Highlight • Rest Area
The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6)
Hiking
4.9
(69)
Cycling
3.8
(3)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Zion National Park
Tips
March 18, 2024
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6)
5.0
(32)
433
hikers
3.60km
01:51
390m
50m
The Angels Landing Trail is a truly unique experience, taking you from the lush Virgin River banks through the cool confines of Refrigerator Canyon, then up the ingeniously carved Walter's Wiggles. The final push along the narrow, chain-assisted Angels Landing Spine offers an exhilarating, exposed scramble to a summit with unmatched panoramic views of Zion Canyon. It's a difficult 2.2-mile (3.6 km) hike with 1274 feet (388 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 51 minutes, best suited for experienced hikers without a fear of heights.
Planning your visit requires careful attention to the Angels Landing permit system; you'll need to secure a permit through an online lottery to access the chains section beyond Scout Lookout. The trail is accessed via the Zion National Park shuttle, which drops you at The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6). Be aware that slippery conditions can make this already challenging route even more dangerous, so check the weather before you go.
What makes Angels Landing so notable is its blend of historical engineering, like the 1926 trail construction, and the sheer mental and physical challenge it presents. The iconic final half-mile along the knife-edge ridge, holding onto fixed chains, provides an unparalleled sense of adventure and exposure, making it a true bucket-list hike for many visitors to Zion National Park.
4.6
(36)
360
hikers
4.79km
01:18
70m
50m
The Sand Bench and Kayenta Trail offers an easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hiking experience in Zion National Park, featuring diverse terrain and rewarding views with just 223 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 17 minutes. You'll traverse the unique, sandy Sand Bench Trail, which provides panoramic vistas of the "Court of the Patriarchs" and the Virgin River, before connecting to the firmer Kayenta Trail with its rock stairs and continuous canyon views. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone looking for a less strenuous way to explore Zion's iconic scenery.
When planning your visit, be aware that the Sand Bench Trail is shared with horseback riders, so you might encounter horses and their waste. The route is largely exposed, so pack ample water, especially during summer. The Kayenta Trail is a popular connector to the Emerald Pools, offering a scenic and often less crowded alternative, but remember that dogs are not allowed on this section.
This trail is notable for its geological significance, particularly the Sand Bench section which sits atop ancient landslide debris from The Sentinel mountain. It provides a different perspective of Zion Canyon compared to more direct routes, blending the unique sandy environment with the more traditional rocky paths. It's a great choice if you're seeking less crowded hikes while still experiencing some of Zion's most beloved viewpoints.
5.0
(3)
42
hikers
23.6km
07:33
380m
1,350m
The West Rim Trail (Top-Down) is a truly rewarding, albeit difficult, point-to-point hike that plunges you into the heart of Zion's grandeur. Starting in high alpine forests, the trail gradually reveals increasingly dramatic vistas, culminating in mind-blowing cliff views as you descend into Zion Canyon. You'll pass iconic landmarks like Scout Lookout, offering eagle-eye views of Angels Landing, and navigate the famous Walter's Wiggles switchbacks carved into the sheer rock face.
Planning for this 14.7-mile (23.6 km) adventure, which involves 1248 feet (380 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 7 hours and 33 minutes, requires careful logistics. As a top-down route, you'll start at Lava Point and finish at The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6), necessitating a shuttle or car spot. Water sources like Sawmill Spring and Cabin Spring are available, but always filter or treat water. The trail is best hiked from spring through fall, though early spring can still see snow at higher elevations.
What makes the West Rim Trail (Top-Down) so special is its unique perspective on Zion, offering a less crowded experience in its upper sections compared to the main canyon. The geological and ecological diversity is remarkable, transitioning from high plateau forests to deep canyon formations. This route is often considered one of Zion's most breathtaking backpacking options, with designated campsites available for those who wish to turn it into a multi-day trip (permits required).
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,310 m
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Thursday 16 July
32°C
19°C
83 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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