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- Things to Do Around Zion National Park
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- Locals have answered 1 question about Zion National Park.
- Ask Zion National Park Locals
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1. The Narrows
- Incredible canyon scenery, slot canyons, waterfalls
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- Hiking
- In the Park
- Nile Expert Tip: Showcases the most classic Zion scenery: intricately carved slot canyon, towering sandstone walls, nature's...
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2. Angels Landing
- Staggering drop-offs, walking a razor's edge, excellent views, uphill trail
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- Hiking
- In the Park
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3. Kolob Arch
- Remote hike to one of world's largest freestanding arches
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- Hiking
- Kolob Canyons
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4. The Subway
- Classic technical slot canyon. Only do it with an experienced canyoneer! 9.5 miles, 7-9 hours.
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- Hiking
- Kolob Canyons
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5. Canyon Overlook Trail
- Rim view of Zion canyon, historic CCC trail, hoodoos, slickrock, shallow caves
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- Hiking
- In the Park
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6. Emerald Pools-Kayenta Loop
- Stupendous vistas, seasonal waterfalls, deep green pools, wildflowers
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- Hiking
- In the Park
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7. Observation Point
- Best camera views, long hike, hard, accesses many trails
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- Hiking
- In the Park
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8. Pa'rus Trail
- Accessible to all, along Virgin River, pet friendly, paved
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- Hiking
- In the Park
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9. Junior Ranger Program
- Activity-filled program for young visitors
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- Nature & Wildlife
- In the Park
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10. West Rim
- Yosemite-like views, backpacker fave, two-car shuttle trip
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- Hiking
- In the Park
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The Best of NileGuide
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Well, of course you're in Zion to spend time in the great outdoors. We get that! Here are some of our favorite outdoor things to do in Zion National Park. And why did we include these Zion outdoors activities? For the varying hiking lengths and strenuousness, and for the gorgeous outdoor views revealed.
Naturally, most people visiting Zion really want to see and experience the world-famous Zion Narrows. A less well-known but equally superb canyon hike, with strong elements of canyoneering, is The Subway. And we would be remiss if we didn't include Angels Landing on this list. If your knees can take the pounding of the nearly 1500-foot elevation gain on this trail and your head doesn't spin at the heights, it's a must-see.
We picked the Junior Ranger program because it's such a wonderful way to get kids interested in the out-of-doors in general and national parks in particular. You can never learn an appreciation for nature too young. The Pa'rus Trail can be done by the youngest (even those in a baby backpack, since the trail is flat and easy). Canyon Overlook Trail is an absolute sunset must. It's fairly easy to get to, and since it's on the east side of Zion you can drive through the tunnel on the way to the trailhead.
If you're a backpacker, the West Rim Trail is for you. A classic Zion trip, it shows off some of the most stupendous views in this Park. Plus, you'll have much of it to yourself as you revel in the backcountry serenity.
