Zion Hiking Trails: 9 Best Trails (Ultimate Guide)
Few places in the American Southwest deliver scenery quite like Zion National Park. Towering red sandstone cliffs, a river-carved canyon, and slot canyons you can actually wade through make Zion hiking trails some of the most sought-after in the country. Whether you’re planning a relaxed family trip or chasing a bucket-list summit, this guide covers nine of the best trails, from easy riverside walks to big-adventure hikes.
Why Zion Hiking Trails Draw Hikers from Everywhere
Zion sits in southwestern Utah, which makes it an easy stop on a Southwest road trip. During the busy season, the main Scenic Drive through Zion Canyon is served by a free shuttle, so most hikers begin their day at a shuttle stop instead of a parking lot. Check the National Park Service Zion page for current shuttle times and trail alerts before you go.
The best time to hike depends on what you want. Spring brings blooming plants and flowing waterfalls, while fall offers cooler temperatures that are ideal for longer hikes. Summer can be very hot, so start early.
Easy Zion Hiking Trails
These trails are great for families, first-timers, and anyone who wants Zion’s scenery without a serious climb.
1. Riverside Walk. A flat, paved 2.2-mile round trip that follows the Virgin River toward the entrance to The Narrows. It is stroller-friendly and one of the best low-effort ways to enjoy the canyon walls.
2. Pa’rus Trail. Another paved, easy path that winds along the river near the visitor center. It is perfect for a relaxed morning walk or an evening stroll after a bigger hike.
3. Canyon Overlook Trail. Don’t let the short distance fool you. This one-mile round trip takes under an hour, but it leads to one of the best photo spots in the park, with sweeping views over Zion Canyon. The path has some drop-offs, so watch your footing.
Moderate Zion Hiking Trails
For hikers ready to put in a bit more effort for a bigger payoff.
4. Emerald Pools Trail. A network of trails linking pools, waterfalls, and hanging gardens. You can choose a shorter or longer loop depending on your energy level.
5. Watchman Trail. A loop of roughly three miles with a steady climb to a rocky bench overlooking the Watchman formation and the canyon walls. It is a great introduction to Zion for hikers staying near the south entrance.
6. Observation Point (via East Mesa Trail). At around seven miles round trip with mostly gentle grades, this route delivers one of the best overall views in the canyon, with far less exposure than Angels Landing. Trail closures happen here, so confirm the route is open before you plan your day.
Challenging Zion Hiking Trails
For experienced hikers ready for exposure and a real workout.
7. Angels Landing. The park’s most famous hike climbs a series of steep switchbacks to Scout Lookout, then continues along a narrow, chain-assisted ridge to the summit. Everyone who hikes the chain section from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing needs a permit. Permits are given out through a seasonal lottery and a day-before lottery on Recreation.gov. Apply early, and try the day-before lottery if you miss the seasonal one. recreationnps
8. Scout Lookout. If you want the views without the exposure, or didn’t win a permit, hike to Scout Lookout. It needs no permit and still gives you a dramatic view over the canyon.
9. The Narrows. Zion’s other iconic hike follows the Virgin River through a narrow slot canyon, so expect wet feet. Water shoes and a walking stick make a big difference.
Tips Before You Hit Zion Hiking Trails
- Plan your permits and shuttle. Angels Landing needs a permit, and shuttle rules change by season.
- Bring more water than you think you need. Desert heat is deceptive, even on easy trails.
- Wear grippy shoes. Sandstone can be slick, especially near water. Our guide on how to choose hiking boots can help you pick the right pair.
- Check conditions before The Narrows. Flash floods can close the trail with little warning.
- Start early. Popular trails get crowded fast once the shuttles start running.
Final Thoughts
From a flat riverside stroll to the heart-pounding final stretch of Angels Landing, Zion hiking trails offer something for every kind of hiker. Start easy if you’re new to the park, work up to the moderate viewpoints, and save the big hikes for when you’re ready. For more ideas, browse our hiking trails blog.
