Hiking

Angels Landing

Chains bolted into the rock, 300-meter drops on both sides and the best view in Zion.

Utah
8.7 km
2 min read

Photo: Óðinn · CC BY-SA 2.5 ca

Distance: 8.7 km · 5.4 mi
Elevation gain: +453 m · 1,488 ft
Difficulty: Very strenuous
Time needed: 4–5 hours
Route type: Out & back
Permit: Required
Best season: March–May and September–November

Angels Landing hike in Zion: permit lottery, distance, elevation, the chains section, Walter’s Wiggles, safety and the best time to start.

Angels Landing is one of the most famous and most thrilling day hikes in the United States. The trail climbs from the floor of Zion Canyon up a paved path carved into the cliffs, through a cool side canyon and up 21 tight switchbacks to Scout Lookout. From there, the final stretch follows a narrow sandstone fin, with chains to hold and sheer drops on both sides.

The reward at the top is a 360-degree view down the length of Zion Canyon, with the Virgin River curling far below. Since 2022, a permit from a lottery is required for the chains section. Without one, you can still hike to Scout Lookout, which has superb views of its own.

Stops along the way

1

The Grotto trailhead

Take the park shuttle to stop 6. Cross the river and follow the West Rim Trail as it climbs along the cliff.
2

Refrigerator Canyon

A shady, narrow side canyon that stays cool even in summer: a welcome break before the steepest part.
3

Walter's Wiggles & Scout Lookout

Twenty-one short, steep switchbacks lead to Scout Lookout, the turnaround point without a permit.
4

Angels Landing summit

The final 800 meters along the chains reward you with a breathtaking view over the whole canyon.

Good to know

Apply for the seasonal lottery months ahead, or the day-before lottery for last-minute trips.
Start at sunrise: the chains are less crowded and the trail stays in the shade.
Wear shoes with good grip and keep both hands free for the chains.
Not for anyone afraid of heights. Turn back if the rock is wet or icy.