One of the most notorious hikes in the National Park system for adding in chains for safety and requires a lot of scrambling over boulders is Angle's Landing in Zion National Park. The hike received its name by a minister in the 20's for being so impressed with its immense height and scale that he thought only angels could land on it. Hence the name, Angel's Landing.
Because of the crowds Zion has been requiring reservations during peak season over the last few years which typically begins in May. I visited in October at the end of busy season to avoid parking issues and trails being overcrowded. This also means I didn't require a reservation. The weather is still beautiful, a few more layers might be required, but it's a good way to see the park without too many delays.
Parking & Getting to the Trailheads
Zion is set up different from a lot of national parks to help with traffic flow. There is parking along the road that leads up to the national park, as well as some side lots with higher rates for parking than the meters on the street. Early arrivers can park in the Zion lot without charge. There is a rental hut, a brewery, and some shops attached to the park, outside of the entrance to the visitor center.
Throughout the year the bus system is how hikers get transported between areas. There are no parking spots along the road where the trailheads are. There are accommodations that lie within the park that allow car access if your staying the night there. Otherwise be prepared to sit on a bus and wait in line to get to the trails. Some of the stops are close enough together that you can hike between them.
Camping Outside of Zion
If you are passing through or prefer to stay for free while you camp there is BLM land outside of Zion along Highway 9. There are a few other options along this road that can be an easy place to set up camp that is less than a 30 minute drive to the park entrance.
Of course there are hotels along the road to book accommodations at and a campground next to the visitor center area if you would like to make reservations.
Weather & What to Bring
Desert temperatures can be tricky. Warm during the day and cool at night. Ideally a few layers are best to stay cool during the day and warmer when the sun goes down. Rain is rare and tree coverage is very limited. Sun protection is important. Bring lots of water and electrolytes to help.
During October it is warm enough in the day to get away with performance pants and a t-shirt. I carried an extra layer in the morning for sitting on the bus. Hiking the slots in the water was not too cold. I was able to wear shorts and a midlayer. Have water shoes if you expect to do any water hikes.
Angel's Landing
If you are afraid of heights this hike is not for you. If you are not good with scrambling over boulders and climbing around people sometimes, this hike is not for you. I would say the difficulty is mostly in have to boulder through sections of the trail and have to go through some narrow sections. The hike to the trail end from my experience did not take as long as expected. I went early in the morning so I was within the first 50 people to start the hike.
The hike back takes the longest because once more people join the trail there is a bit of waiting when going up and down sections that cant only be done single file. This is where the amount of time to do the hike will vary. I recommend starting earlier before the heat of the day in the warmer months so the hike is less grueling.
The biggest push on elevation is climbing up the last ridge to the top. This is the narrowest part of the trail. There are chains all along this section to lend a helping hand in getting up some of the big boulders.
The view from the top of Angel's Landing is nothing but breathtaking especially when the sun hits the orange dusted rock formations.
Tip: Hands free is the best way to go on this hike. I wear a hydration pack on all of my hikes, but I definitely recommend for this hike to not carry any bottles or phones. You will need your hands to climb.
Riverside Walk Trailhead
Hiking the Narrows or the section called "The Subway" require a permit. The Riverside Walk Trial however does not require this. The beginning section of the trail is a dirt path leading to the river. It will dead-end and this is where the hike will continue.
I would account for needing more time to hike this trail since it is in water and will be slower. There are sections that are dry, some that will be ankle keep in water, and the highest it got for me was to my waist in one section.
Tip: Have a waterproof case or bag to hold valuables as the water levels are not always consistent and change. It could be low the entire hike or be very deep in some sections with no way to climb around it.
Trekking Poles can be helpful for extra balance and navigating the water when it is deeper. The water is murky in the deeper sections, but mostly clear in ankle to shin deep water making it easy to find the stones to step on. The rental store outside of the park entrance has waterproof boots and walking sticks specifically for this hike if you think some extra help will benefit your experience.
Going into a slot canyon always check the weather and see what the warning level for flash floods are. They will close the trailhead for the day if there is any fluctuations in storm warnings.
This is a super fun hike and definitely worth the challenge. The best part is you can turn around when you've had enough. This hike can also get a little crowded and requires patience going through narrow sections. If you have plenty of time in the park, starting the day with the top priority hike is the best approach. Less people to deal with.
Other locations I stopped at while in Zion were the Emerald Pools. The bus stop at this trailhead has a large lawn to eat lunch at and relax. There is some shade which is great for a break if you plan to stay out all day.
Food Recommendations
I don't usually stop and eat at restaurants when I go camping, but because of how this national park is set up, its hard not to want a gold drink and a hot meal made for you.
Bit & Spur Restaurant and Saloon
Zion Canyon Brew Pub
Although the surrounding area of Zion has become very urban and developed I still love this National Park. It supplies a few extra amenities that can be very pleasant after a long day in the hot desert sun!
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