USA :: Zion :: Angels Landing

Dramatic View of Angels Landing from Ledge above Scouts Lookout.  Ascent is much easier than this photo might suggest

Multiple Dates, last April 17, 2017

Every natural area has one.  My favorite saying, developed during time exploring BC Coast Mountains, is "99% of people hike 1% of trails". In Zion, that 1% is Angels Landing.  Super imposing rock buttress above Zion Canyon boasts fantastic views. Coupled with beautiful approach and serious looking ascent ridge (Title photo on this page) only stimulate sense of adventure.  I had opportunity to hike Landing first time when it was still not so popular and had it -almost- to myself. Today it is quite brutal, real traffic jam on exposed ledges is realistically the biggest danger.  You will NOT have solitude, regardless of timing of your ascent.  But don't let this rant deter you.  Angels Landing is fantastic hike, and every outdoor enthusiast should try to do it.  Grand sense of adventure and probably best viewpoint in Zion Canyon are more than adequate reward.

Trailhead is at Shuttle stop 6 - The Grotto.  Cross bridge and hike paved path towards lower cliff, with Angels Buttress looming above.  Scenic switchbacks lead to mouth of shady refrigerator canyon, followed by series of ultra-tight switchbacks known as Walter's Wiggles.  At top is Scouts Landing (stench from outhouses can be quite strong);  West Rim trail forks here.   Despite initial appearance, scramble is quite straightforward in dry conditions.  Fixed chains assist on exposed places.  Be wary of narrow ledge after climbing initial slickrock;  it can be dangerous when elbowing with lined up hikers on a windy day.  Above polished series of steps switch from one side to another and finally top on summit buttress, high above Zion Canyon.  Views are phenomenal. Descending a bit south to "Cairn Plateau" might grant a bit more solitude.  Descent is the same way, and it will be more challenging, mainly due to congestion.

Starting with April 1. 2022 this iconic hike will require permits.  This is not surprising;  just like Half Dome in Yosemite, Mt. Whitney in Sierra Nevada, BC Provincial Parks Quota system, etc onslaught of human hordes on precious natural resources increases exponentially.   Details how to enter Angels Landing lottery on NPS page here.   Hiking to Scouts Landing / West Rim trail still does not require permits.

Gallery

Angels Climb

Typical section further up;  could be quite dangerous if icy