The top five Zion National Park springtime hikes
The Independent has hand-selected the following five hikes in Zion National Park for the Spring, ranging from strenuous and extremely difficult to easy and enjoyable. There is sure to be something for all levels of hikers here.
Many Pools
Trekking above the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel is the Many Pools trail. A short distance off the road, filled pools carved into the rocks start to appear, most of them frozen solid depending on the time of year. Ponderosa pines and juniper trees twisted by the wind are a good backdrop to the reds and whites ribboned through the rocks. Read the full hiking guide here.
Chinle Trail
Located outside of the main tourist areas of Zion Nation Park, the Chinle Trail is one of those great, backcountry winter hikes. Chinle Trail is an off-the-beaten-path trail located in the lower elevated, west desert wilderness area, offering wide-open vistas, unique desert landscapes, and a reprieve from the more touristy trails in the park. Read the full hiking guide here.
The Narrows
Located at the end of the shuttle line at the Temple of Sinawava, this popular hike can be a short, dry trip to the Narrows entrance. Or, you can continue in the water as far as your schedule allows. If you continue, bring good shoes, and trek carefully, as river rocks can be quite slick. However, even just a fifteen-minute jaunt into the river will present amazing sights, including Mystery Falls—where one can often see adventurers rappelling. Make sure to check weather reports before going, as this is a narrow slot canyon where flash flooding occurs regularly. Read the full hiking guide here.
Hidden Canyon
This classic Zion Canyon trail was developed in 1928, a year after what is now Hidden Canyon was discovered. In 1927, William Evans attempted climbing the Great White Throne but fell during the attempt. While searching for Evans—who miraculously survived—rescuers discovered a secluded oasis. Today, a well-traveled path takes trekkers between sheer sandstone walls rising up hundreds of feet, made up by some of Zion’s most famous landmarks: Cable Mountain and the Great White Throne. Read the full hiking guide here.
Canyon Overlook
This delightful adventure is located immediately east of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel. It begins with steps carved into sandstone that rise above the long tunnel, allowing hikers to mosey along the easy half-mile path to a spectacular view of lower Zion Canyon. If your timing is right, you may even see some bighorn sheep, which are characteristically fond of this Slickrock side of Zion. Read the full hiking guide here.
While temperatures are still comfortable for hiking in the Spring, remember to pack plenty of water and snacks to keep hydration and energy up. Remember, it is always good to check the weather before going on any hike, especially narrow canyon hikes where flash flooding is likely. With a little preparation and enough time, you will have many amazing adventures in Zion.
Viewpoints and perspectives expressed throughout The Independent are those of the individual contributors. They do not necessarily reflect those held by the staff of The Independent or our advertising sponsors. Your comments, rebuttals, and contributions are welcome in accordance with our Terms of Service. Please be respectful and abide by our Community Rules. If you have privacy concerns you can view our Privacy Policy here. Thank you!
Click here to submit an article, guest opinion piece, or a Letter to the Editor
Hiking Southern Utah: Chinle Trail in Zion’s west desert backcountry
