Zion National Park hikes are famous worldwide. From hiking down deep in the slot canyon all the way up to sky-high rocky overlooks, it’s a hiker’s dream. There are many easy hikes you can find in Zion, but the most rewarding hikes will be moderately challenging or more. Due to popularity of the park, some of the hikes require you to obtain a permit before you go. Amidst all of the gorgeous rock formations, you can find beautiful water features throughout the park as well. River hikes, waterfalls, and emerald pools – you can enjoy them all with the hikes listed below.
The Narrows
An amazing hike into Zion Canyon and through the Virgin River. Read How to Crush The Narrows for more information. Out of all Zion National Park hikes, this is the most unique. It’s rare to find a trail that is literally located inside of a river for the entire hike.
Distance: 16 miles (top down, point to point), 9 miles (bottom up, out & back)
Difficulty Rating: Hard
Estimated Time to Complete: 2 days (top down), 5 hours (bottom up)
Emerald Pools Trail
Waterfall hike with 3 sets of pools (lower, middle, and upper). This moderate hike leads you through a gorgeous lush area with a waterfall at the Upper Pool.
Distance: 3 miles (loop)
Difficulty Rating: Moderate
Estimated Time to Complete: 1 hour 30 minutes
Angels Landing Trail
On of the most famous hikes in Zion National Park, you’ll need a permit to enter this area. A section of the trail requires you to hold onto a chain as you pass next to a sheer cliffside, so be prepared! If you are scared of heights, this may not be the hike for you just yet. However, if you’re the kind of person who loves checking things off of their bucket list, it may be worth your time to apply for a permit when you can.
Distance: 4.5 miles (out & back)
Difficulty Rating: Hard
Estimated Time to Complete: 4-5 hours
Canyon Overlook Trail
Great for an awesome viewpoint overlooking Zion Canyon. More than 2,000 feet above the canyon floor, this hike is relatively easy. It’s the best for viewing the sunrise, not the sunset.
Distance: 1 mile (out & back)
Difficulty Rating: Moderate
Estimated Time to Complete: 30 minutes (not including rest time)
Observation Point
Challenging, but high enough that you get amazing views of Zion Canyon and can even look down on Angels Landing. If you want a panoramic view of the canyon, but also like a challenging hike, this may be preferable to the Canyon Overlook Trail. Although it is longer than the Canyon Overlook Trail, you will get a better look at the canyon as a whole.
Distance: 7 miles (out & back)
Difficulty Rating: Moderate
Estimated Time to Complete: 3 hours
