(8.0 mile / 12.9 km round-trip). Trailhead is at the Weeping Rock shuttle stop. This is a strenuous climb through Echo Canyon to Observation Point, offering excellent views of Zion Canyon. The trail gives access to other East Rim plateau trails: East Rim, Cable Mountain and Deertrap Mountain.
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(0.4 mile / 0.6 km round-trip). Trailhead is at the Weeping Rock shuttle stop. A short but mildly steep paved trail that ends under a rock alcove with dripping springs. In the spring and summer, hanging gardens of wildflowers decorate the walls. (Update August 2019) Weeping Rock is closed due to rockfall.
(2.2 mile / 3.5 km round-trip). Trailhead is at the Temple of Sinawava at the end of Zion Canyon. An easy paved trail follows the North Fork of the Virgin River along the bottom of a narrow, high-walled canyon. The canyon is lush, with hanging gardens, trees, and wildflowers in spring and summer. A great walk if it's hot: the trail is shady and you can wade in the river. This is also the main access to the Narrows.
(5.4 mile / 8.7 km round-trip). Trailhead is at the Grotto. A steep, strenuous hike up the West Rim Trail to the Angels Landing Trail, which is a half mile / 0.8 km spur. The trail follows a steep, narrow ridge with chains added to provide handholds. This spectacular trail ends at a magnificent overlook of Zion Canyon and the Virgin River. For those in good physical condition and not afraid of heights, this hike is a must. Those afraid of heights can stop and turn around at Scout Overlook where the final vertiginous ascent to Angel's landing starts. The hike to Scout Overlook only is strenuous but less exposed. Permits are required after Scout Lookout (when the chains start). These can be applied for at the NPS website
(2.4 mile / 3.9 km round-trip). Trailhead is at the Weeping Rock shuttle stop. A strenuous climb, with cliff side hiking, that is not for anyone who isn't in good physical condition or is fearful of heights. The trail climbs a steep cliff that offers incredible views of Weeping Rock, Big Bend, Angels Landing and the valley below. Chains have been put into the cliff near the end of the trail to provide handholds. The trail ends at the mouth of a narrow side canyon, which you can explore if you wish. Keep your eyes open for the arch located inside the canyon. (Update August 2019) Hidden Canyon is closed due to massive rockfall.
(10.0 mile / 17.2 km round-trip). Trailhead is at the Grotto. This hike travels north through Refrigerator Canyon, up Walters Wiggles, through the basin referred to as Little Siberia and then finally ascends switchbacks blasted out of the solid rock face to the southern tip of the "West Rim". At one time a cabin existed near a small spring and was used as a remote station for Rangers. The views from the southern end of the West Rim are beautiful indeed, and in the spring months there may be water available, but should be filtered or purified.
(9.4 mile / 15.1 km round-trip). Trailhead is at the Temple of Sinawava at the end of Zion Canyon, via Riverside Walk. This hike is accessible from Zion Canyon, but the full hike begins in East Zion and ends in Zion Canyon. The Narrows is an extremely popular off-trail hike. The route follows the North Fork of the Virgin River, along the floor of a very narrow canyon with impossibly high walls. This trek is one of the park's most amazing destinations. The full hike is a 16-mile (26-km) one-way trip. The Narrows may close at times due to high waters or flash-flood danger. Wading will be required, so wear footwear and leg coverings that can get wet. Water depth in June 2007 was approximately mid-thigh. The river flows right up to the canyon walls for much of the hike, so you can't avoid wading. The water can be fairly cold and the creekbed is rocky, so your favorite pair of old tennis shoes will probably not cut it. Several outfitters in neighboring Springfield will rent you appropriate footwear, usually heavy-soled neoprene boots. Sturdy hiking poles, which can also be rented, will help navigate the river.