Highlight • Rest Area
The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6)
Hiking
4.9
(67)
Cycling
3.8
(3)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Zion National Park
Tips
March 18, 2024
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6)
5.0
(32)
415
hikers
3.60km
01:51
390m
50m
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.
4.6
(36)
356
hikers
4.79km
01:18
70m
50m
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.
4.9
(291)
3,385
hikers
8.97km
03:26
370m
370m
Embark on a distinctive Zion Canyon hiking experience by combining the historic Walter's Wiggles with the scenic Kayenta Trail. This route offers a dramatic contrast, starting with the iconic 21 switchbacks of Walter's Wiggles, a challenging ascent that quickly delivers breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon from Scout Lookout. You'll then transition to the more moderate Kayenta Trail, which meanders along the Virgin River, providing continuous vistas of landmarks like Lady Mountain and the Great White Throne, and access to the lush Emerald Pools. It's a journey through varied terrain, from paved, steep climbs to firm, rocky paths with impressive drop-offs.
To tackle this 5.6-mile (9.0 km) moderate loop with 1212 feet (369 metres) of elevation gain, plan for about 3 hours and 25 minutes of hiking. Both sections of the trail are accessible from The Grotto shuttle stop, so you'll need to utilize Zion National Park's shuttle system during busy periods. Starting early in the morning is advisable to beat the crowds and the midday heat, especially given the exposed nature of Walter's Wiggles. Always carry ample water, particularly in the warmer seasons.
This unique combination offers a less conventional way to explore Zion's grandeur, blending the engineering marvel of Walter's Wiggles, named after Zion's first superintendent, with the natural beauty and accessibility of the Kayenta Trail. While Walter's Wiggles is a segment of the strenuous Angels Landing approach, this loop allows you to experience its historic ascent and incredible views without needing a permit for the chained section. The Kayenta Trail, in contrast, provides a more relaxed path to the vibrant Emerald Pools, making this a well-rounded adventure for those seeking both challenge and classic Zion scenery.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,310 m
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Sunday 21 June
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Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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