Many Pools
Explore Zion's unique riverbed trail on the east side, offering stunning sandstone formations and tranquil pools away from the crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pools are full, fewer crowds
Many Pools
Best Time
Pools are full, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Zion's unique riverbed trail on the east side, offering stunning sandstone formations and tranquil pools away from the crowds.
"One of the coolest trails we hiked during our Zion NP visit, not well known and you're out there alone."
👟 Grippy Shoes are Key
The trail is on slanted rock; good grip prevents slips. Essential for enjoying the riverbed hike!
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
The trail isn't marked. AllTrails or similar apps are helpful for staying on track.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Riverbed Trail
East side of Zion National Park
Explore an inclined riverbed with unique sandstone formations and natural pools. A less crowded, adventurous alternative.
Natural Sandstone Formations
Along the Many Pools Trail
Marvel at the sculpted sandstone and vibrant colors carved by water over time. A photographer's delight.
Secluded Pools
At the end of the Many Pools Trail
Discover tranquil pools, often full in wetter seasons, offering a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on the East Side
Gear Up for Riverbed Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Grippy Shoes are Key
The trail is on slanted rock; good grip prevents slips. Essential for enjoying the riverbed hike!
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
The trail isn't marked. AllTrails or similar apps are helpful for staying on track.
🚗 East Side Access
Park at the pull-off and walk under the tunnel to reach the trailhead.
💧 Check Pool Conditions
Pools may be dry depending on recent rainfall. Still a beautiful hike!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Grippy Shoes are Key
The trail is on slanted rock; good grip prevents slips. Essential for enjoying the riverbed hike!
🗺️ Use Navigation Apps
The trail isn't marked. AllTrails or similar apps are helpful for staying on track.
🚗 East Side Access
Park at the pull-off and walk under the tunnel to reach the trailhead.
💧 Check Pool Conditions
Pools may be dry depending on recent rainfall. Still a beautiful hike!
🧺 Pack a Picnic
It's a perfect spot to relax and eat, with fewer people around.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Many Pools is praised as a unique and peaceful hike, offering a refreshing escape from Zion's typical crowds. Visitors love the unconventional riverbed trail and the opportunity to explore without encountering many other hikers. Some note that pools can be dry depending on the season, and good grip shoes are essential for the slanted rock.
"So glad we did this hike. Unlike many other hikes, most of it is not a narrow marked path - it’s like exploring up a riverbed. The elevation is easier than it looks because much of it is in smooth inclined ramps vs steps. We did it with a six year old and he did fine. You could even bring a picnic lunch to eat at the top. And as others have said, it is not popular, so you have the whole area to yourself. Just wear nice grippy shoes because a lot of the hike is on slanted rock surfaces. Pools were full in late September. Views are great, but pretty sure that’s true of every hike in the park, so.."
Nils Persson
"This was probably one of the coolest trails we hiked during our Zion NP visit. It's not a very difficult hike at all and we didn't come across any other hikers until we were headed back to the trailhead. I would recommend going under the road and using the tunnel to access the trail. I'll say it again, the best part about this trail is that it's not well known and you're out there alone. If you've hiked other trails in Zion, you know that it's like being in a NYC subway."
Mike
"Awesome little hike right off the roadway. You get to walk among the rocks and see all the different colors. I would recommend using Aal-trails while your on this one, it basically is uphill the entirety of the walk but it was such a great hike. You park in the pull off and then have to walk down to the side and walk underneath the road to get to the trail, there were no markers when we did, but it was obvious where the trail was most of the way"
Aaron B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Many Pools Trail is located on the east side of Zion National Park. You'll need to drive past the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and look for a pull-off parking area. From there, you'll walk under the tunnel to access the trailhead.
No, the Many Pools Trail is accessible from the east side of the park and does not require the use of the Zion shuttle system, making it a great option for avoiding crowds.
Yes, there is a pull-off parking area near the tunnel entrance on the east side of the park. However, it can fill up, especially during peak season.
Yes, you can drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. The Many Pools trailhead is located just past the tunnel on the east side. Be aware of potential tunnel restrictions for larger vehicles.
To access Many Pools from the main canyon, you'll drive through the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. The trailhead is on the east side, past the tunnel exit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Many Pools is located within Zion National Park, which has an entrance fee. The fee is $35 per private vehicle and is valid for 7 consecutive days.
No, a permit is not required for the Many Pools Trail. It's a non-technical hike that's open to the public without special permits, unlike some of Zion's more strenuous trails.
The Many Pools Trail is accessible during park hours. Zion National Park is generally open from dawn to dusk, but it's always a good idea to check the official NPS website for any specific closures or alerts.
While the park is generally open at night, hiking the Many Pools Trail after dark is not recommended due to the uneven terrain and lack of lighting. However, stargazing in Zion is excellent if you're looking for a nighttime activity.
The main restriction is the park entrance fee. Always check for any temporary trail closures or alerts on the official Zion National Park website before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Many Pools Trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It involves walking up an inclined riverbed with some smooth, slanted rock surfaces, but it's not technically challenging.
The Many Pools Trail is a little over 2 miles round trip, making it a manageable hike for most visitors.
Wear sturdy, grippy hiking shoes as the trail is on slanted rock. Comfortable clothing suitable for hiking is recommended.
Yes, the trail leads to a series of natural pools formed by water. The fullness of the pools can vary depending on recent rainfall.
Many Pools is known for being much less crowded than other Zion hikes, offering a more secluded experience. You might have the trail mostly to yourself. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The unique sandstone formations, the inclined riverbed, and the natural pools offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The wide-open views of the canyon walls are also stunning.
Absolutely! The combination of colorful sandstone, the unique trail, and the expansive canyon views makes it a prime location for landscape photographers.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the textures of the sandstone. Midday can be harsh but still offers good contrast.
Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including Zion. Please check the official NPS guidelines for current regulations regarding drones.
The entire trail offers scenic views. As you ascend the riverbed, you'll find various angles of the rock formations and the surrounding canyon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack water and snacks, as it's a great spot for a picnic. The trail's less-marked nature might require a bit more supervision, but the overall experience is rewarding and less intimidating than some of Zion's more famous, permit-requiring hikes. It provides a sense of adventure without the extreme difficulty.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
It's a great way to experience Zion's beauty without the pressure of navigating large groups or the need for permits. The moderate difficulty and unique riverbed terrain make it an engaging solo adventure. Remember to stay aware of your surroundings and let someone know your hiking plans, as is always recommended for solo excursions.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Visiting during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) will enhance the dramatic lighting on the rock formations. The lack of crowds means you won't have to wait for people to move out of your frame, allowing for more relaxed and focused shooting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Unique Riverbed Trail
This trail offers a different perspective on Zion's geology. As you ascend, you'll encounter interesting sandstone formations sculpted by eons of water flow. The trail is not formally marked, so having a navigation app like AllTrails can be helpful, though the path is generally intuitive as you follow the wash. The reward at the end (or along the way) is the series of natural pools that give the trail its name, offering a peaceful spot to rest and take in the surroundings.
Why Many Pools is a Hidden Gem
This seclusion makes Many Pools ideal for those seeking a more peaceful and intimate experience with nature. It's a perfect spot for families with young children who might find the more strenuous hikes challenging, or for anyone who simply prefers a quieter adventure. The ability to enjoy the scenery and the natural formations without the constant presence of large crowds is a significant draw for many who discover this trail.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit