Angel’s Landing
Angel's Landing is the ICON of Zion National Park! It's like nature's own stairway to heaven, but with better views, some chains, and no pearly gates. 🌄
Getting There
First things first, you'll need to hop on the Zion Canyon Shuttle from the Zion Visitor Center. The shuttle is your trusty steed, taking you from the Visitor Center to the trailhead at the Grotto (Stop 6). Just remember, during shuttle season, personal vehicles are a no-go on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. So, leave your car behind and let the shuttle do the heavy lifting! You’ll need to save your energy anyways.
You’ll start your hike with a pleasant walk along the West Rim Trail, with stunning views of the Virgin River, and Angels Landing itself along the way.
Your first major challenge on the hike will be Walter’s Wiggles, which are a series of 21 steep switchbacks on the West Rim Trail leading up to Scout Lookout and ultimately to Angels Landing. Named after Walter Ruesch, Zion’s first superintendent, who helped engineer the trail in the 1920s, these tight turns help hikers navigate the steep elevation gain with a bit more ease (emphasis on A BIT). While the switchbacks can be physically demanding, they offer stunning canyon views and serve as a rewarding challenge for those making the ascent. Hikers tackling Angels Landing must conquer Walter’s Wiggles before reaching the final, more exposed section of the trail. Consider this your warm up!
After you defeat Walter, you will be at Scout’s Lookout. This is where hikers pause to catch their breath, question their life choices, and decide if they have the nerves of steel needed to tackle Angels Landing. This scenic plateau offers a much-needed break with jaw-dropping canyon views—and a front-row seat to watch braver (or crazier) hikers grip the chains leading to the summit. For many, Scout’s Lookout is the perfect turnaround point, offering epic scenery without the sheer-drop adrenaline rush. Whether you're continuing on along the West Rim Trail, or heading up to Angel’s Landing, or calling it a day, this is the perfect place for a snack and a selfie!
Now that you’re all carbed up, you’re ready for the main event! The chain section of Angels Landing in Zion National Park is where hikers trade casual strolling for full-on mountain goat mode. This nerve-wracking final stretch features sheer drop-offs on both sides, a narrow rock spine, and a trusty—if slightly intimidating—chain to cling to for dear life. It’s part hike, part vertical ballet, and part test of whether your palms can physically sweat off a rock. For those who brave it, the reward is a summit view that makes every heart-pounding step worth it. Just don’t look down too much… or do, if you enjoy a good adrenaline spike!
Finally! Victory is yours! At the top, you'll get a 360-degree view of Zion Canyon. Enjoy your time up top, and make sure you take lots of photos. And don’t be dumb and fall off!
And just for the hell of it, here is a top-down photo of Angel’s Landing from higher up on the West Rim Trail, which is also an amazing hike!
Remember, while Angel's Landing is an incredible hike, it's also known for its steep drop-offs and narrow ledges. So, keep your wits about you and don't try to become the next viral sensation by doing a handstand on the edge. Safety first, folks!