Hike Angels Landing

Hike angels landing - It's out of this world

Angels Landing is one of the most iconic hikes in the United States. It stands an impressive 1,488 feet above the canyon floor. In 1926, Walter Ruesch, acting superintendent of the park, supervised construction of the ambitious trail. Only hand tools were used to carve the trail up the rock - all the way across the spine to the top of Angels Landing. It offers unparalleled panoramic views of Zion Canyon and isn't a hike for the faint of heart.

As of 2023, Zion National Park requires Angels Landing permits to hike the trail. They are issued by lottery through the www.recreation.gov website. Keep in mind, you do not need a permit to hike to Scout Lookout; this the spot just before the trail heads out the ridge-line 1/2 mile to Angels Landing.

Didn't get a permit, or don't want to worry about the hassle of trying to get one? Never fear, we are one of the few authorized permit holders for this world-renowned hike.

Angels Landing Guided tOUR

Take advantage of our 27 years of experience for a hassle free, fun-filled day.

Details

FULL DAY tours begin at 7/7:30am MST
- Tours return between 1:30-3pm MST
We provide the permit or can send a guide with you on yours
Group size limited to 6
Meet your guide at Zion Adventures®, 36 Lion Blvd
Zion National Park requires the use of their shuttle when it's operating, so we'll climb on with you
Early reservations advised

Pricing

$249/person

We have a 2 person minimum for this tour. If you are traveling or hiking alone, let us know.
Prices do not include sales tax.
Not a private trip.

Terms
Full payment is due at time of booking. Cancellations more than 14 days in advance will receive a 95% refund. Cancellations within 14 days of trip date are non-refundable. Weather conditions do not permit clients to cancel trips. If your Zion Adventures® guide determines conditions make the event unsafe, we will reschedule or make every effort to provide a comparable experience; if not possible, all purchases will be refunded in full.

This guided tour require a 2 person minimum. If a second guest does not book, we will contact you. You'll have the option to book an additional fare or we'll cancel the trip and you'll receive a refund.

What to Bring

We recommend you bring:

2 quarts of water/person + lunch/snacks for the day
Backpack
Comfortable hiking shoes
Sunscreen and/or a sun hat
Warm layer

*We can provide layers and backpacks if you need them

Do I Need a Guide?

You'll benefit from a Zion Adventures' guide if:

You are a little nervous about tackling this hike on your own OR
You want to know more about Zion and the surrounding area. Our guides have all kinds of tidbits of information to share with you, including local stories, folklore, geology, animals, plants etc. OR
Maybe you have a diverse family or group of friends with varying experiences or abilities that would benefit from an experienced (and fun) local guide OR
You just want to join up with some other adventurous people who can add flavor and flair to your day. Let's face it, the hike is amazing, but the memories we make while sharing it with others is priceless.

*Permits are required to hike the chains on Angel's Landing. We can provide one or you can supply your own.

Spots are Limited
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Angels landing at a glance

From the Grotto trailhead, it's roughly 5.4 miles out and back.
Don't let the distance fool you though, the 1,488 feet of elevation gain happens only over 2.2 miles.
The trail starts at the Grotto, crosses a bridge over the Virgin River and heads towards the West Rim Trail. The beginning of this hike is a relatively moderate ascent (compared to what you'll see later on, that is). You'll be able to see views of Angels Landing right from the start.
You'll find a steep wall, which might make you wonder how on earth you'll get up it, only to find the switchbacks that make it possible. After the first 1.3 miles or so, you'll enter Refrigerator Canyon - so named because it provides a bit of shade and is quite a nice break from the sun in summer. While you pause for a brief rest, remind yourself that this trail was made with hand tools; just a bunch of guys with hand tools.
Now onto the next marvel: Walter's Wiggles. So named for the Walter Ruesch. This famous section of the trail hosts 20 very tight switchbacks; only slightly better than climbing a ladder straight up some would say. Walter's Wiggles leads you to Scout's Lookout. This is the perfect place to take a rest and contemplate whether or not you want to head out the final section of trail to Angels Landing. Views of Zion Canyon and Angels Landing make this a worthwhile trip - even if you decide not to go on the last .5 mile of trail.
There are long drop-offs, with the last section from Scout's Lookout to Angels Landing occurring along a narrow ridgeline which can be just a few feet wide at times. If you're really afraid of heights, this might not be the portion of trail for you. This last .5 mile includes some modest scrambling, crossing back and forth over the ridge, and chains bolted to the rock for a bit of security. The landing stands in the center of a horseshoe shaped bend in Zion Canyon, enabling panoramic views of Zion Canyon like no other.

Plan for your hike

Before the Hike

Check Zion's free shuttle schedule so you get the start you want; or to make sure you don't miss the last shuttle out of the canyon in the evening. The last thing you want is to finish your hike, elated but exhausted, only to find that you missed the last shuttle and need to walk all the way back to the visitor center. It's happened before and doesn't make for a very happy ending to the day. Truly.
Double check your permit for your approved start time. The time on your permit is the time you can start your ascent from the Grotto. If you take the Zion National Park shuttle, plan about 1/2 hour to get there from the visitor center. If there are big crowds, it could take longer.
Another great option is to rent e-bikes from us and skip the shuttles and lines. After your hike, it's a down hill ride all the way from the Grotto back to us.
If you're planning to hike to Angels Landing, make sure you download and/or print your permit. A ranger check your permit at the Grotto, Scout Lookout or anywhere on the trail. If you do not have your permit with you, they may not let you proceed.
This is a very steep trail. You definitely want to wear your trusty, comfy hiking boots. This isn't a good trail to break-in new boots; you'll most likely end up with blisters if you do.
Stop by Zion Adventures to get the latest, most up-to-date weather forecast. We don't want you stuck up there in a hail or thunderstorm.
Bring at least 2 liters of water. If it's summer, you probably want to plan to carry more than that. We like hydration packs so you can sip while walking. There is a water bottle filling station at the Grotto; there isn't any place to get potable water on the trail.
Pack more food than you think you'll need. Can you really ever have enough snacks?

Time to Hike

If you hike during the few weeks of the year when the shuttle is not running, you can drive your car to the Grotto. This occurs during winter and early spring.
All other times of year, catch Zion's free shuttle at the visitor center and ride it to Shuttle Stop 6, the Grotto. If there is parking available, you can park at the visitor center. If not, park in town (Lion Blvd has parking and is just a quarter mile from the entrance) , ride the free Town Shuttle to the entrance to the park.
Bike or ride Zion's shuttle to Shuttle Stop 6, the Grotto.
The Grotto is your last chance for a flushable toilet and running water to wash your hands. As mom always said, "Go to the bathroom before we hit the trail." If you don't, and you need to poo while on the trail, you'll need to bag it up and carry it back with you.
Stay hydrated; drink before you feel thirsty. During summer, it's so arid, sweat will evaporate before you notice it and so you can get dehydrated pretty quickly.
Once you get to Scout's lookout, you've accomplished most of the elevation gain for the hike. This is the spot to look around, have a snack, and have a little meeting with yourself. Some will continue the last half mile (the chained section) out to Angels Landing. Some will stop here, rest and relax. Others decide to continue a little ways up the West Rim Trail to get views of Angels Landing and the canyon. Reminder: if you have a permit, you may continue out to the Landing; if you don't, you can spend time at Scout's Lookout or continue up the West Rim Trail.
Take your time on the chained section of the trail. Be patient with others who might hike slower than you; there are some sections where you can safely pass. Be gracious with those who might hike faster than you and allow them to pass when possible.
Be conscientious and kind to others. If ever there was a trail to care for others, this is it.. There are some parts where it's only safe for one person to hike at a time, meaning someone may be coming back and you'll need to wait to continue forward - or vice versa. Take turns and communicate with other hikers.
Have you heard about the brazen squirrels on the Riverside Walk and in the Narrows? Well, they're just as bold here too. Also, the chipmunks. Look out for the chipmunks. While cute and seemingly friendly, don't give in to their manipulative and wily ways. In addition to wanting to keep them wild, they pose a safety issue. They have been known to bite people who've tried to feed them.

Other Important Info about Angels Landing

If you're afraid of heights, you might want to reconsider the last 1/2 mile chained section of trail out to Angels Landing. There are long steep drop-offs and sometimes the trail is only a few feet wide.
If some members of your group don't want to continue out to the landing, make a plan to split up and meet up at Scouts Landing or back down at the Grotto.
Don't attempt the chain section if the weather is stormy. Keep in mind that the rock can become slick when wet.
California Condors are sometimes seen near Angels Landing. They are America's largest bird and are protected. Please give them space if they're around.

Angels Landing in Winter or Winter-Like Conditions

During winter and sometimes early spring, ice and snow can make the trail even more dangerous. Having micro-spikes can make or break your day; it's a safety issue. If you have your own, please bring them. If not, get info on renting microspikes here.
The metal chains get pretty cold, so don't forget your gloves.
Snow and ice on this trail can be intimidating. If you'd like a little extra security and advice, bring a Zion Adventures guide with you. In addition to our familiarity with the trail, we're also pretty fun.

Leave No Trace®

We're a proud Leave No Trace® partner. Please be considerate and follow the 7 Principles for minimum impact visitation.

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces - While there is no camping on this trail, try to avoid trampling plants. It takes a long time for plant-life to regrow in the desert.
Dispose of Waste Properly - Pack out what you pack in.
Leave What You Find - Leave
Minimize Campfire Impacts
Respect Wildlife
Be Considerate of Others

How to get an angels Landing permit

Seasonal Lottery

Prior to your trip, pick seven ranked days and times you want to hike
Apply for your permit on the open application days. The lottery will open at 8am mst and close at 11:59pm mst.
There is a $6 non-refundable application fee for up to 6 people (which includes the person applying).
If you are fortunate and receive your requested permit, an additional $3/person will be charged to your credit card. If you cancel your reservation more than 2 days before the hike, you'll receive a refund of $3/person.
You will be able to download and print your permit by logging into your Recreation.gov account. Mobile service is unreliable in the canyon so make sure you at least download a copy of the confirmation email to your phone. Rangers may ask to see the permit when you are on the trail.

Hiking Dates	Lottery Date	Lottery Date	Lottery Date
Mar 1 - May 31	Jan 1	Jan 20	Jan 25
June 1 - Aug 31	Apr 1	Apr 20	Apr 25
Sept 1 - Nov 30	Jul 1	Jul 20	Jul 25
Dec 1 - Feb 29, 2024	Oct 1	Oct 20	Oct 25

Day Before Lottery

The day before you plan to hike, you can apply for a permit. The lottery opens at 12:01am mst and closes at 3pm mst.
There is a $6 non-refundable application fee for up to 6 people (which includes the person applying).
Permits will be issued at 4pm mst for the next day.
If you are fortunate and receive your requested permit, an additional $3/person will be charged to your credit card. This fee is non-refundable.
The email confirmation will serve as your permit. Mobile service is unreliable in the canyon so make sure you print or download a copy of the confirmation email to your phone. Rangers may ask to see the permit when you are on the trail.

If You Need to Change Your Permit

For Seasonal Lottery Permits
- You can reduce your group size up to 2 days before the hike and you'll receive a $3/person refund for those spots.
- You may not increase participants, change the date, transfer the permit, or change the leader. In other words, the person who obtained the permit needs to be on the hike.
For Day Before Lottery Permits
- No changes are permitted

The Ultimate No Hassle Permit (Also Known as We Take Care of it For You)

We'll take care of your permit and make the arrangements for a hassle free Angels Landing experience. Your local experienced guide will take the planning and guess work out of your day; all you need to do is pack your personal belongings and show up.

You'll benefit from a Zion Adventures' guide if:

You are a little nervous about tackling this hike on your own OR
You want to know more about Zion and the surrounding area. Our guides have all kinds of tidbits of information to share with you, including local stories, folklore, geology, animals, plants etc. OR
Maybe you have a diverse family or group of friends with varying experiences or abilities that would benefit from an experienced (and fun) local guide OR
You just want to join up with some other adventurous people who can add flavor and flair to your day. Let's face it, the hike is amazing, but the memories we make while sharing it with others is priceless.

What you need to know about
Angels Landing