Trails & Hikes

A paved, mostly flat trail along the Virgin River. Bikes and leashed dogs welcome - one of the few pet-friendly options in the park.

A paved, accessible walk along the North Fork of the Virgin River. The gateway into The Narrows - stunning even without going further.

A quick paved walk to a dripping alcove - great for families and a perfect first stop in the canyon.

Three tiered pools connected by short trails - the lower pool is stroller-accessible; the upper pool requires a moderate scramble.

A popular loop above the visitor center with open views of the Watchman formation, Springdale, and the lower canyon.

Wade through the Virgin River between 2,000-foot walls. Go as far as you like - most visitors do 2-4 miles and turn around.

Zion's signature hike. The final half-mile follows chains bolted into sheer rock with 1,000-foot drop-offs. A permit is required for the chains section.

A short ridge walk to the end of Kolob Canyons Road with panoramic views of Timber Creek, Kolob Terrace, and the Pine Valley Mountains.

Follows the Middle Fork of Taylor Creek past two historic homestead cabins to Double Arch Alcove - one of the most rewarding hikes in Kolob Canyons.

A deep backcountry route starting at Lee Pass, descending to La Verkin Creek, and reaching a viewpoint of Kolob Arch - one of the world's largest natural arches.

A relatively flat trail through ponderosa pine forest ending at a viewpoint overlooking the Northgate Peaks, Guardian Angels, and Zion's high backcountry.

One of Zion's most coveted hikes. The Left Fork of North Creek carves a tunnel-like slot canyon - The Subway - with sculpted pools, waterfalls, and solitude. Permit required; demand far exceeds availability.

Starting near Lava Point, this high-elevation rim trail sweeps across Wildcat Canyon and Potato Hollow with commanding views. A through-hike to the canyon floor is possible but requires a shuttle. Trailhead may be snow-covered in winter.

A short trail above the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel ending at a viewpoint over Pine Creek Canyon and lower Zion. Parking is extremely limited - be prepared to try multiple times.

Climbs to a high sandstone plateau with views of cliffs in every direction, reaching Stave Spring and the junction with Deertrap and Cable Mountain trails. Note: major rockfall has closed the connection to Zion Canyon - access from the East Rim Trailhead only.

The current primary route to the Observation Point viewpoint - a relatively flat approach across East Mesa. Requires a high-clearance / 4WD vehicle to reach the trailhead via dirt roads off North Fork Road.

The highest viewpoint in Zion Canyon and arguably its best vista. Now accessed via the East Mesa or East Rim trailheads - the former canyon-floor route through Echo Canyon is closed due to rockfall.

A remote desert traverse through pinyon pine and juniper with sweeping views of the West Temple and Mount Kinesava. Connects to Coalpits Wash. Extremely hot in summer - best in spring when wildflowers bloom. Trail becomes very muddy when wet.

A well-defined wash hike to Coalpits Spring, with the option to continue into Scoggins Wash. No formal trail past the first junction - just follow the drainage as far as you like. Little shade; best visited in spring.