Hikes · Winter

Winter Hikes in Zion National Park

Winter is Zion's quietest, most magical season. These lower-elevation trails stay accessible once the crowds are gone - the canyon dusted with snow and all to yourself.

Winter conditions: Bring traction (microspikes) for icy shaded sections and warm layers for the cold canyon floor. Kolob Terrace Road (the Subway, West Rim) usually closes with snow, and the Angels Landing chains ice over - skip both until spring. Always check the NPS conditions page before you go.

Pa'Rus Trail

Easy

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

3.4 mi RT 50 ft gain

Riverside Walk

Easy

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

2.2 mi RT 57 ft gain

Weeping Rock

Easy

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

0.4 mi RT 100 ft gain

Emerald Pools

Easy

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

1.2-3.0 mi RT 200 ft gain

Watchman Trail

Moderate

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

3.3 mi RT 368 ft gain

Timber Creek Overlook

Easy

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

1.0 mi RT 100 ft gain

Taylor Creek Trail

Moderate

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.

5.0 mi RT 450 ft gain

Chinle Trail

Moderate

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.

11.7 mi one-way 600 ft gain

Coalpits Wash

Easy

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.

3.6 mi one-way 500 ft gain

Canyon Overlook

Moderate

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.

1.0 mi RT 163 ft gain

← Browse all Zion hikes

Winter Gear for Zion

Traction, a headlamp for short days, and warmth for icy, quiet trails. Best of Zion earns from qualifying Amazon purchases, at no extra cost to you.

Yaktrax Pro Traction Cleats
Ice traction

Yaktrax Pro Traction Cleats

by Yaktrax

View on Amazon →
Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp
Headlamp (short days)

Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp

by Black Diamond

View on Amazon →
Brazos Handcrafted Wood Walking Stick
Walking stick

Brazos Handcrafted Wood Walking Stick

by Brazos

View on Amazon →
Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Daypack
Daypack

Osprey Talon 22 Hiking Daypack

by Osprey

View on Amazon →
Hydro Flask 24 oz Water Bottle
Insulated bottle

Hydro Flask 24 oz Water Bottle

by Hydro Flask

View on Amazon →
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Water filter

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

by LifeStraw

View on Amazon →
Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets
Electrolytes

Nuun Sport Electrolyte Tablets

by Nuun

View on Amazon →
Hiking Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks
Trail guide

Hiking Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks

by FalconGuides

View on Amazon →