Best of Zion: Fall Hikes

Our Local Expert Says:

Beautiful and worth it

Description:

Ah, cool and lovely, these pools make a great trek. Consisting of Lower, Middle, and Upper, the Emerald Pools can get crowded, so consider an early start. Sheer drop-offs on the trail make it iffy if you suffer from vertigo or have little children. If you want shade and ease of access, stick to the Lower Pools trail. When to see the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools at their best: after a storm. Mind slippery edges and enjoy the cool gorgeousness of this signature hike.

Description:

The Middle Fork of Taylor Creek has reliable water, excellent views, and few people-all of which are a treasure in the beauty of Zion! You get to see not one but two historic homestead cabins built by the first white settlers. The amazing Double Arch Alcove is a visual feast. Note: you'll cross the river numerous times, so be prepared to possibly get wet. Make sure you take a trail guide to ensure you don't wander off onto one of the many branch-out "social trails" that cut away from the main trail.

Our Local Expert Says:

Some of the best views in Zion, hands down

Description:

A perfect name for the stunning view of Zion, Observation Point is a must-see. It's long, it's hard, it's hot, and it is so, so worth it! Zipping along the East Rim Trail and through Echo Canyon, the way to Observation Point is so full of camera-worthy angles that after a while you might almost forget how spectacular it is-because everywhere you turn, the views are stunning. Nowhere more so at the end, when all you get is the deep blue sky and and red-and-cream of the jutting cliff walls.

Our Local Expert Says:

You can't visit Zion without doing this deservedly classic hike, even if you stop short of the very skinny, very high up final push.

Description:

This is of course the not-to-be-missed hike of Zion. Angels Landing is famous for its views, its drop-offs, and its thigh-blasting climb. It's easy to find a picture spot at the top that makes it look like you're about to step back into sheer nothingness, although you'll be yards away from the edge during your photo shoot. Early mornings and late evenings are best during the blazing and crowded summer months. Remember to seriously check your fear of heights before you tackle this climb; many hikers call it a day at "Chicken-Out Point" (officially Scout Lookout) which still offers nice views without the gut-wrenching proximity of a thousand-foot fall from the aptly-named Angels Landing. Bizarre but true: you can get cell service on top. Please respect your fellow hikers and maintain outdoorsy silence by texting only!

Our Local Expert Says:

A short Zion classic that pumps air into your lungs and rewards with gorgeous views.

Description:

Leading to a mesa above the Visitor Center, this overview trail does not disappoint. It does not take you to the top of the Watchman, but you have a great view of that Zion landmark. Try it in the winter for a memorable experience. Not as many people sample this trail as some other Zion classics, which is a shame because it's gorgeous. On the plus side, though, this trail can be somewhat less crowded.

Our Local Expert Says:

Spectacular views from overlooks, deep inside canyons, and sparsely-traveled.

Description:

This is considered the Zion trip if you're a backpacker. You see all the geology Zion offers along the West Rim Trail, as well as all the ecology. Keep your peepers peeled for colorful wildflowers and some of the park's 292 bird species. This is also a shuttle trip, so you either need two cars or, more likely, to hire a shuttle from one of the local guiding companies.

Our Local Expert Says:

Showcases the most classic Zion scenery: intricately carved slot canyon, towering sandstone walls, nature's grand presence.

Description:

The most famous hike in Zion, the Narrows are world-famous for water, stunning gorgeous cliff walls, and the feeling of hiking deep in the belly of Mother Earth. The Virgin River carved a ridiculously narrow trench through the Navajo rock formations, creating what today beckons to fit adventurers. Bring your trekking poles, water shoes, and waterproof camera for this experience. Stepping into the cool, rocky pull of the Virgin River as you make your way upstream leads you into another world, far from the gaggles of people attracted to Zion every year. The Zion Narrows is an unforgettable hike, designed for permanent capture in breath-taking pictures. If you can hack it, don't miss it.

Description:

The Subway is a beautiful semi-technical slot canyon in the Kolob Terrace section of Zion National Park. Officially known as the Left Fork of North Creek, this hike is not for sissies. You can't get around wading through cold water much of the way (similar to the Zion Narrows, the stream mostly is the trail), scrambling up and down rocks, and using ropes in a few sections. In a couple of spots the water will be over your head -- you'll have to swim, and it isn't warm!

Usually this hike is done top-to-bottom. Going the other way makes it even more intense than it already it. You also have to have a vehicle shuttle and permits. Shuttle services are available out of Springdale, and permits can be obtained at the Visitor Center and on the park website.

The Subway is a gorgeous place which has become quite popular in national imagination due to the many photos taken of it. But definitely be very clear about what the trail is like before you contemplate doing it on your own. You'll need an experienced canyoneer or a guide with you if you've never done anything like this hike before. Yes, it is kid friendly.