Angels Landing

Best Time to Hike Angels Landing

The listed season runs March through November. Fall (September through October) is the most reliable window — temperatures are moderate, trail surfaces are typically dry, and crowds are lighter than peak summer. Spring brings cooler air but ice can remain on the exposed switchbacks and chain section into early April. In June through August, summer heat in Zion Canyon is significant and the chain section is fully exposed — departing on the first shuttles of the morning is strongly recommended. Monsoon thunderstorms are possible from July through September; if weather develops while you are on the summit ridge, descend without delay. Winter access is occasionally possible but ice on the chain section substantially raises the difficulty.

Trail Tips for Angels Landing

• The lottery permit is checked at Scout Lookout — arriving without one and planning to continue to the summit ridge is not a workable strategy. Scout Lookout itself provides strong canyon views and stands as a legitimate destination if the lottery is unsuccessful.
• The narrow ridge carries two-way traffic simultaneously; communicate with approaching hikers and yield with patience — the pace of the group ahead matters more than your own pace on the most exposed sections.
• Wear footwear with firm grip on the sole; the sandstone on the chain section is polished smooth from heavy use and can be slick in shaded areas or after morning moisture.
• Carry adequate water for the full round trip, not just the approach — the summit ridge and return climb are exposed and drier than the canyon floor.

Getting There

The trailhead is at the Grotto on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Check nps.gov/zion for current permit lottery windows, shuttle schedules, and any trail conditions before your visit.

What to Expect on Angels Landing Trail

Angels Landing is a 5.4-mile out-and-back trail with 1,488 feet of elevation gain, rated hard, with an estimated completion time of 3 to 5 hours. The route starts at the Grotto and climbs Walter's Wiggles — 21 tight switchbacks carved into the canyon wall — before arriving at Scout Lookout, where the maintained trail ends. Beyond Scout Lookout, the final half mile follows a narrow sandstone ridge with chains anchored into the rock. Thousand-foot drop-offs flank both sides of the ridge continuously. The rock surface provides adequate traction when dry, and the chain section is more manageable than most photographs suggest, but it requires confident movement and sustained attention throughout. The summit delivers open views spanning the full length of Zion Canyon. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.