Angels Landing

Angels Landing is one of those hikes that divides people. Half of our group made it to the top. The other half chose not to, and honestly both decisions were completely valid.

We hiked this with another couple. The trail starts at The Grotto shuttle stop and climbs steadily through Refrigerator Canyon - a cool, shaded slot between massive sandstone walls. Then you hit Walter's Wiggles, a series of 21 tight switchbacks carved into the cliff face. They're steep but manageable and kind of fun in a "who designed this?" sort of way.

At the top of the Wiggles you reach Scout Lookout, and this is where our group split. The view from Scout Lookout is already incredible - you can see the Virgin River winding through the canyon far below and the scale of Zion's walls is breathtaking. Our wives took one look at the final half-mile ridge and decided they were happy right where they were. No judgment - it was the right call for them.

The guys continued on to the summit. The last half mile follows a narrow spine of rock with chains bolted into the sandstone for handholds. On both sides, the rock drops away 1,500 feet straight down. There are sections where the ridge is maybe 5 feet wide with nothing but air on either side. Your hands are on the chains and your brain is screaming at you the entire time.

But the summit. The summit is something else entirely. A 360-degree panorama of Zion Canyon that makes every white-knuckle moment worth it. We sat up there for 30 minutes just taking in the view and letting the adrenaline settle. The Great White Throne, the Organ, the canyon stretching in both directions - it's one of the most spectacular viewpoints we've ever experienced.

Here's the thing though - do NOT do this trail if you are afraid of heights or unsure of your balance. This is not an exaggeration or a suggestion. The exposure is extreme and real. People have died on this trail. The chains help but they're not a safety net - they're an assist. You need solid footing, steady nerves, and honest self-awareness about your comfort level. Scout Lookout is a perfectly great destination and there's zero shame in stopping there.

As of 2022, you need a permit to hike past Scout Lookout. It's a lottery system through recreation.gov. Plan ahead because permits sell out quickly.