Angels Landing
An iconic, permit-required hike in Zion National Park featuring a narrow ridge with chains and sheer drop-offs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Angels Landing
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic, permit-required hike in Zion National Park featuring a narrow ridge with chains and sheer drop-offs.
"This hike is not for the faint of heart, but the views are out of this world!"
🎯 Secure Your Permit Early
Apply for the Angels Landing permit lottery well in advance via the NPS website.
🧤 Bring Gloves for Chains
Utility or climbing gloves provide better grip and protection on the chains.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Chain Section
Final 0.5 miles of the trail
Navigate narrow ridges with chains for support, offering an adrenaline rush and unparalleled canyon views.
Scout Lookout
Before the chain section
A rewarding viewpoint with incredible vistas, accessible even without a permit for the summit.
Walter's Wiggles
Ascent to Scout Lookout
A series of 21 steep switchbacks that test your endurance before reaching the main ascent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Permit Required for the Summit
Prepare for Thrills and Heights
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🎯 Secure Your Permit Early
Apply for the Angels Landing permit lottery well in advance via the NPS website.
🧤 Bring Gloves for Chains
Utility or climbing gloves provide better grip and protection on the chains.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking shoes with excellent traction for the steep and exposed sections.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the hike is strenuous.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Secure Your Permit Early
Apply for the Angels Landing permit lottery well in advance via the NPS website.
🧤 Bring Gloves for Chains
Utility or climbing gloves provide better grip and protection on the chains.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Wear good hiking shoes with excellent traction for the steep and exposed sections.
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the hike is strenuous.
⬆️ Start Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive at the park shuttle by 7:30 AM to beat the heat and the intense crowds.
⚠️ Not for Fear of Heights
The narrow trail with sheer drop-offs is challenging for those with acrophobia.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Angels Landing is hailed as an iconic, breathtaking hike with unparalleled views, offering an unforgettable adventure. While challenging and demanding, especially the chain section, most visitors find the experience incredibly rewarding. Safety is paramount, and preparation is key for this thrilling trek.
"Great October hike at sunrise! We got our permit for the first time slot of the day, which was great. We took the first park shuttle of the day and were within the first few hikers of the day on the trail, so we didn't run into anyone on the way up Angels Landing. This hike was super fun to do. It is definitely impressive which gives a sense of pride when you complete it. I did not think it was too hard physically. It can definitely be scary in some areas though. I witnessed people turning back because it was too scary for them. I now get what the hype is all about. Get your permit and do the hike, you won't regret it."
JF Piché
"Billed as the most dangerous hike in USA , this is Zion’s iconic hike and also the most difficult to obtain a permit to access. It’s early Oct 2025 during the US Federal Govt shutdown and YES- NPS Rangers are still checking permits and don’t forget to bring photo ids as some who did. not bring ids had a difficult time with the rangers!
The 8.7km hike is strenuous and requires climbing of 460m. The last km iwhich requires a permit checked at the entry point at Scouts Landing involves climbing narrow ridges while holding onto a chain. Please be patient and let oncoming traffic through! The views during the hike are spectacular.
The bonus for the trip was the opportunity to see two California Condors soaring overhead. This is the largest bird in USA and was almost extinct with only 20 in the 1980s! They are now on the critically endangered having recovered to around 600 today.
Bring water as it can be quite hot and enjoy the walk."
rkl chan
"Visiting Angels Landing was absolutely unforgettable! The views from the top were breathtaking, with incredible scenery in every direction. The hike itself was challenging but totally worth it once you reach the summit. The trail was well-maintained, and there were plenty of spots to stop and take photos. I’d recommend going early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s one of those places that truly reminds you how beautiful nature can be!"
Oliver Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You'll need to take the Zion National Park shuttle to the Grotto (Stop #6). From there, it's a short walk to the start of the West Rim Trail, which leads to Angels Landing. Parking at the visitor center is extremely limited, so using the shuttle is highly recommended.
Parking at the Zion National Park entrance is very difficult to find, especially during peak season. It's best to park in Springdale and take the town shuttle to the park entrance, then transfer to the park shuttle.
No, private vehicles are not allowed on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive for most of the year. You must use the mandatory park shuttle system to access the trailhead.
The closest major airport is Las Vegas (LAS), about a 3-hour drive away. You can rent a car or take a shuttle service from Las Vegas. Driving from Salt Lake City (SLC) is also an option, approximately a 4.5-hour drive.
Yes, there is an entrance fee per vehicle. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance or online. An America the Beautiful Pass also covers entry.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a permit is required to hike the chain section of Angels Landing. Permits are issued through a lottery system by the National Park Service.
You can apply for a permit through the NPS's online lottery system. There are advance lotteries and a day-before lottery. Check the official NPS website for application dates and details.
If you don't have a permit for the chain section, you can still hike to Scout Lookout, which offers spectacular views and is about 0.5 miles before the summit.
The permit itself is free, but there is a small application fee when you enter the lottery.
Angels Landing is accessible year-round, but the permit system is in effect. The park shuttle operates on a seasonal schedule, which can affect access to the trailhead.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Angels Landing is considered strenuous and challenging due to its steepness, narrow sections, and exposure. The final 0.5 miles with chains requires significant upper body strength and a good head for heights.
The hike to the summit and back typically takes 3-5 hours, depending on your pace, the crowds, and how long you spend at the top.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip. Consider bringing gloves for the chains, and dress in layers as temperatures can change. Sunscreen and a hat are essential.
Yes, Angels Landing is considered one of the most dangerous hikes in the US due to steep drop-offs and narrow trails. At least 14 people have died from falls. Hikers must be physically fit and have no fear of heights.
It is generally not recommended for young children or the elderly due to the extreme exposure and physical demands. Parents should assess their child's capabilities carefully.
🍽️ 💧 Food & Dining
There are no food services directly on the Angels Landing trail. You'll need to pack all your own food and water. Restaurants and cafes are available in the nearby town of Springdale.
Pack high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and fruit. Ensure you have plenty of water, as there are no water sources on the trail.
No, there are no water refill stations on the Angels Landing trail. Bring more water than you think you'll need.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The views from Scout Lookout are stunning, and the chain section offers dramatic perspectives. The summit provides panoramic vistas of Zion Canyon.
Be extremely cautious when taking photos, especially on the chain section. Stop in safe areas and secure your belongings. Never let photography distract you from the trail.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunset can be particularly spectacular.
Tripods can be cumbersome and potentially hazardous on the narrow trail. Consider a lightweight, portable setup or focus on handheld shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast canyon landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant details. Ensure your gear is protected from dust and potential moisture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families can still enjoy the beauty of Zion National Park by hiking to Scout Lookout. This section offers incredible views and is a challenging but achievable hike for older children and teens who are comfortable with heights and strenuous activity. It provides a taste of the Angels Landing experience without the most perilous parts.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and water is essential, as there are no services on the trail. This is far more economical than purchasing food at park lodges or nearby restaurants.
❤️ Couples & Adventure Seekers
For those who love an adrenaline rush, the chain section provides it in spades. Even if you don't go all the way to the summit, the journey to Scout Lookout is incredibly rewarding and offers stunning photo opportunities.
Consider a guided hike for added safety and local insights. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Permit System Explained
+1Without a permit, you can still hike to Scout Lookout, which is a significant achievement in itself and offers breathtaking views of Zion Canyon. This section of the trail involves the challenging Walter's Wiggles switchbacks but does not include the narrow, chain-assisted ridge. Many visitors find Scout Lookout to be a perfectly satisfying and awe-inspiring experience.
It's crucial to check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date information on the permit application process, deadlines, and any changes to the system. Being prepared with a permit or a plan to hike to Scout Lookout will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable visit.
Safety on the Chains
+1Gloves are highly recommended by many hikers to improve grip on the chains and protect hands from abrasion. Utility or climbing gloves are often suggested.
Weather can drastically impact safety. Flash floods, rain, or snow can make the rock slippery and the chains treacherous.
Best Times to Hike and Avoid Crowds
Weekdays generally see fewer visitors than weekends. If your schedule allows, planning your hike for a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday can lead to a more serene experience.
Shoulder seasons like late October or early spring can offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer months. However, be aware that conditions like snow or ice can make the chain section particularly hazardous during colder months.
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