Zion National Park - Incredible Hikes, Spectacular Views

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Category: Haute This Issue

Published on Monday, 28 September 2020 18:44

Written by Lukas Saville

With glowing red-and-white cliffs, plunging canyons and stunning views from tall rocky peaks, Zion National Park will take your breath away. This gorgeous corner of Utah boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in the state.

Centered on the beautiful Zion Canyon, 24km long and 800m deep. Zion National Park is packed with fantastic hiking trails, from thrilling ascents with spectacular views over the landscape, to fun, easy routes that allow visitors to explore the river and the canyon floor. Wherever you choose to hike, this place is unforgettable.

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Hiking in Zion National Park is a bucket list activity for all keen adventurers, with some truly iconic and unforgettable trails. The most popular trail in the park is the ascent of Angel’s Landing, a jagged rock that towers over the canyon, reached by a series of sharp switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles.

Angel's Landing

Reaching the top of Angel’s Landing requires a head for heights – visitors will need to negotiate a heart-stopping run of chains to get to the summit. However, the views from the top are a welcome reward – a magnificent panorama over Zion Canyon.

If that sounds a little too much like hard work, don’t despair! There are some wonderful hikes that follow the river through the canyon, giving visitors the opportunity to admire the fascinating geology and unique flora of the national park.

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If hikers are prepared to get their feet wet, head for the Narrows, a picturesque slot canyon that will make you feel as though you are entering another world. This is an ideal hike for families as the length can be customized depending on time, energy, and fitness levels.

Slot Canyon

Zion National Park lies on the Colorado Plateau, created by sedimentation to form mineral-rich rocks with colorful layers. The fast-flowing Virgin River has carved out the dramatic Zion Canyon and Kolob Canyons, creating a stunning backdrop for some truly spectacular hikes.

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For a little challenge, ascend the canyon to Observation Point, where you’ll enjoy a magnificent view, or head for Canyon Overlook for a double treat – a panorama over both Zion and Pine Creek Canyons.

Emerald Pools

Zion Canyon is a lush oasis that stands in marked contrast to some of the drier, desolate parts of Utah, such as Canyonlands or Bryce Canyon. The gurgling Virgin River supports a wide range of rare plants, insects, and amphibians, as well as enormous cottonwood trees and hanging gardens of mosses and ferns.

Away from the river, and at higher elevations, the vegetation changes considerably, with desert grasses, hardy juniper trees, and ponderosa pines that cling to the red cliffs. This remarkable biodiversity is yet another reason for the park’s popularity, and a visit here is a wonderful opportunity to learn about Utah’s fascinating ecology.

Observation Point

Zion has something to offer all visitors, including short family-friendly hikes on the canyon rim, fun expeditions splashing through the river, tough ascents to iconic viewpoints, and peaceful routes leading to picturesque pools.

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The opportunities for wildlife watching, travel photography and outdoor adventures are endless. Choose Zion National Park for your next hiking adventure and start exploring this beautiful part of Utah!

All images courtesy of Lukas Seville and used with permission.