| Zion Canyon, Utah |
 Trail Name:Angels Landing Summary: |
| Highly Recommended One Day Hike |
| Trail Description |
| From the Grotto picnic area, cross the footbridge of the Virgin River and turn right to follow the trail north. After a short time, the trail moves away from the river and you climb to a side canyon. As you proceed through the canyon, the trail levels, allowing you to enjoy the wonderful, water-carved rock walls.
The trail was constructed in 1926, and the difficulties faced are evident as you reach ‘Walters Wiggles’, 21 switchbacks cut into the rock. The reward on reaching the top are the wonderful views from Scout Lookout – below, the Virgin River snakes its way through the green valley floor surrounded by a line of immense mountainous cliffs. At the trail junction proceed right (south). There is still another 0.5 mile and 500 ft of climb to the top of Angels Landing. The trail is now much steeper and more rugged, and involves scrambling and climbing up the cliff. In places the trail is extremely narrow, with sheer drops on each side. At one point a narrow ledge takes you across a 1500 ft vertical drop to the canyon floor. Although chains have been fixed for safety, it is not suitable if you are afraid of heights. This exciting climb leads to the summit of Angels Landing, a promontory jutting out into Zion Canyon with sheer 1,500 ft drops on each side. The views of the Canyon from all directions are simply spectacular. Be aware that this trail is popular, and bottlenecks can occur on the steep climb along the chains as it is possible for only one person to pass at a time. We would recommend starting this hike very early in the morning to enjoy it without the crowds. |
| FACT FILE |
| Location: Zion National Park, south-west Utah. The Park entrance fee is $20 per vehicle, good for 7 days.
Directions: I-15 exit 27, eight miles on route 17, then route 9 through Virgin and Rockville to Springdale, just outside the south entrance of Zion National Park. Trailhead: From the visitor center, take the shuttle bus through Zion Canyon to the stop at Grotto picnic area. Length: 5 miles / 8.0 km Trail Type: Out and back Elevation Change: 1,488 ft / 454 m Duration: 4 hours Trail Condition: Clearly defined. Final climb is very steep with some scrambling. Features: Stunning views from a high cliff over Zion Canyon. Climate: Extremely hot in summer. Accommodation: Plenty of motels and a private campground in Springdale. Inside the Park, two campgrounds just beyond the south entrance, and Zion Lodge along the Zion Canyon scenic drive. Trail Notes: Last part of the trail climbs a steep, narrow ridge with long drop-offs. Chains have been fixed in places, but take care if fearful of heights. |
Popularity: 12% [?]
