Looking for an adventure? Angels Landing awaits! This 5.4-mile round-trip trek in Zion National Park promises a thrilling challenge. Ascending roughly 1,500 vertical feet, the trail culminates at an elevation of 5,790 feet, offering breathtaking views that make every step worthwhile.
This travel guide for the Angels Landing Hike in Zion National Park will explain what to expect during the hike, the best times to visit, how to obtain a permit, and information about the area.
The Hike to Angels Landing
The hike to Angels Landing in Zion National Park is a challenging and iconic trek that can be divided into three main sections:
The Beginning: Grotto Trailhead to Refrigerator Canyon
The Middle: Walter’s Wiggles and Scout Lookout
The End: Final Ascent to Angels Landing Summit
Each section withholds its own challenges and rewards. Hikers need to be prepared for the strenuous nature of the hike, be mindful of their physical abilities, and exercise caution in the exposed sections. The Angels Landing hike is known for its stunning scenery and is a memorable adventure for those who try it.
The Beginning: Grotto Trailhead to Refrigerator Canyon
The hike to Angels Landing begins at the Grotto Trailhead–the 6th stop for the Zion Canyon Shuttle. The Grotto trail takes you across the Virgin River to the West Rim Trail, a paved trail that follows the river. Soon, the West Rim Trail begins its steep ascent toward Refrigerator Canyon. I’m not sure how Refrigerator Canyon got its name, but it is a “cool” place to check out some great views of the park. Refrigerator Canyon is also one of the few places on the trail where you are guaranteed to find some shade.
The Middle: Walter’s Wiggles and Scout Lookout
The trail winds through Refrigerator Canyon before reaching the famous Walter’s Wiggles, a series of 21 steep switchbacks that ascend 250 feet. This iconic section leads you to Scout Lookout, a stunning viewpoint. No permit is needed to hike to Scout Lookout, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a break or lunch. Scout Lookout is an ideal turnaround point if you’re uncomfortable with heights. Beyond this, the trail to Angels Landing becomes steeper and requires a permit.
The End: Final Ascent to Angels Landing Summit
The final stretch of the hike is along a narrow spine, where you ascend an additional 500 feet. Chains are installed for safety as you navigate this thrilling section, with drops of over 1,000 feet on either side. The views are breathtaking, and as you near the summit, the trail widens, offering a more comfortable path, but without chains or guardrails. At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic vistas that make the challenging climb worth it. After soaking in the beauty and celebrating your achievement, the descent back down begins!
When To Visit Zion National Park
Zion National Park is open year-round. The best time to visit Zion National Park depends on your preferences and the type of activities you want to engage in. Here are some considerations for different seasons:
- Spring (March to May):
- Spring is a popular time to visit Zion. The temperatures are mild, ranging from 40°F to 80°F (4°C to 27°C).
- Wildflowers are in bloom, and the park is vibrant with color.
- Waterfalls are often more active due to melting snow.
- Fall (September to November):
- Fall is another excellent time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 80°F (4°C to 27°C).
- The park’s foliage takes on beautiful autumn hues, providing stunning scenery.
- Compared to the summer months, crowds seem to be smaller.
- Summer (June to August):
- Summer is the peak tourist season. Daytime temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C), especially in July and August.
- Despite the heat, it’s a great time for activities like river tubing and canyoneering.
- To avoid the crowds and heat, consider early morning or late afternoon visits to popular attractions.
- Winter (December to February):
- Because winter is the least crowded time, some services and facilities may be limited.
- Daytime temperatures range from 20°F to 50°F (-7°C to 10°C), and snow can add a magical touch to the scenery.
- Some trails may be icy or closed, so check trail conditions before planning hikes.
Remember that the weather can vary, and checking current conditions and forecasts before your visit is essential. Additionally, if you plan to visit during peak seasons, consider making reservations for accommodations well in advance, as Zion National Park is a popular destination.
Interesting Facts about Angels Landing
- The name “Angels Landing” was first coined by a Methodist minister named Frederick Vining Fisher, who said, “Only an angel could land there” in 1916.
- Angel’s Landing is not the highest point in Zion National Park park. Observation Point is higher.
- Walter’s Wiggles consists of 21 switchbacks.
- Angels Landing is 1,488 feet tall.
- 13 known deaths have occurred from falls at Angels Landing since the year 2000.
How the Permit System Works
A permit is now required to hike to the top of Angels Landing. While the permit system might seem like an inconvenience, it plays a crucial role in managing trail crowding and ensuring a safer experience for hikers. Permits are available through an online lottery system offered by the National Park Service. If you’re planning your trip and need to apply for a permit, you can do so by clicking here.
To learn more about the permit system, check out this video from the National Park Service.
You Can Still Hike to Scout Lookout if You Don’t Get a Permit to Angels Landing
The hike to Scout Lookout takes you along most of the trail to Angels Landing. You only miss the last half-mile with the chains. Scout Lookout serves as a popular stopping point and a turnaround spot for hikers who may choose not to proceed to the trail’s final, more challenging section or for those without a permit.
Here are some key points about Scout Lookout:
- Location: Scout Lookout is situated along the West Rim Trail in Zion National Park, Utah, USA. It’s approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) from the Grotto Trailhead, which is the starting point for the Angels Landing hike.
- Elevation: The elevation gain to Scout Lookout is significant, and the trail leading up to this point involves steep switchbacks and challenging terrain. The elevation at Scout Lookout is around 1,080 feet (329 meters) above the trailhead.
- Views: Scout Lookout provides stunning panoramic views of Zion Canyon, offering a rewarding vantage point for hikers. The scenery from this location is already impressive, making it a worthwhile destination for those who may not continue to the final ascent to Angels Landing.
- Permit System: Permits are not required to hike to Scout Lookout. However, you do need a permit to hike to Angels Landing.
Other Great Hikes in Zion National Park
Zion National Park offers a variety of stunning hikes, ranging from easy to challenging. Here are some popular hikes. Check out my Zion Page for more info!
- Canyon Overlook Trail:
- A short and relatively easy hike that provides fantastic views of lower Zion Canyon. The trailhead is located just east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.
- Emerald Pools Trail:
- A family-friendly hike with options for a shorter lower pool hike or a more moderate upper pool hike. The trail takes you to beautiful pools and waterfalls.
- Hidden Canyon:
- This trail takes you to a hidden canyon with stunning rock features. The trail includes sections with chains and narrow ledges.
- The Narrows:
- One of the most iconic hikes in Zion, The Narrows, involves hiking through the narrow slot canyon of the Virgin River. Parts of the hike require wading through water, providing an adventurous experience.
- Observation Point:
- This hike offers spectacular views of Zion Canyon from a higher vantage point. It’s a challenging ascent, but the panorama from the top is well worth it.
- Pa’rus Trail:
- An easy, paved trail that follows the Virgin River and provides scenic views of the canyon. It’s suitable for walking, jogging, and biking.
- The Subway:
- A challenging and permit-required hike that takes you through a unique slot canyon with sculpted rock formations. It’s a longer and more technical adventure.
- Taylor Creek Trail (Middle Fork):
- Located in the Kolob Canyons section of the park, this trail offers a relatively easy hike through a scenic canyon to reach Double Arch Alcove.
- Weeping Rock Trail:
- A short, paved trail leads to Weeping Rock, a natural alcove where water seeps out of the rock, creating a “weeping” effect.
Leave It Better Than You Found It!
Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!
