Angels Landing Trail: Iconic Scenic Views that Will Leave Hikers Spellbound

Angels Landing trail is a crazy natural environment wonders present in the Zion National Park that provides visitors the best out of their money with so many scenic landscapes. It was previously called Temple of Aeolus and situated at Zion National Park in southwestern Utah. The Virgin River cuts the 270 million years old layers of Kayenta and Navajo sandstone. This renowned trail was cut in 1926 and stands 1488 feet or 454 meters high.

 

Due to its frightening height, this trail is one of the scariest trails for those who fear heights. Also, there are steep switchbacks and sheer drop-offs. In the final stretch, there are chains bolted to the cliff for support to help hikers climb or walk safely. It is recommended that those who fear sheer height should avoid the final section and end their hike at Scout Lookout itself. For aspirants, the best time of year to hike angels landing is spring and fall because of the favorable climatic conditions.

 

 

Key Facts about Angels Landing Trail:-

 

The Angels Landing trail traverses from the bridge across the road of the Grotto Picnic Area in Zion Canyon. Some key facts that people should know while exploring the beautiful scenic views from angels landing trail are –

 

• The total length of the trail is approximately 1500 feet which becomes around 5.4 miles. This is the total length of a round trip to this trail which includes high elevation gains as well.
• Some sections of the trail are free of cost and restrictions to be explored. However, some private and protected sections of the trail need permits to be explored. Before booking the trail hike, knowing which sections need permits and getting those permits approved is very crucial.
• Due to severe weather conditions, many times situations for the complete closure of the trail have occurred in the past.

 

 

Angels Landing Trail Description:-

 

All sections of the Angels Landing trail are especially breathtaking and present hikers with their own characteristics. However, some important and best sections (such as angels landing hidden spots) to be known about this trail are –

 

Trailhead:

 

The Grotto in Zion Canyon – It starts from the Grotto Picnic Area and needs to cross the Floor of the Valley Road.

 

Hikers find a bridge over the Virgin River, by crossing which they can head north, along the West Trim Trail.

 

 

West Trim Trail:

 

Hikers must follow this well-maintained road along the Virgin River and then cross the canyon bottom where they can see Angels Landing over Zion Canyon.

 

There exists a signed, broad, and leveled trail till 1 mile, post which a steep quarter-mile incline that leads to another canyon starts.

 

 

Refrigerator Canyon:

 

This canyon is always cool and shady. It is a paved section where hikers can shed any time of the day. This is the reason why plants like maple and ash are seen in plenty here.

 

Ahead of this section, steep elevations can be found by hikers and that is why it is considered as the best resting part of the whole trail.

 

Walter’s Wriggles:

 

This section of the trail consists of 21 tough switchbacks climbing steep the canyon wall. Each switchback is short by 25 feet with increasing steepness. The final switchback leads to Scout Lookout from where you can see the mesmerizing views of Zion National Park.

 

Hikers can rest here & spend some time having water and snacks before proceeding to the toughest part of the hike.

 

 

Angels Landing Summit:

 

This section gives you the necessary satisfaction as it is the end point of the trek from where you need to head back for return.

 

 

Hogsback:

 

It is the last half-mile section with a rocky spine and consists of extremely tricky parts. Hikers need to face uneven sandstone ridges and too many narrow paths while moving forward through this section.

 

Also, hikes need to hold chains bolted along rock very firmly and give way for those who descend, whenever required.

 

After splitting the whole trail into the above sections and understanding each of them properly, people can analyze and plan their hiking trips and holidays accordingly. This will keep their whole trail hike sorted and help them enjoy the most of this incredible and mostly once-in-a-lifetime experience to the fullest.

 

 

Permit System for Angels Landing Trail:-

 

The permit system of the Angels Landing trail is handled through the Pilot Permit Program. It is clearly stated even in the angels landing zion national park guide that hiking this trail requires a permit. A pilot permit program is distributing tickets to use the park shuttle system. This program was started after the COVID-19 pandemic, considering the benefits that social distancing has brought into the world.

 

Rangers disputed at Zion National Park are authorized to check the permits of visitors at any point of the day or even night. Therefore, it is recommended not to misplace your permit all along the hike back and forth. The authority arranges for the seasonal lottery of nearby hikes to angels landing at specific times for the convenience of aspirant hikers.

 

People can also get their permits from day-before lotteries directly through the authorities. The facility to change permits or get a cancellation refund is also planned on specific days. Also, there exist many other activities at Zion Canyon which doesn’t require a permit. These may include –

 

• Hikers visiting the Scout Lookout do not need permits,
• Visitors using the park shuttle don’t require a reservation,
• Visitors entering the park don’t require a reservation but specific park fees need to be paid before entering.

 

 

Safety Considerations for Hiking the Angels Landing Trail:-

 

The first and most important things regarding how to prepare for the angels landing hike with utmost safety are carrying comfortable and seasonal clothes, not being dehydrated throughout the trail with enough water and energy-giving snacks, and always having the best shoes for the angels landing trail always your side.

 

Other safety considerations can be not to go closer to the wildlife and disturb their lifestyle. Don’t try to feed them and disturb their habitat by taking their photos and videos. Last but not least, strictly follow the Leave No Trace principle and contribute to protecting the trail environment.

 

 

Cultural and Miscellaneous Aspects of Angels Landing Trail:-

 

The name of the trail (Angels Landing) signifies the early settlers of the peak who saw the unique shape of the trail in its initial stage. The shape exactly represented the idea of angels descending on Earth.

 

Various influential groups contributed to the construction and maintenance of this trail and have continued to do so even today. Also, due to the growing popularity of the trail, a proper permit system is adopted so that all the functions keep running smoothly.

 

 

Visual and Emotional Appeal of Angels Landing Trail:-

 

Along with exploring the lush green vegetation, sandstone cliffs, and Virgin River on the trail, understanding its visual and emotional appeal is also important. It not only represents the beauty of nature but its power as well.

 

The thrill and peace of mind that people receive during sunset or angels landing sunrise hike is incredible and incomparable.

 

 

Planning your Angels Landing Trail Hike:-

 

To plan your angels landing for adventure seekers’ hike, some important things should be kept in mind. These are –

 

• Always be prepared for any sudden weather changes.
• Carry thick clothes, comfortable hiking shoes, plenty of water, and energy-giving snacks.
• Have all your permits and hiking permissions approved beforehand.

 

 

FAQs:-

 

1. What is the length of Angels Landing Trail?

 

According to the angels landing beginner guide, the total length of this trail is about 2.5 miles or approximately 4 kilometers. Hikers can complete the 5oles (to and fro) trail hike in around 5-6 hours based on their fitness levels.

 

2. What must be confirmed before the trail at Angels Landing?

 

Following angels landing safety tips and having all permits approved beforehand are the 2 most important things to be confirmed before the trail at Angels Landing. Also, check the weather forecast before actually starting the hike.

 

 

3. How difficult is Angels Landing Trail to hike?

 

Even though there exist some easy sections of the angels landing trail, the overall difficulty level of the trail is rated as high. It is not only hard to hike this trail but also strenuous and needs good expertise to complete it.

 

4. Which are the sections at Angels Landing Trail?

 

The sections of Angels Landing Trail are Grotto Trailhead, West Rim Trail, Refrigerator Canyon, Walter’s Wiggles, Hogsback, and Angels Landing Summit.

 

5. What safety precautions are to be taken at Angels Landing Trail?

 

The most important thing to understand about safety precautions is people’s fitness and strength as the trail is strenuous. Another precaution most crucial for angels landing for first-time hikers is to keep their distance from wildlife and not feed them. Also, do not visit this trail if you fear heights and are cautious about your physical health going high up.

 

 

Conclusion:-

 

The Angels Landing trail at Zion National Park in Utah, United States is one of the best and highest trails to hike. It is not only thrilling to hike but gives hikers the most incredible and spellbound views of the entire Zion National Park. As advised in the angels landing tail tips guide, the visitors should not take their children who are not able to take care of themselves or precisely immature.

 

 

The trail is tedious to walk and complete, particularly the final section. However, it is a very valuable experience for young travelers and bloggers who want to explore the world. So, all in all, the Angels Landing trail is worth visiting once with your friends or family.