Zion National Park

As one of Utah's Mighty Five National Parks, Zion certainly lives up to its name.

HIKING

• Angel's Landing

  • Location: Angels Landing Trail, Utah - 36,850 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

  • Difficulty: 4.2 miles | Strenuous | Elevation Gain=1,738 ft

  • Highlights: The last 0.1 mile is a steep, narrow section with anchored chains to assist hikers. You are then rewarded with an incredible view of the main canyon.

  • Travel Tips: Permit required | Zion National Park, Utah - Recreation.gov

Walter's Wiggles--21 switchbacks (not for the faint of heart)

And here come the chains

End View

• The Narrows (Bottom-Up Hike)

  • Location: Zion Narrows Bottom Up to Big Springs, Utah - 5,979 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

  • Difficulty: up to 8.9 miles | Moderate | Elevation Gain=695 ft.

  • Highlights: You will be hiking in a river between canyon walls. You can do a couple of miles, then turn around (I recommend), or continue to the end. The view does not change significantly regardless of how long you hike.

    

  • Travel Tips: 

    • Flooding: Check weather frequently. You do NOT want to attempt this hike if there is likelihood of a flood. You can check the water level at North Fork Virgin River Near Springdale, UT - USGS Water Data for the Nation. The Narrows will close if the water level is over 150 CFS; over 70 CFS makes hiking more difficult.

    • Bacteria: There is evidence of toxic cyanobacteria in the river; avoid drinking the water.

    • Gear: If you have weak ankles, are susceptible to tripping (where my klutzes at?), or the water level is relatively high, renting gear can be useful (waterproof shoes and hiking sticks). Rent Top-Notch Equipment for Your Unforgettable Narrows Adventure (around $30)

TRANSPORTATION

When visiting the park, you will leave your car at the visitor's center at the entrance. Zion offers a free shuttle system that will take you to all of the main hikes. You do not need a ticket or reservation to ride this shuttle. Shuttles begin at 6 am and stop around 7:15/8:15 pm and run every 10-15 minutes. It takes approximately 45 minutes for the shuttle to drive from the visitor center to the Temple of Sinawava (starting point of the Narrows) so plan accordingly.

JUST FOR FUN

• Coral Pink Sand Dunes ATV Tours | Recommend the Sunset Tour=2.5-hour tour, ATV riding and dune boarding | can drive your own ATV or be a passenger | Coral Pink ATV Tours

• Sand Hollow State Park | beach, cliff jumping, relaxation, whatever you want | Sand Hollow State Park | Utah State Parks

WHERE TO FLY AND STAY

• Flying: St. George Regional Airport | about 1 hour drive from Zion

• Staying: Springdale, UT is the location of Zion National Park. La Verkin is a suburb about 20 minutes from Springdale and 30-minute drive from St. George's airport. Great town to escape the traffic of Springdale with plenty of affordable BnBs available.