Angel's Landing

About two hours from Las Vegas, Angel's Landing is a narrow sandstone fin towering over Zion Canyon in Utah. The trail climbs 1,800 feet in about 4.3 miles, ending with a traverse along a knife edge ridge where chains bolted into the rock are the only handhold and the ground falls away on both sides. From the top, the whole of Zion Canyon opens below, with the Virgin River winding through it. It is a short hike that feels far bigger than its distance, and it is not for anyone uneasy with heights.

Firsthand Pick

Why this one matters

It is Zion's most famous hike for a reason. The chained ridge turns a short walk into a real adventure, and the panorama from the top pays for every nervous step.

Hannah's take

The last section past Scout Lookout requires a permit from the lottery, so sort that out before you go. Bring gloves. You will be glad of them on the chains. The final stretch is a real scramble, and I was on my hands and feet for parts of it. At the top, you might spot California condors. They were once nearly extinct, so seeing one up there feels special.

Angel's Landing

More to add toyour world.

Half Dome

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Haunted Happenings in Salem

Wrangell St. Elias National Park

More to add to
your world.