Zion National Park is a must-see destination for outdoor lovers. Known for its towering cliffs, lush valleys, and breathtaking canyons, it offers something for everyone. Additionally, the park is home to Kolob Arch, one of the largest freestanding natural arches in the world. Covering over 146,000 acres, Zion attracts visitors from all over, drawn by its stunning views and challenging hikes, like Angels Landing.
Angels Landing at a Glance
Among Zion’s many trails, Angels Landing stands out. This hike is famous for its steep drop-offs and narrow ridges. At 5.4 miles round trip and an elevation gain of 1,488 feet, it’s a physically demanding challenge. Reaching the summit rewards hikers with panoramic views of Zion Canyon, but it’s not for the faint of heart. The trail’s difficulty and exposure make it a thrilling experience, but safety should always come first.
Understanding the Permit System
Why Permits Are Required
To manage overcrowding and enhance safety, Zion National Park introduced a permit system for Angels Landing in 2022. This system limits the number of hikers on the trail at any given time, helping to create a more enjoyable and safer experience for everyone.
How to Apply
Permits are distributed through two types of lotteries: the seasonal and the day-before lotteries. Here’s the schedule for the 2025 seasonal lottery:
| Hike Dates | Lottery Opens 8 a.m. MT | Lottery Closes 11:59 p.m. MT | Permits Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 1, 2024–February 28, 2025 | October 1 | October 20 | October 25 |
| March 1–May 31 | January 1 | January 20 | January 25 |
| June 1–August 31 | April 1 | April 20 | April 25 |
| September 1–November 30 | July 1 | July 20 | July 25 |
| December 1, 2025–February 28, 2026 | October 1 | October 20 | October 25 |
- Day-Before Lottery:
- If you miss the seasonal lottery, don’t worry. Half of the permits are saved for the day-before lottery. It opens at 12:01 a.m. MT and closes at 3 p.m. MT. You’ll be notified by 4:00pm if you have received one or not. The application fee is $6 for up to six people.
Tips for Securing a Permit
- Apply as early as possible during the lottery window.
- Be flexible with your hiking dates.
- Set reminders to avoid missing the application deadlines.
- If you don’t win the seasonal lottery, use the day-before lottery as a backup.
Personal Experience on Angels Landing
Preparing for the Hike
We hiked Angels Landing in early May 2024. Securing a day-before permit for the afternoon time slot, we arrived at the Zion Visitor Center before 8 a.m. to ensure we’d get parking. For the hike, we brought sturdy boots, sunscreen, a water pack, and snacks. Hiking poles aren’t necessary unless you plan to use them in the chains section, but be sure you have a way to stow them if needed.
Trail Overview
The hike begins with a bridge crossing the Virgin River, leading to the West Rim Trail. The first section is a paved path, mostly sunny with a brief break in Refrigerator Canyon, where you’ll enjoy a cool breeze. After that, you’ll tackle Walter’s Wiggles, 21 short switchbacks that lead to a section with a little more elevation gain. Contrary to their reputation, the switchbacks are manageable, and we took only one break. If you’re in decent hiking shape, they shouldn’t be a problem.
The section right before the permitted area is called Scouts Lookout. Since we started our hike early, we had some time to kill. We decided to hike another mile or so along the West Rim trail and found a secluded spot to take in the views, and relax. Scouts Lookout has toilets and is very crowded. Around 11:45 we made our way back down and had our permits out to show the stationed ranger and we started the last leg of the hike.
The final stretch is the infamous chains section. This narrow ridge can feel intense, but the chains provide support as you navigate steep cliffs and carved steps. Although the exposure is unsettling, gripping the chains tightly ensures safety. Passing others can be tricky, but thanks to the permit system, the trail is less crowded.
The views at the end are absolutely breathtaking and so worth the uneasiness feeling while hiking.
Highlights and Challenges
- Highlights: The summit provides jaw-dropping views of Zion Canyon. For anyone with a fear of heights, the sense of accomplishment is incredible.
- Challenges: The trail’s physical demands and the exposure can be intimidating, but with proper preparation, they are manageable.
Final Reflection
Angels Landing was everything I expected and more. The combination of beauty and challenge makes it an unforgettable experience. Reaching the summit was a proud moment, and the hike remains a top highlight of my time in Zion.
Practical Tips for Future Hikers
Timing: Avoid hiking in rain or snow, as conditions can become slippery and dangerous. The best weather is typically from May through October, though summer crowds can be intense.
Hydration and Nutrition: Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay fueled. Electrolytes are particularly helpful in warmer months to combat fatigue.
Alternatives: If you can’t get a permit for Angels Landing, there are plenty of other great hikes in Zion, such as Observation Point and The Narrows.
Why Angels Landing is Worth the Hike
Hiking Angels Landing is an unforgettable adventure that combines incredible views, physical challenges, and a deep sense of accomplishment. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of the chains section or the stunning panoramas at the summit, this trail offers an experience like no other in Zion National Park. With the right preparation and mindset, Angels Landing is a bucket-list hike that truly lives up to the hype.
Looking for more tips and inspiration for your next adventure? Check out our other blog posts for detailed guides to National Parks. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @ptadventuring for even more outdoor inspiration, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates on our latest travels! Let’s explore together.
