Nestled in the heart of Utah, Zion National Park is a landscape of immense power. While international visitors often prioritize the nearby Grand Canyon, Zion captures the hearts of travelers worldwide with its towering red sandstone monoliths and unique canyon topography. In this post, I’ll introduce two of Zion’s most iconic trails: Angels Landing and The Narrows.
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Zion National Park
Zion National Park is often cited alongside the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon as one of the “Big Three” canyons of the American West.
While the official name is Zion National Park, many people simply call it “Zion Canyon” for convenience, as the park centers around the massive Zion Canyon itself. The name “Zion” means “peace” or “sanctuary” in Hebrew, a name given by Mormon settlers who discovered the area in the late 19th century.
While the Grand Canyon often steals the international spotlight, Zion is a heavyweight in its own right. As of 2023, it recorded 4.6 million visitors, ranking 3rd among all 63 US National Parks.
For context, 2nd place is the Grand Canyon with 4.7 million visitors (a very small gap). 4th place is the world-famous Yellowstone, the first US National Park. The undisputed 1st place is Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a staggering 13 million annual visitors—perhaps because there is no entrance fee?
Because it is so famous, huge crowds flock here during peak season. To manage congestion, the park operates a shuttle bus system from March to November.
The shuttle bus is free for everyone and runs not only inside the park but also connects to the gateway town of Springdale. Please note that during shuttle operation months, private vehicles are prohibited from driving on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
Entrance Fee
- $35 USD per private vehicle (valid for 7 days)
- The “America the Beautiful” Annual Pass is accepted.
Angels Landing
Angels Landing is the signature hiking course of Zion National Park, famous for offering a bird’s-eye view of the canyon from its summit.
Because this trail is so incredibly popular, the park introduced a lottery system to manage crowds. Since 2022, you must hold a permit to hike Angels Landing. You can apply for the seasonal lottery two months in advance, or try for the “Day-before Lottery,” which opens between 12:01 AM and 3 PM the day prior to your hike. You can apply via the link below.
Angels Landing Permits
- Application Fee: $6 USD (up to 6 people, non-refundable)
- Recreation Fee: $3 USD per person (charged if you win)
- Tip: The time slots before 9:00 AM often have higher winning odds.
Apply for Angels Landing Permits Here (NPS.gov)
I didn’t want to spend money on a lottery where I might not even get selected, so I hiked only up to Scout Lookout, which serves as the starting point for the final Angels Landing spine. The trailhead starts at Shuttle Stop #6, The Grotto.
The very beginning of the trail is a gentle slope, almost flat, following the Virgin River that cuts through Zion Canyon. After walking on the flat path for about 10 minutes, you’ll hit winding paved paths. This uphill section lasts about 20 minutes. The path is paved well, so it isn’t technically difficult, just tiring.
When you finish that first uphill section and look back, the scenery is simply unbelievable. Honestly, if you don’t have an Angels Landing permit, this spot alone offers one of the best views. If your schedule is tight or you’re low on energy, hiking just to this point is still worth it.
Next, you enter a section that passes through a narrow canyon. The slope isn’t too steep here, and thanks to the towering cliffs and trees on both sides, it’s shaded, allowing you to save some energy.
After recharging your stamina, it’s time for the real climb. You will hit a series of steep, zigzagging switchbacks famously known as Walter’s Wiggles.
Once you conquer Walter’s Wiggles, you arrive at Scout Lookout. This is where rangers check permits before allowing hikers to proceed to Angels Landing. There are vault toilets here, making it a great resting spot whether you have a permit or not.
Scout Lookout
If you climb just about 50 meters up from the restroom area, you reach a higher, more open vantage point where you can look down on both Angels Landing and Zion Canyon.
The narrow, fin-like cliff in front of you is Angels Landing. If you have a permit, you would scramble along that spine, with sheer cliffs dropping off on both sides, to reach the summit.
While most people agree that Angels Landing is the ultimate viewpoint in Zion, Scout Lookout is plenty attractive on its own even without a permit.
Scout Lookout is a great place to rest and enjoy the view, but you can also continue hiking along the West Rim Trail if you want to extend your trek. The choice depends on your schedule. Since my plan was to see The Narrows—another iconic Zion location—in the same day, I hurried back down.
On the way down, the panoramic view of Zion Canyon opens up again. The red cliffs towering on both sides of the gorge were magnificent beyond words.
Beyond the scenery, US National Parks are strictly protected, so you can frequently spot wildlife like squirrels and deer. Keep an eye out while you hike!
The Narrows
The Narrows is a unique hiking course where you explore the gorge by walking directly in the river. You can access it from the final shuttle stop, Temple of Sinawava.
From the shuttle stop to the entrance of The Narrows, you follow the Riverside Walk, a paved trail that runs alongside the Virgin River for about 1.5 km (approx. 1 mile).
At the end of the Riverside Walk trail, you step into the river to begin the actual Narrows hike. One major thing to be aware of: the water is incredibly cold.
That is why many people rent special waterproof boots and dry pants. I arrived without any preparation, and since I have poor circulation and get cold easily, my feet were freezing. I had no choice but to give up and turn back.
If you are planning to hike The Narrows, I highly recommend renting the proper gear (dry bibs, boots, and a walking stick) from outfitters in Springdale so you are fully prepared.
Final Thoughts
Zion National Park is an unmissable destination on a Western US road trip, characterized by its grand canyons and diverse hiking trails. Remember that you must use the shuttle bus during peak season inside the park, and advance preparation is crucial for trails requiring permits like Angels Landing. Also, if you plan to tackle water trails like The Narrows, make sure to pack or rent the appropriate gear.
I hope this guide helps you plan your adventure to Zion!
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