Southern Utah’s Best Hikes
Angels Landing
For those who love dramatic canyon views similar to Angels Landing, our guided South Kaibab Trail hike offers another unforgettable perspective of the Southwest’s grandeur.
Angels Landing gives a breathtaking view of Zion Canyon. The trail leading up to Angels Landing is only 2.4 miles long ascending up the north side of the canyon. The trail gets steeper as you go and leads up to Walter’s Wiggles, a series of 21 switchbacks, and ends at Scout Lookout. For the weary traveler, this is the typical turnaround spot. If you wish to continue to Angels Landing you will need to climb up 0.5 miles of narrow trail with 1000 foot drop offs on either side. But after that final push, you can take in the glorious view of Zion Canyon.
Contributed by Samantha Jones
Utah’s backcountry is known for its beautiful arches, incredible waterfalls, majestic canyons and caves, and breathtaking views. The only problem with all this beauty, is knowing where to start. If you’re exploring Southern Utah’s backcountry, regions like Zion National Park offer incredible starting points for hiking and backpacking adventures. But one of the best parts of backpacking in Utah is the ability to see so many different landscapes by simply spending one or two days in each of Utah’s many beautiful national parks.
The Narrows
The Narrows, located in Zion National Park, offer both a calming and exciting trek through the Virgin River. One quite literally walks through the river with big canyon walls towering on both sides. The Narrows offers a cool hike on a hot day, with the canyon walls providing frequent shade and endless opportunities for a quick dip. There is the option to do a short 3 to 5 mile hike, but for the more enthusiastic backpacker, the complete trail is 15.5 miles from top to bottom. You can complete The Narrows in roughly 12 hours but if you’d like to prolong your journey to an overnight adventure, the trail has many outstanding campsites.
The Fairyland Loop
This Bryce Canyon trail is considered a true gem. The Fairyland Loop is an eight mile hike that changes in elevation regularly but offers many amazing views. Along this trail through Fairyland Canyon are many breathtaking views such as Sunrise Point and Fairyland Point. Also seen alongthe Fairyland Loop is Boat Mesa, Tower Bridge, and the Chinese Wall. At 8,073 feet above sea level, Boat Mesa shows the true strength of the area’s plateaus. The trail to Tower Bridge begins at Sunrise Point, this moderate hike along the Fairyland Loop is about three miles. The Chinese Wall is a series of hoodoos, extremely eroded canyon walls, and are a true wonder to see. To reach the Chinese Wall, continue westward from Tower Bridge on the Fairyland Loop trail.
Devils Garden
Located in Arches National Park, Devils Garden is home to some of the most beautiful natural arches in the United States. Northeast of Delicate Arch, the most popular site in Arches National Park, lies the Devils Garden. This stunning area features the second most popular arch is the park, Landscape Arch, as well as Double O Arch. The primitive trail through Devils Garden allows the hiker to get a full picture of the entire area.
The most important thing about hiking through this crazy terrain is preparedness. Remember to acquire all the necessary permits when hiking. When planning to adventure on some of Utah’s best hikes – If you are unfamiliar with the land or trails,
enlisting the expertise of a trail guide is highly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Southern Utah’s most breathtaking hikes — from Zion’s Angels Landing and The Narrows to Bryce Canyon’s Fairyland Loop and Arches National Park’s Devils Garden.
What are the best hikes in Southern Utah?
Some of Southern Utah’s best hikes include Angels Landing and The Narrows in Zion National Park, the Fairyland Loop in Bryce Canyon, and Devils Garden in Arches National Park. Each offers unique scenery — from narrow slot canyons to towering arches and red rock formations.
How difficult is the Angels Landing hike?
Angels Landing is a challenging 2.4-mile climb up Zion Canyon’s north side, with steep switchbacks and exposed drop-offs. The final 0.5-mile section features chains for safety. While strenuous, it rewards hikers with one of the most iconic views in Utah.
What makes The Narrows hike unique?
The Narrows is a river hike through Zion Canyon where you wade — and sometimes swim — in the Virgin River between towering sandstone walls. The full hike is 15.5 miles, but many choose shorter routes. It’s both refreshing and visually stunning, especially in warm weather.
How long does it take to hike The Narrows?
The full Narrows route from top to bottom takes about 12 hours, but most visitors opt for a shorter 3–5 mile round trip. Many backpackers turn it into an overnight adventure, using one of several designated campsites along the river.
What can I see on the Fairyland Loop Trail?
The Fairyland Loop in Bryce Canyon showcases stunning rock formations like Boat Mesa, Tower Bridge, and the Chinese Wall. The 8-mile trail offers continuous elevation changes and panoramic views, making it one of Bryce’s most rewarding moderate hikes.
Is Devils Garden in Arches National Park worth visiting?
Absolutely. Devils Garden is home to several of Arches National Park’s most famous formations, including Landscape Arch and Double O Arch. The trail provides a scenic loop through desert terrain filled with natural arches and dramatic sandstone fins.
Do I need a permit for these Utah hikes?
Yes, some hikes require permits, especially those in Zion National Park such as The Narrows (top-down route) and Angels Landing. Always check park regulations before your trip to secure permits and ensure safety compliance.
When is the best time to hike in Southern Utah?
Spring and fall are ideal for hiking in Southern Utah, offering cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in exposed areas, while winter brings icy trails in higher elevations like Bryce Canyon.
Should I hire a guide for Utah’s backcountry hikes?
If you’re unfamiliar with the terrain, hiring a local guide is highly recommended. Guides can help with navigation, safety, and permits while providing insights into the region’s geology and history, ensuring a more enjoyable and stress-free experience.
What safety tips should I follow while hiking in Utah?
Stay hydrated, check weather conditions, wear proper footwear, and carry a map or GPS. Many trails have steep cliffs or water crossings, so proceed carefully. Always tell someone your hiking plans and start early to avoid afternoon heat or flash floods.
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