My sister and I visited the park in early August 2010. Below is a description of the trails we hiked, along with other bits of information you might find helpful if you're planning a trip there.
First, there's a lot of great information on various websites...I'm not going to get into that – Google handles that fine. However, there's often trail or road closures due to construction, weather, etc, so be sure to check this site for this information as part of your planning:
The park has a great shuttle system (at least during peak season – it was not running when I was there in the winter, but may not have been in place yet). I would recommend taking advantage of the shuttles – they run frequently, are easy to use, and go to some places not accessible by private car.
The park can get quite hot in summer making it difficult to hike midday. Consider this when picking a campsite as well – you will want shade (the Watchman has shady sites but you should reserve in advance). There are also no showers at the campsites (apparently in none of the National Parks we stayed in) – this was unexpected for us.
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| Watchman Trail |
WATCHMAN TRAIL (day 1)
When we arrived, it was later afternoon and we didn't have time for a big hike so decided to do the Watchman. It's technically easy to moderate and relatively short so can be done if you're on a time budget. It takes you up to a terrific viewpoint of the Watchman campground and surrounding valley. The view was great in late afternoon because the sun was setting along the rim across the valley.
ANGELS LANDING TRAIL (day 2)
If you didn't catch my previous blog talking about my Angels Landing experiences, just know that this trail is somewhat technical and particularly challenging if you have a fear of heights. You can get a long way before it gets difficult, but to get to the great views you will have to complete at least a few sections that are sheer enough that chains were installed. There is what I call a pre-landing landing (Scout Landing) with great views which requires short sections of chains which I was told is as difficult as it gets, but seemed at least psychologically easier than the final section (which I did not complete).
The trail offers 360-degree panoramic views that are awe-inspiring! It is a good half-day hike which includes a lot of up-up-up, then down-down-down so can be a real “knee grinder”.
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| Hidden Canyon Trail |
HIDDEN CANYON TRAIL (day 2)
Did I say no more chains after Angels Landing? Well, to my surprise, this trail also had chains, but it was much easier to navigate and the cliffs weren't as sheer so it was not a problem. This was a great hike to do in the afternoon because it was a HOT day but there is plenty of shade back in the canyon and a bit of a cool breeze.
HANGING GARDEN (day 2)
At the Hidden Canyon trail-head, there is also a walkway to get to the Hanging Garden. Our feet were pretty dogged after 2 hikes so I was happy it was just a short walk to get there. I hate to say it wasn't impressive, but the park is so grand the competition is tough. One of the nice things was the mists and trickling water to help cool you down on a hot day.
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| Lower Emerald Pool |
EMERALD POOLS TRAILS (day 3)
We had time for a morning hike before heading out and chose the Emerald Pools because of the different trail length options and “easy” rating (my knees had enough hill work). The upper pool was supposed to be the most impressive, but my favorite was the lower pool – maybe because there were too many people at the upper pool, or maybe because the lower pool had dripping water to cool off under. Either way, it was an unexpected gem – enjoyable trail with lots of variety in terrain and views.
One trail we didn't get a chance to do, which will be on the top of my list when I return, is the Narrows Trail - we heard really great things about this hike. All in all, Zion is one of the best places to hike anywhere, let alone in the US, and I will likely return...again and again.
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