The best walks and hikes in Washington County

The Angels Landing Trail is a truly unique and difficult hike in Zion National Park, offering an exhilarating journey to one of the park's most spectacular viewpoints. This 4.5-mile (7.2 km) route involves a significant 1737 feet (530 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 41 minutes. You'll navigate challenging terrain, including the famous Walter's Wiggles switchbacks and an exposed final ascent to the Angels Landing summit, where chains are bolted into the rock to assist hikers.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to the Angels Landing Trail permit system; permits are mandatory to hike past Scout Lookout and are secured through a lottery on Recreation.gov. Given the extreme exposure and narrow path, avoid hiking during wet weather, storms, or high winds, as conditions can become very dangerous. The trail is not suitable for those with a fear of heights or young children, and it's best to start early from the Grotto trailhead.

What makes Angels Landing so notable is its iconic chain section, an impressive engineering feat first installed in 1926, providing stability on the final, thrilling push to the 5,790-foot (1,760 m) summit. From the top, you're rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Zion Canyon's rugged spires and ancient rock layers. This hike is a true test of physical and mental fortitude, offering an unparalleled adventure for experienced hikers.

The Canyon Overlook Trail offers an incredible effort-to-reward ratio, guiding you through diverse terrain carved into sandstone walls. You will encounter rocky sections, slickrock, and even a hidden alcove with ferns, all leading to the breathtaking Canyon Overlook Viewpoint. This easy 1.1-mile (1.7 km) hike, with just 108 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 28 minutes, providing panoramic views of Zion Canyon's iconic formations like the Towers of the Virgin and West Temple.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is accessible by private vehicle on Highway 9, just east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, meaning no shuttle is required. While it is a family-friendly route, be mindful of some exposed drop-offs, though many are protected by railings. For the best experience and photography, aim to hike during sunrise or sunset, and wear appropriate footwear for the varied terrain.

This trail is celebrated for its spectacular views without requiring an arduous climb, making it one of the most popular trails and routes in Zion. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep along the way, and enjoy unique features like boardwalks and a narrow bridge suspended over the Pine Creek Narrows. The viewpoint also offers a unique perspective of the historic Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway and tunnel below.

If you're seeking a truly immersive experience into Zion's lush canyon environment, the Riverside Walk delivers. This moderate 2.0-mile (3.2 km) hike, with just 484 feet (147 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along the Virgin River, surrounded by towering red rock mountains and vibrant hanging gardens. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 5 minutes soaking in the dramatic scenery, where the canyon walls seem to close in around you, creating a unique, verdant corridor.

Accessing the Riverside Walk is straightforward, as its trailhead is at the Temple of Sinawava, the last stop on the park shuttle, where you'll also find restrooms and water. The path is mostly paved and flat, making it a fantastic family hiking trail suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, though some sections can be uneven or sandy. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in the late afternoon or early evening, and remember that warmer months are perfect for dipping your toes in the river.

This trail is not just a scenic stroll; it's also the famous gateway to The Narrows, offering a glimpse into one of Zion's most iconic adventures. Along the route, interpretive exhibits explain the canyon's geology and ecology, and you might even spot wildlife like mule deer or wild turkeys. It's a highly accessible and rewarding way to experience the natural features and unique ecosystem of Zion National Park.

The Watchman Trail offers a fantastic journey through Zion's diverse landscape, starting with lush vegetation along the Virgin River before ascending into desert terrain. As you climb, you'll encounter a mix of sandy, rocky, and firm paths, with switchbacks leading to breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Watchman Peak, Temples and Towers, and the winding Virgin River. The trail culminates at a superb viewpoint, providing an excellent perspective of the canyon's geological wonders without reaching the spire's summit.

This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) hiking route, with 795 feet (242 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete. Its convenient location near the Zion Canyon Visitor Center means no shuttle is required, making access straightforward. Due to significant sun exposure, especially in summer, it's best to start your hike in the early morning or late afternoon, and always carry ample water.

Often overlooked in favor of more famous trails, the Watchman Trail provides a less crowded alternative for experiencing Zion's grandeur. It's particularly well-suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time, offering a rewarding experience that showcases the lower Zion Canyon and the town of Springdale from above. This trail is a great way to get a taste of the park's stunning vistas and unique desert flora.

The Watchman Trail offers a classic Zion experience, winding through desert scrub and rocky terrain to reveal breathtaking canyon views. You'll traverse unpaved paths, encountering firm soil and some moderate steps as you climb, with prickly pear cactus and hardy shrubs lining the way. The route culminates in a spectacular overlook, providing sweeping vistas of Zion Canyon, the Virgin River, and the iconic Watchman Peak, making it a truly rewarding journey.

This easy 2.6-mile (4.3 km) out-and-back hike involves a manageable 183 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 14 minutes. The trailhead is conveniently located right by the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, meaning no shuttle is required to access it, which is a huge plus for planning. It's a family-friendly option, though the trail is exposed to the sun, so plan for an early start or late afternoon hike to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best light.

What makes the Watchman Trail particularly notable is its ability to deliver stunning Zion panoramas without the crowds often found on more strenuous trails. It's an excellent introduction to the park's grandeur, perfect for those with limited time or seeking a less demanding adventure. Keep an eye out for the elusive Crawford Arch high on a remote cliffside, a hidden gem that adds another layer of interest to this already scenic route.

The Angels Landing Trail is a truly unique experience, taking you from the lush Virgin River banks through the cool confines of Refrigerator Canyon, then up the ingeniously carved Walter's Wiggles. The final push along the narrow, chain-assisted Angels Landing Spine offers an exhilarating, exposed scramble to a summit with unmatched panoramic views of Zion Canyon. It's a difficult 2.2-mile (3.6 km) hike with 1274 feet (388 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 51 minutes, best suited for experienced hikers without a fear of heights.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to the Angels Landing permit system; you'll need to secure a permit through an online lottery to access the chains section beyond Scout Lookout. The trail is accessed via the Zion National Park shuttle, which drops you at The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6). Be aware that slippery conditions can make this already challenging route even more dangerous, so check the weather before you go.

What makes Angels Landing so notable is its blend of historical engineering, like the 1926 trail construction, and the sheer mental and physical challenge it presents. The iconic final half-mile along the knife-edge ridge, holding onto fixed chains, provides an unparalleled sense of adventure and exposure, making it a true bucket-list hike for many visitors to Zion National Park.

The Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trail Loop offers a captivating journey through Zion's diverse landscapes, transitioning from expansive canyon views to lush, water-fed oases. You'll experience the unique sensation of walking behind waterfalls at the Lower Emerald Pool and discover serene reflection pools on your way to the dramatic Upper Emerald Pool, all while enjoying panoramic vistas of Zion Canyon from the Kayenta Trail. This easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike, with 354 feet (108 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hours and 23 minutes, making it an accessible option for experiencing some of the park's most iconic natural features.

To access this popular route, you'll typically start from the Grotto shuttle stop (Stop 6) and connect to the Kayenta Trail. Be aware that a bridge closure as of May 2023 means the Kayenta Trail is currently the main way to reach the pools, so expect it to be busy, especially during peak times. Planning your visit for spring or after a good rain can offer the most spectacular views of the waterfalls and lush greenery.

This trail system is notable for showcasing three distinct desert oases, each with its own character, from the vibrant Lower Pool to the cliff-framed Upper Pool. The opportunity to walk under a weeping rock wall at the Lower Emerald Pool is a particularly memorable feature. Keep an eye out for maidenhair ferns clinging to the red rock walls and the chance to spot local wildlife like deer, adding to the immersive natural experience.

The Sand Bench and Kayenta Trail offers an easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hiking experience in Zion National Park, featuring diverse terrain and rewarding views with just 223 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 17 minutes. You'll traverse the unique, sandy Sand Bench Trail, which provides panoramic vistas of the "Court of the Patriarchs" and the Virgin River, before connecting to the firmer Kayenta Trail with its rock stairs and continuous canyon views. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a less strenuous way to explore Zion's iconic scenery.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Sand Bench Trail is shared with horseback riders, so you might encounter horses and their waste. The route is largely exposed, so pack ample water, especially during summer. The Kayenta Trail is a popular connector to the Emerald Pools, offering a scenic and often less crowded alternative, but remember that dogs are not allowed on this section.

This trail is notable for its geological significance, particularly the Sand Bench section which sits atop ancient landslide debris from The Sentinel mountain. It provides a different perspective of Zion Canyon compared to more direct routes, blending the unique sandy environment with the more traditional rocky paths. It's a great choice if you're seeking less crowded hikes while still experiencing some of Zion's most beloved viewpoints.

The East Mesa Trail offers a unique journey through a quiet, forested mesa, leading to one of Zion's most spectacular overlooks. You'll traverse a well-worn old jeep trail, meandering through a mixed forest of Juniper, Piñon, and Ponderosa Pine, enjoying a subtle and peaceful atmosphere. The true highlight is the panoramic Observation Point View of Zion Canyon, where you'll gaze upon Angels Landing, Cable Mountain, and The Great White Throne from thousands of feet above.

Accessing the trailhead can be a bit of an adventure, as it requires driving on remote dirt roads that are often rough and can become muddy or icy after rain or snow; a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is frequently needed. This moderate hike covers 6.9 miles (11.2 km) with 707 feet (215 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 8 minutes. It's considered suitable for families comfortable with longer distances, as the difficulty stems more from length than steepness.

This trail is particularly notable as the primary route to Observation Point since the closure of the original trail from Weeping Rock. It often sees fewer visitors than other popular Zion trails, providing a more solitary experience. The trail's location on the upper east side of the park also means temperatures can be cooler than in the main canyon during hotter months, making it a pleasant escape.