“It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” – Sir Edmund Hillary.
This famous quote perfectly captures the spirit of the Angels Landing hike. While the towering sandstone monolith is the goal, the real journey happens within you.
It is a test of will, a dance with heights, and ultimately, a personal victory that leaves you with memories for a lifetime. This iconic trail is the crown jewel of Zion National Park, offering jaw-dropping views and a thrilling final climb that is famous worldwide.
But this incredible adventure requires careful planning, from securing your Angels Landing permit to knowing the best time to hike.
Today, we’ve gathered all the essential information for 2025 to help you prepare. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about the trail’s distance, the permit lottery, safety, and much more.
Let’s get you ready for the best experience on the Angels Landing hike.
What Makes Angels Landing So Special?
Angels Landing is a stunning rock formation that juts out dramatically into Zion Canyon. It earned its heavenly name back in 1916 when explorer Frederick Vining Fisher remarked that it was so high and remote that “only an angel could land on it.”
Luckily for us, a trail was carved into the rock in 1926, making the seemingly impossible possible for mortal hikers.
The journey itself is a story in three parts. It begins on a paved path along the Virgin River, moves into the cool, shaded confines of Refrigerator Canyon, and then challenges you with a series of tight switchbacks.
The grand finale is the famous chain section—a narrow spine of rock with breathtaking panoramic views that make every step worthwhile.
An Angels Landing tour is more than just a walk; it’s an ascent through Zion’s magnificent history and geology.
Angels Landing Hiking Essentials for 2025
Proper preparation is the key to a fun and safe day on the trail. Understanding the hike’s statistics helps you know what you are signing up for. Here is a breakdown of what to expect from the Angels Landing trail.
Trail Distance, Length, and Elevation Gain
One of the first questions on every hiker’s mind is, “How long is the Angels Landing hike?” The total round-trip distance is 5.4 miles (or 8.7 kilometers) from the starting point to the summit and back again. The trailhead is located at The Grotto, which is stop #6 on the Zion Canyon Shuttle.
The elevation gain on the Angels Landing hike is a formidable 1,488 feet (about 453 meters). This climb is not gradual. You will feel the burn in two main areas: the switchbacks that lead you up to Refrigerator Canyon and the iconic “Walter’s Wiggles,” a set of 21 steep, compact switchbacks that will get your heart pumping.
This challenging elevation gain is a big part of what makes reaching the summit of Angels Landing feel like such an incredible accomplishment.
Time Commitment and Difficulty Level
So, how long does it take to hike Angels Landing? For most people, the hike takes between 3 to 5 hours. It is smart to set aside at least half a day for this adventure. This gives you plenty of time to hike at a comfortable pace, take breaks, and truly enjoy the stunning scenery without feeling rushed.
This hike is officially rated as strenuous, and for good reason. It’s a tough physical climb combined with a serious mental challenge due to the extreme heights. While the trail starts on a paved path, it is consistently uphill. The final half-mile is where the real adventure begins, requiring you to use your whole body to navigate the chained section of the Angels Landing hike.
Is Angels Landing Dangerous? A Realistic Look at Safety
Let’s address the big question: Is Angels Landing dangerous? Yes, it can be, and it demands your full respect. The danger comes from the extreme exposure—the trail narrows significantly, with sheer drops of over 1,400 feet on both sides.
In some spots beyond Scout Lookout, the path is only three feet wide. There is no room for carelessness.
The good news is that thousands of people complete this hike safely every year by following important safety rules.
- Be Patient and Kind: The chain section has two-way traffic. Let people pass and communicate clearly to keep things moving safely.
- Hold On Tight: The chains are your best friend. Always maintain three points of contact, like you would when climbing a ladder, and use the chains for stability.
- Wear the Right Shoes: This is not the place for sneakers. You need hiking boots or trail shoes with excellent grip. Many hikers also love wearing gloves for a better, more comfortable grip on the chains.
- Check the Weather: Never attempt this hike if there is rain, ice, or strong wind in the forecast. Check the Angels Landing weather right before you leave. A wet trail is a slippery and dangerous one.
Hike Smart: If you have a strong fear of heights (acrophobia), this hike is not for you. There is no shame in stopping at Scout Lookout—it is a beautiful destination in itself and offers incredible
How to Enter the Lottery
Permits are available through an online lottery system on Recreation.gov. Here are two ways to apply: the Seasonal Lottery and the Day-Before Lottery.
Seasonal Lottery: You can apply for a permit months in advance. It costs $6 to enter the lottery for up to six people, and $3 more if you win.
Here are the key dates for 2025 from the National Park Service:
| Lottery Opens (12:01 am MT) | Lottery Closes (11:59 pm MT) | For Hike Dates | Results Emailed |
| April 1, 2025 | April 20, 2025 | June 1 – Aug 31, 2025 | April 25, 2025 |
| July 1, 2025 | July 20, 2025 | Sept 1 – Nov 30, 2025 | July 25, 2025 |
| October 1, 2025 | October 20, 2025 | Dec 1, 2025 – Feb 28, 2026 | October 25, 2025 |
IMPORTANT: Trail Closure
Please note, Angels Landing will be closed for scheduled maintenance from April 21–24, 2025, to April 24, 2025. No permits will be issued for these dates.
Day-Before Lottery (Daily Lottery): If you miss the seasonal window, you can enter the daily lottery. You apply between 12:01 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. MT the day before your desired hike. Permits are issued at 4:00 p.m. MT. This is a great option for a last-minute plan, but it is more competitive.
Guided Hikes & Tours
If the lottery system feels daunting, you can book a guided Angels Landing hike. An Angels Landing tour offers several benefits: the outfitter often handles the permit process, provides expert guidance on the trail, and shares valuable knowledge about the park’s geology and history.
The main drawback is the higher cost compared to hiking it yourself. A guided tour adds a layer of safety and confidence to your Angels Landing experience for those new to strenuous hiking.
Best Time & Weather
Choosing the best time to hike Angels Landing depends on your tolerance for heat and crowds.
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures are pleasant, and the canyon is lush and green. This is a very popular time, so expect crowds.
- Summer (June-August): This is the hottest season. Temperatures in July can reach over 100°F (38°C). If hiking in summer, you must start at sunrise to beat the heat and the worst of the crowds.
The sun is at its brightest early in the morning, so getting off the ridge before it reaches its peak is key. After your triumphant hike, reward your tired muscles with a custom massage at a local spa.
- Fall (September-November): This is arguably the best season. The weather is fantastic, with cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn colors. Crowds are still present but begin to thin out after October.
- Winter (December-February): This is the least crowded time, but the trail can be icy and dangerous. It should only be attempted by experienced hikers with proper microspikes and cold-weather gear. Always check the Angels Landing weather and trail conditions before you go.
For a full list of important dates beyond just the lottery, check out these key dates to remember in 2025 to visit Zion National Park.
Where to Stay: Your Basecamp for Adventure
Your choice of lodging is a critical part of your Angels Landing strategy. To secure an early start and beat the crowds, you need to stay close. While there are many hotels near Angels Landing, none combine luxury, location, and restorative comfort quite like Flanigan’s Resort and Spa.
Located in the heart of Springdale, just a short walk from the Zion National Park entrance, Flanigan’s offers the perfect home base. This means less time commuting and more time preparing for your incredible hike.
After a long day of conquering switchbacks and chains, there is no better feeling than returning to a place designed for relaxation and recovery.
You can soothe your aching muscles at the Deep Canyon Spa, enjoy an award-winning meal at the Spotted Dog Cafe, and unwind in the tranquil setting of our hilltop accommodations.
Choosing where to stay isn’t just about a bed; it’s about enhancing your entire Zion experience. Discover for yourself why Flanigan’s Resort and Spa is Zion’s most comfortable basecamp and make it the anchor for your adventure.
Conclusion: Your Angel’s Landing Adventure Awaits
Hiking Angels Landing is an unforgettable achievement, a story you will tell for years to come. It demands respect, requires thorough planning around the Angels Landing permit system, and pushes your limits. There is no comparison to the feeling of standing at the top of Zion Canyon with its majestic beauty.
After pushing your body and mind to conquer the summit, you deserve the ultimate reward. Imagine returning from your epic hike to the serene comfort of Flanigan’s Resort and Spa, located right here in Springdale.
You can soothe your muscles in our hot tub, enjoy a world-class meal at the Spotted Dog Restaurant, and relax in luxurious accommodations.
Let us be the peaceful haven where you celebrate your incredible accomplishment. Plan your adventure, secure your Angels Landing permit, and book your restorative stay with us today. Your Zion journey is waiting.