Emerald Pools
A series of trails in Zion National Park leading to serene pools and waterfalls, offering varying difficulty and stunning canyon vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Waterfalls are fullest
Emerald Pools
Best Time
Waterfalls are fullest
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A series of trails in Zion National Park leading to serene pools and waterfalls, offering varying difficulty and stunning canyon vistas.
"The Lower Emerald Pool's walk-behind waterfall is a unique highlight, making it a family favorite."
💧 Check Trail Status First
Always check the official Zion National Park website for current trail conditions and closures before your visit.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trails can be rocky and uneven, especially to the Middle and Upper Pools. Good hiking shoes are a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lower Emerald Pool
Zion National Park
A gentle introduction to the Emerald Pools, featuring a unique walk behind a delicate waterfall.
Middle Emerald Pool
Zion National Park
A serene spot with a visible pool, offering a peaceful respite amidst the canyon.
Upper Emerald Pool
Zion National Park
The highest pool, often with a more dramatic waterfall depending on the season, offering rewarding views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Emerald Pools
Trail Access & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Check Trail Status First
Always check the official Zion National Park website for current trail conditions and closures before your visit.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trails can be rocky and uneven, especially to the Middle and Upper Pools. Good hiking shoes are a must!
☀️ Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Zion can get very hot, especially in summer. Carry plenty of water, even for shorter hikes.
📸 Capture the Views
While the pools themselves can be underwhelming at times, the surrounding canyon vistas are stunning.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Check Trail Status First
Always check the official Zion National Park website for current trail conditions and closures before your visit.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trails can be rocky and uneven, especially to the Middle and Upper Pools. Good hiking shoes are a must!
☀️ Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Zion can get very hot, especially in summer. Carry plenty of water, even for shorter hikes.
📸 Capture the Views
While the pools themselves can be underwhelming at times, the surrounding canyon vistas are stunning.
🚶♀️ Consider the Kayenta Trail
This trail offers a scenic alternative to access the Emerald Pools and can be less crowded.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Emerald Pools hike to be a pleasant experience, especially the Lower Pool's unique walk-behind waterfall. While the 'emerald' color and water flow can be inconsistent, the surrounding canyon views and moderate trails offer a rewarding outing for families and casual hikers. Some find the Upper Pools less impressive than anticipated, particularly during dry seasons.
"Note that I hiked this in mid-July 2024 with a 10 year old. Ok, so due to the fact that the bridge is closed from the Lodge, this trail is no longer "easy." I feel there was a better-looking mini fall on the hike to the pools, and there were pretty overlooks on the hike, better than any view at the upper falls. The lower falls were ok. The fall was down to maybe a foot wide, and the "pool" was pretty dried up and brown. Yes, you could walk behind it. The hike to get to the lower and backup was more difficult than going to the middle and upper pools. The middle pool was not much, but it did have a pool. The upper was a complete disappointment, no falls, the view was "ok," and there was not much left of a pool. The bonus was that the return hike was easier as it was mostly down hill."
J Mangin
"The little pools aren't terribly rewarding, but it's a nice medium hike..a good workout.. especially with two Littles"
Robert Clark
"Easy trail with beautiful vistas along the way. Kids will enjoy it and have no trouble handling the terrain."
Alex L
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Emerald Pools trailhead is accessible from the Zion Lodge shuttle stop (Stop #5) or via the Kayenta Trail from the Grotto shuttle stop (Stop #6). The Kayenta Trail offers a more scenic approach. +2
Parking at Zion Lodge is limited and often fills up quickly. It's recommended to use the park's free shuttle system to reach the trailhead.
Biking is allowed on the Pa'rus Trail, but not on the main scenic drive where the shuttle operates. You'll need to park your bike and hike from the shuttle stops.
Historically, a bridge from Zion Lodge led directly to the Lower Emerald Pool. However, this bridge has been closed, requiring hikers to use the Kayenta Trail or other routes.
Yes, Zion National Park has an entrance fee. You can purchase a pass at the park entrance or online. Consider an America the Beautiful Pass if you plan to visit multiple national parks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need separate tickets for the Emerald Pools. Access is included with your Zion National Park entrance fee.
The Emerald Pools trail is open year-round during daylight hours. However, access may be restricted due to weather or trail conditions. Always check park alerts.
The trail can be subject to closures, especially after heavy rains or during winter. It's crucial to check the official Zion National Park website for the most up-to-date information.
Night hiking is generally not recommended in Zion National Park due to safety concerns and potential wildlife encounters. Stick to daylight hours.
Reservations are not required for the Emerald Pools trail itself. However, Zion National Park may implement a shuttle reservation system during peak seasons, so check the park's official website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Lower Emerald Pool trail is considered easy. The Middle and Upper Pools involve moderate elevation gain and can be more challenging, especially the Upper Pool. +1
The Lower Emerald Pool loop can take about 30-60 minutes. Hiking to the Middle and Upper Pools can extend the hike to 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and time spent at each pool.
The color of the pools can vary significantly based on rainfall and season. During dry periods, they may appear more brown or murky. Spring often offers the most vibrant green hues.
Swimming is generally not permitted in the Emerald Pools to protect the delicate ecosystem. While some videos show people in the water, it's best to observe and not disturb the natural environment.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and wear sturdy hiking shoes. A camera is also recommended for the scenic views. +1
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The walk behind the Lower Pool waterfall offers a unique perspective. The overlooks along the Kayenta Trail provide stunning canyon views. +1
Early morning or late afternoon light offers softer, more flattering light for photography and can help avoid harsh shadows.
Drones are prohibited in all Zion National Park areas, including the Emerald Pools, to protect wildlife and visitor experience.
Visit during spring when water flow is highest. Use a tripod for long exposures to capture silky smooth water effects.
For waterfalls, use a slower shutter speed. For general canyon views, consider aperture priority to control depth of field.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Emerald Pools Trail System
The Middle Emerald Pool is reached by continuing on the trail from the Lower Pool or via the Kayenta Trail. It's a moderate hike that leads to a larger pool with a more serene atmosphere. The Upper Emerald Pool requires the most effort, involving a steeper climb. While it can be a rewarding destination, its appearance, particularly the waterfall, is highly dependent on seasonal water flow. Some visitors find the Upper Pool to be less impressive than anticipated, especially during drier months.
It's important to note that trail conditions can change. The bridge connecting the Zion Lodge to the Lower Emerald Pool has been closed, meaning hikers often access the pools via the Kayenta Trail from the Grotto shuttle stop. This detour can add to the overall hike but offers beautiful canyon vistas along the way.
The Seasonal Charm of Emerald Pools
As the summer progresses and temperatures rise, water levels can significantly decrease. The waterfalls may dwindle to a trickle, and the pools themselves can become less vibrant, sometimes appearing murky or dried up.
The fall season brings cooler temperatures and can offer a beautiful hiking experience with changing foliage in the surrounding areas. Water flow might be moderate, providing a good balance between accessibility and visual appeal. Winter visits are possible, but be prepared for colder conditions and potential ice on the trails.
Navigating Zion's Shuttle System for Emerald Pools
From the Zion Lodge stop, you would historically access the Lower Emerald Pool directly. However, with the bridge closure, you might need to hike from here or take the shuttle to The Grotto. From The Grotto, you can access the Kayenta Trail, which leads to the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools and also connects to the Lower Pool. This route is often recommended for its scenic beauty.
It's essential to plan your shuttle usage, especially during peak season. Shuttles can get crowded, so arriving early at shuttle stops is advisable. Familiarize yourself with the shuttle schedule and route map before your visit to ensure a smooth experience getting to and from the Emerald Pools.
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