Hiking Paradise: Exploring Zion National Park's Breathtaking Canyons

About Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most breathtaking places in the Southwest United States. Lush pine trees are surrounded by the towering red and orange rocks that climb up the side of the enormous canyon. Zion offers challenging hikes with some amazing views as well as many great sightseeing spots around the park. I had seen photographs of Zion’s incredible canyons and views online and knew that I had to go. I outlined a simple plan and set off on a new adventure. 

Camping near Zion National Park

I drove into Zion late at night and knew that there was plenty of free camping available on Kolob Terrace Road. Kolob Terrace Road is only about a 20-minute drive from the entrance to the park. The road is very long and takes you to the highest point near the park with some great views into Zion and around. I knew that I would be up early to explore the park so I didn’t drive too far up the road. 

When I found a suitable spot to set up my tent for the next few hours I pulled over and turned off my headlights. It was nearly pitch-black around me, thankfully the incredible light from the stars lit up my surroundings. One of the highlights of this trip was definitely the star gazing. There is very little light pollution at Zion and an extremely clear view of the Milky Way is visible by eye. If you have the flexibility and time, I would recommend looking into when the new moon is and visit around that time in order to really get an amazing view of the night sky.

Preparing for Angels Landing Hike

I woke up early the next morning and eagerly drove to the park entrance. I arrived around 5:30 in the morning and there was nobody working at the entrance so I got in for free! I would highly suggest getting up early to get into the park for free and watch the sunrise. It is also a lot cooler in the morning which can be beneficial if you are planning on going on a longer hike. To get into the back part of the park you must purchase a shuttle ticket which can be done online. The tickets sell out pretty early in advance but there are a few that go on sale the morning before. I went onto the website the day before I left and was easily able to secure a shuttle ticket, I wouldn’t bank on it but generally, you can get a ticket the day before. They are also only $1 for unlimited riding for the day. 

*Updated - You now need permits to hike Angels Landing.

About The Hike

My prior research for the trip had shown some pictures that were taken from the Angels Landing hike. It was a stunning view of green and red contrasting each other throughout the canyon. I hopped on the shuttle and waited for my stop at the trail head. I have quite a bit of experience hiking and knew that this hike was going to be tough but boy did I underestimate it. The amount of rapid elevation changes definitely got to me quick and I had to stop and take some breaks. The hike is only about four miles in distance round trip but the elevation climb is no joke. I would suggest taking at least a gallon of water, sunscreen, and some snacks. There are water fountains at the shuttle stops but if you run out on the trail you’re out of luck. The hike is grueling but well worth the view. It really is a surreal experience.  

Angels landing is one of the most well-known and dangerous hikes in the country. The main part of the hike takes you up to scout lookout where there are incredible views in all directions. Unfortunately, the angels landing chain link part of the hike was closed due to COVID-19. Nevertheless, the view from the top of scout lookout was amazing. It is a heavily trafficked hike so I would recommend going earlier in the morning to beat the crowd and the heat. There is nothing like having an amazing view and place all to yourself. When I had gotten to the top of the trail I continued along the rim of the canyon for about another two miles. This part is optional but offers lots of great views and different angels to look down into the canyon.

Other Hikes In Zion

There are many great trails to explore throughout Zion. Another world-famous spot is the narrows which is the last stop the shuttle gets off on. I did not have the time, energy or equipment to do this next hike but I would recommend it to anyone who is around for a few days. It Is a very crowded place but if you hike through the canyon for a while the amount of people will dwindle down, as most people just go to the start of the trail. Bring some sort of water shoes or an extra pair and be prepared to get wet! The Watchman trail is also a great hike to go on that is easier than the other two and offers great views and pictures. 

More Camping near Zion

After exploring the park for the day, I drove back up Kolob Terrace Road, which has lots of great views of the park and its surroundings. If you drive up the road, you will eventually reach a lookout point that has views farther than the eye can see. It is a nice isolated and relaxing spot. There are many turnoffs and places along Kolob Terrace Road, where you can camp. I would recommend one of the first turnoffs because it is a lot closer to the park. North Creek is the name of the area where I pulled off to camp. There were others there camping around but they were kind and didn’t cause me any disturbance.

Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

On my final day at Zion, I woke up before the sun and headed to the Overlook trail. I was up early enough to get into the park without needing to pay. I had to take a headlamp with me to see but the hike was pretty flat and only about a mile out. This spot provides a great overlook of the canyon and amazing views of the light from the early morning sun shining off of the red rocks. 

Conclusion

Overall, Zion National Park was a blast! There is plenty to do in the park and even in the small town nearby. I would recommend staying for at least two days in order to do a couple of the more strenuous and longer hikes that offer the best views. There are still plenty of easier hikes that offer great views as well though. You can camp in the park but there is also plenty of free camping nearby. Zion definitely lives up to its expectations and is on my list to go back and adventure more!