The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Zion National Park

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 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.