As someone who’s explored Zion National Park multiple times, I’ve compiled this list of the best hikes in Zion National Park for 2025. Over the years, I’ve experienced the incredible views from Angels Landing, waded through the Narrows, and found serenity at Emerald Pools.
Zion offers an incredible variety of trails, each with its own unique challenges and rewards. Through my visits and experiences, I’ve learned a lot about what makes a Zion hike truly exceptional.
This list of 9 top trails caters to hikers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced hikers. I’ve carefully selected these hikes to showcase Zion’s diverse landscapes and provide unforgettable experiences for visitors in 2025.
What are the Best hikes in zion national park?
1. The Narrows: Wading Through Scenic Slot Canyons
Are you ready to hike one of the most unique and popular hikes in Zion National Park?
The Narrows is an extraordinary trail that takes hikers through the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, where you’ll wade upstream in the Virgin River surrounded by towering sandstone walls. It offers a truly immersive experience, allowing hikers to explore stunning slot canyons, grottos, and hanging gardens along the way.
If you have children, The Narrows can be an amazing experience as a family – hiking through an aquatic playground in a canyon of towering walls. During my first visit with my family, my then eight-year-old daughter was able to hike about 2 miles of The Narrows before the water and effort level became too high. She still talks about it as one of her favorite hikes!
For the best experience, rent water shoes and a walking stick in Springdale. The hike can be tailored to different fitness levels, from a short 1-mile trek to a challenging 10-mile round trip day hike to Big Spring.
Even in the middle of summer, water and air temps can still be chilly, so you’ll want to consider renting wet suits in colder months.
Safety is crucial! Always check weather forecasts for flash flood risks. When in doubt check at the Visitors Center for trail and weather conditions.
2. Angels Landing: Thrilling Cliffside Adventure
Angels Landing is arguably the most iconic hike in Zion National Park, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of Zion Canyon. This 5.4-mile round trip trail is not for the faint of heart, featuring steep switchbacks and narrow ridges with sheer drop-offs on both sides.
The hike begins with a series of switchbacks called Walter’s Wiggles, followed by Scout Lookout, where some hikers choose to turn back. The final half-mile to the summit involves holding onto chains bolted into the rock face while navigating a narrow spine.
Due to its popularity, hiking Angels Landing now requires a permit, which can be obtained through a lottery system. While on a last-minute trip to Zion, my wife and I were able to secure a permit the day before our hike when a set number are released. Review the National Park Service site to learn more about the lottery process.
Without a doubt, this was one of the most incredible hikes I’ve ever done! Our permit was for the earliest timeslot, which I would recommend if you’re an early riser. This allowed us to avoid the crowds and enjoy the cooler temps.
While it was intimidating to scale to the final summit using the anchored chains, I never felt unsafe and the views of the valley were absolutely amazing!
The panoramic views from the 1,488-foot high summit make Angels Landing a bucket-list worthy adventure for experienced hikers.
3. Canyon Overlook Trail: Stunning Views for Minimal Effort
The Canyon Overlook Trail is a gem among Zion National Park’s best hikes, offering spectacular vistas without the grueling climb of some longer trails. This 1-mile round trip hike is accessible to most fitness levels and provides one of the best views of Zion Canyon.
The trail begins just east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and winds along the cliff face, featuring some exposed sections with railings for safety. Hikers will encounter interesting rock formations, including large alcoves and a natural arch.
At the trail’s end, a wide viewpoint reveals a breathtaking panorama of lower Zion Canyon, the Beehives, East Temple, West Temple, and the Streaked Wall. It’s an ideal spot for sunrise or sunset photography.
I would advise arriving early to secure parking because it’s relatively limited. During a recent visit, we began our hike around 8am, and there was still available parking at that time, but it was filling quickly.
4. Emerald Pools: Easy Family-Friendly Trail
The Emerald Pools Trail is a Zion National Park classic, offering a refreshing and scenic hike suitable for most visitors. This trail system consists of three distinct sections: Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools, each with its own unique features and difficulty level.
The Lower Emerald Pool, a 1.2-mile round trip, is a paved trail and wheelchair accessible. The Middle Pool adds another 0.2 miles and some elevation gain. For more adventurous hikers, the Upper Pool trail extends to a 3-mile round trip with steeper climbs.
This can be a great trail for families with young children or those with limited mobility. If you have adventurous children like ours, the full round trip hike is doable. Just know that there are some big steps for little legs! Other hikers were very encouraging to them as we hiked to the Upper Pool, and our daughters both loved this hike.
Along the trail, visitors will encounter lush hanging gardens, scenic waterfalls, and clear, emerald-colored pools nestled beneath towering sandstone cliffs. The contrast between the red rocks and the green vegetation is particularly striking.
Spring and fall offer the best hiking conditions, with moderate temperatures and flowing waterfalls. Summer hikers should start early to avoid midday heat.
5. Watchman Trail: Sunset Spectacle Hike
The Watchman Trail offers a moderate 3-mile round trip hike that rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Zion Canyon and the iconic Watchman peak. This is a trail in the park that is particularly renowned for its stunning sunset vistas, making it a perfect late afternoon adventure.
We began the hike near the Visitor Center and gradually ascended through a series of switchbacks, providing increasingly impressive views of the surrounding landscape. As we climbed, we encountered diverse plant life native to the area.
The trail culminates at a viewpoint overlooking the southern end of Zion Canyon, the town of Springdale, and the majestic Watchman formation. We timed our hike to reach the top about an 2 hours before sunset, which provided an amazing experience. The warm light illuminated the red rock formations and created a breathtaking view.
While less crowded than some of the more famous trails in Zion, proper preparation is still essential. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and don’t forget your camera to capture the mesmerizing sunset views.
6. Observation Point: Panoramic Views from the Top
Observation Point offers one of the most breathtaking views in Zion National Park. This strenuous 8-mile round trip hike climbs 2,148 feet to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Zion Canyon.
The trail winds through Echo Canyon, featuring stunning white cliffs and unique rock formations. As you ascend, you’ll encounter a series of switchbacks that provide increasingly impressive vistas.
At the summit, hikers are rewarded with a panoramic view of Zion Canyon, including landmarks like Angels Landing far below. The expansive scenery stretches for miles, showcasing the park’s diverse landscapes.
While a challenging hike, this is less crowded than Angels Landing, offering a more serene experience. Start early to avoid afternoon heat and allow 4-6 hours for the round trip. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
Observation Point is a must-do for those seeking a rigorous hike with unparalleled views of Zion’s majestic beauty.
7. Riverside Walk: Gateway to The Narrows
The Riverside Walk is an accessible and scenic trail that serves as the perfect introduction to Zion’s beauty. This paved pathway follows the Virgin River for 2.2 miles round trip, offering stunning views of the canyon walls and hanging gardens.
Ideal for families and less experienced hikers, the Riverside Walk provides a taste of Zion’s grandeur without the challenges of more strenuous trails. The path is mostly flat and wheelchair-accessible, making it one of the most inclusive hikes in the park.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy the lush vegetation, wildlife sightings, and the soothing sounds of the river. The trail ends at the mouth of the Narrows, where adventurous hikers can continue into the famous slot canyon.
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for this hike, but it’s beautiful year-round. Don’t forget to bring water and a camera to capture the scenic vistas.
8. Grotto Trail: An Accessible Gateway to Zion’s Wonders
The Grotto Trail is a hidden gem among Zion National Park’s best hikes, offering an easy hike that is still a rewarding experience for visitors of all ages and abilities. This 1-mile round trip trail connects Zion Lodge to the Grotto Picnic Area, following the Virgin River through a lush, shaded landscape.
The trail’s flat, paved surface makes it ideal for families with young children or those seeking a leisurely stroll. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and diverse plant life. Wildlife sightings, including mule deer and wild turkeys, are common.
The Grotto Trail also serves as an excellent starting point for more challenging hikes, such as Angels Landing. Its accessibility and scenic beauty make it a perfect introduction to Zion’s natural wonders, especially for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
9. Weeping Rock: Short but Sweet Geological Wonder
Weeping Rock is a fascinating and accessible geological feature in Zion National Park. This short, 0.4-mile round trip hike leads to a rock alcove where water seeps from the sandstone cliffs, creating a unique “weeping” effect.
The trail is steep but paved, making it suitable for most visitors. At the end, you’ll find yourself standing under a rock overhang with water dripping from above, surrounded by lush hanging gardens of moss, ferns, and wildflowers.
This hike offers a great introduction to Zion’s diverse ecosystems and rock formations. The constant moisture supports a variety of plant life not commonly seen in the desert environment.
Weeping Rock is particularly beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom, but it’s impressive year-round. The short duration and proximity to the park shuttle stop make it an ideal stop for families or those with limited time.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
when is the best time to visit zion national park for hiking?
The best time to visit Zion National Park for hiking is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to early November).
In spring, mild temperatures (50°F to 90°F) make hiking comfortable, waterfalls are fuller, and wildflowers bloom. In fall, the weather is similarly pleasant, and the park is less crowded.
Most trails, including popular ones like Angels Landing and The Narrows, are open and accessible during these periods.
what essential gear should I bring for hiking in zion?
For hiking in Zion National Park, bring essential gear including sturdy hiking boots, a hydration system or water bottles, high-energy snacks, a map or GPS, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, layered clothing, and a first-aid kit.
Depending on the season, pack a rain jacket or extra warm layers.
For specific hikes like The Narrows, consider neoprene socks, water shoes, and a walking stick. Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before your hike.
which zion hikes are best for families with young children?
For families with young children, the best hikes in Zion National Park are:
Riverside Walk: A 2.2-mile round trip with a paved path along the Virgin River, offering stunning views and shaded areas.
Lower Emerald Pool Trail: A 1.2-mile round trip with a gentle incline leading to a beautiful waterfall and pool.
Weeping Rock Trail: A short 0.4-mile round trip with a slightly steep climb to a rock alcove with dripping springs.
These trails are easy, scenic, and safe for young kids.
do i need a permit for any hikes in zion?
Yes, some hikes in Zion National Park require permits. Notable ones include:
Angels Landing: Requires a permit due to high demand and safety concerns.
The Narrows (Top-Down): Requires a permit for the 16-mile through-hike from Chamberlain’s Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava.
Subway (Top-Down and Bottom-Up): Requires a permit for both routes due to limited entry and environmental protection.
You can apply for permits through the Zion National Park permit system.
conclusion
Zion National Park’s diverse array of trails offers something for every hiker, from beginner hikers to seasoned adventurers. These hikes showcase the park’s stunning landscapes, from the towering cliffs of Angels Landing to the serene beauty of Emerald Pools and the unique geological wonders like Weeping Rock.
As you plan your 2025 visit, remember that each trail in Zion National Park presents its own challenges and rewards. Always check current park conditions, pack appropriate gear, and stay informed about weather forecasts to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Whether you’re conquering the heights of Observation Point or eager to hike The Narrows, Zion’s natural beauty will leave you in awe. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these incredible trails and create lasting memories in one of America’s most beloved national parks.
Ready to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails?
Start planning your trip to Zion National Park today. Book your trip, choose your hikes, gather your essential hiking gear, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders that await you in Zion National Park.
