Hiking Angels Landing: A Guide to Zion’s Most Iconic Trail

The Angels Landing Trail in Zion National Park offers a thrilling adventure with steep climbs, narrow ridges, and breathtaking views. This iconic hike challenges even seasoned adventurers while rewarding them with unforgettable scenery.

Introduction

The Angels Landing Trail in Zion National Park, Utah, is a trail that has become synonymous with adventure. Known for its breathtaking vistas and challenging terrain, this 5-mile out-and-back hike is one of the most sought-after experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. With an elevation gain of 1,488 feet, the journey to the top is as strenuous as it is rewarding, testing both physical and mental endurance. The trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty, thrilling heights, and a connection with the landscape that few other hikes can match.

For those who dare to take it on, the Angels Landing Trail promises an unforgettable experience. The narrow paths and steep ascents are challenging, but the views that unfold along the way are nothing short of spectacular. The best times to embark on this journey are during the summer and early fall, when the weather is more predictable, and the skies are clear.

This trail is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through some of the most remarkable geology and ecology that Zion National Park has to offer. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or someone looking to challenge themselves, the Angels Landing Trail is a must-do for anyone visiting Zion. However, preparation is key to making the most of this adventure. From understanding the geography and ecology of the region to planning your hike down to the last detail, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know.

Conquer Zion’s Angels Landing: thrilling hike with breathtaking views, steep climbs, and unforgettable adventure.

Read our complete Utah travel guide here.

Getting to the Trailhead

To start your adventure on the Angels Landing Trail, you’ll need to reach the trailhead located at The Grotto in Zion National Park. The park operates a shuttle system from March through November, which is mandatory during these months. Visitors must park at the Visitor Center and take the shuttle to The Grotto stop, the 6th stop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle.

During the winter months, when the shuttle is not in operation, you can drive directly to The Grotto. However, parking is limited, so arriving early is crucial to securing a spot. The trailhead for the Angels Landing Trail begins on the west side of Zion Canyon, just across the bridge from The Grotto. From here, the adventure truly begins as you make your way into one of the most iconic landscapes in the park.

The Heather Meadows Visitor Center is a useful stop before you embark on your hike, offering essential information, maps, and updates on trail conditions. Rangers and staff can provide valuable insights, and it’s a good place to gather any last-minute supplies or information you might need.

Geography and Geology of the Trail Region

The Angels Landing Trail offers hikers a journey through a landscape that tells a story millions of years in the making. Zion National Park is part of the Colorado Plateau, a region known for its stunning rock formations, deep canyons, and high mesas. The park itself is a geologic wonder, showcasing layers of the earth’s history in its towering cliffs and rugged terrain.

As you begin your ascent on the Angels Landing Trail, you’ll quickly notice the prominent Navajo Sandstone that forms the majority of Zion Canyon’s walls. This rock layer, dating back to the Jurassic period, around 190 million years ago, was once a vast desert of shifting sand dunes. Over time, these dunes were buried, compressed, and cemented into the solid rock that we see today.

The trail also takes you through layers of the Kayenta Formation, which lies beneath the Navajo Sandstone. This formation, composed of mudstone, siltstone, and sandstone, represents ancient riverbeds and floodplains. As you climb higher on the Angels Landing Trail, the transition between these geological layers becomes more apparent, offering a unique insight into the earth’s past.

Erosion, primarily driven by the Virgin River, has played a significant role in shaping the landscape along the Angels Landing Trail. The river has carved out Zion Canyon over millions of years, creating the steep walls and narrow ridges that make this trail so dramatic. The exposed rock along the trail is a testament to the relentless forces of nature that continue to shape Zion National Park.

As you near the summit, the Angels Landing Trail traverses a narrow ridgeline with sheer drop-offs on either side. This section, known as the “Hogsback,” is a striking example of differential erosion, where softer rock layers erode more quickly than harder ones, leaving behind a spine of rock. The summit itself offers a panoramic view of Zion Canyon, where the layers of rock tell the story of a landscape constantly being reshaped by the elements.

The view from the top of the Angels Landing Trail is a reward for the physically demanding climb, allowing hikers to see the vast expanse of the Colorado Plateau and the intricate layers that make up Zion’s unique landscape. The journey through these geologic formations offers a tangible connection to the ancient past, making the experience not just a physical challenge, but also a profound encounter with the Earth’s history.

Hiker walking up Angel’s Landing trail at Zion National Park.

Ecology in the Trail Area

The Angels Landing Trail not only offers a geological spectacle but also takes you through a diverse range of ecosystems, each teeming with life adapted to the unique conditions of Zion National Park. As you ascend the trail, you’ll pass through distinct ecological zones, from the riparian habitats along the Virgin River to the desert scrub and pinyon-juniper woodlands that characterize the higher elevations.

At the base of the Angels Landing Trail, near The Grotto, the riparian zone along the Virgin River is lush and green, a stark contrast to the arid surroundings. This area is home to a variety of plant and animal species that rely on the consistent water source provided by the river. Cottonwood trees, willows, and box elders dominate the landscape, providing shade and habitat for a range of wildlife.

The Virgin River is a lifeline for many species in Zion National Park. It supports a variety of fish, including the Virgin spinedace, an endangered species native to the region. Along the riverbanks, you might spot animals such as mule deer, raccoons, and the elusive river otter. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to enjoy, with species like the American dipper and belted kingfisher often seen hunting for fish in the river’s clear waters.

As you begin to climb the Angels Landing Trail, the vegetation shifts from the lush riparian zone to the drier desert scrub and pinyon-juniper woodlands. This transition zone is characterized by hardy plants that can survive in the harsh conditions of the desert. Look for shrubs like blackbrush, cliffrose, and Mormon tea, which are well-adapted to the arid environment. The pinyon pine and Utah juniper, with their deep roots and drought-resistant needles, dominate the landscape as you gain elevation.

This zone is also home to a variety of wildlife that has adapted to the desert environment. You might encounter desert bighorn sheep, which are well-suited to the rocky terrain, or spot a lizard basking in the sun on a warm rock. The Angels Landing Trail is also a haven for birdwatchers, with species like the peregrine falcon often seen soaring above the canyon walls.

As you approach the final ascent to Angels Landing, the vegetation becomes sparser, and the landscape more rugged. The exposed ridgeline offers little shelter from the elements, and only the hardiest plants can survive here. Look for patches of prickly pear cactus, yucca, and agave, which have adapted to the harsh conditions by storing water in their thick leaves and stems.

The summit of the Angels Landing Trail offers not only breathtaking views but also a unique perspective on the ecology of Zion National Park. From the top, you can see the transition from the lush riparian zone along the Virgin River to the arid desert scrub and pinyon-juniper woodlands, and finally to the rugged, exposed rock of the summit. It’s a testament to the incredible diversity of life that can thrive in even the most challenging environments.

Trail Description

The Angels Landing Trail begins with a relatively gentle walk along the West Rim Trail, a paved path that meanders through the lower part of Zion Canyon. As you set out from The Grotto, the trail follows the Virgin River, offering a peaceful start to what will soon become a much more demanding hike. This initial section is a good warm-up, giving you a chance to adjust to the surroundings and enjoy the serenity of the river.

After about a mile, the Angels Landing Trail begins to climb more steeply as you approach the first set of switchbacks, known as Walter’s Wiggles. These 21 tight switchbacks are named after Walter Ruesch, the first superintendent of Zion National Park, who engineered this part of the trail in the 1920s. The switchbacks are steep and narrow, but they are well-constructed and offer stunning views of the canyon below as you ascend.

At the top of Walter’s Wiggles, you’ll reach Scout Lookout, a large, flat area that offers a brief respite before the final, more challenging ascent to Angels Landing. Scout Lookout is a popular turnaround point for those who decide the final stretch is too daunting, and it provides a great vantage point to admire the beauty of Zion Canyon.

From Scout Lookout, the real test begins. The final half-mile of the Angels Landing Trail is the most strenuous and thrilling part of the hike. The trail narrows significantly and becomes a series of steep, rocky steps and ledges, with sheer drop-offs on either side. This section, known as the Hogsback, is equipped with chains bolted into the rock, offering much-needed support as you navigate the exposed ridgeline.

The Hogsback is not for the faint of heart. The path is only a few feet wide in places, and the drop-offs are nearly vertical, plunging hundreds of feet to the canyon floor below. The chains are a lifeline here, providing stability and a sense of security as you inch your way along the ridge. It’s important to take your time and focus on each step, as the terrain is unforgiving.

Despite the challenges, the journey to the summit of the Angels Landing Trail is incredibly rewarding. The trail’s difficulty adds to the sense of accomplishment, and the views along the way are nothing short of spectacular. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of Zion Canyon, with its towering sandstone cliffs, winding river, and vibrant vegetation. The higher you climb, the more expansive the views become, offering a true sense of the scale and majesty of this incredible landscape.

The final push to the summit involves navigating a narrow ridge with chains, where you’ll need to use both hands and feet to scramble over the rocky terrain. The exposure here is extreme, and while the chains provide some security, this section is best suited for those with a head for heights and a sure foot.

Upon reaching the summit, you’ll find yourself on a relatively flat, expansive rock outcrop that offers 360-degree views of Zion Canyon. The sight from the top of the Angels Landing Trail is nothing short of breathtaking—Zion Canyon stretches out below you, with the Virgin River winding through the lush valley and the park’s iconic red and white cliffs rising up on either side. It’s a view that few places on Earth can match, and the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel after completing the climb is unparalleled.

The summit of Angels Landing is a place to pause, reflect, and soak in the incredible scenery. The sense of solitude and connection with nature is profound, and it’s easy to see why this hike is considered one of the most iconic in the world. The journey back down follows the same route, and while descending can be easier on the lungs, it requires just as much focus and caution as the ascent.

The return trip offers a chance to see the landscape from a different perspective and to appreciate the beauty of Zion National Park from a new angle. As you make your way back down the Hogsback, through Scout Lookout, and down Walter’s Wiggles, take your time to savor the experience and the memories you’ve made.

Planning Your Hike

Planning your hike on the Angels Landing Trail is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Given the trail’s popularity, it’s important to consider several factors before setting out.

First, be aware that Angels Landing is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park, and the trail can become crowded, especially during peak seasons. To avoid the crowds, consider starting your hike early in the morning. The cooler temperatures and soft morning light add to the experience, and you’ll have a better chance of enjoying the trail in relative solitude.

Permits are now required to hike the final stretch of Angels Landing, from Scout Lookout to the summit. The National Park Service introduced a permit system in 2022 to manage the number of hikers and reduce the impact on the trail. Be sure to apply for a permit well in advance, as they are limited and can sell out quickly.

When planning your hike, consider the weather conditions. Summer and early fall are the best times to hike the Angels Landing Trail, as the weather is generally warm and dry. However, the exposed nature of the trail means that it can become extremely hot in the summer months, so be sure to bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade when possible. In the spring and winter, the trail can be icy and treacherous, especially on the narrow, exposed sections. If hiking during these seasons, be sure to check the trail conditions and consider bringing traction devices for your shoes.

Given the strenuous nature of the hike, it’s important to be in good physical condition before attempting the Angels Landing Trail. The trail requires strength, endurance, and agility, and the exposure and heights can be mentally challenging as well. If you’re not accustomed to strenuous hikes, consider building up your fitness with other hikes in Zion National Park before tackling Angels Landing.

Safety is paramount on this hike, so be sure to stay on the designated trail, use the chains for support, and take your time on the exposed sections. The trail has seen accidents and fatalities in the past, so it’s crucial to respect the risks and approach the hike with caution.

Finally, make sure you’re prepared with the right gear. Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider carrying a small backpack to keep your hands free for the chains. A hat and sunglasses can help protect you from the sun, and a lightweight jacket may be useful in case of cooler temperatures at higher elevations.

Conclusion

Hiking the Angels Landing Trail is more than just a physical challenge; it’s an adventure that immerses you in the breathtaking beauty and natural wonder of Zion National Park. From the initial ascent along the Virgin River to the thrilling final push to the summit, every step of this journey offers a new perspective on the park’s unique geology, diverse ecology, and awe-inspiring landscapes. The narrow ridges and sheer drop-offs demand focus and determination, but the reward is an unparalleled view from the top that few other hikes can offer.

As one of Zion’s most iconic trails, Angels Landing has earned its reputation as a must-do hike for adventurers seeking both thrill and beauty. However, the trail’s difficulty and exposure mean that preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable experience. With the right planning, gear, and respect for the trail’s challenges, you can conquer Angels Landing and create lasting memories of one of the most spectacular hikes in the world. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply seeking to connect with nature, the Angels Landing Trail is a journey that will leave you in awe of Zion’s majestic landscape.

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