Angels Landing Hike in Zion National Park

Zion National Park is known for its breathtaking landscapes, and the Angels Landing hike is arguably one of its most iconic experiences. If you’re up for a challenge with rewarding views, this hike will leave you in awe. Today, I had the privilege of embarking on this journey, catching the first bus at 7 AM to beat the crowds and the desert heat. The early start, coupled with the sense of adventure, made for an unforgettable experience.

The Start of the Day: Getting the First Bus

Arriving early at Zion’s visitor center ensured that I could grab the first shuttle bus to the trailhead. Zion National Park operates a shuttle system to preserve the environment and manage the influx of visitors, and during peak times, it’s essential to plan ahead. Catching the first bus at 7 AM is ideal for a few reasons:

• Beat the crowds: By starting early, I could hike in relative peace without feeling like I was part of a larger crowd, which is often the case later in the day. This was much more noticeable on the descent, climbing down past other hikers of all skills levels was slow going as the crowds grew into the day.
• Cooler temperatures: Zion’s desert heat can be oppressive, especially during the summer months. Early mornings offer cooler, more comfortable temperatures for the ascent.
• More time to explore: Starting the day early leaves plenty of time for other hikes, activities, or simply relaxing after the challenge.

The shuttle dropped me off at the Grotto, the starting point for Angels Landing, which sits at an elevation of about 4,300 feet (1,310 meters). From here, the trail climbs approximately 1,488 feet (454 meters) to the summit of Angels Landing, which stands at an impressive 5,790 feet (1,765 meters) above sea level.

The Angels Landing Trail: A Test of Endurance and Thrill

The trail itself is 5.4 miles round-trip, and while the total elevation gain is nearly 1,500 feet, the hike challenges you with a mix of steep switchbacks, narrow paths, and sheer drops. Here’s what you can expect along the trail:

• Initial climb: The first portion of the trail consists of several switchbacks, gradually climbing upwards. After hiking along the West Rim Trail, you’ll reach Refrigerator Canyon, a cool, shaded section that provides a welcome break from the sun. This section ascends gently until you reach the base of Walters Wiggles.
• Walters Wiggles: A series of 21 tight switchbacks, which mark a significant gain in altitude, taking you to Scout Lookout. By the time you reach Scout Lookout, you’ve climbed approximately 1,000 feet (305 meters).
• Scout Lookout: Sitting at around 5,400 feet (1,646 meters), Scout Lookout offers stunning views of Zion Canyon and a place to rest. From here, hikers without the permit to continue to Angels Landing must turn back, as this is now a controlled area. For those continuing, this is where the adrenaline kicks in.
• The last stretch: The final part of the trail, after Scout Lookout, is what gives Angels Landing its reputation. A narrow ridge with chain rails bolted into the rock for support leads you to the summit. For many, this part is the most thrilling but can also be nerve-wracking due to the steep, sheer drop-offs of over 1,000 feet (305 meters) on either side.

Despite the challenging nature of this hike, the sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit is indescribable. The panoramic views of Zion Canyon are worth every step, and the adrenaline rush of making it safely to the top is unforgettable.

Feeding Chipmunks at the Summit: A Serene Moment

At the summit, standing at 5,790 feet (1,765 meters), I took a moment to soak in the stunning views, surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and deep valleys. But the highlight of reaching the top wasn’t just the view—it was the unexpected company of Zion’s chipmunks. These little creatures are famously curious and quite fearless when it comes to getting close to hikers.I had brought along some granola, and while I rested, the chipmunks seemed to know it was snack time. Carefully, I fed them tiny bits of granola. It was a serene and charming moment, sharing the summit with these friendly critters. Watching them scurry about with the backdrop of Zion’s immense beauty added a lighthearted touch to what had been a rigorous hike.While feeding wildlife is generally discouraged in national parks, this moment felt magical. Zion’s chipmunks, accustomed to human presence, provide an endearing contrast to the ruggedness of the landscape. However, always be mindful and considerate of park rules, as the health and safety of the animals should remain a priority.

The Descent: A Different Perspective

Hiking back down the trail after spending time at the summit provided an entirely different perspective. With the sun higher in the sky, the canyon walls reflected warm hues of red, orange, and pink. The trail was becoming more crowded, which made me even more appreciative of my early start. The descent felt faster but still required concentration, especially on the narrow, chain-assisted sections.As I made my way back to the Grotto shuttle stop, I couldn’t help but reflect on the beauty of Zion and the personal achievement of conquering Angels Landing. The combination of awe-inspiring views, the physical challenge, and the simple joy of feeding the chipmunks made this day one for the memory books.

Statistics and Important Facts About Angels Landing

• Elevation at trailhead: 4,300 feet (1,310 meters)
• Elevation at Angels Landing summit: 5,790 feet (1,765 meters)
• Total elevation gain: 1,488 feet (454 meters)
• Total hike distance: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) round-trip
• Sheer drops: Over 1,000 feet (305 meters) at various points along the final stretch
• Chain-assisted sections: The final 0.5 miles (0.8 km) involve narrow, exposed ridges with chains for support
• Number of deaths: Since 2004, at least 14 people have tragically fallen to their deaths while attempting the hike
• Views from the summit: Panoramic views of Zion Canyon, the Virgin River, and the massive sandstone formations that characterize the park
• Reservation requirement: A permit is now required to hike beyond Scout Lookout due to the trail’s popularity and safety concerns

Tips for Hiking Angels Landing

If you’re planning your own Angels Landing adventure, here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike:

• Get an early start: Catch the first shuttle bus to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
• Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water. Zion’s dry desert climate can lead to dehydration quickly.
• Wear appropriate footwear: The rocky and sometimes slippery terrain requires good hiking shoes with grip.
• Use the chains for safety: On the narrow ridge, always hold on to the chains. It’s better to be safe than sorry on this exposed section.
• Bring snacks: Granola, trail mix, or energy bars are great for recharging at the summit. Just remember to pack out all trash.
• Mind the weather: Check the weather forecast before starting. Rain can make the trail dangerous, especially on the narrow ridge.
• Permits required: As of recent changes, hiking Angels Landing now requires a permit, so ensure you’ve secured one before heading out.

Zion National Park: More Than Just Angels Landing

Zion National Park offers more than just the Angels Landing hike. While this trail is a bucket-list item for many, there are plenty of other hikes and sites worth exploring:

• The Narrows: A unique hike through the Virgin River, where the canyon walls rise dramatically on either side.
• Observation Point: A higher and arguably more panoramic view than Angels Landing, without the extreme exposure to drop-offs.
• Emerald Pools: A family-friendly trail with beautiful pools and waterfalls.
• Kolob Canyons: A less-crowded area of the park with stunning red rock formations and solitude.

My hike up Angels Landing was an experience that truly tested my physical limits and rewarded me with some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever seen. Zion National Park’s diverse landscapes, combined with the adrenaline-pumping hike, create memories that will last a lifetime.Catching that 7 AM shuttle bus was one of the best decisions I made. The peace of the morning, the thrill of the ascent, and the surprise of sharing granola with chipmunks at the summit made for a perfect day. If you’re up for the challenge, hiking Angels Landing should be on every adventurer’s list when visiting Zion National Park.