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THINGS TO DO
TAKE IT ALL IN
The Many Ways to Explore Our Land of Plenty
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SUMMER HIKING TRAILS IN ZION CANYON
Explore Easy, Moderate or Strenuous Hikes
Most Zion Canyon hikes are accessible only by the park shuttle from March through November and require stopping at the appropriate shuttle stop. Be sure to check the shuttle schedule prior to starting your trip and arrive early to find parking. All available parking fills quickly during the peak summer season. Trail closures may be in effect so check for Current Conditions.
Hiking the trails of Zion National Park can provide lasting memories, but this environment can be harsh and unforgiving. Park Rangers respond to numerous rescues each year, many of which are preventable. Your safety is your responsibility and that begins with proper planning and preparation prior to your visit.
You can make a difference for the future of Zion! Please follow Leave No Trace principles while you are visiting the park.
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EASY HIKES
These trails range from 0.4 miles to 3.5 miles and gain no more than 100 feet in elevation. A few are wheelchair accessible with assistance and all offer a glimpse of the natural history of Zion National Park. Being shorter in duration, these trails are also great options for those with a limited amount of time.
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ARCHEOLOGY TRAIL
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #1 Visitor Center
Pets: No
Trailhead Location: Behind the Zion Canyon Visitor Center near the entrance to the Visitor Center parking lot. - Distance (roundtrip): 0.4 mi / 0.6 km
- Elevation Change: 80 ft / 24 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 30 minutes
- Description: Short but steep. Climbs to the top of a small hill. Trailside exhibits.
Pa’rus Trail
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #1 Visitor Center or #3 Canyon Junction
- Pets: Yes
- Trailhead Location: Up canyon from the Visitor Center and across the bridge adjacent to the South Campground. This trail can also be accessed from the Canyon Junction shuttle stop.
- Distance (roundtrip): 3.5 mi / 5.6 km
- Elevation Change: 50 ft / 15 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 2 hours
- Description: A paved trail that follows the Virgin River from the South Campground to Canyon Junction. This trail is handicap accessible, but wheelchairs may need assistance. Trailside exhibits. This is the only trail in Zion National Park that allows both pets (on a leash up to 6 feet) and bicycles. You can access this trail from the Museum (Shuttle Stop #2) by using a short connector trail that is not designed for wheelchairs and not approved for bikes or pets. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Visitor Center.
LOWER EMERALD POOL TRAIL
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #5 Zion Lodge
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Across the road from the Zion Lodge.
- Distance (roundtrip): 1.2 mi / 1.9 km
- Elevation Change: 69 ft / 21 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 1 hour
- Description: Minor drop-offs. Paved trail leads to the Lower Emerald Pool and waterfalls. (Trail connects to the Kayenta, Middle and Upper Emerald Pools trails, for a longer, moderate hike.) Swimming is prohibited in the Emerald Pools. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Zion Lodge.
GROTTO TRAIL
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #5 Zion Lodge or #6 Grotto
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Behind the shuttle stop at the Zion Lodge. This trail can also be accessed from the Grotto if you walk down canyon and behind the historic stone building.
- Distance (roundtrip): 1 mi / 1.6 km
- Elevation Change: 35 ft / 11 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 30 minutes
- Description: The trail connects the Zion Lodge to the Grotto and is near the road most of the way. This trail is a great place to view wildlife. Restrooms are available at both the Lodge and the Grotto. When the shuttle is not in operation and the parking is full at the Grotto, this trail is a lovely alternate way to reach the Grotto.
WEEPING ROCK TRAIL
(CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE DUE TO MAJOR ROCKFALL)
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #7 Weeping Rock
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Across the bridge adjacent to the parking lot. Follow the signs to the left.
- Distance (roundtrip): 0.4 mi / 0.6 km
- Elevation Change: 98 ft / 30 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 30 minutes
- Description: Short but steep. Minor drop-offs. Paved trail ends at a few steps and a rock alcove with dripping springs. Trailside exhibits. Pit toilets are available at the parking area.
RIVERSIDE WALK
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #9 Temple of Sinawava
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Adjacent to restrooms and water refill station.
- Distance (roundtrip): 2.2 mi / 3.5 km
- Elevation Change: 57 ft / 17 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 1.5 hours
- Description: Minor drop-offs. Paved trail follows the Virgin River along the bottom of a narrow canyon. Trailside exhibits. The first 0.4 miles of the trail is accessible but past that point there are several steep slopes. Deep sand may be present on pavement after heavy rain. Some wheelchair users may need assistance. This trail offers access to the bottom-up Narrows route (see below). Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Temple of Sinawava.
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MODERATE HIKES
These trails range from 1 mile to 7.6 miles and have larger elevation gains. They offer magnificent views of Zion Canyon but require additional planning as proper footwear, supply of water, and physical abilities become increasingly important.
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Watchman Trail
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #1 Visitor Center
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Up canyon and across the road. Stay along the river to begin the trail.
- Distance (roundtrip): 3.3 mi / 5.3 km
- Elevation Change: 368 ft / 112 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 2 hours
- Description: Moderate drop-offs. Ends at viewpoint of the Temples and Towers, lower Zion Canyon, Watchman Peak, and Springdale. Trail can be muddy when wet. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Visitor Center.
Sandbench Trail
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #5 Zion Lodge
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Across the street from Zion Lodge.
- Distance (roundtrip): 7.6 mi / 12.2 km
- Elevation Change: 466 ft / 142 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 5 hours
- Description: Commercial horse trail from March to October. Hike atop a massive landslide under The Sentinel. Deep sand and little shade. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Zion Lodge. Alternate start available from the Court of the Patriarchs (no water of restrooms) makes the roundtrip closer to 5 miles (8 km).
Middle Emerald Pools Trail
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #5 Zion Lodge
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Across the street from Zion Lodge and then across the footbridge.
- Distance (roundtrip): 2.2 mi / 3.5 km
- Elevation Change: 150 ft / 46 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 1.5 hours
- Description: An unpaved climb to a sandstone ledge that parallels the lower trail, but at a higher level. Moderate drop-offs. Connects to the other Emerald Pools trails and the Kayenta Trail. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Zion Lodge.
Kayenta Trail
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #6 The Grotto
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Across the street from the shuttle stop and then across the footbridge.
- Distance (roundtrip): 2.0 mi / 3.2 km
- Elevation Change: 150 ft / 46 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 1.5 hours
- Description: Moderate drop-offs. An unpaved climb to the Emerald Pools. Connects the Grotto to the Emerald Pools Trails. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Grotto.
Upper Emerald Pool Trail
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #6 The Grotto
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Starts from the end of the Kayenta Trail.
- Distance (roundtrip): 1.0 mi / 1.6 km
- Elevation Change: 200 ft / 61 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 1 hour
- Description: Minor drop-offs. A sandy and rocky trail that climbs to the Upper Emerald Pool at the base of a cliff. No swimming is allowed in the Emerald Pools. This is actually a 3-mile (5 km) hike when added to the Kayenta Trail.
Canyon Overlook Trail
- Shuttle Location: No shuttle, requires personal transportation.
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Located near the east entrance of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.
- Distance (roundtrip): 1.0 mi / 1.6 km
- Elevation Change: 163 ft / 50 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 1 hour
- Description: Long drop-offs, mostly fenced. Rocky and uneven trail ends at a viewpoint for Pine Creek Canyon and lower Zion Canyon. To enter or exit the parking area just east of the tunnel, you must turn right. Parking is extremely limited, be prepared to try multiple times, to find a spot. Pit toilets are available in the parking area.
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STRENUOUS HIKES
These trails range from 2.5 miles to 9.4 miles and have elevation gains of up to 2,148 ft. Strenuous trails are physically challenging, but some can be mentally challenging as well. Several of these trails include walking along steep cliffs and holding onto chains for safety. These trails require preparation and planning. While summer months are popular times to travel, they also bring extreme heat, thunderstorms, and rain which can increase your risk if you are unprepared. Always check the current weather conditions and plan accordingly. Your safety is your responsibility.
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Angels Landing via West Rim Trail
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #6 The Grotto
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Across the road from the shuttle stop and then across the footbridge.
- Distance (roundtrip): 5.4 mi / 8.7 km
- Elevation Change: 1,488 ft / 453 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 4 hours
- Description: Long drop-offs. Not for young children or anyone fearful of heights. Last section is a route along a steep, narrow ridge to the summit.
The Narrows via Riverside Walk
(See ALERT on top of page for Cyanobacteria Warning)
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #9 Temple of Sinawava
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Adjacent to shuttle stop and restrooms.
- Distance (roundtrip): up to 9.4 mi / 15.1 km
- Elevation Change: 334 ft / 102 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: up to 8 hours
- Description: This route is known as the bottom-up Narrows and does not require a permit. Hike in as far as you like, then hike back the way you came. Upstream travel beyond Big Spring or in Orderville Canyon is prohibited. At least 60% of the hike is spent wading, walking, and sometimes swimming in the river. Travel is rough and slippery in cold, fast flowing water. High water levels can prevent access. Obtain additional information prior to starting this hike. Use appropriate equipment and clothing to help protect you. Before your hike, always check the weather and flash flood potential (links available on our website or information updated at the Visitor Center). Flash floods are deadly.
Last updated: September 23, 2020
Observation Point via East Rim Trail
(Closed until further notice due to major rockfall)
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #7 Weeping Rock
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Access the East Rim Trail from across the footbridge adjacent to the parking lot. The Observation Point Trail branches off of the East Rim Trail after approximately 2.5 miles.
- Distance (roundtrip): 8.0 mi / 12.9 km
- Elevation Change: 2,148 ft / 655 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 6 hours
- Description: Long drop-offs. Climbs through Echo Canyon to viewpoint on the rim of Zion Canyon. Access to Cable Mountain, Deertrap Mountain, and East Mesa Trails. Pit toilets are available at the parking area.
Hidden Canyon Trail via the East Rim Trail
(Closed until further notice due to major rockfall)
- Shuttle Stop to Start from: #7 Weeping Rock
- Pets: No
- Trailhead Location: Access the East Rim Trail from across the footbridge adjacent to the parking lot. The Hidden Canyon Trail turns right from the East Rim Trail at the sign.
- Distance (roundtrip): 2.5 mi / 4.0 km
- Elevation Change: 850 ft / 259 m
- Estimated Hiking Time: 2.5 hours
- Description: Long drop-offs. Not for anyone fearful of heights. Follows along a cliff face to the mouth of a narrow canyon. Pit toilets are available at the parking area.
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BIKING and RENTALS
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Zion Cycles
(435) 772-0400
868 Zion Park Boulevard
Springdale, UT 84767
Zion National Park: You can ride on the Pa’rus Trail and the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Consider riding in the early mornings or evenings when the shuttles are running less frequently. If you put your bike on the rack on the shuttle and get off at the Temple of Sinawava then you will be riding your bike downhill most of the way down canyon. Children under 18 years of age are required to wear helmets. Stop riding and pull off to the side to permit shuttles to pass.
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Guacamole Trail
This is a moderate to most difficult trail. 5.7 miles round trip. Drive right out of ZRR. Make a left onto Dalton Wash Rd. Drive 1.7 miles until there is a fork in the road; take the left fork. Continue 2.4 miles along the dirt road (high clearance and 4WD is a must). You will find a dirt parking lot and the trail head.
JEM Trail
This is a great trail when you just want to go fast and easy. It has great views, easy climbing and fast flowy downhill. It loops about 20 miles. Use the MTB Project mobile app to get the precise location of the trail head. Make a left out of ZRR and then turn left onto Sheep’s Bridge Rd. Cross over the Virgin River via bridge. Take the first right after the cattle guard. Follow the track about a half mile to the end (this is the trailhead and parking)
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FISHING
Fishing Licenses are available at Ace Hardware or Walmart in Hurricane.
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Kolob Reservoir
Elevation 8,118 ft.
Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout, & Brook Trout – Take a right out of ZRR, drive 0.3 miles and turn left onto Kolob Terrace Rd., drive 24 miles to the reservoir. (Mid-May to Mid-Sept)
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Quail Creek State Park
472 5300 W, Hurricane, UT 84737 – (19 miles)
Largemouth bass, bluegill, trout, and crappie – Quail Creek Reservoir (also called Quail Lake) is one of Utah’s best-known bass fisheries and has produced good largemouth fishing and big fish.
Sand Hollow State Park
3351 Sand Hollow Rd, Hurricane, UT 84737 – (19 miles)
Largemouth bass and Bluegill – Sand Hollow Reservoir is the newest of Washington County’s largemouth bass reservoirs, located near Hurricane and just a stone’s throw south from Quail Lake. It requires a State Park entrance fee of $7.00 per vehicle. Public access to the reservoir is available only through the State Park.
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GOLF
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Sky Mountain
A public 18-hole golf course operated by the City of Hurricane. It is located in scenic southern Utah surrounded by Zion National Park and Pine Valley Mountain range. The 6,383 yard/par 72 course is much more challenging than the yardage would indicate. (435) 635-7888
Sand Hollow Golf
The Golf Course at Sand Hollow Resort is Southern Utah’s top-ranked golf destination, featuring 27 holes of spectacular golf across two unique onsite courses including spacious practice facilities that encourage all levels of players. (844) 404-3260
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horseback riding
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Zion Canyon National Park Rides
1-Hour Trip, Virgin River Ride:
- Age Limit: 7 years +
- Weight Limit: 220 lbs.
- Departure Times: 9:30am, 11am, 2pm, 3:30pm
- $50 per person
3-Hour Trip – Sand Beach Trail
- Age Limit: 10 years +
- Weight Limit: 220 lbs.
- Departure Times: 9am, 1:30pm
- $100 per person
Prices and times may vary depending upon location:
Zion Canyon: (435) 772-3830
Grand Canyon (North Rim): (928) 638-9875
Bryce Canyon: (435) 834-5500
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Ruby’s Canyon Horseback Adventures (Bryce Canyon Area)
- 1.5-hour trip – 7-year age limit; departure 9:30am and 1:30pm.
- ½ day trip – 7-year age limit; departure 8:30am and 1pm.
- All day trip – 10-year age limit; departure at 8:30am
- Thunder Mountain trip – 10-year limit; departure 8:30am and 1:30pm (summer only).
Call for pricing: (435) 834-5358
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ATV and JEEP ADVENTURES
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Utah is severing all reciprocal agreements and will require nonresident permits for visitors from the other 49 states. The permits will be $30 per machine and can be purchased online at:
Permits purchased online will incur a $5 processing fee and will expire on the last day of the month one year after the permit is purchased. Permits may also be purchased in person at the Maverik Gas Station in La Verkin. Off-highway vehicles affected by this law include ATVs, motorcycles and snowmobiles. Exempted are those who come from out-of-state to attend one of the many county-sponsored OHV jamborees. Because this law refers to off-highway vehicle use only, street legal machines properly equipped and registered for highway use are not affected regardless of the state of registration.
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ATV Tour and Rental Companies
- ATV & Jeep Adventure Tours
(888) 656-2887
www.atvadventures.com - Zion ATV & Jeep Tours
(435) 767-7956
www.zionatvjeeptours.com
- Southern Utah Adventure Center
(435) 635-0907
www.southernutahadventurecenter.com - Utah Family Adventure Rentals
(801) 822-1652
www.facebook.com/wetakeufar
Exit the resort to the left and ride 2 miles to Sheep’s Bridge Road. Turn left and enjoy hours of riding. Local Trail Maps are available in the office.
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MUSEUMS and GALLERIES
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Historic Brigham Young Home
67 W 200 N, St. George (28 mi.)
Admission: FREE
The Brigham Young winter home is a popular tour site. The winters in St. George are very mild compared to that of Northern Utah, so many times Brigham and his family would spend the winter here. The original portion of the home was begun in 1869 and completed in 1871. The front addition was completed in 1873.
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Mormon Temple and Visitor Center
250 E 400 S, St. George (28 mi.)
Admission: FREE
Stroll through the beautiful temple grounds and gaze at the striking St. George Utah Temple, the first temple built in Utah finished in 1877. Enjoy your time at this sacred, peaceful place. The Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00am to 9:00pm.
St. George Tabernacle
18 S Main Street, St. George (28 mi.)
Admission: FREE
Visit the St. George Tabernacle, the “jewel in the desert” and a symbol of the town’s pioneer beginnings. While at the tabernacle, you can also hear interesting stories about the tabernacle’s glass and why the balcony had to be moved. Open daily.
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OTHER OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
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Grafton Ghost Town
Rockville, UT (13 mi.)
Admission: FREE
Turn right out of ZRR and drive 8 miles to Rockville. Make a right out of the resort; drive approximately 8 miles into the town of Rockville. Make a right onto Bridge Street; bare right, the road will turn to dirt; at the Y bare to the right to get to Grafton and left to go to the cemetery. Said to be the most photographed ghost town in the West, it has been featured as a location in several films, including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.
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Silver Reef Ghost Town
18 Minutes – 12.6 Miles
Silver Reef still displays some of the ruins of the former boom town. A restored former Wells Fargo Express office, an old bank, and old stone kilns used for processing silver.
Ruby’s Canyon Horseback Adventures (Bryce Canyon Area)
- 1.5-hour trip – 7-year age limit; departure 9:30am and 1:30pm.
- ½ day trip – 7-year age limit; departure 8:30am and 1pm.
- All day trip – 10-year age limit; departure at 8:30am
- Thunder Mountain trip – 10-year limit; departure 8:30am and 1:30pm (summer only).
Call for pricing: (435) 834-5358.
Experience Brian Head
329 Utah 143, Brian Head, UT (75 mi.)
Go for the day and enjoy cooler temperatures as you ride the scenic chairlift, try your hand at archery, mini zip line, climbing wall, or avalanche tubing.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
5001 Angel Canyon Road, Kanab, UT (51 mi.)
Admission: FREE (donations accepted)
See dogs, cats, horses, pigs, bunnies, parrots, and more. If you are an animal lover, you will be amazed at the number of animals that are given a home at BFAS.
River Tubing and Zion Outfitters
7 Zion Park Blvd, Springdale (12 mi.)
Tickets: call Zion Outfitters (435) 772-5090
During the hot summer days in Zion National Park, tubing is usually the best way to beat the heat and still enjoy scenic views.
Fishing and Quail Lake, Sand Hollow, and Kolob Reservoirs
Within 13-24 miles of ZRR
Free under 14 yrs., $12 license 14 yrs. +
Reservoirs are stocked with bass, cutthroat and rainbow trout. Fish from the banks….great views.
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CONCERTS and PERFORMANCES
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Tanner Amphitheater
- Lion Boulevard, Springdale (13 mi.)
- Admission: $10 adult & $5 for youth (18 years and younger.)
- All Concerts begin at 8:00 p.m. A stunning 2000 seat amphitheater surrounded by the cliffs of Zion National Park with live concerts throughout the summer.
