The best walks and hikes in the Markagunt Plateau

The Angels Landing Trail is a truly unique experience, taking you from the lush Virgin River banks through the cool confines of Refrigerator Canyon, then up the ingeniously carved Walter's Wiggles. The final push along the narrow, chain-assisted Angels Landing Spine offers an exhilarating, exposed scramble to a summit with unmatched panoramic views of Zion Canyon. It's a difficult 2.2-mile (3.6 km) hike with 1274 feet (388 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 51 minutes, best suited for experienced hikers without a fear of heights.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to the Angels Landing permit system; you'll need to secure a permit through an online lottery to access the chains section beyond Scout Lookout. The trail is accessed via the Zion National Park shuttle, which drops you at The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6). Be aware that slippery conditions can make this already challenging route even more dangerous, so check the weather before you go.

What makes Angels Landing so notable is its blend of historical engineering, like the 1926 trail construction, and the sheer mental and physical challenge it presents. The iconic final half-mile along the knife-edge ridge, holding onto fixed chains, provides an unparalleled sense of adventure and exposure, making it a true bucket-list hike for many visitors to Zion National Park.

The Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trail Loop offers a captivating journey through Zion's diverse landscapes, transitioning from expansive canyon views to lush, water-fed oases. You'll experience the unique sensation of walking behind waterfalls at the Lower Emerald Pool and discover serene reflection pools on your way to the dramatic Upper Emerald Pool, all while enjoying panoramic vistas of Zion Canyon from the Kayenta Trail. This easy 3.0-mile (4.9 km) hike, with 354 feet (108 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hours and 23 minutes, making it an accessible option for experiencing some of the park's most iconic natural features.

To access this popular route, you'll typically start from the Grotto shuttle stop (Stop 6) and connect to the Kayenta Trail. Be aware that a bridge closure as of May 2023 means the Kayenta Trail is currently the main way to reach the pools, so expect it to be busy, especially during peak times. Planning your visit for spring or after a good rain can offer the most spectacular views of the waterfalls and lush greenery.

This trail system is notable for showcasing three distinct desert oases, each with its own character, from the vibrant Lower Pool to the cliff-framed Upper Pool. The opportunity to walk under a weeping rock wall at the Lower Emerald Pool is a particularly memorable feature. Keep an eye out for maidenhair ferns clinging to the red rock walls and the chance to spot local wildlife like deer, adding to the immersive natural experience.

The Sand Bench and Kayenta Trail offers an easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hiking experience in Zion National Park, featuring diverse terrain and rewarding views with just 223 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 17 minutes. You'll traverse the unique, sandy Sand Bench Trail, which provides panoramic vistas of the "Court of the Patriarchs" and the Virgin River, before connecting to the firmer Kayenta Trail with its rock stairs and continuous canyon views. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a less strenuous way to explore Zion's iconic scenery.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Sand Bench Trail is shared with horseback riders, so you might encounter horses and their waste. The route is largely exposed, so pack ample water, especially during summer. The Kayenta Trail is a popular connector to the Emerald Pools, offering a scenic and often less crowded alternative, but remember that dogs are not allowed on this section.

This trail is notable for its geological significance, particularly the Sand Bench section which sits atop ancient landslide debris from The Sentinel mountain. It provides a different perspective of Zion Canyon compared to more direct routes, blending the unique sandy environment with the more traditional rocky paths. It's a great choice if you're seeking less crowded hikes while still experiencing some of Zion's most beloved viewpoints.

The East Mesa Trail offers a unique journey through a quiet, forested mesa, leading to one of Zion's most spectacular overlooks. You'll traverse a well-worn old jeep trail, meandering through a mixed forest of Juniper, Piñon, and Ponderosa Pine, enjoying a subtle and peaceful atmosphere. The true highlight is the panoramic Observation Point View of Zion Canyon, where you'll gaze upon Angels Landing, Cable Mountain, and The Great White Throne from thousands of feet above.

Accessing the trailhead can be a bit of an adventure, as it requires driving on remote dirt roads that are often rough and can become muddy or icy after rain or snow; a high-clearance or 4WD vehicle is frequently needed. This moderate hike covers 6.9 miles (11.2 km) with 707 feet (215 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 8 minutes. It's considered suitable for families comfortable with longer distances, as the difficulty stems more from length than steepness.

This trail is particularly notable as the primary route to Observation Point since the closure of the original trail from Weeping Rock. It often sees fewer visitors than other popular Zion trails, providing a more solitary experience. The trail's location on the upper east side of the park also means temperatures can be cooler than in the main canyon during hotter months, making it a pleasant escape.

The Canyon Overlook Trail offers a spectacular journey through Zion National Park's unique geology, winding over rocky terrain and slickrock with sections carved directly into sandstone walls. You'll pass a cool, fern-filled alcove before reaching the grand finale: the Canyon Overlook Viewpoint, where you can gaze upon the majestic Towers of the Virgin and Bridge Mountain. This easy 0.9-mile (1.5 km) hike, with only 95 feet (29 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic option for a quick, rewarding adventure, typically taking just 24 minutes.

Planning your visit to this popular trail requires a bit of strategy, as parking is very limited and fills up fast, especially if you're hoping to catch a sunrise or sunset. Unlike many other Zion trails, you can drive directly to the trailhead, bypassing the shuttle system. While short, the trail's rocky and uneven surfaces mean sturdy footwear is recommended, and always bring water, particularly in the warmer months.

This trail is renowned for its exceptional "effort-to-reward" ratio, delivering some of Zion's most iconic views without the strenuous climb of longer routes. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like bighorn sheep and chipmunks along the way. The route also offers unique perspectives of Highway 9 winding below and the windows carved into the Mount Carmel Tunnel, making it a standout experience on the park's east side.