Angels Landing – The Mother of all Utah Hikes – Let's See Utah & Beyond……

Yes we know this is not the longest or the hardest hike in Utah, but…… it is one of the very best! If you are headed to Zions National Park this year this hike is a must. Start getting in hiking shape now however because it is not a walk in the park. This is 5 miles round trip and you gain over 1450 feet in elevation. We have done this hike over the years many times and it never gets any easier so pace yourself & take lots of snacks and water. We have done it with old and young just take your time and plan on 5 hours. There is not a lot of shade except when you are going through Refrigerator Canyon (which is a wonderful rock pathway, shaded and cool year round) so the fall and spring are great times to conquer this hike. When you get into Zions National Park head to the Grotto Picnic Area and the trail is across the street starting at a long bridge over the Virgin River. The trail is well marked & easy to follow.

At Walters Wiggles you will find yourself counting the 21 steep switchbacks hoping you are closer to the summit. Once you get to the top you have reached Scouts Lookout. Many people stop here where there are restrooms and rocks to rest on.

If you want to go out across the Hogsback to the Summit be in for a thrill. This is intense even for those not scared of heights and used to climbing. There are many chains to hold onto but it is still very dangerous and scary.

Don’t just watch your young ones – hold on to them. You will be climbing on the spine of the mountain several times where you can see both sides of the canyon below. You will sometimes be standing on only a few feet of rock from side to side. This scary part is only 1/2 mile which seems much longer because of the rough terrain. Make sure you get plenty of pictures because not many people have done this hike multiple times in their life.