You’ve finally made it to Zion National Park, only to find out that Angels Landing permits are sold out for the next month. The Narrows? Packed shoulder to shoulder with hundreds of hikers splashing through the same water. Sound familiar?
Here’s the good news: Zion offers dozens of incredible trails that most visitors never consider. These alternative hikes deliver stunning red rock scenery, peaceful solitude, and unique features you won’t find on the famous routes.
This guide covers the best hikes in Zion National Park that go beyond the typical bucket list. You’ll find options for every skill level, from easy family walks to challenging climbs. Best of all, you won’t need to fight for permits or elbow through crowds to enjoy them.
Why Skip the Famous Trails?
Angels Landing now requires a lottery permit system, and even when you win, you’re hiking with dozens of other people on narrow chains. The Narrows fills with hundreds of visitors during peak season, turning a serene canyon walk into a traffic jam.
Poor weather makes these trails especially risky. Flash floods threaten The Narrows, while rain and ice make Angels Landing’s exposed chains downright dangerous. Rangers close these trails regularly for safety reasons.
The best hikes in Zion National Park aren’t always the most famous ones. Lesser-known trails give you room to breathe, better photo opportunities, and often more interesting features. You’ll actually remember the experience instead of just remembering the crowds.
Best Alternative Hikes in Zion
Ready to see a different side of the park? These seven trails offer everything from canyon views to water crossings, without the chaos.
1. West Rim Trail to Cabin Spring
This 7.5-mile round-trip hike starts at the Grotto and follows the same route as Angels Landing for the first two miles. After Scout Lookout, instead of turning toward the chains, you continue upward onto the West Rim Trail.
The trail climbs through slickrock terrain to Cabin Spring, offering 360-degree views of Zion Canyon. Spring and early summer bring small waterfalls along the way. This moderate to strenuous hike suits anyone who wants serious elevation gain and expansive scenery without dealing with Angels Landing permits.
2. Taylor Creek Trail
Located in the quieter Kolob Canyons section, this 5-mile round trip follows Taylor Creek through a red rock canyon. You’ll cross the creek multiple times, passing two historic cabins from 1930s homesteaders before reaching a stunning double arch alcove at the trail’s end.
The easy-to-moderate trail works perfectly for families and anyone wanting a water experience without Narrows crowds. Wear shoes that can get wet since you’ll be stepping through the creek at least a dozen times. The cabins make great spots for photos and shade breaks.
3. Observation Point via East Mesa Trail
At 6.4 miles round trip, this route takes you to Zion’s highest viewpoint, looking down on Angels Landing from 1,000 feet above. The relatively flat trail requires driving to the east entrance and taking dirt roads to the trailhead, but the effort pays off with unmatched canyon panoramas.
Photographers love this spot for capturing the entire Zion Canyon system in one frame. The traditional Observation Point trail from the canyon floor remains closed, making this the only way to reach this incredible vista. Go early for the best light and cooler temperatures.
4. Canyon Overlook Trail
This short 1-mile round trip packs incredible views into just 20 minutes of hiking. Located right by the Zion Mount Carmel Tunnel on the east side, the trail climbs carved stone steps to an overlook of Pine Creek Canyon and the Beehives formation.
Perfect for families with young kids or anyone short on time, this easy trail delivers big rewards for minimal effort. The quick access makes it ideal for sunset photos. Just watch children near the cliff edges, as there are no guardrails at the overlook.
5. Watchman Trail
Starting right near the Visitor Center, this 3.3-mile loop requires no shuttle ride and offers excellent sunset views. The moderate climb takes you to viewpoints overlooking the lower canyon, Watchman Peak, and the town of Springdale below.
This trail shines for first-day hikers who want to stretch their legs without committing to a big adventure. You can hike it anytime since it doesn’t require the shuttle system. The lower elevation also means you can hike it comfortably when higher trails still have snow.
6. Many Pools Trail
This 2-mile trail near the east entrance takes you across slickrock terrain similar to The Wave in Arizona. The landscape features potholes that fill with water after rain, creating natural reflecting pools among the white and red sandstone.
Geology fans and photographers will love the unique terrain you can explore freely without staying on a strict path. Parking is extremely limited, so arrive early or visit on weekdays. The exposed trail gets very hot in summer, making spring and fall the best seasons for this hike.
7. Scout Lookout
Want 90% of the Angels Landing experience without the permit or chains? Scout Lookout delivers exactly that. This 4-mile round trip follows the same trail as Angels Landing but stops at the lookout point before the exposed chain section.
You’ll climb Walter’s Wiggles, pass through cool Refrigerator Canyon, and stand at the base of Angels Landing with amazing views in every direction. This moderate hike works for anyone who likes the classic Zion experience but prefers to skip the scary parts. No permit needed.
Tips for Hiking in Zion
Planning helps you make the most of the best hikes in Zion National Park. A little preparation goes a long way toward having a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Start your hikes early in the morning to beat both crowds and afternoon heat, especially during the summer months.
- Check the park website or visitor center for current trail conditions, closures, and weather warnings before you head out.t
- Brinwater-friendly shoes if you’re doing any trail with creek crossings, and always pack more water than you think you need
- Sun protection is critical since many trails offer little shade bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Kolob Canyons sits 40 miles from the main canyon and offers much quieter trails with equally beautiful scenery.
- Cell service is limited or nonexistent on most trails, so download maps and directions before you leave.e
- Never ignore trail closures or weather warnings flash floods and rockfall are real dangers in canyon country. ry
Weather changes fast in the desert, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in late summer. Give yourself enough time to finish before dark, and let someone know your hiking plans.
Conclusion
The best hikes in Zion National Park aren’t always the ones everyone talks about. While Angels Landing and The Narrows deserve their fame, these seven alternatives offer something special: space to enjoy nature without feeling rushed or crowded.
Choose your trails based on what interests you most. Love water? Try Taylor Creek. Want the highest views? Head to Observation Point. Short on time? Canyon Overlook gives you big scenery in a small package.
These alternative trails often create more meaningful memories because you can actually hear the wind, spot wildlife, and take photos without people in every frame. Start planning your Zion trip around these options, and you’ll see why experienced hikers often skip the famous spots entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Any of These Alternative Trails Require Permits?
None of these seven trails requires advance permits or lottery entries. You can show up and hike them anytime during park hours, though some require driving to different trailheads outside the main canyon area.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Hike These Trails?
Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) offer ideal temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer brings extreme heat, especially on exposed trails. Winter can be beautiful, but it requires checking for snow and ice conditions.
Can I Access Kolob Canyons With the Main Canyon Shuttle?
Kolob Canyons is a separate area located 40 miles north of the main canyon entrance. You need your own vehicle to drive there, and it has its own entrance station. No shuttle service connects the two areas.
Which Trail Offers the Best Views for Sunrise or Sunset?
Watchman Trail is perfect for sunset with west-facing views and easy access. Canyon Overlook also works great for evening light. Observation Point captures stunning sunrise colors but requires an early drive to the trailhead.
Are These Trails Suitable for Families With Young Children?
Canyon Overlook and Watchman Trail work well for families with kids who can walk a few miles. Taylor Creek is great if your children enjoy water play. Scout Lookout and the other longer trails are better for older kids with hiking experience.
