Tips for Backpacking Zion National Park

 If you ever take advantage of the grandeur of backpacking Zion, send me a thank-you note that reads, “Thank you for the incredible tips from your article on backpacking Zion.  I did it, and it made my life better!”

With that said, this article really does present five of the best backpacking trails you’ll ever drop a boot on.  The wilderness of Zion National Park is world-renowned for its solitude and adventure. It features over 90 miles of trails, many camping areas, and “roughly” 125,000 acres of designated wilderness.

Prepare for your trips beforehand by considering your group’s fitness levels, what you want to see, and the time you have to spend.  All overnight trips require a backpacking permit, obtained at the Visitors Centers. You’ll also need a reservation for venturing into any of the designated wilderness areas.  Below are five of the most popular routes for backpacking Zion.

Five Fantastic Backpacking Hikes

The East Rim Trail begins at the East Entrance Trailhead and stretches 10.8 miles to Weeping rock, climbing about 2,300 feet.  Water is available at the Stave Spring during run-off months. The first segment of the trail gives sweeping views of the Slickrock areas and Jolley Gulch and takes you through the ponderosa forest.  After hiking over the rim of the canyon, the trail sharply descends 2,300 feet to the canyon floor.

The Hop Valley Trail runs to La Verkin Creek, about 6.5 miles.  This one is open during spring, summer, and fall, but does not provide access to water.  It offers views of open fields surrounded by rock formations. The valley floor of Hop Valley is stunning with its vertical sandstone walls and flat, sandy bottom.

The Narrows follows the North Fork of the Virgin River 16 miles from Chamberlain’s Ranch to the Temple of Sinawava.  Safest in summer and fall, this hike has taken a few lives during a sudden rainstorm and flash flooding washing down the narrow canyon.  Walking in the shadows of the soaring cliff-walls, sandstone grottos, and hanging gardens can be a sublime wilderness experience.

Chinle Trail to Coalpits Wash is 8 miles and changes in elevation by 200 feet.  Fall, winter, and spring are appropriate for this hike. It goes from Anasazi Way and winds its way through the desert to Mount Kinesava.  The trail offers great views of cliffs, petrified wood, and cryptobiotic soil.

The West Rim Trail to The Grotto is 14.2 miles, with access to water at Sawmill Springs and Potato Hollow Spring.  Available in late spring, summer, and fall, the West Rim Trail traverses a high Alpine region with majestic views of Wildcat Canyon.  You’ll experience a change in elevation of 3,400 feet, so bring some gum.

With preparation, backpacking Zion is exhilarating and will leave you wanting more.

Tips for Backpacking Zion National Park

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