cliffs stretching on for miles. If you are afraid of heights, this isn’t for you, but those seeking a thrill should definitely try it. Due to its popularity and safety concerns, a permit is now required to hike the final section of the summit.
The Narrows
Distance: Up to 9.4 miles round trip (Bottom-Up hike)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous, depending on depth and distance
Best time: Summer and early fall
Permit required: Yes, for the Top-Down hike
The Narrows is one of the most unique trails in the United States. Rather than hiking on a traditional path, you walk directly through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls that rise up to 1,000 feet. The trail begins at the Riverside Walk and continues upstream.
Hikers can choose the Bottom-Up route, which does not require a permit and allows you to turn back at any point, or the full Top-Down route, a challenging 16-mile trek that requires a permit and often an overnight stay. Since you’ll spend much of the hike wading through water, sturdy water shoes and a walking stick are recommended. On hot summer days, this hike provides refreshing relief, but flash flood risks mean you must always check the weather before entering.
Observation Point
Distance: 8 miles round trip (via East Mesa Trail)
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: 700 feet (East Mesa Trail)
Best time: Spring through 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.
Emerald Pools
Distance: 1.5 to 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.
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.
Riverside Walk
Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: Any season
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.
The Subway (Left Fork of North Creek)
Distance: About 9 miles round trip (bottom-up)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
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.
Kolob Canyons – Taylor Creek Trail
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best time: Spring and fall
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.
Kolob Arch Trail
Distance: 14 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best time: Spring and fall
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.
Pa’rus Trail
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Best time: Evening for sunset views
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. Parking and shuttle lines fill quickly, especially during peak season. Beginning at sunrise gives you cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Use the shuttle system. From spring through fall, private vehicles aren’t allowed in the main canyon. The free shuttle service is the best way to access trailheads.
- Stay hydrated. The desert climate can be intense. Carry at least one liter of water per hour of hiking.
- Wear proper shoes. Trails often involve slick rock, river crossings, and steep climbs.
- Check conditions. Flash floods are a serious risk, especially in slot canyons like The Narrows. Always check the forecast and ranger updates.
- Get permits in advance. Angels Landing, The Subway, and the Top-Down Narrows hike require permits that are often awarded through lotteries.
How to Choose the Right Hike
With so many trails, choosing the Best Hikes in Zion National Park depends on your time, fitness level, and comfort with heights. A little planning helps you enjoy the park without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
- For first-timers: Emerald Pools, Riverside Walk, and Canyon Overlook offer easy access and stunning views. They provide a perfect introduction to Zion without requiring strenuous effort.
- For thrill-seekers: Angels Landing and The Narrows provide adventure and iconic experiences. These trails push your limits while rewarding you with unforgettable scenery.
- For photographers: Observation Point and Canyon Overlook are unmatched for wide vistas. Sunrise and sunset light create especially dramatic photo opportunities.
- For solitude: Taylor Creek and Kolob Arch give you a quieter, wilderness feel. These trails are great if you want to escape the crowds and experience the park’s more remote beauty.
- For families: Pa’rus Trail and Lower Emerald Pools are safe, scenic, and accessible. They’re ideal for kids, strollers, or anyone who prefers a relaxed pace.
Final Thoughts
Zion National Park has some of the world’s best hiking trails. Every trail at Zion National Park gives you a different perspective of the phenomenal landscape, be it the narrow passages of the Narrows or the ridge of Angels Landing. There are trails to choose from whether you are a casual hiker, or an expert hiker.
If you’re planning a trip, prioritize at least a few of these trails. Your Zion visit can have an unforgettable experience as long as you prepare yourself and respect the environment. The best hikes in Zion National Park will give you a chance to experience the most beautiful place on earth.
