One of the best ways to take in the incredible views and stunning landscapes of Zion National Park is with a hike. The park is home to some famous—and challenging—trails. Angels Landing is perhaps the best known.
This infamous trail is known for its steep switchbacks and dangerous ridgeline walk. In fact, the trail is so popular that the National Park Service was forced to implement the Angels Landing Pilot Permit Program. This program provides permits to hikers wanting to take on this trail through two lotteries.
Another popular trail is The Narrows. To enjoy this hike in its entirety, you’d need to arrange transportation to Chamberlain’s Ranch, hike through 16 miles of cool water in the Virgin River, and even sleep overnight on the trail.
While these trails are certainly worthy of a spot on your hiking bucket list, Zion is home to plenty of other options—including some that are perfect for brand-new hikers, kids, and even those with mobility challenges. Keep reading to learn some of the best trails that everyone will enjoy during your stay at Flanigan’s Resort.
Best for Those With Kids: Weeping Rock Trail
If you’re looking for a short, accessible trail, head to Weeping Rock. Because it’s just a half-mile in length, this trail is accessible to very new hikers or those with limited endurance. The entire length of the trail is paved, though it can be a bit steep, which may make pushing wheelchairs or strollers more difficult.
Despite the trail’s short length, you’ll see plenty of scenery on your way. The trail is named for the large alcove carved into a sandstone cliff on the trail. During the spring, summer, and fall, plants hanging over the edge of the cliff create a “weeping” garden. There’s a platform at the end of the trail that allows visitors to climb under the alcove. Getting onto the platform does mean climbing a few stairs. But this is certain to be a popular spot for kids and families to cool off on a hot day.
Best for Those With Mobility Challenges: Pa’rus Trail
One of the most accessible, as well as one of the most popular trails in the park is the Pa’rus Trail. The full 3.5-mile out-and-back trail might be too long for some hikers, especially on a hot summer day. But the trail is relatively flat and paved for the entire length. It’s also the only trail in the park that is open to bicycles, making it a great choice for those who get along better on two wheels than on two feet. Whether you need to use a stroller, wheelchair, or other mobility devices, this trail is the best choice.
Just because it’s accessible doesn’t mean that you won’t enjoy some incredible views. On the Pa’rus Trail, you’ll wander along the Virgin River, with some shade from the trees that thrive in the wet environment. During the spring and early summer, the trail is lined with brightly colored wildflowers. The water also draws wildlife, and especially mule deer. Your best chance of spotting one is to go early in the day or right before sunset. Besides bicycles, this trail is also open to dogs. It’s the only spot in Zion where your four-legged friend can join you for a hike!
Best Alternative to Angels Landing: Canyon Overlook Trail
This trail is a bit more difficult than the others on this list. It isn’t paved, it has several sections of stairs, and it does involve some elevation change. But for those who are up for a bit more of a challenge without anything that is too difficult, this easy to moderate trail is a good choice.
Canyon Overlook Trail is only a mile in length. The trailhead is located just past the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel when you’re traveling towards the east entrance of the park. The trail offers some incredible views of the park. If you aren’t up for the hike to Angels Landing, this is the next best trail for getting a good view of the canyon.
This isn’t the only alternative to Angels Landing. If you’re up for a little more of a challenge, trails like Kolob Arch or Watchman Trail are also great options.
Best Alternative to The Narrows: Riverside Walk
On the very last stop of the Zion Canyon Shuttle line, there’s an accessible trail that is another of the most beautiful in the park. Riverside Walk, as the name suggests, follows the Virgin River. At first, you’ll be heading upriver, towards where the canyon begins to narrow. You’ll quickly see why the road stops where it does, as the red rock canyon calls draw closer together on either side of the river.
The stunning, steep cliff faces on either side, with slim waterfalls in some spots during wet conditions, as well as the babbling river alongside, make this trail relaxing and picture-perfect. At the end of the trail, before you turn back, you’ll also have access to the start of The Narrows trail. While you’ll need to take a few steps down, you can peer into the narrowing canyon and watch as wader-wearing hikers start their upriver trek.
At 2.2 miles roundtrip and offering more shade than most other trails in the park, the Riverside Walk is accessible for many hikers. But it does have a few steeper portions, and while it is paved, it may be difficult for some wheelchairs to travel on.
Planning a Stay at the Best Resorts Near Zion National Park
If you’re looking for great hikes the whole family can enjoy together during your stay in the best resorts Zion National Park has to offer, this list is a great place to start. These trails are kid-friendly, and beginner-friendly, and some are even wheelchair or mobility-device friendly.
Ready to start planning your own family adventure in Zion National Park? Flanigan’s Resort is the perfect basecamp. From our pools to our beautiful grounds to our easy access to Zion, our resort has everything you need for your getaway. Book your stay today to start planning your family’s next vacation.