Zion National Park has a wealth of hikes to accommodate adventurers of every fitness level. In Zion, visitors can traverse multiple biomes in a single day. Trek through the heart of its low-land deserts, climb into cool ponderosa forests, and shuffle across slickrock ledges. Whether on a multi-day backcountry camping trip or a day-hike with the family, Zion has plenty of hikes to entertain and inspire.
The park has four distinct regions: Zion Canyon, East Zion, Kolob Canyons, and Kolob Terrace. In this hiking guide, we’ll break down the park by region, giving you a list of easy, moderate and difficult hikes as well as backpacking journeys in each.
Zion Canyon
Zion Canyon is located just past the South Gate Entrance and is the main highlight of the park. This narrow gorge is home to many of Zion’s most famous hikes and is sure to feature on any visitor’s highlight reel.
Easy
1. Pa’rus Trail
by KitaTheExplorer from Getty Images
- Distance: 3.5 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 2 hours
- Elevation Change: 50 ft/15 m
- Shuttle Stop: 1 Visitor Center, 3 Canyon Junction
Follow the sunny paved trail along the Virgin River from the South Campground to Canyon Junction. This is the only trail in Zion Canyon which allows pets and bicycles on its paved path. The Pa’rus trail is also an excellent way to bypass the shuttle queue at the Visitor Center. Simply take the trail to the Human History Museum by following a short connector trail. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Zion Visitor Center.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
2. Archeology Trail
- Distance: 0.4 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 30 minutes
- Elevation Change: 80 ft/ 24 m
- Shuttle Stop: 1 Visitor Center
The shortest hike in Zion Canyon, the Archeology Trail takes visitors along an incline for less than a quarter-mile for some great introductory views of Zion Canyon as well as the outline of what was once an Ancestral Puebloan storehouse.
3. Lower Emerald Pools Trail
- Distance: 1.2 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 1-1:30 hours
- Elevation Change: 69 ft/ 21 m
- Shuttle Stop: 5 Zion Lodge
Follow a short and gently sloping trail to a beautiful grotto of dripping sandstone and verdant, glittering plant life. At the base of the waterfalls, there are several shallow pools, which, if viewed at the right time, sparkle emerald with green algae. Ignore the temptation to splash around, though, as these pools are strictly off-limits! Restrooms and water refilling stations are available at the Zion Lodge.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
4. Grotto Trail
by GCosby by Getty Images
- Distance: 1 mile (roundtrip)
- Time: 30 minutes
- Elevation Change: 3 ft/ 11 m
- Shuttle Stop: 5 Zion Lodge, 6 The Grotto
This short and level stroll connects the Zion Lodge to the Grotto Picnic Area. Visitors may choose to expand their loop by taking the Grotto Trail to the Zion Lodge, crossing the river to explore the Emerald Pools Trails, and returning via the Kayenta Trail. Accessible for hikers of all ages and experience levels.
5. Weeping Rock Trail
- Distance: 0.4 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 30 minutes
- Elevation Change: 98 ft/ 30 m
- Shuttle Stop: 7 Weeping Rock
Follow a short but steep trail down to a dripping alcove sheltering a green oasis of hanging gardens. This cooling recess percolates with fossil-water, water that may have first fallen in Zion over a millenia ago! Take the steps down from the bridge at the end of the trail to enjoy a cooling splash in the stream during the hot summer months.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
6. Riverside Walk
- Distance: 2.2 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Elevation Change: 57ft/ 17m
- Shuttle Stop: 9 Temple of Sinawava
This paved and shady trail runs along the Virgin River and features beautiful views of riparian (riverside) plant life and dripping sandstone walls. Hiding among these hanging gardens can be found the Zion Snail, a tiny, brown snail endemic to Zion Canyon. This hike ends at a crossing of the Virgin River—the start of The Narrows Trail. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Temple of Sinawava before you head out.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
Moderate
7. Watchmen Trail
by Oat Wongsuwan from Getty Images
- Distance: 3.3 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 2 hours
- Elevation Change: 368 ft/ 112 m
- Shuttle Stop:1 Visitor Center
This sunny prickly-pear-lined trail is best enjoyed when the weather isn’t too hot, such as in the Spring or Fall. The trail takes visitors up to views overlooking the canyon and up a plateau for a stunning view of Watchmen Mountain, the canyon’s resident sentinel. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Zion Visitor Center.
8. Sandbench Trail
- Distance: 7.6 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 5 hours
- Elevation Change: 466 ft/ 142 m
- Shuttle Stop: 5 Zion Lodge
From March through October, Sandbench Trail functions as a commercial Horse Trail. For those hiking, however, this sandy trail offers views of the surrounding sun-lit canyons and sees little hiking traffic. Just be sure to watch your step during horse season!
9. Middle Emerald Pools Trail
- Distance: 2.2. miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Elevation Change: 150 ft/ 46 m
- Shuttle Stop: 5 Zion Lodge
A continuation of the Lower Emerald Pools Trail, this trail brings visitors to another set of shimmering green pools. Wind your way through boulders to find shaded tree cover, a great relief throughout the hotter portions of the day. The Middle Emerald Pools Trail also connects to the Kayenta and Upper Emerald Pools, for those looking to continue their hike.
10. Upper Emerald Pools Trail
by Efenzi from Getty Images Signature
- Distance: 1.0 mile (roundtrip)
- Time: 1 hour
- Elevation Change: 200 ft/ 61 m
- Shuttle Stop: 6 The Grotto
A continuation of the Middle Emerald Pools Trail, this trail takes hikers to the highest elevation of the three Emerald Pools sections. This is the steepest leg of the trail and takes visitors along views of ephemeral falls and cliffs overlooking sheer Navajo Sandstone. For many visitors, this section of the pools will be their favorite leg of the trail, although it is best viewed during Spring or after rains.
11. Kayenta Trail
- Distance: 2.0 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 1.5 hours
- Elevation Change: 150 ft/ 46 m
- Shuttle Stop: 6 The Grotto
The Kayenta trail links together the Emerald Trail to The Grotto, and The Grotto to Angel’s Landing. This trail affords views of the Emerald Pools throughout and can be an excellent alternative to hiking the Lower Emerald Pools Trail. Restrooms and water refilling stations are available at The Grotto.
Strenuous
12. Angel’s Landing (via West Rim Trail)
- Distance: 5.4 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 4 hours
- Elevation Change:1,488 ft/ 453 m
- Shuttle Stop: 6 The Grotto
One of the most famous hikes in Zion, this climb takes adventurers past Scout’s Lookout (about 4 miles) and up the adjacent narrow precipice. Hikers will cling to chain-assists as they try to make their way across the thrilling 0.5-mile sky-high ascent and earn their bragging rights. For visitors who do not wish to continue on this exciting excursion, a view of equal magnitude can be held from Scout’s Lookout. Be aware that this trail can be extremely crowded, and hikers will have to make way for passing groups along narrow, dangerous ledges.
Please note: You must have a permit to hike Angel’s Landing. You can enter the lottery for a permit here.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
13. Hidden Canyon Trail (via East Rim Trail)
- Distance: 2.5 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 2.5 hours
- Elevation Change: 850 ft/ 259 m
- Shuttle Stop: 7 Weeping Rock
This trail is short but steep, and not recommended for hikers with a fear of heights. The trail follows a cliff face to views of a free-standing arch and a secret slot canyon. There are chain assists across the most narrow portions for hikers to cling to, and though much less crowded than Angel’s Landing, it may be no less thrilling.
14. Observation Point (via East Rim Trail)
by Greg Hetrick from Getty Images
- Distance: 8.0 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 6 hours
- Elevation Change: 2,148 ft/ 655 m
- Shuttle Stop: 7 Weeping Rock
The highest observation point on Zion Canyon, this path takes hikers through Echo Canyon to climb a series of stunning switchbacks. Once they reach the viewpoint visitors will have an unbeatable view overlooking Zion Canyon. This trail also provides access to Cable Mountain, Deertrap Mountain, and East Mesa Trail. For a shorter route to Observation Point, East Zion’s East Mesa Trail offers an alternative path.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
15. The Narrows (via Riverside Walk)
- Distance: up to 9.4 miles
- Time: up to 8 hours
- Elevation Change: 334 ft/ 102 m
- Shuttle Stop: 9 Temple of Sinawava
Hikers along The Narrows should come prepared with the equipment necessary for hiking along a rocky riverbed. Some recommended gear includes hiking sticks, canyon shoes, and neoprene socks. Begin by entering at the end of The Riverside Walk and begin hiking upstream against the flows of the Virgin River, continuing for as long as you desire. This shady hike through the cool waters of Zion is an excellent choice for hot summer days, and treats visitors to stunning views of the narrow red canyon walls throughout. While this is one of Zion’s most popular trails, there is plenty of room for everyone willing to practice a little patience.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
Wilderness/Backpacking Trails
16. Through-hike, Virgin River Narrows
- Distance: 16 miles
- Time: one full-day, or one overnight
- Elevation Change: 1,300 ft/ 400 m
- Shuttle Stop: ends at stop 9 Temple of Sinawava
Starting from the Chamberlain’s Ranch, this sixteen-mile trip can either be done as one very long, full day hike or as an overnight hike. Campers are only allowed to set up in designated areas. Like the bottoms-up Narrows hike, the majority of this hike will be through cold moving water and over slippery rocks. For those canyoneering or camping, be sure to prepare accordingly with the appropriate permits.
East Zion
To the east of main Zion Canyon lies the section of the park known as East Zion. Visitors here will discover an expanse of slickrock, hoodoos, and rugged cliff faces. To reach East Zion from Zion Canyon, travel through the Mt. Carmel Tunnel and continue for about 5 miles. The hikes located from the East Zion Entrance, such as East Rim and East Mesa, are long and interconnected. Please take the time to pick up a map from the Ranger Station before heading out.
Easy
1. Canyon Overlook Trail
from sprokop from Getty images
- Distance: 1 mile (roundtrip)
- Time: 1 hour
- Elevation Change: 163 ft/ 50 m
This short trail is one of the most popular and relatively easy hikes on the eastern side of Zion. Be aware that while the elevation gain is fairly mild, visitors will have to make their way across some wider slickrock ledges. Once they reach the overlook, hikers can enjoy a stunning view of the canyon and towering monoliths of sandstone and slickrock. Parking for this busy traill is limited, so aim to arrive in early morning or late afternoon if possible.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
2. Many Pools Trail
- Distance: 2.3 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 2 hours
- Elevation Change: 18ft/ 123m
This is a trail best enjoyed soon after rain or in springtime when precipitation in Zion is greater. This drainage features many potholes worn into the sandstone, which, at the right time, fill with water to form multiple reflective pools. This is one of East Zion’s less-crowded trails, so for those looking for a shorter hike that still offers a bit of solitude, this is a great option.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
RELATED: When is the Best Time to Visit Zion National Park?
3. Petroglyphs Trail
- Distance: 0.3 mile (roundtrip)
- Time: :30 minutes
- Elevation Change:1 ft/ 10m
Ancient sites in Zion must be respected and protected. All visitors should be careful not to damage ancient images or artifacts of Zion in any way, including by touch. Even the natural oils from our skin will deteriorate these precious pieces of history over time, so please remain aware of your footing and hand placement while visiting. Travelers coming from west to east will find the Petroglyphs Trailhead right after the Many Pools Trailhead, about 2.5 miles after the Mt. Carmel Tunnel. The Petroglyph Trail itself has no labeled trailhead or designated parking. Follow the wooden fence upriver until you reach the plaque and sign in. Though not widely advertised, this trail is open to all responsible hikers.
Moderate
4. Pine Creek Waterfall Trail
by dpenn from Getty Images
- Distance: .75 mile (roundtrip)
- Time: 1 hour
- Elevation Change: 163 ft/ 50 m
While the trail itself is short with little elevation gain, this hike requires some fairly-difficult scrambling, including climbing up slickrock walls 7-8 feet tall without any handholds. It is advised that hikers go with at least one other person to help each other up these steep walls, and to assist in case of a fall. This trail is unique in that it features a waterfall and swimming hole. Debris often renders the earlier pools of the trail stagnant, but hikers can enjoy a cooling dip in the final pool with the Pine Creek fall, a rare feature in the deserts of Zion.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
Strenuous
5. East Mesa Trailhead to Observation Point
- Distance: 7 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 4 hours (roundtrip)
- Elevation Change: 143 ft/ 107 m
4-wheel-drive is required to reach the dirt roads off the North Fork Road and the East Mesa Trailhead. Visitors are advised to avoid these roads after heavy rainfall as they can become difficult to traverse in muddy conditions. Follow the East Mesa Trail for a little over three miles until you reach the split to East Rim Trail. From there, continue on Observation Point Trail for less than half of a mile to reach the highest viewpoint in all of Zion Canyon, Observation Point. Those who take the journey will be rewarded with some of the best views of the canyon that Zion has to offer.
Wilderness/Backpacking
6. East Rim Trail
- Distance: 11.8 miles (roundtrip, East Entrance to Stave Springs)
- Time: one full-day, or one overnight
- Elevation Change: 2,300 ft/ 672 m
The East Rim Trail begins at the East Entrance of Zion and branches into several other trails, including the East Mesa Trail. Avid backpackers can add on the West Rim Trail as part of a 47-mile trans-zion trek through Zion National Park. For those who wish to hike the entirety of East Rim Trail, they will pass through Jolly Gulch, catch views of the Checkerboard Mesa, and reach the dramatic cliffs of Echo Canyon. The trail exits at Weeping Rock Shuttle stop, which, as of 2019, was closed indefinitely.
7. Deertrap Mountain Trail
by IsabelPoulin
- Distance: 9.5 (via Stave Springs, roundtrip)
- Time: full-day
- Elevation Change: 132 ft/ 724m
There are three ways to reach the Deer Mountain Trailhead. The first option is to Hike 17.5 miles up from Weeping Rock (indefinitely closed as of 2019). The second option is to take the split from East Rim Trail, a 19.5-mile trek. The final option is to hike from Stave Springs, veering from the Cable Mountain Trailhead on Zion Ponderosa Ranch. This is the shortest option and is only 9.5 miles, possible for a day-hike. This trail takes you to views of the Sentinel Slide, Zion Canyon, and finally, a frontal view of Angel’s Landing. Enjoy exploring the rocky plateau before returning the way you came.
8. Cable Mountain Trail
- Distance: 7 miles (to/from Stave Springs, roundtrip)
- Time: 1-2 hours (roundtrip) from Deertrap Trail
- Elevation Change: 200 ft/ 60 m
This trail can be accessed via the Deertrap trail, located near Stave Springs Junction. The remnants of cable mountain cableworks—a pioneer lumber transport system—can be found along the canyon rim. Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Angel’s Landing and the big bend of Zion Canyon. Untreated water may be found at Stave Spring.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
Kolob Canyons
by George Peters by Getty Images
Kolob Canyons may be one of the least-visited areas of Zion Canyon, but for those in the know, there may be no better place. Located right off of Veterans Memorial Highway just south of Kanarraville, the trails here are a great option for those hikers hoping to appreciate nature in solitude. Be sure to swing by the Visitor’s Center as you come in to use the restroom, fill up your water, and show your park pass.
Easy
1. Timber Creek Overlook Trail
- Distance: 1.1 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 45 minutes (roundtrip)
- Elevation Change: 25 ft/ 85 m
Visitors to Kolob Canyons who only have time for one short hike should make Timber Creek Overlook their priority. This short half-mile climb reveals a fantastic vista overlooking the lush Timber Creek drainage and Pine Valley Mountains. This gradually ascending hike is one of the few trails in Kolob Canyons which are appropriate for smaller children.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
Moderate
2. Middle Fork of Taylor Creek Trail
- Distance: 4.0 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 4 hours
- Elevation Change: 30 ft/ 200 m
The most popular trail in Kolob Canyons is the Middle Fork Creek Trail. Between two canyon fingers and nestled between Tucupit and Pariah Points lies a sandy, quiet path surrounded by red sandstone walls. The trail concludes with a stunning double arch formed by years of erosion from Taylor Creek.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
3. North Fork of Taylor Creek Trail
- Distance: 5.2 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 4 hours
- Elevation Change: 70 ft /400 m
This route begins at the more popular Middle Fork Creek Trail. Hikers can choose to connect the North Fork of Taylor Creek Trail with the Middle Fork, making the total distance about 9 miles and about a 6-7n hour hike. Where the North Fork meets the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek, visitors can find the Larson pioneer cabin—one of the first homesteads in Kolob Canyons.
Wilderness/Backpacking Trails
4. La Verkin Creek Trail
by Anita Sagastegui from Getty Images
- Distance: 15 miles (roundtrip to Arch)
- Time: 8 hours
- Elevation Change: 23 ft/ 120 m
This long and scenic trail follows along La Verkin Creek, winding its way out from Kolob’s finger canyons to North America’s second largest freestanding arch—Kolob Arch. The La Verkin trail also marks the beginning (or end) of the 47-mile trans-Zion trek which takes backpackers across Zion National Park in a multi-day backpacking trip.
Kolob Terrace
by Jim Cook from Getty Images
Kolob Terrace Road is a roughly 22-mile scenic route which climbs its way from desert to forest to volcanic mountain top, dotted with exciting adventure trails along the way. Though many of the trails here are longer wilderness hikes, there are plenty of options for day hikes, and the drive up the terrace simply cannot be beat. The views here are like nowhere else in Zion, and showcase a more green, wild, and peaceful side of the park. Be aware, though! There is no Visitor Center or refilling station in Kolob Terrace, so be sure to come prepared with a park pass and plenty of water.
You can visit Kolob Terrace and Kolob Canyons on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour. Check out the itinerary here.
Easy
1. Cave Valley Trails
- Distance: 1.5 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 2 hours
- Elevation Change: mostly level
The cave valley trails of Kolob Terrace feature beautiful ancient blue pictographs and an altar of animal bones. As always, be sure to be mindful of your hand placement when near the pictographs, as touching them will destroy them over time. In order to preserve these beautiful pieces of history, we must be careful not to move or damage these artifacts in any way. If you are interested in visiting, there are two parking options: turn left to Lamb’s Knoll Climbing Site, or park on the right shoulder immediately after the cattle guard near Lambs Knoll turn-off. The hike to these cave pictographs is just short of a mile each way.
This trail begins at the gate on the right, which will have a chain loosely tied around it to keep it shut. There will not be a trailhead.
If the gate is unlocked, then make your way through. Close the gate behind you, and stick to the dirt path, making your way towards the cliffs on the right through the grass field. Both caves are located along these cliffs. As your path takes you to your first rocky outcropping, you will find a green park gate that continues the trail hugging the cliffs on the right. The first cave you’ll encounter is called Birthing Cave which features unique, bright blue pictographs. After Birthing Cave, you can continue following the trail up to Altar Cave—just about ten minutes further ahead. This cave features an altar of animal bones. Again, please be respectful and do not move or touch these artifacts.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
Moderate
2. Northgate Peaks Trail
- Distance: 4 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 3 hours
- Elevation Change: mostly level
The Northgate Peaks Trail is a fan-favorite and is one of only a few trails along Kolob Terrace that is kid-friendly. This trail begins at the Wildcat Canyon Trailhead, but branches off into its own trail leading to a viewpoint of the Northgate Peaks and the North Guardian Angel. To get there, follow Wildcat Canyon Trail for about a mile until you reach the intersection of the Connector Trail. From here, continue on for less than a quarter of a mile to find the Northgate Peaks Trail.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
3. Connector Trail
- Distance: 4.5 miles (one-way)
- Time: 3 hours
- Elevation Change: mostly level
This overgrown trail is less of a destination hike, and more of a connector for those undertaking the trans-Zion trek. From Hop Valley Trail, this hike leads hikers through Lee Valley and up towards Pine Valley Peak before finally joining Wildcat Canyon Trail. While one of the least-popular hikes in the park, visitors will still enjoy endless fields of waving yellow grasses juxtaposed against craggy cliff faces in the distance—quite a sight in its own right.
Wilderness/Backpacking Trails
4. Left-fork Subway Bottom-up Route
- Distance: 9 mile (roundtrip)
- Time:8 hours
- Elevation Change:1,300 ft/ 400 m
The Subway is named for a large alcove carved by years of water erosion, shaped like a large subway tunnel and large enough for hikers to walk through. This is a strenuous 9-mile wilderness hike which requires some moderate bouldering and swimming, but does not require any canyoneering. This enchanting feature is one of Zion’s most popular sights, and so this hike requires a permit. Hikers will be in and out of the creek throughout their trek, so prepare to dress accordingly with waterproof or quick-drying shoes and socks.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
5. Left-fork Subway Top-down (Canyoneering Route)
MWP from Getty Images
- Distance: 9 mile (roundtrip)
- Time: 8 hours
- Elevation Change: multiple descents over 1,000 feet
This subway route still takes viewers to see the same curving canyon tunnel as the Bottom-up Route but the journey will be even more of a wild adventure. The top down route not only requires swimming and bouldering, but hikers here will have to come equipped with semi-technical canyoneering knowledge and experience as well as at least 100 ft of rope. Be sure to come prepared for chilly waters, long rappels, and lots of scrambling.
6. Hop Valley Trail
- Distance: 13 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 7 hours
- Elevation Change:11 ft/ 105 m
This long trail begins with a wide, open-sky trail in Kolob Terrace and continues to the rocky overlooks of Kolob Canyons. Particularly energetic hikers can continue to Kolob Arch, the second-widest North American free-standing arch. Visitors who only want to take a short walk along the Hop Valley Trail can stop 15-minutes in to enjoy beautiful hoodoos—rocks formed into unusual spire-like shapes through years of erosion.
This trail is featured on Shaka Guide’s Zion National Park Tour.
7. Wildcat Canyon Trail
- Distance: 11.6 miles (roundtrip)
- Time: 7 hours
- Elevation Change: mostly level
This relatively flat begins by winding its way through shady ponderosa pines while offering views of the Northgate Peaks. After about a mile, hikers emerge into open meadows, and eventually surface onto the rim of Wildcat Canyon. From here, backpackers can enjoy views of the canyon floor below. This trail is another leg of the trans-Zion trek, and will either follow or precede the Connector Trail, depending on your starting point.
8. West Rim Trail
by beusbeus Getty Images
- Distance: 16.2 miles
- Time: 12-16 hours
- Elevation Change: over 3,100 descent and 1,500 feet of climbing
This epic hike through the park is part of the trans-Zion trek, leading visitors from mountaintops to low valleys and through multiple different biomes.This long backpacking trail begins in the high elevations of Lava Point and continues to Wildcat Canyon. From here, hikers begin to descend into Potato Hollow, pass Angel’s Landing, and finally emerge into The Grotto in Zion Canyon. This is the most popular route as hikers will average several thousand feet of elevation loss, as opposed to gaining elevation should they begin at The Grotto and finish at Lava Point. Don’t worry, there will be plenty of steep climbs either direction you choose. Alternatively, Hikers who do not wish to take a through-route may begin at The Grotto and take Telephone Canyon Loop to return the way they came. Although it is possible to complete this hike in one day, most hikers will choose to camp overnight.
Southwest Desert
You might be forgiven for not knowing about the existence of these mysterious trails by the Anasazi subdivision in the middle of the desert. After all, most hikers will come and go from Zion without ever hearing about these unknown trails, hidden just southwest of the East Gate. These hikes take adventurers through the low-deserts of Zion and are best enjoyed in cooler weather. This area can get very hot midday, so be sure to come prepared with plenty of water
Wilderness/Backpacking Trails
1. Coalpit Wash Trail
- Distance: 7.2 miles (roundtrip to and from Chinle Junction)
- Time: 6 hours
- Elevation Change: 40 ft/ 560 m
Coalpits Wash lies in the drainage basin of Zion National Park. Hikers will follow the wash through the open desert. Along the creek bed, visitors may find wildflowers blooming in Springtime, clinging to one of the few reliable sources of water in Zion. After nearly two-miles hikers will find Scoggins Wash, scramble through some tight boulders, and arrive at the junction of Chinle Trail.
2. Chinle Trail
- Distance: 2.8 miles (roundtrip to Chinle Trail Junction)
- Time: 3 hours
- Elevation Change: 10 ft/ 45 m
Hiking Tips
Closures: Please be aware that shuttle stop 7, Weeping Rock, is closed for the indefinite future due to a rockslide. While visitors can access some of these trails via the East Rim Trail, the Zion Canyon access to these hikes is closed. Please keep this in mind while planning your hikes in Zion.
Wilderness and Backpacking Trails: For canyoneering, camping, and overnight climbs, reservations may be made online for a wilderness permit. Alternatively, visitors can attempt to pick up a first-come, first served walk-in permit at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Regardless of online reservations, all hikers will have to pick up their permits from the Visitor Center.
What is the Trans-Zion trek?
You may have heard avid hikers bragging about undertaking the trans-Zion trek, but what is it, and how does one begin? The trans-Zion trek is a 47-mile long 4 to 5 day hiking and camping adventure leading from one end of Zion Park to the other. For most hikers, they will begin their journey in Kolob Canyons in order to lose elevation along their route, although the reverse direction could be taken. A sample itinerary may go as follows: Backpackers will begin their first day by following along La Verkin Trail. The next day, they will take Hop Valley to Wildcat Canyon. On the third day, hikers will take the West Rim to Scout’s Lookout and continue to the Grotto. Traditionally, this trail concludes at Echo Canyon after shuttling to Weeping Rock and hiking the East Rim, but as of 2019, the Weeping Rock section of the park is closed indefinitely, making the last leg of the trans-Zion trek impassable. There are several additions hikers may wish to add, such as Kolob Arch and Angel’s Landing, but these side-trips will add more time to the adventure. Proper planning and preparation is key, as backpackers have to reserve their campsites well in advance and must piece together their journey via several different trails.
Along with Coalpit Wash Trail, the Chinle Trail is a great choice for hikers in the middle of winter as these lowland areas remain snow-free year-round. Hikers are treated to views of Zion’s Towers of the Virgin and the Sundial before the remote Cougar Mountain creeps in from the distance. The trail goes up and down as it passes through Huber Wash, Scoggins Wash, and Coalpits Wash. Most interestingly, however, this hike lies on a petrified forest, and many petrified remains of ancient trees can be found after passing Huber Wash. The Chinle Trail ends at the Junction with Coalpits Wash.
Parting Thoughts…
No matter where you hike in Zion, be sure to stick with a few guidelines in order to protect yourself and the fragile environment. The first is to be sure to bring plenty of water. A good starting point is one gallon per person per day, though more may be needed depending on the individual, the activity level, and the weather.
The second is to be sure not to stray from the path. Not only can this be dangerous (as it makes it easy to get lost) but it also endangers the local plant life as well as something known as the cryptobiotic crust. This crunchy, dark layer of soil found in desert regions is the home of cyanobacteria, lichen, algae, and fungi, and serves as the foundation for much life in the desert. Once disturbed, it takes at least five years to reform and anywhere from fifty to more than a hundred years to fully recover.
Our last bit of advice is quite simple. When in Zion, if you pack it in, pack it out! What this means exactly is that anything we bring into the park, we must take out of the park. After all, no one wants to have a beautiful vista ruined by someone else’s trash.
Ready to explore Zion National Park? Check out our Zion National Park Tour!
RELATED: The Ulimate Zion National Park Travel Guide and When's The Best Time to Visit Zion