Zion National Park Hikes, Hiking Trails

The trails in Zion National Park provide hikes that are suited for all levels of experience and all age groups. Hiking these routes is one of the many activities that this park offers, and though the main ones are within walking distance of parking, there are a host of others in the park's backcountry.

Whether seeking a hiking expedition on internal or backcountry trails, Zion National Park has something for everyone. These exciting hikes are designed for all skill sets, and many families come every summer to add further challenges to their children's repertoire.

The best hikes in the park are within the park versus the canyon. These include the Zion Narrows, Parunuweap Canyon, East Rim, Pine Creek and Bridge Mountain. However, other outer lying trails exist in the backcountry too. Each trail is carefully marked from easy to extreme, which can involve some expert knowledge of canyoneering.

Hiking season in the park runs from March to October. Parts of the park's trails are only accessible either via the canyon's shuttle bus or from hiking other trails.

Backcountry trails include the Zion Canyon, Pa'rus, Canyon Overlook, Two Pines Arch, Checkerboard Arch, Many Pools, Shelf Canyon, Middle Pine Creek, Pine Creek Waterfall, Hidden Gardens, Hidden Arch, Clear Creek, Gifford Canyon, Watchman, Progeny Peak, East Rim, Checkerboard Summit, Spry Canyon, East Temple Saddle, Mountain of the Sun, Cockeye Falls, Parunuweap Pass, Mt. Kinesava, Bridge Mountain, Zion Narrows, Orderville Canyon, Parunuweap Canyon and the Aries Butte Climb trails. However, though a few are fairly easy and fit for families, the majority range from easy to very difficult. Most importantly, some require overnight camping and thus permission to use the backcountry facilities.