Zion National Park

Angels Landing is Zion's signature thrill — a 5.4-mile round trip ascending 1,500 feet to a narrow ridge with chain-assisted scrambling and 1,000-foot drops on both sides. A permit lottery system now manages access. For a different kind of challenge, The Narrows wades upstream through the Virgin River between 1,000-foot walls, with no trail — the river IS the trail. Rent canyoneering boots and a walking stick in Springdale for grip on the slippery river rocks. The Bottom-Up day hike can go 5–9 miles round trip; the Top-Down through-hike requires a permit and takes 1–2 days. Check water flow levels before committing — the Narrows closes when flow exceeds 150 CFS.

Observation Point rewards the effort of an 8-mile round trip with the best single overlook in Zion — a bird's-eye view of Angels Landing, the canyon floor, and the Watchman spire. Canyon Overlook Trail offers stunning views for just a 1-mile round trip from the east side of the tunnel. Emerald Pools combines three pools at increasing difficulty levels, while the Watchman Trail provides a sunset viewpoint above the visitor center. Taylor Creek Trail in the Kolob Canyons section offers a 5-mile round trip to a historic cabin and double arch, far from the crowds of Zion Canyon.

From March through November, private vehicles are not allowed in Zion Canyon — the free shuttle system is the only way to access trailheads from the visitor center to the Temple of Sinawava. Shuttles run every 5–10 minutes during peak hours from early morning through late evening. The scenic drive through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel (highway 9) remains open to private vehicles year-round, connecting the south and east entrances with dramatic switchbacks and the famous tunnel. Large vehicles may need escort through the tunnel — check NPS.gov for current restrictions.