Sometimes, a “no” can be the best thing that happens to our travel plans. The pull to conquer Angels Landing is powerful. We see the photos, we hear the stories, and we feel like it’s the one thing we have to do. But focusing on that single, crowded path can sometimes keep us from seeing the vast, incredible beauty that fills this canyon in every other direction.
What if your Zion adventure was less about following the line and more about the freedom to find your way? To discover a quiet overlook that takes your breath away? To choose a trail that challenges and delights you in a way you never expected?
This is your guide to that freedom. We’ve gathered the best Angels Landing hike alternatives that deliver all the wonder and an even greater sense of personal discovery.
Your perfect Zion hike isn’t the one everyone else is doing; it’s the one you’ll remember forever.
Why a Different Path Can Be a Better One
Many hikers, both seasoned and new, actively seek out Angels Landing hike alternatives for a few excellent reasons. Understanding them can help you confidently choose the perfect path for your trip.
- The Permit Lottery: The park uses a competitive lottery system to protect the trail and ensure visitor safety. This system is very popular, which means a large number of hopeful hikers do not get a permit. Searching for other great hikes is a crucial part of planning a Zion adventure.
- Fear of Heights and Exposure: The final half-mile of the hike involves scrambling along a narrow rock spine with thousand-foot drops on either side, assisted only by a metal chain. This is a serious mental and physical challenge. For anyone with a fear of heights, choosing a different trail is a safe and far more enjoyable decision.
A Desire for Solitude: Angels Landing is famously busy. Even with the permit system, you will share the narrow path with many other hikers. If finding peace is your goal in Zion, other trails offer a better sense of personal space.
Our Favorite Angels Landing Hike Alternatives
So, where does this new journey begin? Zion’s trails are as varied and wonderful as the people who walk them. To help you find the adventure that speaks to you, we are sharing our absolute favorite Angels Landing hike alternatives.
1. Scout Lookout: The Classic View Without the Chains
If your main goal was to experience the famous Angels Landing trail itself, this is your answer. Hiking to Scout Lookout means you complete about 90 percent of the journey. You climb the same path from the Grotto trailhead, conquer the famously grueling Walter’s Wiggles, and arrive at the same staging point for the final ascent.
The Experience
The hike begins with a gentle walk along the Virgin River before starting its relentless climb up the canyon wall. The path is paved and well-maintained, but a little steep.
The journey through Refrigerator Canyon offers a cool, shaded respite before you face the main challenge: Walter’s Wiggles. This set of 21 tight switchbacks is a true workout, but the engineering is a marvel to behold.
When you reach the top of the wiggles, you are at Scout Lookout. The view opens up dramatically. You are standing high above the canyon floor, looking down the throat of Zion Canyon.
The Virgin River snakes below, and the air feels electric. You can watch the permitted hikers begin their chain-assisted climb, but your view is nearly identical.
This is one of the best Angels Landing hike alternatives because it delivers the core of the experience. It is a fantastic spot to rest, eat a snack, and soak in the incredible scenery you worked so hard to reach.
Planning your first time visit to Zion National Park can be overwhelming, but putting Scout Lookout on your list is a guaranteed win.
2. Observation Point: The Superior Vista
Ask any seasoned Zion explorer for the single best view in the park, and many will say Observation Point.
This is the ultimate panoramic viewpoint. From here, you look down on the entire main canyon, including a bird’s-eye view of Angels Landing itself. It truly puts the scale of Zion into perspective.
The Experience
Before you start, it is important to know that the traditional, strenuous trail to Observation Point from the main canyon is closed indefinitely due to a massive rockfall.
The best way to reach it now is via the East Mesa Trail. This trail begins from right outside the east entrance.
The journey on the East Mesa Trail is much less strenuous than the old trail. It is a relatively flat 7-mile round-trip hike through pine forests and high desert meadows. The trail is pleasant and peaceful, but it saves the best for last.
After a mostly gentle walk, you emerge suddenly at the canyon rim. The view is breathtaking. You are standing on the highest point, watching the entire layout of Zion Canyon, from the Virgin River to the distant plateaus.
This is the most rewarding of all Angels Landing hike alternatives. The view provides an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and wonder.
3. Canyon Overlook Trail: The Best Reward for Your Effort
If you’re looking for a stunning view without committing to an all-day hike, then this one is for you. This short trail delivers a view that rivals many longer hikes in the park, making it a favorite among photographers and families.
The Experience
The trailhead is located just east of the Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel, so you will need to drive to this location. It is a one-mile round-trip adventure that offers the most beautiful scenic views of the area. You will walk along carved stone steps, cross sturdy bridges over narrow slots, and duck into a shaded rock alcove.
You should wear sturdy shoes since there is some exposure and uneven footing on the trail. The final destination is a railed overlook that provides a stunning view down into Pine Creek Canyon and the main Zion Canyon.
You can see the winding road below and the iconic Beehives rock formation. It is one of the most accessible Angels Landing hike alternatives.
We recommend visiting this spot early in the morning, especially during your 2025 Zion trip, for the most peaceful experience
4. The Watchman Trail: The Convenient Classic
The Watchman Trail is a fantastic option that offers beautiful views without requiring a ride on the mandatory park shuttle. Its trailhead is conveniently located near the Zion Canyon Visitor Center, making it an ideal hike for your first afternoon or if shuttle lines are long.
The Experience
This moderate trail climbs to a viewpoint on a plateau, offering a commanding perspective of the entire lower canyon. You will get a fantastic view of the iconic Watchman Peak, the Visitor Center complex, the Pa’rus Trail, and the town of Springdale.
The hike is about 3.3 miles round trip and involves a steady climb of about 500 feet. It is a great workout with a rewarding finish. Because it faces west, the Watchman Trail is an excellent choice for late afternoon or sunset photography.
Seeing the last light of day illuminate the peaks across the canyon is a wonderful way to end a day of exploring. This is the prime location that solidifies its place as a hassle-free and rewarding Angels Landing hike alternative.
Do not forget to check our guide on what to pack for Zion National Park to ensure you have everything in place for this exposed trail.
Comparing Your Angels Landing Hike Alternatives
To help you decide which path is right for you, here is a quick comparison of our top recommended hikes.
| Hike Name | Difficulty | Distance (Round Trip) | Best For | Permit Needed |
| Scout Lookout | Strenuous | 4 miles / 6.4 km | The classic trail experience | No |
| Observation Point | Moderate | 7 miles / 11.3 km | The best panoramic view | No |
| Canyon Overlook | Easy to Moderate | 1 mile / 1.6 km | A quick hike with big views | No |
| The Watchman Trail | Moderate | 3.3 miles / 5.3 km | Convenience and lower canyon views | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
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Why does Angels Landing even need a permit and lottery?
The final half mile of the Angels Landing hike is along a very narrow rock spine with steep drop-offs. Before the permit system, severe overcrowding created dangerous bottlenecks and damaged the fragile environment. The National Park Service introduced the lottery to reduce crowding, improve safety, and preserve the quality of the hiking experience for everyone.
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How exactly does the Angels Landing lottery work?
There are two ways to apply. The main way is the Seasonal Lottery, which you enter months in advance for a specific date. The second way is the Day-Before Lottery, which offers a last-minute chance to get a permit for the following day. Both are entered online via the official NPS website. You pay a small, nonrefundable application fee each time you enter.
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What are my real chances of winning the Angels Landing lottery?
Honestly, the chances are quite low, especially during peak season (spring and fall) and on weekends. Demand far exceeds the number of available permits. This is why having a plan for these wonderful alternatives is so important. It lets you have a guaranteed amazing day, no matter the lottery outcome.
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What happens if someone in my group doesn’t get a permit?
Permits are issued to individuals and are not transferable. If only some members of your group win, only those people can legally proceed past Scout Lookout. A great plan is for the entire group to hike together to Scout Lookout. The view there is incredible. Then, the permit holders can complete the chain section while the rest of the group relaxes and enjoys the fantastic vista.
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I won the lottery! What do I need to show on the trail?
Congratulations! You will need to have two things ready for the ranger at the checkpoint: your permit confirmation email (a screenshot on your phone works fine) and a matching government-issued photo ID.
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Do I need to reserve a ticket for the shuttle?
No. The shuttle system currently operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no fee or ticket required. You simply join the line at the Visitor Center. Lines can be long, especially during midday, so starting your day early is highly recommended.
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Which hikes in this guide require the shuttle?
To hike to Scout Lookout, you must take the shuttle to stop #6, The Grotto. To hike the Watchman Trail, you do not need the shuttle, as its trailhead is at the Visitor Center. For Canyon Overlook Trail and Observation Point (via East Mesa), you will need your vehicle, as their trailheads are located on the east side of the park, outside the shuttle’s route.
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Do I need a reservation for the Spotted Dog restaurant?
Yes, we highly recommend making a reservation, especially during the busy season. The Spotted Dog is a popular dining destination for both locals and park visitors. Making a reservation ensures you will have a table waiting for you after a long day of hiking.
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What kind of food does the Spotted Dog serve?
We proudly serve upscale American and European cuisine with a delightful Southwestern flair, using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. It is the perfect celebratory meal. We are also known for our award-winning wine list.
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Can I eat at the Spotted Dog if I am not a guest at Flanigan’s Resort?
Absolutely! The Spotted Dog welcomes everyone. We love being a part of the greater Springdale and Zion community and invite all visitors to come and enjoy a memorable meal with us.
Your Perfect Reward After the Trail
After a day of exploring those incredible views, you have earned a comfortable and restorative place to relax.
At Flanigan’s Resort and Spa, we provide the perfect reward for your adventurous spirit. Our best feature is our location, just an easy walk from the Zion National Park entrance.
It means no stress about driving or parking, making your trip seamless. After your hike, reward your tired muscles with a soothing treatment at our Hilltop Spa.
Then, treat yourself to a celebratory dinner at the Spotted Dog Restaurant for a wonderful on-site dining experience.
Choosing a great hike is the first step, and choosing the perfect place to stay is the second.
Reserve your rewarding stay at Flanigan’s Resort and Spa and mark your Zion adventure checklist complete.