I’m looking forward to a visit to Zion National Park in Utah this winter, and getting a different view of this wonder. One trail I likely won’t be taking this time is Angel’s Landing, one of the most magnificent hikes in the National Parks. The trail starts by crossing the Virgin River in the valley floor.
Virgin River, Zion National Park
Soon you are gaining elevation on switchbacks and slow ascents, and get a nice view down to the river and the valley that it formed.
Angel’s Landing trail and Zion valley
Soon enough the trail gets more adventurous with warning signs and chain assists.
Chain cable assist
View from Scout Lookout
Angel’s Landing got its name from a Methodist minister who viewed the cliff and remarked that only angels could land there. The last leg of the hike has chains most of the way to have something to hold on to while looking at 1000 foot drops on both sides of the narrow trail.
Final hike on the rocky spine
We decided that this landing place had a good enough view to stop for a snack. I’ll look for a different trail in the snow and ice of January!
View across to the East Rim
View up Zion Valley