Is this actually worth the hype, or is Zion just another overphotographed park you’ll spend half the time stuck behind a tour group? Short answer: the best hikes in Zion National Park are genuinely some of the most dramatic trail experiences in the entire country. I’ve hiked here three times and still found new routes on my last trip. This post breaks down the best hikes in Zion National Park across all skill levels — with real costs, AllTrails ratings, and honest notes on what to expect when your legs start arguing with you.
Quick Comparison: Best Hikes in Zion National Park
| Trail Name | Best For | Approx. Cost | AllTrails Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Angels Landing | Thrill-seekers | $6 permit + $35 park entry | 4.8 ★ |
| The Narrows | Water hikers | $35 park entry | 4.9 ★ |
| Emerald Pools | Families | $35 park entry | 4.5 ★ |
| Canyon Overlook | Quick views | $35 park entry | 4.7 ★ |
| Observation Point | Serious hikers | $35 park entry | 4.8 ★ |
| Riverside Walk | Easy walkers | $35 park entry | 4.6 ★ |
| Hidden Canyon | Moderate adventurers | $35 park entry | 4.7 ★ |
| Weeping Rock | Short stops | $35 park entry | 4.4 ★ |
| Watchman Trail | Sunset hunters | $35 park entry | 4.6 ★ |
| Kolob Arch Trail | Backcountry explorers | $35 park entry + $15 permit | 4.7 ★ |
Park entry is $35/vehicle. America the Beautiful Pass ($80/year) covers it all — easily worth it if you’re hitting more than two parks this year.
1. Angels Landing — Best Hike in Zion National Park for Adrenaline Junkies
This is the one everyone talks about. And yeah, the chains section is genuinely scary — not fake-scary. The last half-mile gains around 500 feet on exposed switchbacks with drop-offs that’ll make your palms sweat regardless of your fitness level. The views from the top? Absolutely worth it. You’re looking straight down into Zion Canyon from 1,488 feet up. I stood there for twenty minutes just staring.
You need a permit now. The lottery runs through NPS.gov’s Angels Landing permit system — $6 per person if you score one. Apply 3 months ahead for the seasonal lottery, or try the day-before lottery at 12pm MT. Roundtrip is about 5.4 miles with 1,488 feet of elevation gain. Not one of the best hikes in Zion National Park for anyone with a serious fear of heights. Everyone else: go.
2. The Narrows — Best Hike in Zion National Park for Something Totally Different
You’re walking in a river. That’s the hike. The Virgin River cuts through 1,000-foot sandstone walls and you wade upstream through the water for as long as your legs and ambition allow. It’s one of the most surreal hiking experiences I’ve had anywhere in the Southwest. No permit needed for the bottom-up route (the free version). Rent neoprene socks and water shoes in Springdale for around $25-$45 at shops like Zion Outfitter — trust me, your feet will thank you.
Check conditions on AllTrails’ Narrows page before you go. Flash flood risk is real, and the park closes the trail fast when there’s upstream rain. The full bottom-up route is 9.4 miles roundtrip but most people turn around wherever feels right. This earns its 4.9 stars. Easily one of the best hikes in Zion National Park, full stop.
3. Emerald Pools — Best Hike in Zion National Park for Families
Three pools, multiple trail options, and a waterfall. The Lower Emerald Pool trail is just 1.2 miles roundtrip and paved — totally doable with kids or anyone who isn’t looking to suffer. The Upper Pool adds about 3 miles total with some actual elevation, but nothing brutal. I did the full loop in about two hours at a casual pace. Great for a first morning in the park before tackling something bigger.
4. Canyon Overlook — Best Quick Hike in Zion National Park
Only 1 mile roundtrip. Starts right at the east tunnel entrance and delivers canyon views that rival trails three times as long. The last stretch has some chains and exposed ledges, but nothing close to Angels Landing intensity. I did this at 7am before the crowds hit and had the overlook basically to myself. If you’re short on time, this is the move.
5. Observation Point — Best Hike in Zion National Park for Epic Summit Views
This is what I’d call the underrated champion of the best hikes in Zion National Park. You gain 2,148 feet over 8 miles roundtrip — more elevation than Angels Landing, but without the permit scramble. The views from the top actually look DOWN on Angels Landing, which is a fun flex. The trail passes through a slot canyon section about halfway up that most people don’t expect. It gets steep in the last two miles. Your legs will feel it the next morning.
6. Riverside Walk — Best Easy Hike in Zion National Park
This is the paved trail that leads you to the start of The Narrows. Even if you’re not doing the water hike, Riverside Walk is worth it — 2.2 miles roundtrip along the Virgin River with towering canyon walls on both sides. It’s fully paved and wheelchair accessible. One of the best hikes in Zion National Park for people who want big scenery without big effort.
7. Hidden Canyon — Best Moderate Hike in Zion National Park
Hidden Canyon is a 2.4-mile roundtrip trail with 850 feet of elevation gain, ending in a narrow slot canyon tucked behind the main canyon walls. There are chains on the exposed traverse section near the top. Most hikers skip this one in favor of Angels Landing — which means it’s usually quieter. I saw maybe a dozen people on a Saturday morning. That alone makes it one of my favorites on this list of best hikes in Zion National Park.
8. Weeping Rock — Shortest Hike in Zion National Park Worth Doing
Half a mile. Seriously. The trail leads to an alcove where water literally seeps through the canyon walls and drips down year-round, creating hanging gardens of ferns and wildflowers. It sounds gimmicky but it’s genuinely cool. Good filler between bigger hikes. Don’t skip it just because it’s short.
9. Watchman Trail — Best Hike in Zion National Park for Sunsets
This 3.3-mile loop near the south entrance gains about 370 feet and finishes with a mesa overlook facing the Watchman formation. I timed it to hit the overlook around 6pm in late September and the light was unreal — all orange and red against the sandstone. It’s one of the best hikes in Zion National Park that starts right from the visitor center, making it easy to combine with a shuttle stop.
10. Kolob Arch Trail — Best Backcountry Hike in Zion National Park
Most visitors never make it to the Kolob Canyons section of the park — their loss. The Kolob Arch trail is 14.4 miles roundtrip, requires a $15 backcountry permit, and leads to one of the largest natural arches in the world. I camped overnight at La Verkin Creek campsite ($15/night) and had the arch almost completely to myself at sunrise. It’s physically demanding — plan for a full day or an overnight. But for people who’ve already done the main canyon trails, this is the best hike in Zion National Park you haven’t done yet.
Who Each Option Suits for Best Hikes in Zion National Park
First-timers should start with Canyon Overlook and Riverside Walk, then tackle Emerald Pools on day two. If you’re moderately fit and want a challenge, Observation Point over Angels Landing — better views, no permit stress. Families with young kids: Weeping Rock plus Lower Emerald Pools. Solo hikers looking to go deep: Kolob Arch overnight. The best hikes in Zion National Park genuinely cover every type of traveler if you know where to look. Check out our guide to national parks for beginners if you’re newer to park hiking.
My Personal Pick from the Best Hikes in Zion National Park
Observation Point. No lottery, no permit, and you end up higher than everyone who fought for Angels Landing. The slot canyon section mid-trail feels like a bonus hike inside the hike. I’ve recommended it to at least a dozen friends since my last trip. If you want more Southwest planning help, our budget road trip guide has solid Utah routing advice.
FAQs About Best Hikes in Zion National Park
Do I need a permit for the best hikes in Zion National Park?
Angels Landing requires a $6 permit via NPS lottery. The Narrows bottom-up route and most other trails don’t require one beyond park entry ($35/vehicle, or $80 America the Beautiful annual pass).
When is the best time to do the best hikes in Zion National Park?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are ideal. Summer temps in the canyon regularly hit 100°F+. Start before 7am if you’re going in summer.
Are the best hikes in Zion National Park safe for solo hikers?
Most of them, yes — with basic prep. Tell someone your plan, carry at least 3 liters of water per person, wear sun protection, and check trail conditions on AllTrails before heading out. The Narrows requires extra caution around flash flood warnings.
Bookmark this before your trip and drop any questions in the comments — happy to help you plan the right combo for your fitness level and timeline.