Find the most incredible easy hikes in Zion National Park that offer you jaw-dropping canyon views, refreshing waterfalls, and unrivalled natural beauty.
A number of easy hikes in Zion National Park are far more scenic than harder trails. They’re perfect for beginners and avid hikers looking to discover some of the best landmarks that this park has to offer. One thing is assured on these popular hikes; there’s something exciting around every bend.
The Best Time to Go Hiking in Zion National Park
Zion National Park is open 24-hours a day and 365 days a year. This makes it one of the best hiking destinations year-round. Summer is usually the most popular time to visit the park, but this means that most of the trails will be crowded and will get very hot during the day.
If you’re planning a hiking trip in the summer make sure you have good sunscreen and water for the trail. For longer trails, you can opt for a daypack that has a hydration bladder. This way you can carry extra water in case there isn’t any on the trail.
During spring and fall, the weather is more temperate and you can enjoy beautiful lush vegetation. There are fewer crowds on the popular trails which makes them far more enjoyable to hike.
Before planning your hike make sure to check all park alerts for closures due to snowmelt, landslides and flash floods.
Getting to Easy Hikes in Zion National Park
The best way to get around Zion is with the Zion park shuttle. It operates from March to November and runs from the visitor centre all the way up the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. You can reach many easy hikes in Zion National Park, including Emerald Pools and the West Rim Trail.
You can learn more about the shuttle and its routes here.
If you’re entering the park from Springdale, you can jump on the Springdale Shuttle which stops at Zion‘s pedestrian/bike entrance.
From December to February the park shuttle is usually not in operation, so you’ll have to drive to reach the trails. Even though there are fewer visitors during winter, you should still get an early start as parking is limited.
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The Watchman Trail
2 miles / 3 kilometers
636 feet / 194 meters
Located on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, this trail can be reached with the park shuttle and offers you dramatic scenery all along the route. This is not exactly an easy hike in Zion National Park as there is a short rocky section and a steady elevation gain. However, there are no real steep sections and during the morning the trail is shady which makes it considerably easy.
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Lower Emerald Pool
1.2 miles / 2.3 kilometers
128 feet / 39 meters
Probably one of the most popular trails in Zion, the Lower Emerald Pool Trail is also one of the most beautiful. Part of the route is paved and shady, which makes it a great family-friendly hike. You’re rewarded with amazing views of the waterfall at the end. This trail can also be reached by the park shuttle during summer. Make sure to get there early though as this easy hike in Zion National Park gets really busy.
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Timber Creek Overlook Trail
1.2 miles / 1.8 kilometers
255 feet / 78 meters
The Timber Creek Overlook Trail is an easy hike in Zion National Park that offers stunning views of the Kolob Canyons. This route has a slightly steeper elevation for its short distance but isn’t very challenging. You can enjoy views of beautiful wildflowers scattered along the way. This is a popular trail and does get busy, so make sure to get there early to avoid the crowds.
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The Zion Narrows Riverside Walk
2 miles / 3.1 kilometers
194 feet / 59 meters
This paved trail is a great day hike for all skill levels that takes you along the Virgin River. The Zion Narrows walk has beautiful views throughout and a very small and steady incline in some places. You’ll need to wear the right shoes as your feet will get wet in some sections near the river. You can reach this trail with the park shuttle where you will have to walk a short distance to the trailhead.
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Pa’rus Trail
3.5 miles / 5.5 kilometers
158 feet / 48 meters
The Pa’rus Trail is an easy hike in Zion National Park that offers spectacular views of wildflowers and the Virgin River. There are several bridge crossings and very little elevation on the paved trail. This route is dog-friendly and can also be used for cycling so keep a lookout for bikes. You can access the trail from the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
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Zion Grotto Trail
1.2 miles / 1.9 kilometers
79 feet / 24 meters
The Zion Grotto Trail is short with very little elevation, making it one of the more popular hikes for beginners. The route can easily be walked and still offers incredible views as it leads through a canyon. It’s an iconic hike in Zion and a top pick for most visitors, so make sure to get there early to beat the crowds.
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Zion Canyon Overlook Trail
1 mile / 1.6 kilometers
187 feet / 57 meters
The canyon overlook trail is an easy hike in Zion National Park that can be done by all skill levels. This route is short but you can expect rocky outcrops, a cave and several steep drop-offs on your way to the overlook. If you’re afraid of heights it can be quite daunting but the views at the top are well worth it.
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East Mesa Trail to Blew by Peak
4.2 miles / 6.8 kilometers
288 feet / 88 meters
This route is slightly longer but the low elevation makes it an easy hike in Zion National Park. The East Mesa Trail is well-maintained and great for beginners and families. At the end of the trail is an overlook with spectacular views of Zion‘s unique landscape. There’s no shade during the entire hike so make sure to get there early to avoid the heat.
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Clear Creek Trail
2.3 miles / 3.7 kilometers
141 feet / 43 meters
The Clear Creek Trail takes you through a wonderful slot canyon where you can enjoy short narrows and a slightly more technical hike. The creek bed is dry but rocky and sandy in some spots so be sure to wear good hiking shoes and bring along poles too. It’s a great trail for all experience levels looking to do a little more technical hiking that isn’t too challenging.
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Kayenta Trail
3.1 miles / 5.0 kilometers
92 feet / 128 meters
This easy hike in Zion National Park is great if you’re looking for something a little more challenging. The route offers you river views as well as plenty of wildflowers during the spring and summer. It also connects to the Emerald Pools Trail where you can enjoy a refreshing waterfall. You can reach the trailhead with the shuttle or park your car at the Zion Lodge which is a short walk away.
