The Best Zion Trails for SeniorsWhile some seniors could hike anything they want in Zion National Park, we are covering the most accessible trails. Feel free to try Angels Landing or The Narrows if you feel you're able!
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It's important not to attempt this climb if you aren't in good physical shape. It is not appropriate for young children and is too dangerous to try with a kid in a backpack. Only hike Angels Landing if you are in good physical shape. If you have a fear of heights, do not attempt a trail literally called Angels Landing.
Should I Hike Angels Landing With Children? In general, I think most 10 year olds are probably physically capable of doing this trail. The chains section is not significantly more strenuous than the rest of the hike, and the actual hike is fun.
With moderate elevation gain and a relatively limited mileage, the Angels Landing hike is in some ways beginner friendly. However, the Chains Section will be too intimidating for most beginners or anyone who struggles with vertigo or a fear of heights.
Lots of water: Angels Landing takes on average five hours round trip, and it is a strenuous hike, so make sure you stay hydrated. Hiking shoes: Take care to wear shoes with good traction and support. The Angels Landing trailhead is paved but parts of the trail can be treacherous and slippery, even in fair weather.
The First Section Is GruelingAlthough Angels Landing's last half-mile ascent gets much of the attention, remember that you have to climb about 1,000 feet in elevation over 2 miles to get to that point. Don't underestimate the difficulty of the first part of Angels Landing.
One trail that rivals an Angels Landing hike is the Narrows. This trail is perhaps even more unique than Angels Landing. Hikers travel up or downstream through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls that narrow as you progress further into the canyon.
At 1.9 miles you'll reach Scout's Landing. This is where the trail splits for the West Rim Hike to one side or the daring final half mile ascent to the top of Angels Landing. This is also the spot where hikers have the option to turn around if they have a fear of heights or small children.
Angels Landing Trail is located near the north end of Zion National Park, starting across from The Grotto picnic area. The out and back hike is rated strenuous and has an elevation gain of 453 m (1,488 ft). Round trip, the Angels Landing hike is 8.7 km (5.4 mi) and takes about 4 hours to complete.
Most of the accidents have not occurred on the final 1.1-mile chain section from Scout Lookout to the top of Angels Landing as most of the accidents happened on both sides with people getting too close to the edge.
As of 2023, at least 17 confirmed deaths have happened on the Angels Landing hike, and some sources put that figure closer to 20 deaths. Most of these were falls from steep cliffs.
Being prepared to hike the Angels Landing Trail means hiking boots or closed-toe hiking shoes with non-slip soles (sandals, flip-flops and skate shoes are all bad ideas), a day-pack to carry plenty of water and salty snacks, plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
Restrooms are available at Scout Lookout and The Grotto. Water filling stations are also available at The Grotto. To reach the beginning of the Angels Landing Trail, hikers must ascend the West Rim to Scout Lookout.
Bathrooms – Located at the trailhead, and at Scout Lookout, about 2.0 miles from trailhead. Season to hike – Normally from April 1st to October 30th, depending on the weather. Don't attempt to hike at night, nor in rain or snow. Permits – Park entrance fee is $25.
So how many people have died on Angels Landing? As of 2023, at least 17 confirmed deaths have happened on the Angels Landing hike, and some sources put that figure closer to 20 deaths. Most of these were falls from steep cliffs.
Angels Landing Hike OverviewHazards: Cliff exposure; can be slippery and dangerous when wet. The Angels Landing hike is not recommended for young children. Finding the trailhead: The trail begins at the Grotto Trailhead, 0.6 miles beyond Zion Lodge on Zion Canyon Road (accessed via the tram).
I now exclusively hike Angels Landing for sunrise because it's the only way to enjoy the trail without hoards of people. However, both before and after the implementation of the permit, the way down from Angels Landing has always been very crowded. Today, it's mostly people who do not have permits.
The National Park Service considers ascending the 4,800 feet and traveling the minimum 14.5 miles to Half Dome's summit, “one of the most challenging day hikes in any national park.” Measured by vertical ascent, hiking Half Dome is roughly three times as challenging as hiking Angels Landing, and even includes a 7-mile ...
Pack More Water Than You Expect to UseIf there's one piece of gear that you absolutely can't hike Angels Landing Zion without, it's a water bottle—or several. As a general rule, hikers should plan to drink around one-half-liter of water for every hour of moderate hiking in moderate temperatures.