What You Need to Know about Angel's Landing
Of all the fascinating things to do in Zion National Park, Angel’s Landing is definitely the most iconic. Renowned for its beauty and notorious for its fear factor, this hike is worth a try for any brave adventurer. Casual hikers may want to read more to decide whether or not the hike is for them.
We intend to help confident hikers plan their trip effectively and show casual hikers what they should expect on the hike so they can decide whether or not it’s for them.
The Angel's Landing Hike
Length: 5.1 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation: 1604 feet
Angel’s Landing is a steep hike with gorgeous outlooks. It’s not the longest hike and it’s not even the most strenuous one in Zion National Park, but the narrow pathways and the exposed height make this one physically exhausting and mentally strenuous for those who are scared of heights.
The last half-mile of the trail (referred to as the “chains”) is the most difficult section, and requires a permit through the
Park Service. This starts at what is called Scout Lookout.
During this portion of the adventure, you’ll be walking on a narrow rock formation that’s only a few feet wide with 1000 foot drops on either side. You have chains to hold onto, but it’s still not for the faint of heart. If you are able to pass it, you’ll be staring in triumph at one of the most beautiful natural views in the entire world.
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Side Note: If you hike all the way to Scout Lookout (which is 99.5% of the hike anyway) and decide the last portion is not for you, that is okay. The vistas at Scout Lookout are just as spectacular as on Angel's Landing (the permitted portion.)
FAQs
Is there an age limit to the hike?
While there is not technically an age limit to the hike, most people will recommend your kids are at least 12. It all depends on how comfortable your kids are on hikes and with heights.
Do I need a reservation to hike in Zion?
You don’t need a reservation to go to Zion National Park, however, you do need a permit to hike Angels' Landing.
Because the hike is so popular, you need to apply for a permit.
There are two options to obtain a permit. The first is the advance lottery. The second is for permits for the next day, which you apply the day before you want to go.
What if I don’t get a permit?
If you don’t receive a permit, however, don’t worry! 99.5% of the hike will get you to what is called Scout Lookout. Scout Lookout has vistas just as spectacular as Angel's Landing. The permitted portion is the last half mile of the hike.
The permitted portion starts at Scout Lookout. There are a bunch of smaller hikes that don’t require permits that you can do also. One of the most popular hikes that people do when they can’t hike Angel’s Landing is Observation Point, a stellar hike with a safer feel.
What is Canyoneering?
Canyoneering is the exploration of a canyon from point A to point B using a range of techniques that include hiking, scrambling, sliding, stemming, chimneying and rappelling. Imagine extreme hiking with a harness, a helmet and appropriate rope systems.
Do I need a Canyoneering Permit?
A few of the major hikes in Zion (such as the "Narrows from the Top Down") require a Canyoneering Permit for all guests.
You can still have a successful trip to Zion National Park without going to
Angel’s Landing. Just ask us and we can show you.
The Narrows (From the Top Down)
Length: 15.5 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation: 1013 feet
Permit Required: Yes
Angel’s Landing and the Narrows (From the Top Down) are both difficult yet spectacular hikes for completely different reasons. The former will take you to a higher elevation at the peak of stony cliffs. The latter will guide you through the canyon, where you’ll trudge through the current of a shallow river.
The Narrows (From the Top Down) is three times as long as Angel’s Landing and less intense from a fear perspective. Rather than viewing the rock formations from the heavens, you’ll adore them from below. There are also Anasazi ruins you can grab a picture of on your journey. If you don’t want to walk uphill constantly and you don’t mind getting wet, this might be the hike for you.
Observation Point
Length: 7 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 2100 feet
While not the same thrilling experience as Angel’s Landing, you can see the same gorgeous scenery at Observation Point. This is a perfect alternative if you weren't able to score at the permit lottery.
This outlook sits at
a higher elevation than Angel’s Landing and you’ll be able to see more of the horizon. It’s a longer, steeper trail, but there’s less exposure to heights and no chain section for essentially the same view.
We hope this guide to Angel’s Landing has been helpful for you. If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out the Tyler Inn at Zion for one of the coziest places to stay near the park.
