Spotlight: Zion National Park - Angels Landing

Spotlight: Imagine hiking along a path about 10 feet wide, with a thousand foot drop on either side. Now imagine that there aren't any railings keeping you away from the edge. Welcome to Angels Landing. This isn't a hike for the faint of heart, young children, or anyone who suffers from a fear of heights, dizziness, or other health issues. For all others, Angels Landing offers one of the most stunning vistas in the country, if not the world. It got its name in 1916 when explorer Frederick Fisher proclaimed that only an angel could land on it. In any case, the feeling you get staring down at the Virgin River 1,500 feet below is indescribable.

the objective

Location: Angels Landing is located inside Zion National Park about 41 miles east of St. George, Utah. The trail head is located near the Grotto picnic area at shuttle stop #6.

Cost: $30/private vehicle for a week-long pass. Commercial vehicles are charged $15/person. For additional information on fees, click here.

Time: Hiking Angels Landing takes about 4-6 hours. The trail can be accessed via the park shuttle anytime from April - October, or by private vehicle the remainder of the year.

Description: This five-mile hike is strenuous due to its steepness (1,488 feet of elevation gain), however the trail is well maintained and the first two miles are paved. If it is sunny, there is very little shade; if it is wet, stormy, windy, or icy, you shouldn't hike it because slipping can result in death. That said, I hope I didn't scare you off, because this is one of the most spectacular hikes in the world.
     From the Grotto picnic area, you cross the Zion Canyon Road. From there, you cross the footbridge and turn right and follow the West Rim Trail.  and follow a series of switchbacks that hug the canyon wall offering nice views of the valley. This section offers little reprieve from the sun, so make sure you have plenty of water and sunscreen.

     Refrigerator Canyon is the shadiest section of the trail. It is often cooled further by a brisk breeze. The grade isn't as steep here either, so enjoy the respite while you can.

sandstone caves in Refrigerator Canyon

     From there, the path goes up a steep set of 21 short switchbacks known as Walter's Wiggles. You may need to take frequent breathers while climbing this section.
     The Wiggles take you up to Scout Lookout, a broad sandy area that forms a saddle between the West Rim Trail and the Angels Landing Trail. Many hikers reach this point and decide that it is far enough - and that's perfectly okay. You get an awesome view without having to cross the chasm to Angels Landing.

View of the trail from Scout Lookout

 

     The last half mile, the Angels Landing Trail, takes you across a narrow sandstone ridge with sheer drops on either side (one side is an 800 ft. drop, the other 1,200 ft.). Strong iron chains and guardrails are anchored along certain sections of the fin as an added layer of protection as you climb to the knoll on the top of the monolith known as Angels Landing. The 360 degree view of the park from this vantage point is simply awesome.

narrowest spot

on top of the world

Rating: 5 stars (out of 5)

Things You Should Know: - This hike isn't suited for young children. Hikers should be well coached on proper trail etiquette and the dangers of showing off or playing pranks.
- Spring and autumn are the best times to do this hike. Summer is hot and crowded. Winter can be treacherous because of weather.
- The chipmunks are pretty aggressive and will steal your snacks if you set them down for a few seconds.
- Restrooms are available at the trail head and at Scout's Lookout.
-  Academic waivers for Zion NP can be granted for educational groups pending application approval.

Nearby: The Virgin Narrows hike, The Subway hike, Kolob Canyons, Cedar Breaks NM