The best walks and hikes in Utah

The Queen's Garden and Navajo Loop Trail offers an immersive journey into the heart of Bryce Canyon's iconic amphitheater, winding among thousands of unique hoodoo formations. You'll descend into a landscape of vibrant orange and pink spires, getting up close to famous landmarks like Thor’s Hammer and the delicate Queen's Garden Hoodoos. The trail provides a constant visual feast, making it one of the most rewarding easy hikes in the park.

This popular route is an easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) loop with 609 feet (186 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete. To make the most of your visit, aim to start early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Parking at the trailhead can fill up quickly, so arriving early is key for a smooth start to your adventure.

As one of Bryce Canyon National Park's signature trails, this loop is an excellent introduction to the park's unique geology and offers a fantastic opportunity for photography. It's a family-friendly option that provides a deep dive into the canyon's features without requiring advanced hiking skills. Consider combining it with other viewpoints along the rim for a full day of exploration.

The Delicate Arch Trail offers an unforgettable journey through Arches National Park's dramatic red rock landscape, leading to Utah's most iconic natural arch. You'll navigate a varied terrain, starting on a relatively flat path before ascending a steep, exposed slickrock slope marked by cairns, with stunning panoramic views unfolding around you. The route winds through desert scrub, sandstone fins, and spires, eventually revealing the magnificent Delicate Arch, often framed by the nearby Frame Arch.

Planning your visit requires careful consideration of the elements. This 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hike, with 544 feet (166 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 55 minutes, is rated moderate but can feel strenuous due to the lack of shade and significant climb. In summer, temperatures often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, necessitating early morning or late afternoon starts and plenty of water. Winter hikers should be prepared for ice and snow on steep sections, requiring traction devices.

Delicate Arch is not just a geological wonder; it's a symbol of Utah, standing 46 feet high and 32 feet wide. Along the trail, you'll also encounter historical landmarks like the Wolfe Ranch cabin and ancient Ute Indian petroglyphs, adding cultural depth to the natural beauty. The trail culminates in a natural amphitheater where you can admire the arch, making it a truly rewarding experience despite its popularity.

The Angels Landing Trail is a truly unique and difficult hike in Zion National Park, offering an exhilarating journey to one of the park's most spectacular viewpoints. This 4.5-mile (7.2 km) route involves a significant 1737 feet (530 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 41 minutes. You'll navigate challenging terrain, including the famous Walter's Wiggles switchbacks and an exposed final ascent to the Angels Landing summit, where chains are bolted into the rock to assist hikers.

Planning your visit requires careful attention to the Angels Landing Trail permit system; permits are mandatory to hike past Scout Lookout and are secured through a lottery on Recreation.gov. Given the extreme exposure and narrow path, avoid hiking during wet weather, storms, or high winds, as conditions can become very dangerous. The trail is not suitable for those with a fear of heights or young children, and it's best to start early from the Grotto trailhead.

What makes Angels Landing so notable is its iconic chain section, an impressive engineering feat first installed in 1926, providing stability on the final, thrilling push to the 5,790-foot (1,760 m) summit. From the top, you're rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Zion Canyon's rugged spires and ancient rock layers. This hike is a true test of physical and mental fortitude, offering an unparalleled adventure for experienced hikers.

The Canyon Overlook Trail offers an incredible effort-to-reward ratio, guiding you through diverse terrain carved into sandstone walls. You will encounter rocky sections, slickrock, and even a hidden alcove with ferns, all leading to the breathtaking Canyon Overlook Viewpoint. This easy 1.1-mile (1.7 km) hike, with just 108 feet (33 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 28 minutes, providing panoramic views of Zion Canyon's iconic formations like the Towers of the Virgin and West Temple.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trailhead is accessible by private vehicle on Highway 9, just east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel, meaning no shuttle is required. While it is a family-friendly route, be mindful of some exposed drop-offs, though many are protected by railings. For the best experience and photography, aim to hike during sunrise or sunset, and wear appropriate footwear for the varied terrain.

This trail is celebrated for its spectacular views without requiring an arduous climb, making it one of the most popular trails and routes in Zion. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep along the way, and enjoy unique features like boardwalks and a narrow bridge suspended over the Pine Creek Narrows. The viewpoint also offers a unique perspective of the historic Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway and tunnel below.

If you're seeking a truly immersive experience into Zion's lush canyon environment, the Riverside Walk delivers. This moderate 2.0-mile (3.2 km) hike, with just 484 feet (147 metres) of elevation gain, guides you along the Virgin River, surrounded by towering red rock mountains and vibrant hanging gardens. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 5 minutes soaking in the dramatic scenery, where the canyon walls seem to close in around you, creating a unique, verdant corridor.

Accessing the Riverside Walk is straightforward, as its trailhead is at the Temple of Sinawava, the last stop on the park shuttle, where you'll also find restrooms and water. The path is mostly paved and flat, making it a fantastic family hiking trail suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, though some sections can be uneven or sandy. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in the late afternoon or early evening, and remember that warmer months are perfect for dipping your toes in the river.

This trail is not just a scenic stroll; it's also the famous gateway to The Narrows, offering a glimpse into one of Zion's most iconic adventures. Along the route, interpretive exhibits explain the canyon's geology and ecology, and you might even spot wildlife like mule deer or wild turkeys. It's a highly accessible and rewarding way to experience the natural features and unique ecosystem of Zion National Park.

Embark on the Devil's Garden Primitive Trail Loop, a moderate 7.0 miles (11.2 km) hike that guides you through a landscape sculpted by time. You will navigate towering sandstone fins and traverse slickrock sections, gaining about 640 feet (195 metres) in elevation. This route offers an intimate encounter with Arches National Park's unique geology, taking approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that parts of the trail are primitive, requiring some scrambling over rock surfaces. It is crucial to wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip, as the sandstone can be slick, especially after rain. Always carry ample water, particularly during warmer months, to stay hydrated throughout your journey. The park can get busy, so an early start often provides a more serene experience.

This trail is renowned for its exceptional concentration of natural arches, showcasing some of the park's most iconic formations. Beyond the more accessible sections, the route delves into a rugged, less-traveled area, offering a sense of adventure and discovery. It provides a deeper exploration into the geological wonders that make Arches National Park a truly special destination.

The Watchman Trail offers a fantastic journey through Zion's diverse landscape, starting with lush vegetation along the Virgin River before ascending into desert terrain. As you climb, you'll encounter a mix of sandy, rocky, and firm paths, with switchbacks leading to breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Watchman Peak, Temples and Towers, and the winding Virgin River. The trail culminates at a superb viewpoint, providing an excellent perspective of the canyon's geological wonders without reaching the spire's summit.

This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) hiking route, with 795 feet (242 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete. Its convenient location near the Zion Canyon Visitor Center means no shuttle is required, making access straightforward. Due to significant sun exposure, especially in summer, it's best to start your hike in the early morning or late afternoon, and always carry ample water.

Often overlooked in favor of more famous trails, the Watchman Trail provides a less crowded alternative for experiencing Zion's grandeur. It's particularly well-suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time, offering a rewarding experience that showcases the lower Zion Canyon and the town of Springdale from above. This trail is a great way to get a taste of the park's stunning vistas and unique desert flora.

The Watchman Trail offers a classic Zion experience, winding through desert scrub and rocky terrain to reveal breathtaking canyon views. You'll traverse unpaved paths, encountering firm soil and some moderate steps as you climb, with prickly pear cactus and hardy shrubs lining the way. The route culminates in a spectacular overlook, providing sweeping vistas of Zion Canyon, the Virgin River, and the iconic Watchman Peak, making it a truly rewarding journey.

This easy 2.6-mile (4.3 km) out-and-back hike involves a manageable 183 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 14 minutes. The trailhead is conveniently located right by the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, meaning no shuttle is required to access it, which is a huge plus for planning. It's a family-friendly option, though the trail is exposed to the sun, so plan for an early start or late afternoon hike to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best light.

What makes the Watchman Trail particularly notable is its ability to deliver stunning Zion panoramas without the crowds often found on more strenuous trails. It's an excellent introduction to the park's grandeur, perfect for those with limited time or seeking a less demanding adventure. Keep an eye out for the elusive Crawford Arch high on a remote cliffside, a hidden gem that adds another layer of interest to this already scenic route.

Hike the Peekaboo, Tropic, Queen's Garden, and Rim Trail (Bryce Traverse) for a moderate 5.1-mile journey through Bryce Canyon's hoodoos.