One of the most thrilling ascents and gratifying 360 views in the country. A bucket-list item for any avid adventurer.
The Angels Landing trail is a 5 mile out-and-back hike in Zion National Park near Springdale, Utah. Due to the steep ledges and hand-grip chains, this hike is considered moderate to difficult. Since it is within the boundaries of Zion National Park, dogs are not allowed on this hike. It took us 2 hours 45 minutes with only a couple quick stops to take pictures from the top or wait for other hikers to pass.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Angels Landing trailhead, search for the Angels Landing Trailhead or Grotto Parking Lot in Zion National Park, Utah or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Springdale head north on Highway 9 through the pay booth and into the park. Turn left on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive (also listed as Floor of the Valley Road) and go 3.4 miles until you reach the parking lot area on the right.
Driving Info: This is an easy paved drive the entire way. Look out for deer, cyclists and hikers on all roads within Zion National Park. Note that Zion Canyon Scenic Drive will often be closed to vehicles when it gets busy. This happens daily during the busy months where only a shuttle is allowed. Even in the slow months once the parking areas along the route fill up, park rangers will close off the entrance to this road and you’ll have to walk or bike along it.
Time & Weather: We hiked this trail in early January and started hiking around 7am. The weather was cold at 45 degrees. The wind was moderate throughout the hike and can be extra chilly as you sweat and ascend. There was snow and ice at places that required some careful footing.
Gear: We wore 2-3 layers for warmth, solid hiking boots, gloves, headlamps at the beginning, hat & sunglasses. Gloves are especially helpful in the colder months or in the mornings since the grip-chains near the top can get really cold to the touch. We brought crampons but did not use them. We used hiking poles and used them until the grip-chain section. There is a lot of exposure and little shade so wear sunscreen.
Trail Navigation: The trail is easy to follow. Once you reach the grip-chains pay careful attention to the safest and proper route.
Water & Food: We drank about a liter each, mostly during the ascent, but in the warmer months you should definitely bring extra water. There is no water source along the trail. We at a few snacks but the hike only takes a few hours.
Trailhead Info: The trail starts at the Grotto Parking Lot, where you’ll cross the road to reach the trailhead. There are lots of spots in the parking lot, but this trail is incredibly popular and will fill up every morning.
Pictures of the Angels Landing hike:
Start this trail early with the moonlight to avoid crowds at the top.
You’ll turn left into the mountainside and then eventually arrive at Walter’s Wiggles, a series of quick switchbacks to get you up to Scout’s Landing.
This is what you’ll end up scaling, all the way to the top!
If you can stomach it, take a look back down to the sheer scale of this climb.
View of Zion Scenic Drive below.
Panorama from the top.
The view from the top, looking back down the path you’ll descend.
Looking back up once more to the hike you just conquered.
Going to be in the Kanab area? There's a ton of hiking, camping and outdoor activities to get up to. Check out our Ultimate Hiking & Travel Guide for our tips on the most amazing hikes within a few hours of Kanab.
