Angels Landing Hike, Utah - What You Need To Know

Over the course of 13 million years, the Virgin river has created the canyon that is now ‘Zion National Park’. The dramatic cliff faces and stunning landscape is what makes Zion our personal favourite. Deemed one of the most dangerous hikes in the world, ‘Angels Landing’ is a thrilling hike with a chain on one side and 500 metre cliff drop on the other side.

what you need to know..

Distance: 8.5kms (5.3 miles) return
Time: 2-4 hours
Level: Hard. Very Steep.
Altitude: 1,764 metres (5,790ft)
What To Bring: Sunscreen, hat, snacks plenty of water & sturdy hiking shoes.

Note: Depending on the time of year, you’ll need to apply for a permit to hike Angel’s landing. Permits are granted via a lottery and come into play at the chain section of the hike.

trail notes

The chain section is basically one-way (and single file). This means you’ll need to be patient with others.
Despite the chain section being particularly terrifying, the start of the hike is the hardest. With 21 (very steep!) switch backs called the ‘Walter Wiggles’.
There are no guard rails at the top, be safe!
Keep an eye out for ‘California Condors’. They nest in the cliff faces around ‘Angels Landing’.

How to get to Zion National Park

Zion is located in south west Utah.
The closest airport is St. George regional airport (45 minute drive). Las Vegas is the closest international airport but is a 2 hour drive to Zion.

Once you’re in the park, use the free shuttle bus to
Shuttle stop for Angel’s Landing is ‘The Grotto’

The park has a $35USD private vehicle entrance fee . If you’re visiting more than one or two national parks on your trip, buy the ‘Annual Pass’ here. For $80USD its better value than paying for each park individually.