Best Hikes in Zion National Park

Zion National Park is home to some of the most incredible hiking trails in the United States. Whether you're looking for a short scenic walk, a family-friendly adventure, or a challenging hike with unforgettable views, Zion has something for everyone. These are some of the most popular and rewarding hikes in the park, and many of them have become bucket-list destinations for visitors from around the world.

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Angel's Landing

Angels Landing is one of the most famous hikes in America, and for good reason. The trail climbs high above Zion Canyon with dramatic drop-offs and breathtaking views in every direction. The final section follows a narrow sandstone ridge with chains bolted into the rock to help hikers reach the summit.

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This hike isn't for everyone, especially those uncomfortable with heights, but those who make it to the top are rewarded with one of the most spectacular views in Zion National Park. If you're looking for adventure and unforgettable scenery, Angels Landing delivers both.

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Observation Point

If you want one of the best panoramic views in the entire park, Observation Point should be high on your list. From the summit, you'll look down into Zion Canyon from thousands of feet above the valley floor.

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The views stretch for miles across towering cliffs, deep canyons, and colorful sandstone formations. Many visitors consider Observation Point to offer an even better viewpoint than Angels Landing because of its higher elevation and wider perspective.

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Emerald Pools

The Emerald Pools trail system offers one of Zion's most accessible and family-friendly adventures. Depending on which pools you visit, the hike can be easy or moderately challenging.

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Along the way you'll find hanging gardens, waterfalls, lush vegetation, and beautiful red rock scenery. The lower pool is an excellent choice for families, while the upper pools offer a little more solitude and exploration.

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The Narrows

Few hikes in the world are as unique as The Narrows. Instead of walking on a trail, you'll spend much of your journey hiking directly through the Virgin River between towering canyon walls.

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The deeper you travel into the canyon, the more impressive the scenery becomes. The Narrows is especially popular with photographers thanks to the dramatic light, reflections, and incredible sandstone formations found throughout the canyon.

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The Subway

The Subway is one of Zion's most sought-after backcountry adventures. Named for its famous tunnel-like rock formation, this route takes hikers through waterfalls, pools, sculpted sandstone, and some of the park's most photogenic scenery.

A permit is required, and conditions should always be checked before attempting this hike.

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Kolob Canyons

Located in the northwestern section of Zion National Park, Kolob Canyons offers a quieter experience away from the crowds of Zion Canyon.

Towering red cliffs, scenic drives, hiking trails, and incredible viewpoints make this area a hidden gem that many visitors overlook. Photographers especially appreciate the dramatic evening light that illuminates the canyon walls.

Canyoneering

Zion is considered one of the premier canyoneering destinations in the world. Adventurers can explore narrow slot canyons, rappel down sandstone walls, and experience parts of the park that few visitors ever see.

Permits and proper equipment are required, and experience is highly recommended.

Canyon Overlook Trail

For visitors looking for a shorter hike with a huge reward, Canyon Overlook Trail is hard to beat.

This relatively easy trail leads to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Zion Canyon. It's one of the best sunrise and sunset locations in the park and offers incredible photography opportunities throughout the year.