Angels Landing is considered to be a quintessential hike in Zion National Park. The breathtaking view from the top of the 1500 foot viewpoint overlooks many of Zion’s well known sandstone formations. The trek to arrive at this stunning overlook is far from easy. Five miles round trip, the hike gains 1,488 feet of elevation. Most hikers report that the trail takes a total time of three to six hours round trip.
The hike contains five sections, each varying in difficulty and danger. Hikers are able to turn back at any time in the hike when the conditions or trail prove to be more difficult than expected.
The Grotto Trailhead
The trail begins at the Grotto Trailhead. You must get off at shuttle stop number six (The Grotto). From the shuttle stop, you must cross the road and then cross a bridge over the Virgin River. As you pass the river, appreciate its unique emerald color! In warmer months, you can access the shore and sandbars and cool off in the water. Follow the trail (signage at the head of the trail will point you in the right direction) along the dirt path as it curves along the river and through fir trees and slowly begins to increase in elevation. A short ways in, a view of the top of Angels Landing will appear and you will be able to watch as you get closer and closer to summiting the huge rock fin. This section is relatively flat and is the easiest part of the hike.
Switchbacks into Refrigerator Canyon
Soon you will reach a series of paved switchbacks. This uphill trek is quite steep. One side of the trail clings close to the rock wall as it winds upward while the other side of the trail is directly exposed to an edge. The path is wide and paved. Upon completion of this section, you will enter into Refrigerator Canyon which is a welcome cool and shady section of the hike. The path through the canyon is primarily flat and paved. This section includes a fun sandstone wall with holes and hideaways tucked into it as well as a tree lined gully on the other side.
Walter’s Wiggles
As the paved path in the canyon begins to steepen, you know you are approaching Walter’s Wiggles: a series of 21 tight and steep switchbacks that will take you to Scout Lookout. The trail will start to curve around corners until the switchbacks begin. Similar to previous segments, the path is carved directly into the rock itself. Scout Lookout provides a view of the final and most dangerous segment of the hike and many choose this to be the summit of their hike! At this point, you have followed the Rest Wim Trail for 2 miles and can choose whether or not to complete the final half mile that leads to the infamous Angels Landing summit.
Hogsback
Easily the most strenuous part of the hike, this section is what gives Angels Landing it’s dangerous reputation. Make your way along the narrow rock using chains drilled into the rock. In some sections, the path is only four feet wide with cliffs on each side. Other sections involve scrambling up boulders with your hands and the chains. Much of the trail is skinny and steep, so exert extreme caution. Also be wary of crowds. Due to the difficult nature of this section, the pace is extremely slow and it is important to prevent bottlenecking, or overcrowding. On skinnier sections, alternate between hikers going up and down to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience!
Angels Landing Summit
Finally, you will finish your hike up the ridge of Angels Landing to arrive at the summit. Enjoy a fairly flat, large rest point where you can take in the gorgeous view, eat a snack and hydrate, and avoid feeding the friendly chipmunks! The view is absolutely breathtaking and well worth the sore legs. When you finish your time at the summit, you will take the same trail down. Once again, be cautious and considerate to other hikers as you descend the Hogsback section.
Angels Landing Zion Tips
- The most common tip you will hear before hiking Angels Landing is to start early in the day. Listen to this advice! The trail increases in traffic as the day goes on and you will have a quicker and safer experience with smaller crowds. You also will beat the summer heat by hiking in the morning.
- Between March and sometime in the Fall, accessing Angels Landing is only possible by taking the shuttle. Shuttle tickets must be reserved in advance here. During the off season, the hike is accessible by car but parking is very limited.
- Be extremely cautious on the Angels Landing Zion hike. A number of different deaths have occurred on the hike due to a lack of safety or concern. Do not overestimate your abilities or balance while hiking.
- Summer temperatures tend to be extremely hot while winter storms can provide difficult conditions. Both will add difficulty to your hike. Plan ahead and check the forecast before embarking on Angels Landing.
After completing the Angels Landing hike, all you will want to do is take a nice shower and climb into a comfortable bed. Book you stay at Wander Camp Zion to enjoy these top of the line amenities without sacrificing your desire to sleep under the stars with the calming sounds of nature to lull you to sleep.
Post written by Maggie Jackson