A legendary summit climb with chains, steep drop-offs, and breathtaking 360-degree views
Lottery permit required via recreation.gov for the chain section.
Angels Landing stands as one of America's most thrilling and notorious hiking experiences. This towering sandstone fin rises 1,488 feet above the Virgin River, offering intrepid hikers who complete the challenging ascent some of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Southwest. The trail's final half-mile section, where hikers grip chains while navigating a narrow ridge with sheer thousand-foot drops on both sides, has earned its reputation as both exhilarating and nerve-wracking.
The 5.4-mile round-trip journey begins at the Grotto Trailhead and climbs through Walter's Wiggles, a series of 21 steep switchbacks carved into the rock face. While the initial portions challenge hikers with steady elevation gain, the real test comes at Scout Lookout, where the paved trail ends and the chain section begins.
Despite its intimidating reputation, the trail proves more manageable than many photos suggest, with chains installed along the most exposed sections and the rock surface providing good traction in dry conditions.
Access to Angels Landing now requires advance permits through a seasonal lottery system, limiting daily numbers to preserve both safety and the trail experience. Hikers should apply for permits well in advance through recreation.gov, with both seasonal and day-before lottery options available. The permit requirement has significantly reduced crowding on the narrow summit section, though some find the lottery system frustrating when unsuccessful.
This bucket-list hike rewards those who tackle it with unmatched views of Zion Canyon, from the Great White Throne to the mouth of the canyon and beyond. Early morning starts help avoid both crowds and afternoon heat, while proper footwear with good grip proves essential.
The trail remains accessible to confident hikers with a reasonable fitness level and no severe fear of heights, though anyone uncomfortable with exposure should consider the equally scenic observation point at Scout Lookout as a worthy alternative destination.
The listed season runs March through November. Fall (September through October) is the most reliable window — temperatures are moderate, trail surfaces are typically dry, and crowds are lighter than peak summer. Spring brings cooler air but ice can remain on the exposed switchbacks and chain section into early April. In June through August, summer heat in Zion Canyon is significant and the chain section is fully exposed — departing on the first shuttles of the morning is strongly recommended. Monsoon thunderstorms are possible from July through September; if weather develops while you are on the summit ridge, descend without delay. Winter access is occasionally possible but ice on the chain section substantially raises the difficulty.
The trailhead is at the Grotto on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Check nps.gov/zion for current permit lottery windows, shuttle schedules, and any trail conditions before your visit.
Angels Landing is a 5.4-mile out-and-back trail with 1,488 feet of elevation gain, rated hard, with an estimated completion time of 3 to 5 hours. The route starts at the Grotto and climbs Walter's Wiggles — 21 tight switchbacks carved into the canyon wall — before arriving at Scout Lookout, where the maintained trail ends. Beyond Scout Lookout, the final half mile follows a narrow sandstone ridge with chains anchored into the rock. Thousand-foot drop-offs flank both sides of the ridge continuously. The rock surface provides adequate traction when dry, and the chain section is more manageable than most photographs suggest, but it requires confident movement and sustained attention throughout. The summit delivers open views spanning the full length of Zion Canyon. Dogs are not permitted on this trail.
1,037 reviews
a month ago
georgeous view, well rewarding, but I will never go again, scared. Better go early in the morning and back during the noon as there is ver few people on the trail and you and use you feet and hands together and on the chain all the time.
2 months ago
Angel’s Landing is, without a doubt, one of the most incredible hikes I’ve ever done. The climb is challenging and the final section can be intimidating, but every step is worth it. Standing at the top, surrounded by those breathtaking views, makes all the effort and adrenaline unforgettable. Definitely a hike I’ll never stop recommending. ⛰️🔥
7 months ago
We made a quick trip down from Vegas, and were lucky to win the lottery for a permit (February isn't a super busy time). The hike up to Scout's Lookout is pretty much a consistent incline, with only a few flat spots. Once at Scout's, you have to check-in with the Ranger and show your permit. From there, you start the climb up to Angel's Landing. The chains are a welcomed feature and certainly make this hike safer and manageable. If it was raining or icy, then I definitely would avoid this hike. Our climb was dry and cool and not very busy, so we only had to pass a few times. Once the chains end near the top, it's a bit of class III scrambling to reach the top. Once at the summit, the views are fantastic. We were also greeted by 2 California Condors (Z0 and X2) that were chilling. They were very docile and were about 6' away from us. Overall, I definitely recommend this hike if you're lucky enough to get a permit (February is a great time). I would do this hike again
2 months ago
In my opinion, the path up to Angels’ Landing is more difficult than the roped course itself. Just long long stretches of uphill without lots of shade. At the landing, just having those ropes to pull yourself up, kind of helps equalize your exertion. It’s so gorgeous the entire way through, with expansive views of the mountains and the river down below. It is treacherous though, so use extreme caution.
8 months ago
Wild and crazy ….. It's a great and ever remembering experience of lifetime. It's a hike on West Rim Trail with the most beautiful scenic views. Hiking Angles is a round trip of about 5 hours with significant elevation. But photography will definitely add extra time. Better start early in the morning to start from trailhead "The Grotto",shuttle stop Due to elevation of about 1500 ft, and last hike with narrow spine makes it difficult to hike. Have enough water for hydration, have good hiking shoes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking poles, enough snacks for sugar and salt , and full confidence.
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