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Angels Landing - Zion National Park
| Summary: |
A short, but steep climb to one of the best view points in Zion National Park. Expect plenty of company on this hike. |
| Directions: |
Take the shuttle bus from the Visitor Center to The Grotto picnic area. The trailhead is located directly across the road. |
| Road Conditions: |
Passenger Car |
| Navigation: |
Easy |
| Length: |
5 miles |
| Date Hiked: |
June, 2001 |
| Weather Conditions: |
Warm |
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Required Skills: |
None |
| Hike Description: |
From The Grotto picnic area, walk across the street to the bridge and head north on the West Rim Trail (0 miles). The trail (which is paved all the way to the Angels Landing turn off) first follows the river upstream at a gradual grade before beginning a series of moderate switchbacks up the hill. The grade becomes steeper and the switchbacks tighter as it winds it's way up to Refrigerator Canyon. Here, you get a break and the trail flattens out for a short stretch through a perpetually shady canyon. On the other side you hit a tight, steep series of short switchbacks called the Walter Wiggles which lead to the junction with the Angel Landing trail (2 miles). Stay right at this junction. The trail drops down a short distance, traversing a fairly narrow ledge, then begins the steep climb up to the view point. Chains have been installed to help hikers get up this section. There are some steep drop offs on the way up, but it's not particularly dangerous. Once on top you will be treated to great views up and down Zion Canyon (2.5 miles), though beware the mooching chipmunks which may try to rifle your pack for peanuts when you're not looking. Return the way you came (5 miles). |
| Rating (1-5 stars): |
This hike was more fun than expected. The climbing and sheer drop offs were rather exciting and since we started late in the day, we had the top to ourselves. The park pamphlet lists the average time to hike this trail as 4 hours. The author and his wife completed this hike in 2.5 hours, but we didn't spend much time at the top. |
| Maps: |
Trails Illustrated - Zion National Park |
| Photos: |
Click picture for larger view, click your browser's 'Back' button to return to this page. |
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| View
from the top of Angels Landing. |
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