As natives of Southern Utah, born and raised in this iconic region, we're well-versed on the trails that you can’t miss during your visit to Zion National Park and also those that may be overhyped. In this guide, we'll share our top recommendations for the best hikes in Zion, including the best times to take them, who they cater best to, and essential tips for maximizing your experience while prioritizing safety.
As a globally renowned destination, Zion Nation Park and its surrounding area are full of incredible views, breathtaking canyons, and rock formations unparalleled anywhere else on Earth. Whether you are an expert hiker, a leisurely tourist, or something in between, our comprehensive guide to the best hikes in Zion is here to be your planning companion for your next adventure to the National Park.
Continue reading to also gain valuable insights and advice on where to stay and what to eat during your time hiking Zion.
Top 21 Best Hikes in Zion
To provide you with an overview of the hiking experiences awaiting you in Zion, we've hand-picked a selection of hikes and categorized them based on their suitability. We've identified trails ideal for family travelers, those seeking easy to moderate hikes, and more challenging routes tailored for experienced hikers. Notably, we will point out the best-limited mobility routes as well.
Family Friendly
These family-friendly trails are scenic, beautiful, and ideal for families with children.
Emerald Pools Trail (Lower or Upper) - Whether you choose the Upper or Lower Pools, this trail ranges from 1 to 3 miles with minor elevation changes. Enjoy scenic views and unique pools nestled into the cliffs. Note that this is a popular trail, so expect some crowds.
Pa’rus Trail - This paved out-and-back trail is roughly 3 miles long with nearly no elevation change, making it the most family-friendly, limited mobility-friendly, and one of the only pet-friendly trails in Zion.
The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk - For those who prefer staying dry, this leisurely 30-minute walk along the river offers a quick way to enjoy the stunning views of the iconic Virgin River. It is also a great limited mobility accessible walk.
Red Hollow Slot Canyon - A favorite near East Zion Resort, this 1-mile out-and-back trail lets you explore one of Southern Utah’s slot canyons without needing a guide, special gear, or a permit.
Belly of the Dragon - This unique, family-friendly trail starts in an old man-made drainage tunnel that resembles a red sandstone ribcage, offering a one-of-a-kind experience. Plan for just under 2 miles out and back.
Clear Creek Hike - At roughly 2.5 miles long, this hike takes you along a rocky creek bed with fun twists and turns. It's typically quieter and dog-friendly.
Northgate Peaks Trail - We recommend this 6-mile hike for families with strong kiddos, as it includes a 1,000 ft. elevation gain that promises incredible views at the top.
Weeping Rock - This short but steep walk, about a quarter mile long, ends at a beautiful waterfall surrounded by vibrant vegetation, especially colorful in the fall. It is also limited mobility friendly.
Timber Creek Overlook Trail - Enjoy this 1-mile out-and-back hike with great scenic views of the valley, making it a hot spot for watching the sunset.
Grotto Trail - This short, flat hike is perfect for spotting wildlife or warming up for bigger hikes. Plan on an out-and-back stroll of about a mile.
Moderate
Looking to experience Zion without the demands of hardcore hiking? These moderate trails are for you.
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail - This is one of the most popular trails in Zion, so plan your visit accordingly. Though it's only a mile long, it offers some of the most incredible views in the park. Be prepared for challenging spots, narrow areas, and cliff edges. If you're bringing kids, monitor them closely.
The Watchman Trail - This beautiful 3-mile out-and-back trail features a great overlook and a small loop at the top. It may get your heart rate up in some areas, but the descent is delightful.
The Zion Narrows - Probably the most famous hike in Zion, this 5 to 10-mile out-and-back trail takes you through a slot canyon, wading through the Virgin River. Wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet or waterproof shoes. Due to the rocky riverbed, a hiking pole is highly recommended.
Observation Point via East Mesa Trail - As the name implies, Observation Point offers stunning canyon views. This hike is around 7 miles out and back with about a 700-foot elevation gain. Bring plenty of water as it will take a few hours.
Taylor Creek Trail - Located in the Kolob Canyons area of Zion National Park, this trail leads you into a narrow box canyon and towards the Double Arch Alcove.
Many Pools Trail - This trail is often chosen by those looking to avoid the crowds of the Emerald Pools Trail. It offers beautiful rock formation views and pools with fewer crowds.
Challenging
For the avid hiker, these challenging trails offer great rewards. Only attempt them if you have significant hiking experience.
Angels Landing - To hike the famous Angels Landing, you will need a permit. Once you have it, prepare for a steep ascent with narrow sections. Take your time on both the ascent and descent, plan around the weather, and bring plenty of water.
Scout Lookout - Accessed via the West Rim Trail, this 3.5-mile hike is challenging but highly rewarding once you reach the top. Expect large drop-offs and many steep sections.
West Rim Trail - This all-day 14.5-mile hike is not for the faint of heart. If you tackle this route, you're in for breathtaking views. You'll likely want to backpack or plan to camp along the way.
East Rim Trail - This 10-mile trail features a 1,500-foot elevation change, offering solitude and stunning scenery. Enjoy the peaceful forests, cliff edges, and spectacular canyon views.
The Subway - One of the more unique hikes in Zion, The Subway is a slot canyon that requires technical skills as you wade through water and scramble up and down rocks and cliffs. Consider it a more intense version of The Narrows, and remember, a permit is required.
Tips for Hiking in Zion
Hiking in Zion will provide you with many once-in-a-lifetime experiences. As you explore this incredible area, remember that there are optimal and less ideal ways to do so. Here are our local tips for the best experience.
Time of Day: Many of the hikes mentioned above are very popular for good reason. To enjoy each one with limited crowds, try going earlier in the morning. This will also help you enjoy cooler temperatures, more shade, and avoid extreme heat.
Hydration: Never head out on any hike without water to stay hydrated. Trips can sometimes take longer than expected, and it's crucial to be prepared.
Wear Appropriate Gear: Choose comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for the weather conditions. Layering is important for fluctuating temperatures. Being unprepared for temperature changes could quickly detract from your experience on one of the best hikes in Zion.
Respect Wildlife: You may encounter wildlife such as birds, lizards, and snakes. For your safety and the well-being of the animals, avoid touching or approaching them.
Pack Essentials: Remember to pack sunscreen, snacks, a hat, and other necessities. It's easy to overlook how quickly the sun can burn you without proper protection.
Best Hikes in Zion by Time of Year
When planning your trip to Zion and picking which trails to hike, it's super important to check the weather and trail conditions. As locals, we’ve learned firsthand just how crucial it is to make smart choices about when and where to hike even when a trail is marked open year-round. For example, it’s best to avoid hiking during wet, icy, or poor trail conditions. With that said, here’s an explenation of the most optimal times of year for tackling each of the best hikes in Zion:
Emerald Pools Trail (Lower or Upper): A good year-round hike.
Pa’rus Trail: Accessible year-round.
The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk: Suitable year-round unless icy conditions exist in winter.
Red Hollow Slot Canyon: Best from spring through fall.
Belly of the Dragon: Accessible year-round. Plan around weather to avoid slick rocky conditions.
Clear Creek Hike: Best from spring through the fall.
Northgate Peaks Trail: Ideal from spring to fall.
Weeping Rock: Accessible year-round.
Timber Creek Overlook Trail: Best in late spring to early fall.
Grotto Trail: Suitable year-round.
Zion Canyon Overlook Trail: A year-round favorite.
The Watchman Trail: Suitable year-round but best in spring and fall.
The Zion Narrows: Famous for wading through the Virgin River; best in late spring to early fall. Avoid during high water flow.
Observation Point via East Mesa Trail: Best in spring and fall.
Taylor Creek Trail: Accessible year-round but best in spring and fall for moderate weather.
Many Pools Trail: Best from spring to fall.
Angels Landing: This hike is best tackled in the spring and fall; avoid it during extreme summer heat or icy winter conditions.
Scout Lookout: Accessible year-round but best in spring and fall to avoid extreme heat or icy trails.
West Rim Trail: This strenuous hike is best in late spring or early fall; avoid during winter due to snow.
East Rim Trail: Ideal in spring and fall.
The Subway: Best in late spring to early fall, as water levels and cold temperatures can be problematic in winter and early spring.
Where to Stay
Deciding where to stay near Zion depends on your amenity preferences and desired proximity to the park. Summer is the busiest time, so it's wise to book accommodations in advance, as options can be limited and the best spots fill up quickly year-round.
Here are our top picks for accommodations that offer more than just a hotel experience:
East Zion Resort - here at East Zion Resort, you can book a variety of accommodations including yurts, glamping tents, modern cabins, mirror houses, tiny homes, treetop cabins, airstreams, the Zion Cliffs Cabin, and the Original Treehouse.
Zion Stays - Zion Stays is the largest vacation rental provider in the area offering properties from luxury homes to unique dome houses. Browse their website and you’ll find a plethora of fun accommodations.
Cave Lakes - For those looking for a full-blow glamping experience, check out Cave Lakes. Their glamping tents and cabins are filled to the brim with luxurious amenities. They are also located in a private canyon with amazing cold plunge cave lakes.
Timber and Tin - Located in Kanab, Timber and Tin is a family-run and family-friendly stay that offers 7 unique home accommodations and a swimming pool for cooling off during the peak of summer heat.
Where to Eat
No matter where you stay, whether east or west of Zion, you'll find great restaurants and places to grab a bite to eat. Here are some of our favorites located in Kanab on the east side of Zion and in Springdale on the west side:
Restaurants in Kanab (East side of Zion):
Big Al’s Burgers at the Junction - Craving a delicious Milkshake? Look no further than Bil Als. Don’t forget the also grab one of their famous burgers.
Wild Thyme - You’ll find something for everyone at Wild Thyme with their broad American-inspired menu. Enjoy sitting indoors or outdoor when you dine here.
Brown Box Bakeshop - Searching for fresh baked goods or some ice cream to cool you off? Stop by Brown Box Bakeshop.
Restaurants in Springdale (West side of Zion):
Oscar’s Cafe - A Tex-Mex cafe with a vibrant and laid-back atmosphere offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Zion Pizza & Noodle - Located inside an old church, you’ll find some of the best pizza near Zion here.
Bit n’ Spur Restaurant and Saloon - Another Mexican-inspired spot, well known for its live music.
Switchback Grille - This upscale American steakhouse is one of the few “fancy” restaurants in the area. You’ll enjoy eating on their patio and taking in the mountainous views.
Happy Hiking!
We hope this guide helps you choose the best hikes in Zion, whether you're seeking family-friendly walks, moderate trails, or challenging adventures. These 21 hikes are sure to captivate you, drawing you back time and time again, just as they have for us.
For more information or to book accommodations, contact our team at East Zion Resort. We’re here to help you plan the perfect Zion adventure.
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