Angels Landing — Attraction in Four Corners States

This was an amazing trail and experience to hike in the winter (2023). I would 100% recommend it, although there are a few things one should note before hiking here. First a permit is required at all times of the year. The first half of the trail is pretty moderate steady incline, and the second half stating with the rows of switchbacks and immediately followed by the chained areas is more challenging. Pretty nice all the way through though. It was nice and cool and relaxing and not too many people were hiking in January just a few groups here n there.

The trail itself is amazing it starts following the river, then works its way up to a side canyon and through it, then climbs up to the ridges and ledges going out through Zion canyon. It’s one of the best trails iv done probably my favorite in Utah. I found the trail to be reasonably challenging but not over the top or anything unreasonable. Wasn’t as bad as some make it out to be. Just be prepared, take a pack with some water n maybe some snacks. Im sure It’s hot and crowded in summer and There is a lot of exposure on the trail so sun block and hydration are important. Bring foot traction devices in winter you WILL need them. No gear required beyond that, the chains will help you out in the steeper sections. Just be smart and don’t do anything ur uncomfortable with. Trail takes about 4-5 hours round trip roughly depending on ur fitness level and trail conditions. I feel like most people can make it if there in decent shape I’m average at best and didn’t have any issues going all the way. Of course you can always stop or go back at any time.

For the Winter, I’d advise to be ready for wet and murky weather, as my photos indicate it can be foggy and it was raining at the bottom and snowing at the top. Even though the beginning was dry, It was very Icy starting about half way through, I applied ice spikes about half way and can say I would not have been able to continue without them. Hikers without spikes or traction devices we’re turning around at the switchbacks. I’d suggest gloves as well for the chains they can be cold and icy as well. The permit is easy to get in the winter, if you apply the morning of the day before and you will probably get it. Best of luck to the summer applicants. It’s...

Really lovely hike up. Stay mindful of where you are. Breathe calmly, step intentionally, and be encouraging.

Pretty dry except for one rogue puddle. Sandy zones can be a little slippery too. so be mindful.

It took us a little under 3 hours to make our way up and down. We stopped once up to take layers off. Checked our permit with the Rangers before the chains and gloved up (recommended) plus put layers back on.

We had a little jam with one woman freaking out at the first bend. Then a major bottleneck once we were on the final really steep stretch up. Because there is only one way up and the same way down, you must be patient. I think in a perfect situation someone who is in good shape or an experienced hiker could get up and back round trip in about 2hr 15 min. But don’t expect not to experience some waiting like we did.

Don’t let your fears freak out other people but also don’t feel impatient or rushed if you feel confident. This is a journey to encourage your surrounding companions for the day and allow them the courtesy to feel safe in a rather treacherous environment.

I wouldn’t say I’m afraid of heights but I am not super comfortable being close to ledges with steep drop offs. Yet I didn’t feel scared because I only focused on myself. It’s a really rewarding hike and people were really kind and encouraging at all parts of the trail.

You will need to scurry across some sections, crouch/ crab walk, and/ or use your upper body strength- especially if you are 5’6” and shorter.

On our visit, we had to park in lot 1 or 2 . But either way we could only take the bus up to the trails as it was off limits for the public to drive beyond. If parking in lot 2, you take the bus down to lot 1. Get off and take a different bus up. We never waited more than 5-10 min for a...

Amazing hike! Get to the park early. If you can reserve the 8-9am shuttle bus time do it. The shuttle is only $1 and the ticket can be purchased online. DO NOT buy one off of someone. They are not transferable and never cost more than 1$. Once in the park there are 9 points along the shuttle route. Angels landing is at stop 6 the Grotto. The start of the hike has some easy switchbacks. Paved the entire way till the chained portion starts. There was some ice and a few slippery points. But many older people and you g kids made it to the top just before the actual angels landing hike begins.

The actual angels landing hike is not for the faint of heart. The hike is not particularly hard if you keep your head down and hold onto the chain. It’s the combination of a few factors that make it challenging. One, during this time there is ice! Crampons or micro spikes are a MUST! Many negotiated the final ascent without and were slipping and jeopardizing the safety of others. Two, if you start the hike past 0930 it will get very very crowded. Crowds on the narrow portions of the trail are dangerous. Some go up others come down. With ice the switches can be dicey. Three, do not bring walking poles up to the actual Angels landing portion (the part where the chains start). You will not need them. They will only hinder your ascent. You really need to be holding the chain. You have no room to employ your walking stick.

Otherwise the hike is wonderful. Making it to the rope is well worth it. The sights are...