Zion National Park is packed with amazing trails, and because it’s one of the larger parks, there really is something for everyone—whether you want a short stroll or a challenging backcountry adventure.
Over the past few years, I’ve done more than 20 hikes throughout Zion, and after all that exploring, I’ve narrowed it down to my six favorite trails. These are the ones that left the biggest impression—whether for the views, the experience, or just the pure fun of it. If you’re planning a trip to Zion and want to make the most of your time, these are the hikes I recommend checking out.
#6 Zion Canyon Overlook
The Zion Canyon Overlook is a short and sweet trail that delivers some seriously rewarding views without too much effort. The toughest part, honestly, is finding a parking spot along the Highway 9 Scenic Drive. Spaces are limited and fill up quickly, especially during peak hours—so it helps to go early or keep an eye out for people leaving.
Once you’re parked, the hike itself is about a mile round trip with only 157 feet of elevation gain. It’s a relatively easy walk, but the trail does have a few narrow sections and drop-offs (with railings), so just keep an eye on your footing. Along the way, you’ll pass through a small rock alcove and over a bridge, which adds a little extra character to the hike.
The overlook at the end gives you a sweeping view of Zion Canyon, with massive sandstone walls and the winding road below. It’s one of those spots where you just want to stop and take it all in. Because it’s quick and accessible, it’s the perfect detour to take on a whim while exploring the scenic drive.
#5: The Watchman Trail
Number five on my list is the Watchman Trail—an underrated gem that starts right near the Zion Visitor Center, which means no need to deal with the shuttle system. That alone makes it a convenient option, especially if you’re short on time or just don’t feel like waiting in line.
The trail is listed at a little over three miles round trip, though we clocked it closer to four miles total. There’s about 700 feet of elevation gain, so it’s enough to get your heart rate up without being overwhelming. It’s a solid mid-range hike that gives you a nice mix of effort and reward.
One thing to keep in mind: most of the trail is exposed, so if you’re hiking during the warmer part of the day, make sure to bring plenty of water and be mindful of the heat. That said, the terrain isn’t too technical, and the gradual climb makes it manageable even in the sun—as long as you’re prepared.
The trail loosely follows the Virgin River at first, then starts to climb up the canyon wall. Once you reach the overlook, you’re rewarded with a sweeping view of the Watchman rock formation and the surrounding cliffs. It’s a beautiful, peaceful spot, and definitely one of those hikes where the journey and the destination are equally enjoyable.
#4 Observation Point via the East Mesa Trail
Next up is the Observation Point hike via the East Mesa Trail—a route that’s about 7.5 miles round trip with around 700 feet of elevation gain. So while it’s a bit longer in distance, the incline is steady and gradual, making it a manageable hike for most people with a decent fitness level.
What makes this trail special is the view at the end. Many people consider Observation Point to be the best overlook in all of Zion. From the top, you get a jaw-dropping panorama of Zion Canyon, with Angels Landing far below you and sheer cliffs stretching out in every direction. It’s one of those places where you just stop and stare for a while.
If you can, try to time your hike for late morning or early afternoon. In the early hours, shadows tend to cover large parts of the canyon, which can hide some of the color and detail. Once the sun gets a little higher, though, the reds, oranges, and greens of the landscape really pop, making the view even more spectacular.
It’s also a pretty low-key hike overall. The trail winds through a quiet forest, and along the way you’ll pass a few side viewpoints that look down into other canyons—nice little surprises that add some variety to the route. One of the best things about this trail is the lack of hassle: no permit required, no shuttle needed. That alone makes it a refreshing alternative to many of Zion’s more popular hikes.
The catch? You’ll need to drive out to the more remote east side of the park to access the trailhead, which is probably why a lot of people skip it. But that also means fewer crowds, more solitude, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to find in other parts of Zion.
I thought it felt more like a scenic stroll than a strenuous hike—just a really enjoyable way to experience the park from a different perspective. You even get views off toward the Narrows area, and from the top, the canyon opens up into a stunning bird’s-eye view of Zion. It’s the kind of overlook that really lets you appreciate the scale of the place.
Just be aware that while most of the trail is mellow and shaded, the overlook itself features some dramatic, unprotected drop-offs—so be cautious when you’re soaking in the view. It’s a beautiful, quiet spot; we even saw someone propose while we were up there. Safe to say, I’d absolutely recommend this hike.
#3 Angel’s Landing
Next on the list is Angel’s Landing—probably the most infamous and talked-about hike in all of Zion. It’s about 4.5 miles round trip with around 1,800 feet of elevation gain, so you’ll definitely feel the climb. The trail starts with a steady ascent and includes the famous Walter’s Wiggles—a steep set of switchbacks that lead you to Scout Lookout. From there, the real adventure begins.
The final stretch to Angel’s Landing involves some scrambling and serious exposure, with chains bolted into the rock to help you navigate narrow ridgelines and drop-offs. This section is what makes the hike so iconic—and also what makes it intimidating for a lot of people.
Personally, I didn’t find it as scary as it’s often made out to be. We did it on a cold, windy day, and honestly, the weather was the hardest part. The chains give you something to hold onto at all the key spots, so as long as you’re cautious and take your time, it feels manageable. The next challenge for me was the crowds. Navigating tight sections with people coming up and down at the same time can definitely slow things down and add a layer of stress.
That said, while I didn’t find it overwhelming, I also can’t dismiss the risks. Tragically, someone did fall to their death on the day we hiked it, and that was a sobering reminder that this trail demands respect. It’s not the place to fool around or push your limits if you’re feeling unsure.
If you’re in decent shape, have a good head for heights, and respect the terrain, the odds of something going wrong are low. The views are incredible—the kind that make you stop in your tracks—and the scrambling adds an element of fun that makes this trail stand out from most others. Just know what you’re getting into.
The main downside is the logistics. You’ll need a permit to hike the chained section, and you’ll most likely need to take the shuttle unless you’re biking or hiking in from another route. That can make it a little less convenient, but if you’re up for a challenge and want a hike you’ll never forget, Angel’s Landing is absolutely worth it.
#2 The Narrows
Coming in at number two is The Narrows—easily one of the most iconic hikes in Zion National Park, and for good reason. Unlike most trails, this one takes you through the Virgin River, winding between towering canyon walls that seem to stretch endlessly upward. The distance really depends on how far you want to go. You can turn around after just a couple of miles, or push all the way to Big Springs, which is about a nine-mile round trip.
A popular goal is to hike to Orderville Canyon, explore that side canyon a bit, and maybe continue on to the small waterfall. Another highlight is Floating Rock, which sits near the start of the famous “Wall Street” section. That’s where the canyon really narrows, and the walls rise dramatically on either side.
If you can, try to make it at least to Wall Street—the way the sunlight bounces between those canyon walls is surreal. For me, that’s where Zion truly came alive. I had already done a handful of other trails, but it wasn’t until I walked through The Narrows that I felt like I finally got what Zion is all about.
The hike itself is a mix of river crossings and carefully navigating slick rocks as you move from bank to bank. You’re walking directly in the river for most of it, so your footing matters. I highly recommend renting gear suited to the season. In the summer, we rented river shoes and neoprene socks, which kept our feet warm and made a huge difference in comfort. I also recommend using a sturdy wooden walking stick over trekking poles—those just aren’t as stable for this kind of hike.
One thing to note: this trail starts at the very end of the scenic drive, so you’ll need to take the park shuttle unless you find an alternative. We opted to bike in early in the morning before the first shuttle ran. It was a 10-mile ride, but on an e-bike it was pretty manageable—and totally worth it to beat the crowds and have a peaceful head start. That said, biking 20+ miles and doing a long hike through a riverbed can definitely add up, so be realistic about your energy levels.
I’ve done other river canyon hikes—like Kanarra Creek and Aravaipa Canyon—but nothing quite compares to The Narrows. It’s unique, visually stunning, and peaceful (until the crowds pour in). If you’re looking for the trail that really captures the magic of Zion, this is the one. Highly, highly recommend it.
#1: The Subway (Bottom-Up Route)
Topping the list is The Subway—a truly unique and unforgettable hike in the Zion backcountry. This one is a little over 7 miles round trip with around 1,300 feet of elevation gain, but don’t let the numbers fool you—this hike is tough. It’s rugged, wild, and extremely rewarding for those who are up for the challenge.
For a long time, The Subway was more of a hidden gem, but it’s gained popularity in recent years. Now, you’ll need to enter a lottery system to get a permit, even for the non-technical “bottom-up” route. The trail starts with a steep descent into the canyon, dropping you several hundred feet right off the bat. From there, you’ll follow the Left Fork of North Creek, hiking upstream over slippery rocks, wading through water, and scrambling over boulders—constantly.
This is one of those hikes that some people might describe as borderline torture. It’s physically demanding, especially in the heat. The combination of river crossings, uneven terrain, and relentless scrambling can really wear you down. But as you continue deeper into the canyon, the payoff starts to reveal itself.
You’ll pass dinosaur tracks fossilized into the rock, cross under lush canyon walls, and eventually reach a series of stunning cascades. And then—you reach The Subway. It’s a surreal, tube-shaped section of canyon carved out by thousands of years of water erosion. Smooth walls, flowing water, and perfectly shaped pools make it a dream for photographers and nature lovers alike. It’s one of the most otherworldly spots I’ve ever hiked to.
We did the bottom-up route, which is an out-and-back hike and doesn’t require any technical gear. There’s also a top-down route that involves rappelling and more serious canyoneering—but that’s a whole other level and requires additional permits, equipment, and experience.
Getting back out isn’t any easier. After soaking in the beauty of The Subway, you have to retrace your steps—more scrambling, more water crossings—and then climb your way back out of the canyon. It’s a slog, and not something to attempt unprepared. You need to be realistic about your fitness level, carry plenty of water, and plan around the weather, especially since flash flooding can be a real danger in these narrow canyons.
That said, for me, this hike was pure magic. It felt like stepping into a prehistoric world—untamed, raw, and wildly beautiful. If you’re looking for a true backcountry adventure in Zion and you’re ready for the effort it demands, The Subway delivers something unforgettable.
Final word
Zion has no shortage of incredible trails, and honestly, you can’t go too wrong no matter where you hike. But these six stood out to me for different reasons—some for the views, others for the adventure, and a few just for the overall vibe. Whether you’re looking for an easy overlook, a legendary scramble, or a full-on backcountry trek, Zion delivers. If you’ve done any of these hikes—or if you have a favorite I didn’t mention—I’d love to hear about it. Happy hiking!
Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo. He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio.
