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Is it better to hike Angels Landing or Observation Point?

Angels Landing is more of destination hike for thrill seekers. Everyone seems to be in a mad rush to get to the top, to be able to say that they did it. Observation Point is more of an excursion for those who like to take their time and enjoy the outdoors.



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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.

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To hike Angels Landing, you have to: Be in good shape, as the hike is 5 miles (round-trip) and ascends many steep switchbacks over 1,500 feet. Tolerate heights, as the last (and most famous) section of the hike goes across a narrow stretch of rock with cliffs on both sides called the Hog's Back.

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But the trail to Angels Landing is far from a beginner-friendly hike. In fact, even those with some hiking experience will want to consider their abilities before attempting it. At 5.5 miles roundtrip and climbing nearly 1,500 feet in elevation, the trail is physically demanding.

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You must have a good level of physical fitness. Most of this climb comes before the narrow spine of Angels Landing. If you are very fatigued by the time you get to this point, it only makes the hike more dangerous. Once you are on the spine, it is a very strenuous, sometimes technically challenging climb to the top.

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What are the Best Easy Hikes in Zion?
  • Canyon Overlook Trail. The Canyon Overlook Trail is an exciting trail that has ledges, bridges, and views. ...
  • Riverside Walk. The Riverside Walk follows the magnificent Virgin River as it flows through Zion Canyon. ...
  • Lower Emerald Pool Trail. ...
  • Pa'rus Trail. ...
  • Timber Creek Overlook Trail.


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Absolutely! While Angels Landing is a popular and iconic hike at Zion National Park, there are still plenty of other amazing sights to see in the park. We rarely hike Angels Landing when we visit, and yet we visit every year.

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Angel's Landing can be very scary at times, with sheer drop-offs and narrow ledges with only a chain to hold onto. If heights make you queasy, The Narrows is definitely the better option. Although it involves wading through cold water in places, it's relatively safe and there's never any exposure to heights.

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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.

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Angels Landing is known as one of the most dangerous hikes in the United States. The summit is over a thousand feet off the valley floor and has no guard rails. People have hurt themselves, and even fallen to their deaths, so this is a trail to take seriously.

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Angels Landing is a strenuous hike, with steep sections of rapid elevation gain in full sun exposure, and occasional scrambling.

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Angels Landing has been recorded as one of the most dangerous public hikes in the United States. The top of the trail peaks off at a plateau, which is more than 1,000 feet high. But the most dangerous part of the hike involves a skinny land-bridge with a metal chain for guidance.

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Angel's Landing is the most iconic trail in Zion National Park. The trail begins at shuttle stop #6, The Grotto.

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But, based on trail popularity, here are the five best hikes in Zion:
  • Angels Landing (permit required beginning April 1, 2022)
  • Emerald Pools Trail.
  • The Narrows.
  • Zion Canyon Overlook Trail.
  • The Watchman.


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However, if it is your first visit to Zion National Park, we would suggest visiting from the southern entrance. This will give you direct access to the main visitor's center, shuttles, and Zion Canyon which features Zion's most popular hikes, such as Angel's Landing and the Narrows.

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Tips for the Angel's Landing Hike -Make sure to bring LOTS of water, especially during those hot summer months. -Wear hiking boots: Make sure you get some with good tread to help grip to the rock when climbing the chains portion. -Go Early! The earlier you go the better.

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