How to Get the Most out of Your Zion Trip

By Cap Puckhaber, Reno Nevada

I’m Cap Puckhaber, a marketing professional, amateur investor, part-time blogger, and outdoor enthusiast. Zion National Park is one of those places that can overwhelm you at first because there’s so much to see, and so many trails to choose from. Whether you’re hoping to tackle the legendary Angels Landing, explore The Narrows, or just take in the scenery without breaking a sweat, Zion National Park hikes deliver. In this blog, I’m going to break down some of the best easy hikes in Zion, explain how to avoid the crowds, and give you insider tips to help you plan your visit.

Zion is located in southwestern Utah and is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and dramatic vistas. But even if you’re not a hardcore hiker, there are plenty of accessible trails that let you experience the park’s beauty at a relaxed pace. From riverside strolls to waterfalls tucked into cliffs, Zion has hikes for every interest and fitness level. We’ll cover trail lengths, difficulty, how to get there, and what you can expect along the way, including family-friendly options.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Zion? Avoiding the Crowds

One of the most common questions I get from hikers is: When should I visit Zion to have the best experience? Zion can get very crowded, especially during peak months like June, July, and August. If you prefer fewer crowds, I recommend planning your trip in the shoulder seasons, specifically April, May, or late September to October. The weather is usually mild, and you’ll avoid the majority of tourists.

Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon is another strategy for dodging crowds. Zion’s shuttle system can get busy mid-day, particularly at popular stops like Angels Landing and The Narrows. I’ve found that starting hikes before 8 a.m. can make a huge difference in both parking availability and your overall enjoyment of the trail. Also, be mindful of holidays; Memorial Day, Labor Day, and spring breaks tend to fill the park to capacity. For the most current park conditions and shuttle information, visit the National Park Service site here.

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Which Entrance Should You Use?

Zion has three main entrances: the South Entrance, East Entrance, and Kolob Canyons Entrance. Each has its advantages depending on what you plan to do. The South Entrance is the most popular and the easiest for accessing Zion Canyon and many of the park’s iconic hikes. It also connects directly to the shuttle system, which is essential if you’re trying to avoid traffic.

The East Entrance, accessed via the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, offers a scenic drive through rock formations and provides quicker access to trails like the Canyon Overlook. Meanwhile, the Kolob Canyons Entrance is quieter, with fewer crowds and some excellent backcountry options. If it’s your first visit and your focus is on iconic hikes and the main canyon, start at the South Entrance. You can also combine entrances if you’re doing a multi-day visit.

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Riverside Walk: A Gentle Introduction

Trail Length: 2.2 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1-2 hours
How to Get There: Shuttle stop #9 (Temple of Sinawava)

The Riverside Walk is a great introduction to Zion for anyone who wants a flat, scenic trail with minimal effort. The paved path follows the Virgin River, which is lined by cottonwood trees and steep canyon walls. Along the way, you might see wildlife like mule deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds. The sound of the river rushing over rocks makes for a peaceful hike that doesn’t feel rushed, even if the trail is busy.

The trail ends at the start of The Narrows, Zion’s famous slot canyon hike. Even if you don’t plan to hike The Narrows that day, walking Riverside Walk gives you a real sense of the canyon’s scale and beauty. If you’re hiking with kids or less experienced hikers, this trail is perfect for easing into the park without feeling overwhelmed.

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Lower Emerald Pool Trail: Waterfalls and Lush Gardens

Trail Length: 1.2 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 1-1.5 hours
How to Get There: Shuttle stop #5 (The Grotto)

Lower Emerald Pool Trail is one of my favorite easy hikes because it combines dramatic cliffs with serene waterfalls. The trail is mostly shaded, which is a blessing in warmer months, and features a small waterfall that cascades into a green-hued pool. The path is paved for the first half, then transitions to a dirt trail, giving it a natural, rugged feel without being challenging.

Along the hike, you’ll be surrounded by desert plants and hanging gardens, which create a beautiful contrast to the rocky cliffs. If you’re visiting in spring or early summer, you may even see wildflowers lining parts of the trail. This hike is particularly enjoyable for families or first-time hikers who want a rewarding view without tackling elevation gain.

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Weeping Rock Trail: A Mystical Oasis

Trail Length: 0.4 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 30 minutes
How to Get There: Shuttle stop #7 (Weeping Rock)

Weeping Rock is a short but unique trail that ends in a rock alcove dripping with water from natural springs. Despite being only a few hundred yards long, the trail is a steep climb, so be prepared for a little effort. The payoff is worth it: lush vegetation, cascading water, and the sense of stepping into a hidden oasis in the desert.

This is also one of the few hikes where the sound of falling water dominates, creating a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. If you’re visiting during the hotter months, this trail provides welcome relief from the sun. It’s easy enough to fit into a half-day itinerary but memorable enough to be a highlight of your visit.

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Pa’rus Trail: Family-Friendly and Accessible

Trail Length: 3.5 miles (out and back)
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 2 hours
How to Get There: Shuttle stop #1 (Zion Canyon Visitor Center)

The Pa’rus Trail is a gentle, paved path that winds along the Virgin River and offers some of the park’s most accessible views. It’s ideal for walking, biking, or even pushing a stroller, making it a fantastic option for families. The trail is mostly flat and gives hikers uninterrupted views of Zion’s cliffs and surrounding landscapes.

Wildlife sightings are common here, with birds, deer, and small mammals often visible along the path. The Pa’rus Trail is longer than Riverside Walk or Weeping Rock, but it’s still easy-going. This trail is perfect if you want a longer hike without the challenge of elevation gain, and it connects to several viewpoints that highlight the canyon’s red rock formations.

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Canyon Overlook Trail: Quick Hike, Big Views

Trail Length: 1 mile (out and back)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Time: 1 hour
How to Get There: East Entrance (Zion-Mount Carmel Highway)

The Canyon Overlook Trail is short but incredibly rewarding. It has some rocky sections and a bit of elevation gain, but the views from the top are some of the best in the park. From here, you can see sweeping panoramas of the Virgin River, red rock cliffs, and winding canyon floors below.

I personally love timing this trail for sunrise or sunset; the lighting transforms the rock faces into glowing layers of orange and gold. Because it’s near the East Entrance, it’s less crowded than South Entrance trails like Angels Landing or The Narrows, giving you a slightly quieter experience without sacrificing scenery.

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How Far Is Hidden Falls?

Hidden Falls is a shorter, peaceful hike, located roughly one mile round-trip from the trailhead. This trail is ideal for those who want to escape the busier areas and experience a quieter corner of Zion. The waterfall itself is small but picturesque, tucked into a secluded spot surrounded by rock walls and desert vegetation. For anyone looking to combine a short hike with photography or a relaxing break, Hidden Falls is an excellent choice.

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Angels Landing: Is It Hard?

Angels Landing is not an easy hike. It’s strenuous, with a final half-mile that includes narrow ridges and chain-assisted sections. The views from the top, however, are some of the most iconic in all of the national parks. Personally, I recommend it only for those comfortable with heights and confident in their footing.

Crowds can make the chains feel even more intimidating, so going early is crucial. You’ll want to bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and be mentally prepared for the thrill. Even if you don’t summit, hiking partway along Angels Landing offers some of the park’s most dramatic views. For detailed tips and safety advice, check out Carry On Queen’s Angels Landing Guide.

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The Narrows: Permit and Trail Info

The Narrows is a unique experience because you hike directly in the Virgin River through a slot canyon. Hiking from the bottom up doesn’t require a permit, but for the full top-down experience, you’ll need one from the National Park Service. The water can be ankle to chest-deep depending on conditions, so always check the weather and river levels before going.

Walking The Narrows is unlike any other trail in Zion, offering a combination of water hiking, canyon walls towering hundreds of feet above you, and the soothing sound of rushing water. For most casual visitors, doing a shorter section from Riverside Walk is plenty to get the experience without committing to the full route. You can check current conditions and permits on the NPS website.

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Is One Day Enough at Zion?

If you’re pressed for time, one day in Zion can be enough to see some of the park’s highlights. Focus on easy trails like Riverside Walk, Lower Emerald Pools, or Canyon Overlook if you want scenic vistas without a long day. If you’re aiming for Angels Landing or The Narrows, starting early is critical to avoid crowds and maximize daylight. Personally, I like splitting a one-day visit between a couple of easy trails and a short, iconic hike for a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Even if you don’t hike, scenic drives along the main canyon and visits to the visitor center give you plenty to admire. Zion is absolutely worth visiting even for non-hikers, though you’ll miss the full immersion that walking through the canyons provides.

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Final Thoughts

Zion National Park is a place of contrasts: towering cliffs, peaceful rivers, and quiet alcoves all exist within a few miles of each other. Easy hikes like Riverside Walk, Lower Emerald Pools, and Canyon Overlook offer accessible ways to experience this beauty, while family-friendly trails like Pa’rus provide both comfort and incredible scenery.

For first-time visitors or families, these trails are perfect for soaking in Zion’s wonders without pushing physical limits. Even short hikes or partial routes provide breathtaking views and photo opportunities that stay with you long after you leave. Pack water, wear comfortable shoes, and take your time. Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll, a waterfall, or a serene river walk, Zion has a trail waiting for you. This park is worth every step, no matter your experience level.

About the author

Cap Puckhaber is a marketing strategist, finance writer, and outdoor enthusiast. He writes across CapPuckhaber.com, TheHikingAdventures.com, SimpleFinanceBlog.com, and BlackDiamondMarketingSolutions.com. Follow him for honest, real-world advice backed by 20+ years of experience.