A cool breeze blows through the shady canyon leading to its name - Refrigerator Canyon. The path turns toward a gap between Angels Landing and Cathedral Mountain. Just over one mile, hikers get a reprieve from the constant, steep grade of the West Rim Trail and the blazing heat of the full sun. A few ambitious trees are tenaciously growing in cracks high on the sheer cliff, adding bits of green between sections of rock that is stained by iron oxide and desert varnish. Much of the path hugs the side of the sun baked mountain offering an outstanding vista below of a shimmering river, billowy cottonwood trees and a rich collection of stone. It's a steady 2 mile uphill trek as the trail ascends a series of switchbacks up the steep West Rim Trail. This busy path begins by traveling through a riparian woodland of cottonwood, pinyon pines and junipers. On the other side of the bridge, take the north (right) fork to the West Rim Trail. Head toward the footbridge that passes over the North Fork of the Virgin River. It's where city traffic is absent and the skies are bright and clean.įrom the Grotto Picnic area, cross the Zion Canyon Road. Lodging and services are available on the gorgeous east side of Zion National Park, where guests are close to Zion National Park (12 miles), Bryce Canyon National Park (60 miles), Cedar Breaks National Monument (45 miles), Coral Pink Sand Dunes (12 miles), and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon (85 miles). The fin of Angels Landing and the zigzagging path of Walter's Wiggles offer daring paths for this trail. It's a steady 2-mile uphill trek as the trail ascends a series of switchbacks up the steep West Rim Trail. Restrooms: Scout Lookout (when working) at the Angels Landing junction and at the Grotto Picnic area.įrom the Grotto Picnic area, cross the Zion Canyon Road. The rest of the year, when the shuttles are not operating, drive into the canyon and park at the Grotto.īest Season: March to October, but can be hiked year-round as long as the trail if free of ice and snow.Įlevation Gain: Long steady climb. Park at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center to ride the shuttle and get off at the Grotto shuttle stop. Private cars are allowed in Zion Canyon the rest of the year. Trail Access: Usually from April 1st until October 30th Zion Canyon is accessed via the shuttle. Trailhead: Grotto picnic area in Zion Canyon Avoid standing near the edge at all times! Do not hike the trail when it is wet, storming, or when high winds are present. Not suggested for children or those with a fear of heights. Sheer cliffs at high elevations while hiking on a narrow fin. Anchored support chains are attached along some sections of the sheer fin. The last half-mile is across a narrow sandstone ridge. Make sure to allow time to be off the trail by dark if starting late in the day. Most of the path is sunny, but Refrigerator Canyon offers shade and often a cool breeze. Trail Conditions: The first 2-miles are paved and well-maintained. Map: Trail Map - Backcountry Map - Overview MapĮquipment: Map to locate the landmarks surrounding Angels Landing.ĭifficulty: Strenuous uphill hike, but hiking is on a well maintained trail. The towering monolith is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Southwest. Climbers scale its big wall hikers pull themselves up by chains and sightseers stand in awe at its stunning nobility. One would think that this narrow ridge with deep chasms on each of its flanks would allure only the most intrepid of hikers. Rarely is such an intimidating path so frequented by hikers. The trail culminates at a lofty perch, boasting magnificent views in every direction. Zion's pride and joy runs along a narrow rock fin with dizzying drop-offs on both sides. The Angels Landing Trail is one of the most famous and thrilling hikes in the national park system. Zion National Park Lodging Park Info Vacation Weather Photos Hike SR-9 Slots Backpack Camping
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