The Angels Landing Trail is a technical route in Zion National Park with steep drop-offs and very narrow sections. The incredible views of Zion Canyon make this hike the most popular in Zion.

You'll start by parking at The Grotto Trailhead or taking the West Rim Shuttle to The Grotto shuttle stop. You'll cross a bridge over the Virgin River onto the West Rim Trail. The first few miles. of this route along the West Rim Trail are on a paved path. Most of the path is sunny, but Refrigerator Canyon offers shade and often a cool breeze.

Eventually, you’ll come to Walter's Wiggles, a set of 21 switchbacks that take their name from Walter Ruesch, Zion National Park’s first superintendent. The section of the route follows a steep and narrow ridge from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing itself, a fantastic observation point 1500 feet above Zion Canyon. Anchored support chains are attached along some sections of the sheer cliff to assist your way up and down the carved steps. You are rewarded with an excellent view of the main canyon at the top.

Heads up! It is a good idea to avoid standing near the edge at all times and avoid hiking this trail when it is wet, storming, or high winds are present. The route exposes hikers to steep drop-offs along cliff edges. You'll want to budget extra time for this route due to its technical sections. Although this is a popular hike all year round, the best time to hike this route is during the spring and fall. Summer afternoons can be dangerously hot, and winter weather conditions can cause the trail to be icy. The parking lot here fills up quickly so be sure to arrive early.

• Start of the Trail
  Head over the bridge to the trailhead.
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• River Access
  This short footpath leads off the main trail towards the river.
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• First set of Switchbacks
  In the morning, these switchbacks have no shade.
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• Second set of switchbacks
  Also known as Walter's Wiggles, this set of 21 steep switchbacks is a challenging climb for any hiker.
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• Scout Lookout, Restrooms and Decision Point
  For those not comfortable completing the final portion of the hike, including extremely narrow trails and steep drop-offs, this is a good spot to turn around and begin your trip back.
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• Chains section
  This last half mile section of the trail is almost entirely on skinny trails with steep drop-offs on either side. There are chains to steady yourself. In the winter, this is especially dangerous and gloves are recommended to hold onto the cold chain.
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• Angels Landing
  At this point you have 360 degree views of the valley. This is the end of the trail. There will likely be many people here enjoying the view before heading back down.
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In 1997 the shuttle system was established to eliminate traffic and parking problems & protect vegetation. If you arrive early enough there is parking near the entrance to the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive on both sides of the bridge.

Updated seasonal shuttle information can be found at the links below:
http://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/shuttle-system.htmhttp://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/hours.htm

Zion National Park Springdale, UT 84767-1099 Visitor Information 1-435-772-3256