Highlight • Viewpoint
Bench
Hiking
4.4
(24)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Zion National Park
Tips
December 25, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Bench
5.0
(32)
433
hikers
3.60km
01:51
390m
50m
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.
5.0
(3)
42
hikers
23.6km
07:33
380m
1,350m
The West Rim Trail (Top-Down) is a truly rewarding, albeit difficult, point-to-point hike that plunges you into the heart of Zion's grandeur. Starting in high alpine forests, the trail gradually reveals increasingly dramatic vistas, culminating in mind-blowing cliff views as you descend into Zion Canyon. You'll pass iconic landmarks like Scout Lookout, offering eagle-eye views of Angels Landing, and navigate the famous Walter's Wiggles switchbacks carved into the sheer rock face.
Planning for this 14.7-mile (23.6 km) adventure, which involves 1248 feet (380 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 7 hours and 33 minutes, requires careful logistics. As a top-down route, you'll start at Lava Point and finish at The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6), necessitating a shuttle or car spot. Water sources like Sawmill Spring and Cabin Spring are available, but always filter or treat water. The trail is best hiked from spring through fall, though early spring can still see snow at higher elevations.
What makes the West Rim Trail (Top-Down) so special is its unique perspective on Zion, offering a less crowded experience in its upper sections compared to the main canyon. The geological and ecological diversity is remarkable, transitioning from high plateau forests to deep canyon formations. This route is often considered one of Zion's most breathtaking backpacking options, with designated campsites available for those who wish to turn it into a multi-day trip (permits required).
4.7
(6)
29
hikers
7.69km
03:27
820m
90m
The West Rim Trail from The Grotto offers a moderate hiking experience, leading you on a 4.8-mile (7.7 km) journey through Zion Canyon's dramatic scenery. You will gain 2690 feet (820 metres) in elevation over an estimated 3 hours and 26 minutes, making it a significant uphill climb. As you ascend, the trail winds through the cool shade of Refrigerator Canyon before tackling the famous Walter's Wiggles, a series of 21 switchbacks that deliver you to increasingly panoramic views of iconic formations like Angels Landing and the Great White Throne.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as you can easily access the trailhead via the Zion Canyon Shuttle system, meaning you won't need private transportation. Be sure to carry plenty of water, as sources are limited along the route, and prepare for exposed sections, especially if you hike during the summer months. Keep in mind that higher elevations can also feature snow and ice during certain seasons, so check conditions before you go.
This trail is notable for its continuous ascent, providing a unique perspective of Zion Canyon's grandeur as you climb higher. It offers a rewarding challenge with stunning vistas that unfold with every step, showcasing the park's geological wonders. The route provides a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the canyon's natural environment and appreciate its scale from an elevated vantage point.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,300 m
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Sunday 12 July
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Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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