Angel’s Landing is one of the world’s most famous day hikes, as well as one of the most dangerous hikes in the country! This hike brings thousands of adventures to Zion National Park every year! It needs to be on your bucket list; however, it can be a little overwhelming… figuring out where to park, what to bring, and what you need to know before you hike!
WHERE TO PARK
When you get into Zion National Park, put “Angels Landing Trailhead” into your Google or Apple Maps. You can also find it in the park map. Head to the lot at the trailhead and see if there’s a parking spot. If not, find “the Grotto” on your park map or your online map and park there! Get there early to try to get a parking space!
WHAT TO BRING
- Daypack
- Water!!!
- Snack (trail mix, protein bar, etc.)
- Hiking shoes!
- With good traction (not bloodstones, hokas, etc.)
- The shoes I used and have hiked in for several years! They are super cute and have held up so well!
- Gloves, hat, windbreaker, hand warmers (winter)
- Attachable spikes for shoes (if snow/ice)
ITS THE CLIMBBBBB
The hike starts with 21 switchbacks called Walter’s Wiggles. The views are beautiful, but it’s really intense, so be sure to take it slowly. You’ll get to a split in the trail where you’ll go right and see a sign for Angel’s Landing! This is where you may be asked to show your permit. Shortly after that, you will reach a small open area where you will see the incline climb. You can stop there and eat a snack and breathe before the hard (yet awesome) part. The “chain section” is about 1/2 a mile; GO SLOW! Be careful! It’s only dangerous if you act like an idiot and don’t pay attention. Then BOOM! You’re at the top. It’s truly breathtaking at the top!
OTHER
Angel’s Landing requires a permit that you have to apply for beforehand! It’s relatively easy to get a permit, and its only $6. You can hike the first park of the hike without one, but you may be asked to show your permit at any given moment, so be sure not to skip one!
Try to start early on the hike to avoid being crammed or rushed during the scary part of the hike!
There is a restroom at the end of the hike (before the chain section).
If you want to explore more of the great Western United States, check out my Out West Itinerary!