16 Great Zion Hikes: Best Hikes In Zion National Park Apkmusk

Some of the best hikes in Zion National Park include famous Utah trails like Angels Landing, The Narrows, and Observation Point, but there are also some short and easy Zion hikes with nice views and not too many people.

Founded in 1919, Zion was Utah’s first national park, and today it’s ranked as one of the most popular national parks in the United States. There’s a good reason for that, because the scenery in Zion National Park is extraordinary. This is definitely one for the bucket list!

Among other things, Zion National Park is home to one of the world’s biggest slot canyons (The Narrows), one of the longest natural arches (Kolob Arch), and arguably one of the most exciting day hikes in the world (Angels Landing).

We’ve visited this special park many times over the years, and I finally wrote up this list of the best hikes in Zion National Park. This isn’t a complete list of every nice hiking trail in the park, but these are just some of the very best Zion hikes in my opinion!

Best Hikes In Zion National Park

1. Angels Landing Hike

I have to start with Angels Landing, because it really is the king of Zion hikes. If you only do one hike in Utah and the national parks, make it this one.

It’s an epic and scary trail that takes you up the side of a steep sandstone mountain, with chains to grab onto for safety, and amazing views of Zion National Park surrounding you on all sides. Permits are required since 2022.

The Angels Landing chain section is especially noted for being hair-raising and hazardous, and there have been a number of falling deaths on this hike over the years, although it’s plenty safe if you stick to the trail.

At times, the trail will only be a few feet wide, and you’ll have to hug the side of the mountain. Not all of this section has chains, but the most sketchy parts do for your safety.

Angels Landing — one of the best Zion hikes!

I wouldn’t say the Angels Landing trail is for everyone, but if you enjoy adventure, photography, and a good adrenaline rush, then definitely add it to your bucket list!

The final view at Angels Landing gives you a 360 degree panorama of Zion Canyon, along with the tiny roads and shuttle buses below, and you can even look down at the gigantic peak you just climbed.

It’s easily one of the best hikes in Zion National Park, but it’s also one of my favorite views on any hike we’ve ever done in our travels around the world.

Apkmusk