Angel's Landing is probably the most famous trail in Zion National Park and was named one of the top ten trails in the United States by About.com's guide to National Parks, Lauren Himiak. The trail's popularity is somewhat surprising considering its daunting last half mile, where hikers make their way carefully along a narrow ridge with drop-offs of hundreds of feet on either side, gripping chains anchored into the rock. For many people, once they've heard of Angel's Landing, they want to try it, if only to say they've made it to the top.
The Angel's Landing trail is about five miles in total and takes about five hours. The best times to go are spring, summer and fall in dry weather, and early morning is the best time to set out. The trail gets crowded late in the morning, and during heavy traffic you may be passing other hikers shoulder to shoulder along the narrow ridge, or hog's back, at the top.
Getting There
The Angel's Landing trailhead is at the Grotto picnic area, which is one of the bus stops on the main road through Zion's National Park. Picnic tables, flush toilets and spring water are available at the Grotto.
Be Prepared
Make sure you have plenty of sunscreen and a basic hiking first aid kit. Bring at least one liter of water per person, plus a lunch or some snacks in a day pack or fanny pack. Bring appropriate clothing for changing weather. The Angel's Landing trail should not be attempted during thunderstorms or if conditions are icy.
You'll need good hiking footwear with excellent traction. I recommend high-top hiking boots, but low hiking shoes or hiking sandals are also appropriate. I wouldn't recommend a hiking stick as it could present a hazard at the top. However, you could use it for most of the trail and stash it trailside when you come to the hog's back.
Hazards
Steep drop-offs are the main hazard on this trail. Unfortunately, several hikers have fallen to their deaths; however, hundreds of thousands have managed the hike safely. Pay attention to your surroundings, and look out for hikers traveling in the opposite direction. Take your time and don't run. If the heights seem overwhelming when you get to the narrow ridge, just look at where your feet are going and walk slowly.
Keep children under close supervision. Children - and anyone else for that matter - can turn around at Scout Lookout and avoid the most dangerous section of the hike.
The Trail
The trail begins at a bridge across the street from the Grotto picnic area. Follow the sign that says West Rim Trail. If it's a typical summer day, you'll see plenty of other hikers heading in the same direction.The first section of the trail is a series of broad switchbacks. These are moderately challenging. After about a mile these switchbacks will take you through Refrigerator Canyon, named for its welcome shade and cool breezes. A little beyond the two mile mark you will come to a series of 21 tighter, steeper switchbacks known as Walter's Wiggles. These are named after Walter Ruesch, Zion National Park's first superintendent, who engineered the trail.
After Walter's Wiggles you will come to Scout Lookout, where there are spectacular views of Zion Canyon and the Virgin River. This is a good place to rest, eat, drink and use the restroom. It's also a good place to turn back if you are with children or are afraid of heights.
The End
The last half mile of the Angel's Landing trail, the hog's back, is what makes the trail famous. Walk slowly, be careful and hold the chains when necessary, and you will reach the "landing" point with its steep drop-offs, spectacular views and "I made it" feeling.
