Northgate Peaks Overview

The Northgate Peaks Trail offers a serene escape into Zion National Park's less-traveled Kolob Terrace, a stark contrast to the main canyon's bustling paths. This easy hiking route, covering 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with a gentle 128 feet (39 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through diverse landscapes, from open woodlands and wildflower meadows to fragrant ponderosa pine forests. The path eventually leads between the impressive West Northgate Peak and East Northgate Peak, culminating at a viewpoint that delivers dramatic panoramic vistas of the rugged landscape, including the majestic North Guardian Angel and the expansive Great West Canyon.

Planning your visit is straightforward for this trail, which typically takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. Located at nearly 7,000 feet, it offers cooler temperatures, making it a refreshing option during warmer months. Remember to bring all your own water, as there are no facilities on the trail. The trailhead is easily accessible, and while permits aren't generally needed for this hike, it's worth noting it's also the starting point for the famous Subway canyoneering route, which does require permits.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Northgate Peaks Trail is its peaceful atmosphere, thanks to its location in a protected Zion Wilderness Area that limits group sizes. This trail provides a unique perspective of Zion's wide valleys and isolated sandstone mountains, offering a different side of the park. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer, and enjoy the distinct scent of vanilla or butterscotch from the ponderosa pine bark as you hike.

The Northgate Peaks Trail offers a refreshing change of pace from Zion's more crowded areas, leading you through diverse landscapes of wildflower meadows and shaded ponderosa pine forests. This easy 4.3-mile (6.8 km) hike, with a modest 220 feet (67 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 1 hour and 48 minutes to complete, culminating in panoramic views of iconic formations like North Guardian Angel and The Subway from the Northgate Peaks Overview. It's a fantastic option for families and those seeking a quieter, scenic adventure.

Access to the trail is via the Kolob Terrace Road, which leads to the Wildcat Canyon Trailhead. While the trail is typically open from March to November, be aware that the road can close due to snow during winter months. This higher-elevation location means it's often cooler than the main canyon, making it a great choice for a summer hike when you want to beat the heat.

What makes this trail particularly special is its location in the Kolob Terrace, about 3,000 feet above Zion Canyon, providing a distinct perspective on the park's geology. You'll experience wide valleys and isolated sandstone mountains, a stark contrast to the typical canyon views. It's a family-friendly route, mostly flat and unexposed, and you might even spot some local wildlife like deer along the way.