• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

The Globetrotting Teacher

Experience the World Point by Point

  • Destinations
  • Miles and Points
    • Miles & Points Guides
    • Travel Hacking Basics
    • Student Course Log-In
  • Credit Cards
    • Best Credit Card Offers Right Now
    • Travel Rewards Credit Cards
    • Airline Credit Cards
    • Hotel Credit Cards
    • Business Credit Cards
  • New York City
  • Travel Tips
    • Travel Resources
    • Travel Gear
  • About
    • Work With Us
    • Blogging Tools I Use

Updated on August 12, 2020 By Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie 28 Comments
This post contains affiliate links which earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please read my Disclosure and Privacy pages for more info. Additionally, The Globetrotting Teacher has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Globetrotting Teacher and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

angels landing Zion National Park

Climbing Angels Landing Hike at Zion National Park

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links that earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. The Globetrotting Teacher has also partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Globetrotting Teacher and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Please read my Disclosure to learn more.

Updated on August 12, 2020

I admit I almost chickened out.

Well…maybe that’s an exaggeration but I did stop in the hotel room dressed and ready, backpack on, and question whether or not I should just head to Canyon Overlook Trail instead.

Same views, easier hike, and less risk, right? Besides, I’m not entirely sure I’ve graduated from my “nonhiker” Patagonia days to “official hiker” just yet.

No, Angels Landing Hike is one of the top things to do in Zion National Park. Where on Earth did that self-doubt come from?

Climbing Angels Landing Hike at Zion National Park
Save for later! Pin this guide to your Pinterest travel board.

Climbing Angels Landing Hike at Zion National Park

After having some breakfast at the hotel, I took the Springdale shuttle to the Zion National Park entrance. From there, I took the Zion shuttle to stop #6, The Grotto.

The day was sunny, clear, and comfortable 65-70 degrees. I was glad to get a somewhat earlyish start and had prepared my hiking gear the night before.

Having the right gear makes all the difference, whether you’re venturing out in warmer weather or deciding on what winter hiking pants you need in colder weather, just be prepared!

I wanted to be done before the hottest part of the day and to avoid as much of the crowds as possible. The shuttle drops hikers off across the street from the trailhead. You’ll have to walk across the bridge spanning the Virgin River to begin.

Angels Landing Hike climbs to a stunning panorama overlooking the river valley below surrounded by the towering rock of Zion Canyon. The hike is 2.4 miles one-way and takes about 4 hours to complete round trip. It’s a constant uphill climb, ascending bit by bit at first.

angels landing Zion National Park
You can see the gradually rising path snaking alongside the rock.

I continued to wind along the rock as the trail became much steeper before briefly leveling out onto a flat pathway. The path changes to paved as the trail becomes steeper.

Angels landing Zion National Park
The paved pathway is a leg saver for the last bit up to Angels Landing!

I stopped several times to catch my breath take photos, enjoy the surroundings, and celebrate my progress thus far.

Angels landing Zion National Park
Looking down at what I’d just climbed!

There are very few shady places along the way and no bathroom or water facilities. Be prepared with plenty of water and sunscreen! I ended up giving a whole bottle of water to another hiker who was suffering from thirst because he had run out of water.

Make sure have what you need to bring on a hike!

At this point, you’ll make your way to the final set of 21 very steep, paved switchbacks up to Scouts Landing. The path is strenuous but clear and well-maintained.

angels landing Zion National Park
These switchbacks look a lot better from overhead than they do from the bottom!

It’s an accomplishment to make it up these switchbacks to Scouts Landing, where many people choose to stop. You can sit along the rocky landing, have a picnic, take in the views, and rest before making the return trip. You’ll also be able to see a section of the last half mile to Angels Landing and the hikers on their way or returning.

angels landing Zion National Park
Park warnings about Angels Landing Hike

I stopped only to take some water, pack away my camera, and tie my shoes before continuing on to Angels Landing. This last half mile is a steep and narrow rock scramble with the drop to the canyon below always near on either side. The path is sandy and the rocks can be slippery. The placement of every step matters.

angels landing Zion National Park
One of the more unobstructed sections of the climb up to Angels Landing. Careful on that sand. It makes the rocks slippery!

There are chain links drilled into the rock intended to guide the way and also to act as a grip when necessary. I’ve read other blog posts and articles using phrases like if you choose to hold onto the chain links…

My question is, “Why wouldn’t you use the chain links?!” You need to be able to steady your own footing along the path regardless of the chains or not, but when they were there, I found them more helpful than not.

angels landing Zion National Park
Chain links have been drilled into the rock in some places along the way.

The trail is just a few feet wide in spots and hikers are both ascending and descending along the same path.

angels landing Zion National Park
The edge is always close by!

At times, you need to stop and wait for others to pass by before moving ahead. The earlier in the morning you make the climb, the less crowded the pathway will be. The fewer people on the path makes it safer, too!

As I waited my turn to continue, a man commented on my Walking Dead hat. No pun intended, right?! Next time, I’ll give more thought to the subliminal messages my hat gives off!

ProTip: If you’re looking to avoid the crowds for a day on your Zion National Park visit, consider visiting Kanarraville, Utah to hike the Kanarra Falls trail.

angels landing Zion National Park
Remember your elementary teachers who taught you to wait in line and be patient for your turn? You need all those skills for Angels Landing Hike.

If you’re planning a climb to Angels Landing, keep in mind, it’s not for everyone. You should have at least a reasonable degree of physical stamina.

Do not do Angel’s Landing Hike if you’re afraid of heights. Plan to wear good gripping sneakers or hiking boots. No sandals or flip flops seems logical, right? How about no going barefoot?! Trust me, I wouldn’t have believed it if I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes!

Be sure you have free use of both arms, as there are many times you’ll need your arms, hands, and legs to climb the rocky cliffs to Angels Landing. This means no backpack straps dangling, hair distractions, or a camera around your neck. The danger along the last half mile is real and safety should be your primary concern.

Do you have family & friends that love to hike? Make sure they don’t go barefoot! 🙂  

Here are some great gift ideas for people who love to hike!

angels landing Zion National Park

Forgive me for a moment while the teacher in me has her say. Parents, Angels Landing Hike is not for young children. Plenty of parents seemed to understand this and sensibly stopped at Scout’s Landing.

But, I did watch as a family climbed with their daughter who couldn’t have been more than 4 or 5 years old. She needed to be hoisted from rock to rock and was perilously close to edge numerous times.

Search Google for “Angels Landing falls” and you’ll come across a newspaper report in the Salt Lake Tribune about a young girl who was narrowly saved when she slipped, skidded toward the edge, and was grabbed by both legs by her father and a nearby man, who happened to be an off-duty police officer.

Just please, do not do Angels Landing Hike with small children.

Zion National Park
The view from Angels Landing in Zion National Park, Utah.

After a couple of hours of hiking and rock scrambling, I made it to the top of Angels Landing!

Of course, it was worth it! What was that momentary blip of weakness back at the hotel? 

The hike was tough but thrilling! The views were incredible. Sitting to enjoy my triumph, eating a few snacks, and rehydrating, I decided it was official. I’ve graduated from nonhiker to hiker. What do you think?

angels landing Zion National Park

Would you like to do Angels Landing hike?

Like this post? Please share it on social media using the share buttons below!

Climbing to Angels Landing at Zion National Park
Pin me to your Pinterest board!

Other Posts You're Sure to Love

  • From Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon for a Spectacular Grand Canyon Day TripFrom Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon for a Spectacular Grand Canyon Day Trip
  • How to Plan a Successful 1 Week Utah National Parks Road Trip ItineraryHow to Plan a Successful 1 Week Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary
  • 25 Photos to Make You Want to Visit Bryce Canyon National Park Right Now25 Photos to Make You Want to Visit Bryce Canyon National Park Right Now
  • 8 Spectacular Things to Do at Zion National Park8 Spectacular Things to Do at Zion National Park
  • 984shares
  • Facebook145
  • Twitter1
  • Pinterest838
  • LinkedIn0
  • Reddit0
  • Flipboard

Filed Under: Destinations, North America, United States Tagged With: national park, United States

About Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie

Hey, I'm Jackie, founder of The Globetrotting Teacher and a 15-year classroom teacher who couldn't resist taking my own extended field trip...so far 5 continents, 30+ countries, & nearly every U.S. State! Luckily, my miles and points expertise has gotten me where I want to go and my trip-planning savvy has made the world my classroom. Travel truly is the best teacher, and so through the blog, I've made it my mission to teach others how to do the same and finally realize their travel dreams.

Affiliate Disclosure

The Globetrotting Teacher is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Additionally, The Globetrotting Teacher has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Globetrotting Teacher and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

Comments & responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser’s responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Katie says

    May 21, 2016 at 9:24 am

    Yes, you have graduated to full on hiker! Damn! That hike looks amazing! I can’t believe all those switchbacks, and you’re right, it doesn’t look like there is any shade at all. I can’t believe someone would hike that in flip flops! Barefoot I get, I have friends who hike barefoot because they feel “one with the earth” and are more stable with good gripping feet, but flip flops…no way! I have yet to visit Zion, but once I return to the US I would like to do some exploring of all the major parks in the country!

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 21, 2016 at 11:08 pm

      Zion and Angels Landing are gorgeous, Katie! I get the feeling one with the Earth thing, but we are talking sharp rocks! Doesn’t that hurt?! Hope you can make it to Zion soon!

  2. Brianna Simmons says

    May 21, 2016 at 11:10 pm

    While I love Zion I don’t know if I could hike Angel’s Landing. The heights and sheer cliffs would make me pee my pants!

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 21, 2016 at 11:15 pm

      Oh no, Brianna! Then, don’t do it! There are so many other incredible things to do, see, and enjoy at Zion! 🙂

  3. anna says

    May 22, 2016 at 12:48 am

    Beautiful! I love national parks. This is one that don’t know much about but it sure does look awesome! I ahve done some hikes on flipflops-not intentionally though! haha

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 22, 2016 at 11:26 am

      Zion is great, Anna! A must next time you’re traveling in Utah. This is not one of those hikes you want to stumble on by accident so be prepared with sneakers or hiking boots. 😉

  4. Kim-Ling says

    May 22, 2016 at 6:46 am

    It sounds like an absolute challenge, but my, those photos and views are worth it! I’d love to do it myself one day (maybe work on my fitness beforehand!)

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 22, 2016 at 11:34 am

      You definitely need to have some physical stamina to hike Angels Landing because of how steep it is, Kim. The views, though, are so worth it! 🙂

  5. Wandering Carol says

    May 22, 2016 at 12:26 pm

    This reminds me of the hike I did recently up Camelback Mountain just outside Scottsdale, Arizona. Only a bit less crowded – it looks like a fabulous place to trek. Well done, Jackie.

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 22, 2016 at 3:51 pm

      Thanks, Carol! The key with Angels Landing is to go early to avoid the crowds. Too many people and the last half mile is crowded, slow, and less safe because so many people are on these narrow cliffs.

  6. Danielle Des says

    May 22, 2016 at 8:00 pm

    I heard so many great things about Angel’s Landing. Seems like everyone has gone recently. I haven’t hiked in quite some time but I would most definitely go to this park in Utah. The views!

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 23, 2016 at 5:58 pm

      The parks in Utah are outstanding, Danielle. A true national treasure! Hope you can visit Zion and the others soon! 🙂

  7. Jennifer Melroy says

    May 23, 2016 at 12:15 am

    It always amazes me what parents will do with their kid in parks. When I was there in February and the train was icy there was a kid no more than 4 going up the last half mile with his parents and they were so proud when he made it. The kid was barely tall enough to reach the chains. I was in shock over that one.

    One set of parents did win an award in my book. They had two girls around 10 doing the hike. The parents had them in harness and were clipped into the chains. They were doing in safely.

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 23, 2016 at 5:54 pm

      OMG and I believe it, Jennifer! 4 years old is way too young and icy conditions would be unsafe for anyone! I think people feel safe in a National Park and forget how real the risk can be sometimes.

  8. Vicki | MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld says

    May 23, 2016 at 1:57 am

    I loved the Angel’s landing hike! Although I did want to turn back when we got to the switchbacks – but I am so glad we continued – the view from the top was incredible. My only regret that was I didn’t get to do the last part of the climb (with the chain) as it was too windy and wasn’t safe. But such a good climb – and I slept like a baby that night!

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 23, 2016 at 5:52 pm

      Too bad, Vicki, but safety is first, right? Any kind of weather issue like the wind would not be good for that last bit up to Angels Landing. The view from Scouts Landing is still great! Hope you can make it back soon!

  9. Rosemary says

    May 23, 2016 at 9:16 am

    Steep, but amazing. The hike looks quite challenging. What a great view as a reward 🙂 Well done! I’ve hiked 2 fourteeners in Colorado and that “edge” can be quite scary. Good for you.

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 23, 2016 at 5:50 pm

      Thanks, Rosemary, and Wow! 14K feet is no joke! Awesome, would love to hike that. 🙂

  10. Mags says

    May 23, 2016 at 11:23 pm

    Wow… you’re photos made me nervous just looking at them, and I’m not usually afraid of heights. I love your disclaimer about small children… isn’t it dumbfounding the places some parents will bring their kids?!

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      May 23, 2016 at 11:38 pm

      Thanks, Mags. I think there’s a false sense of security at National Parks because of their wholesome, family-friendly image. But, the danger is real on hikes like Angels Landing. I saw it also at Canyonlands NP, where parents allowed children to run and jump so close to the edge. It was all I could do to stop my teacher self from saying something!

  11. Trails Unblazed says

    February 22, 2017 at 8:40 am

    Love this hike. Great post.

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      February 22, 2017 at 8:57 am

      Thanks! Angel’s Landing is fantastic! 🙂

  12. Brittany Janz says

    April 9, 2017 at 12:55 pm

    I did this hike about 3 years ago! I can’t believe i did it!!! At one point, literally, the only thing to hang on to was the chain and i saw this couple ROPE THEMSELVES TOGETHER! WHAT?! I had to literally hug them separately to get by. That was my scariest experience — nothing to break your fall except the valley floor 1,500 feet down. Ugh SUCH A GREAT HIKE THOUGH! I want to go back and do it again so bad!

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      April 9, 2017 at 4:49 pm

      Thanks for reading and sharing, Brittany. That is crazy!! I can’t believe they roped themselves together! It’s such a tricky last bit and it shouldn’t be taken lightly. When I went there was a couple hiking it with a child who was no older than 5! I had to bite my teacher tongue so hard. 😮 Hope you can make it back to hike again.

  13. Georgia says

    June 29, 2018 at 1:21 pm

    I’m headed to Zion NP next week and have been doing a lot of research on Angel’s Landing. I don’t think my friends and I expected it to be that strenuous, or dangerous of a hike, so I’m certainly grateful I’ve been doing my research prior to the trip. I’m not much of a hiker, but in good shape. I purchased 5 pairs of hiking sneakers and boots (obnoxious, I know, but I want to be prepared!) and I’m waiting for them to come in for me to see which pair will make the cut to come on the trip with me. I am afraid of heights, but I have a lot of determination that will likely trump my fears. Although, from the YouTube videos I’ve watched, I am second guessing that. I’ve decided I will make the final decision once we get to Scouts Lookout.

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      June 29, 2018 at 7:50 pm

      Thanks for reading, Georgia. Angel’s Landing is an amazing hike but it’s so smart of you to do your research. The views from the top are gorgeous and definitely makes everything feel worth it. I was so glad I didn’t change my mind and choose an easier hike! A lot of people go to Scouts Lookout and not any further. My best tip is to go as early as you can because there will be fewer people and you might feel better about the last bit up to Angel’s Landing without any crowding issues. Good luck and enjoy Zion!!

  14. Molly says

    January 12, 2019 at 7:30 am

    Hi! Love your blog!
    I’ll be traveling to Zion at the very end of February and want to do Angel’s Landing! I was planning to go midday so it won’t be so cold, I’m assuming it won’t be as crowded that time of year? Any other tips for someone hiking Zion during the cold months? (I’m from Florida:)

    Reply
    • Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie says

      January 12, 2019 at 10:31 pm

      Thanks so much for reading, Molly. 🙂 It definitely should be less crowded at the end of February and you’ll have more road access within the park if you’re renting a car. I would wear a thin, moisture-wicking base layer designed to keep body heat in underneath hiking pants. On top, I’d be sure to wear layers like a base layer and a fleece. I love base layers by Columbia, Smart Wool, Ice Breaker and Sierra Trading Post is a great place to find deep discounts on these brands. You’ll probably start off feeling chilly, but the hike will definitely get the blood flowing which will warm you up. I’d rather be slightly chilly to start than too hot at the end. The hike is a true workout so once you get warm, those base layers will do their job and trap the heat. Have so much fun and good luck on the hike! It’s one of my favs! 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

About Me

Hi, I'm Jackie, the Globetrotting Teacher. Travel has been life-changing for me whether I'm traveling solo or with my favorite travel partner, Peter my husband! Learn more about my travels and how I use miles and points to travel around the globe. About Me

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Planning a Road Trip in 2022?

planning-a-road-trip

Search the Site

Get Started with Points and Miles!

12-must-have-gifts-sidebar

Chase Sapphire Preferred

chase sapphire preferred

Earn 80k Ultimate Rewards Bonus Points
after spending $4k in 3 months!

✓ $50 annual Ultimate Rewards hotel credit
✓ 5x on travel booked in the UR Portal
✓ 3x on dining (including eligible delivery services),
select streaming services, & online grocery purchases
✓ 2x on other travel purchases

The Sapphire Preferred is my FAVORITE card
for anyone new to points & miles.

Learn more about the
Sapphire Preferred!

Footer

Disclosure

As an Amazon Associate, The Globetrotting Teacher earns from qualifying purchases.

The Globetrotting Teacher has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. The Globetrotting Teacher and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

[Disclosure]

[Privacy Policy]

Copyright

All photos & content are copyrighted & belong to Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie at The Globetrotting Teacher unless otherwise cited and may not be reproduced or used elsewhere without permission. DMCA.com Protection Status
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest

Like every website with social media buttons, commenting, affiliates, and analytics embedded, The Globetrotting Teacher uses cookies. Please click ok to accept and/or visit my Privacy Policy to learn more. OK Privacy Policy
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT