Summary
Nestled within the stunning southern region of Utah, Zion National Park is a gorgeous location to explore. With towering canyons and Emerald Pools, there’s an abundance of activities suited for every type of visitor. Thus, it’s an ideal holiday destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors!
The park is truly breathtaking and spending several days exploring the trails is a must to witness this unspoiled gem of Utah.
With millions of years of geological history, particularly around the cliffs of the Virgin River, Zion National Park perfectly embodies the vast beauty of the United States. Nature is showcased on a grand scale, and Zion National Park is a testament to this!
To enhance your visit to this magnificent natural wonder, here are some of the top places to explore in Zion, which you will undoubtedly enjoy.
Explore the best activities in Zion National Park highlighted below and have an unforgettable time in Utah!
1.) The Narrows
The Narrows is arguably the most famous of the Zion trails. However, it’s not precisely a trail; rather, it consists of the very narrowest part of Zion Canyon that can be traversed (and sometimes waded) through.
Once you are here, you can embark on a whole-day, challenging 10-mile hike within Zion Canyon, so prepare to get your feet wet!
Despite its challenges, it is incredible and surely one of the best experiences in Zion National Park that you cannot overlook.
For the ‘bottom-up hike’, you won’t require a permit to access The Narrows. This journey begins at Temple of Sinawava where you can dive right into the Narrows as far as Big Spring. It is beautiful and well worth the effort; do pack extra water shoes for the adventure.
Conversely, for the ‘top-down hike’, you’ll need to obtain a permit prior to your adventure.
Lastly, ensure you verify the conditions and flash-flood warnings to confirm if The Narrows is accessible. After all, safety comes first, and reckless hiking is not advisable!
Regardless, exploring The Narrows will be one of the most unforgettable hiking experiences at Zion National Park.
2.) Willis Creek Narrows
One of the great aspects of visiting Willis Creek Narrows is its accessibility; it’s relatively easy to explore.
Unlike many other slot canyons in Zion, this hiking trail is perfect if you prefer not to undertake a strenuous trek. It is nice and straightforward.
Additionally, plentiful parking makes it convenient for visitors at any time of the day!
In many ways, Willis Creek Narrows resembles Antelope Canyon, which I also find impressive. I believe they are formed by similar geological processes given their proximity, despite being in different states.
3.) Angels Landing
Angels Landing presents one of the most exhilarating hikes at Zion National Park! In fact, it is one of the most thrilling yet strenuous hikes across Utah!
Only suited for experienced hikers, you’ll require good fitness levels when embarking on Angels Landing, as you’ll be using all four limbs to manage steep inclines at certain points.
This hike is not ideal for children, nor anyone fearful of heights or those lacking the fitness to safely complete the journey (or cause danger to themselves or others). If you experience vertigo, it’s best to skip this trek! The Angels Landing trail has significant drop-offs that may induce anxiety!
If you manage to complete the ascent to Angels Landing, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley encircled by towering walls of the Zion Canyon.
4.) Human History Museum
The Human History Museum is a valuable stop during your visit, as it showcases the cultural history of Zion National Park.
With numerous exhibits detailing early pioneer settlements, the indigenous groups native to the area, and the establishment and growth of the Park itself, the Human History Museum is a treasure trove of information.
Allocate a few hours for a visit; it’s conveniently located as the very first stop on the Park shuttle. Afterward, make your way to the historic Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, where you can drive through. It is a single-lane tunnel, so drive with caution, but it is a historic part of the park you simply cannot miss. Upon reaching the other side, you can park and enjoy views of the Slot Canyon and the Pine Creek Canyon overlook.
5.) Kanarra Creek
Hiking Kanarra Creek is one of the most captivating experiences in Zion National Park, especially for those wishing to see an incredible slot canyon. This trail measures just shy of 4 miles, and while it’s best suited for experienced hikers, it is manageable and not overly difficult.
This breathtaking hike does require a permit to hike along the route. Generally, only about 150 individuals are permitted to trek the trail each day, so be sure to acquire your permit promptly.
6.) Weeping Rock
This site is quite fascinating!
Weeping Rock has rightfully earned its name due to its always damp environment. The surface of the rock is consistently wet, with water frequently dripping or flowing from it.
One particularly intriguing aspect of Weeping Rock is the abundance of greenery and hanging gardens formed due to the water seeping from its walls.
Moreover, accessibility is easy as you can stop at the trailhead located by the roadside along the Floor of the Valley Road.
7.) Checkerboard Mesa
Though equally stunning, the eastern side of Zion National Park experiences lesser traffic compared to the west and is generally quieter.
This aspect makes it one of the best things to do in Zion National Park if you seek less crowded environments.
The Checkerboard Mesa should not be missed, as it is the first stop upon entering from the Park’s East Entrance. The unique cross pattern on this white-colored mesa stands out against the surrounding pines and amber rock, making it iconic.
While hiking Checkerboard Mesa is not permitted, you can appreciate it from a distance. It’s easy to integrate a brief visit before continuing on the East Rim Trail, which is located just shy of the Ranger’s Station.
8.) Hidden Canyon
Hidden Canyon offers views that rival those at Angel’s Landing while being much less frequented by crowds.
This makes the hike an excellent choice for individuals seeking solitude while soaking in the great outdoors.
Similar to the cliff-hugging paths encountered at Angels Landing, Hidden Canyon is an exhilarating experience worth the trek. Chains embedded in the rock along various stretches add a layer of safety to this fantastic journey. Even if you have hiked Angels Landing previously, the Hidden Canyon trail is undoubtedly worth exploring!
Moreover, it’s very convenient to proceed to Hidden Canyon after touring Weeping Rock, as they are located adjacent to one another!
9.) Canyon Overlook Trail
As previously mentioned, after driving through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, you’ll find the quick yet rewarding Canyon Overlook Trail. This route serves as a popular alternative to the more demanding hikes in Zion National Park, yet it remains incredibly fulfilling!
Spanning just under a mile (round trip), the Canyon Overlook Trail leads to a viewpoint offering stunning valley vistas that simply cannot be missed.
Accessible for most visitors, the trail is relatively flat and quite manageable.
10.) Pa’Rus Trail
The paved Pa’Rus Trail is noteworthy as it is the only trail within the entire Park that allows dogs (on a lead) to accompany their owners. Additionally, the Pa’Rus Trail is the only one designated for bicycle riding.
This trail follows the Virgin River for segment portions and sometimes veers off to reveal spectacular viewpoints that showcase the breathtaking beauty of Zion National Park.
If you’re bringing your dog or riding on this trail, please be courteous by keeping dogs on a lead and being mindful, as this relatively narrow trail is shared by hikers and visitors alike.
11.) Emerald Pools
The Emerald Pools hikes feature “Lower” and “Higher” options and are amongst the best trails for visitors wishing to enjoy a relatively easy walk.
The allure of the Emerald Pools hikes lies in the stunning waterfalls that cascade from the upper pools down to the lower ones; it is truly magnificent.
Additionally, the area’s moisture fosters a lush and vibrant environment, making it especially captivating to witness.
If you prefer a less demanding route, opt for the Lower Emerald Pools hike. However, overall, none of the trails are classified as strenuous, allowing for most enthusiastic hikers to navigate the trails with ease.
For example, even the Higher Emerald Pools hike only takes about 90 minutes to complete the approximately 3-mile round trip.
If you need a place to relax afterward, check into the Zion National Park Lodge, conveniently close by.
12.) Riverside Walk
At the final shuttle stop, Temple of Sinawava, disembark and commence the Riverside Walk. This path is perfect for those who do not wish to venture deeper into The Narrows but prefer a more accessible trail to appreciate the canyon.
The Riverside Walk is an easy excursion, marking the initial section of The Narrows journey and follows the natural winding course of the Virgin River.
In my view, it may not be as dramatic as some of the more adventurous areas of The Narrows, particularly the wading portion. However, it is undoubtedly an easy and worthwhile traverse, especially for families with younger children or those requiring additional accessibility support.
Measuring just over 2 miles round trip, most eager hikers can comfortably complete this walk.
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