Angels Landing: The Best Hike In Zion National Park

Everybody who has ever hiked Angels Landing in Zion National Park will tell you their story. Sometimes, it’s one of extreme beauty; other times sheer terror. Either way, it is one of the park’s most notorious hikes and an incredible short trail full of unforgettable views. Anybody who is reasonably fit can make this journey, but the mental aspect of the sheer drop-offs and massive exposure will test your mettle. The final ½ mile has a series of chains bolted into the rock for extra security, but know your limits. If you have vertigo or extreme fear of heights, it’s best to turn around before the final uphill leg of the trail.

Trail Log

• Mile    0    Grotto Trailhead         (37.259392, -112.950038)
• Mile    1.07    Refrigerator Canyon        (37.275641, -112.951597)
• Mile    1.52    Walter’s Wiggles        (37.275641, -112.951597)
• Mile    1.97    Hogsback            (37.271108, -112.949816)
• Mile    2.14    Angels Landing Summit    (37.269125, -112.947894)

Reaching Angels Landing

From March through November, the only way up Zion Canyon is through the free Zion Park Shuttle service. You exit at the Grotto Trailhead for Angels Landing Trail. In the summer, there can be long lines for the shuttle leaving the Visitor Center so make sure you plan for this.

The Difficulty of Trek / Length of Hike

The elevation gain of 1488’ and the exposure makes this a moderately difficult hike. The trail is 2.5 miles one way or 5 miles round trip. Make sure you bring plenty of water and start your hike early. In addition to the delays getting on the shuttle, you will have to wait for groups of hikers going both ways on final .5 miles of the trail (The Hog’s Back). You also want to make sure you take your time, stay safe and can take plenty of pictures. There is water available at the trailhead, but nowhere else on the trail. Below is a map of the Angels Landing hiking trail. If it is not visible, be sure to refresh your browser 🙂