Zion National Park Hiking

Utah's Zion National Park is famous across the world, and for good reason: it's home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the Southwest, with its soaring cliffs and Mars-like, red rock formations.

That reputation can mean that the more famous routes get busy. Luckily, there are plenty of lesser-known hiking trails in and around the park where you can get away from the crowds.

In this part of the world, you'll need your own car (or a car with a driver) to access these hiking trails; a 4WD is often required. The trails themselves can be sandy or slippery, so make sure you wear shoes with good grip.

It won't take long for you to feel transported back to the Old West - the epic landscapes in and around Zion National Park have been the backdrop for countless classic Western films.

Zion National Park

  • Utah is famous for its red sandstone arches. Babylon Arch is a classic example, but without the tourist crowds of Arches National Park.
  • The Babylon Arch Trail finishes at the Virgin River - an inviting place to cool off after a hot walk.
  • On the southern edge of the park, Eagle Crags is a spectacular cliff trail, although you'll need a 4WD to get to the start.

Red Cliffs National Conservation Area

  • To the west of Zion, Red Cliffs is a stunning region of rocky wilderness that's home to rare animals like the desert tortoise.
  • Yant Flat is a picturesque hiking trail that includes a stretch of forest and an area of multi-colored, swirling sandstone formations.
  • It is often compared to The Wave in Arizona, although Yant Flat receives far fewer visitors. You might even have it all to yourself.

Snow Canyon State Park

  • Keep going west from Red Cliffs and you'll reach Snow Canyon State Park, home to yet more rolling, kaleidoscopic sandstone rock formations.
  • Hike across miles of trails, challenge yourself to some technical rock climbing or camp out if you're feeling really adventurous.
  • If Snow Canyon looks familiar, that's because it's been used as a setting for several classic Westerns including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Created in partnership with Washington County Tourism Office