Awesome Trails to Hike in Zion

Ever since I first visited Zion in the winter when it was covered in snow, I knew I wanted to come back to hike in the Fall after the leaves turn beautiful shades of red and orange. Last fall we finally made it back, and my husband and children joined me in hiking to my heart’s content. Following are the trails we hiked, as well as some of the pictures from the trail.  There is a mandatory shuttle that runs most of the year, so I’ve listed the shuttle stop for each trail as well. The shuttle map can be accessed at this link. We did the first three trails on the first day, getting into the park as the sun was rising.

1) Scout Lookout Trail (hard) - 4 miles - Shuttle Stop: Grotto (6)

This trail is extremely beautiful, but it is very steep and has several switchbacks. A series of these switchbacks is called Walter's Wiggles. My family (including the 4 year old) was able to make it to the top in a couple of hours. I advise taking enough water and a packed lunch to eat when you get to the top. There is a nice flat area where groups split into those attempting Angel’s Landing and those staying back and resting.

View from Scout Landing

Walter's Wiggles on Scout Landing

My husband and I had decided not to take the kids on Angel’s Landing, but we took turns checking it out on our own. It’s definitely a hike for those who can handle heights and steep drop offs on both sides. The majority of the trail requires holding onto a chain to ensure not falling hundreds of feet below.

Sign at Angel's Landing

Angel's Landing Trail

2)  The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk (easy) - 1.8 miles - Shuttle Stop: Temple of Sinawava (9)

This trail is very easy, mostly paved and stroller friendly—There are a few wet and sandy patches on the trail, but or the most part it was easy to push the stroller. We did this trail after Scout Lookout so my 4 year old could rest in the stroller. The rest of us just strolled along on the trail enjoying the beautiful scenery by the river. Walking beside the river is soothing and there are some livings walls due to the wetness on the rocks. Although this trail connects to the Narrows, we turned back when we reached the Narrows, because we didn’t want to the kids on it this time. If you are are planning on hiking the narrows from here, make sure you have your gear with you, because there are no outfitters once you get to the Narrows.

Beautiful Fall Colors

Living Wall along Riverside Walk

3) Emerald Pools Trail - Lower (easy) 1.3 miles - Shuttle Stop: Zion Lodge (6)

Lower Emerald Pools Trail

Deer by the trail!

This trail is relatively easy but extremely beautiful. We saw a deer right by the trail and stopped to watch it. We used the stroller for the majority of it, but the 4 year old walked near the end of it because the path was too wet, and there were tiny waterfalls.

Near the End of the Lower
Emerald Pools Trail

Lower Emerald Pool

4) Zion Canyon Overlook Trail (moderate) 1 mile - Zion-Mt. Carmel Hwy - East Side Tunnel

Although this trail is relatively easy and short to hike, there are extremely steep drop offs. I would not recommend it for those uncomfortable with heights, but the views are beautiful. I also had to hold my daughter’s hand the entire time. There were places where the trial was so narrow that we had to walk sideways. We hiked this trail in the morning on the way to Bryce since there are no shuttles stop at this trail. From the south entrance of the park, continue about 7.5 miles on SR-9. There will be several switchbacks and a tunnel at the end of which will be a small parking lot. Park at this parking lot and cross the street to the trailhead.

Zion Canyon Overlook

Zion Canyon Overlook