Tag Archives: Best Hikes

Zion National Park Best Hikes for Any Skill-level

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Zion National Park photoZion’s National Park is arguably one of the most beautiful places in the United States. It has some of the most awe-inspiring red rock cliffs that are simply impossible to forget. It also has some of the best hiking. Whether you are a beginning hiker or an expert, here are Zion National Park best hikes.

Angel’s Landing

This is the quintessential Zion’s hike. It is probably the most popular and well-known hike in the park. It is a difficult hike that is just over 4 miles long. While most of the hike is steep, with chaotic switchbacks, it does not get treacherous feeling until the last 500 feet in which you must ascend up the steepest and narrowest part of the mountain by using chains.

These chains are what makes the hike popular and oh so exhilarating. And, you will be rewarded with the most amazing view at the end. One way to make the hike a little safer is to try to embark during off peak times. It is recommended to start very early to avoid heavy crowds.Zion National Park photo

Emerald Pool Trail

This is definitely one of the easier hikes in Zion’s. It is a little over 2 miles. It gives you a good taste of everything Zion’s has to offer. Because of its ease and beautiful scenery, it is also one of the most crowded hikes in the park. Just because it is easy, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared with water and good hiking shoes.

Hidden Canyon

Hidden Canyon is a less popular hike that many people don’t even realize is there. Essentially you will be hiking about 2.5 miles over the cliff face of a narrows canyon.

At the end of the hike you will hit a beautiful arch that is a great photo backdrop or a nice place to sit and eat lunch.Zion National Park photo

Observation Point

If you are looking for a hike that has some of the most beautiful, unobstructed views without the scariness of Angel’s landing, try Observation Point. It boasts a wider trail and a significant lower risk than other trails with a great angle of the Zion valley.

Observation point is a little over 7-mile hike that is rated medium difficulty. It is also a hike that has fewer crowds than some of the other Zion favorites.

The Narrows

Another iconic Zion’s hike is The Narrows. It is a longer, medium rated difficulty hike that can last up to 15 miles. However, you can hike for as long or as little as you like.

It is unique from other hikes because it forces you to wade through a river for most of the trip. The Virgin River is very shallow on this trail and will give you an interesting perspective. Be sure to wear waterproof shoes that will dry quickly.

This is another very popular hike that should be avoided if possible during the peak summer season.

This is just a taste of some of Zion National Park best hikes. There are hundreds of other hikes that will be sure to fit your skill level.Zion National Park photo

The Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon

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Bryce Canyon National Park photoBryce Canyon National Park is home to some of the most unique and awe-inspiring landscapes. Its colors alone are unlike anything most people have ever seen. It is full of red, golden, and pink rocks that are the backdrop to stunning evergreen trees. Bryce is also home to some of the best hiking trails in the country. Here are some of the best hikes in Bryce Canyon.

Hoodoo Trail

Hoodoo Trail is a short hike that is rated easy. It is a great way to see some of the splendors of Bryce Canyon without exerting too much energy. It is a good trail to take the whole family as it is flat and short and should only take about 30 minutes to complete.

The main attraction of this hike is the Hoodoos. These are limestone mountains that are magnificent to behold. This trail winds very close to these Hoodoos so you can partake of their beauty up close.

Interestingly, these Hoodoos are formed because of the snow that blankets Bryce Canyon every winter. The ice expands and then contracts and causes spires that are truly a site to behold.Bryce Canyon National Park photo

Swamp Canyon Loop

Swamp Canyon Loop is a bit longer, almost a 4.5-mile trail, but is still a relatively easy hike. On this hike, you will see some very stunning rock formations.

This section of the Under-the Rim Trail, will offer views worthy of some of the best photographers. You will see bright orange and red formations that will be hard to forget.

Riggs Spring Loop Trail

Riggs Spring Loop is an intermediate hike that is right around 8.5 miles long. On this hike, you will see a large selection of wildflowers. Halfway through the hike you will hit a spring that is the perfect spot to sit, rest, and even have a picnic lunch. This hike is open from March to October.Bryce Canyon National Park photo

Fairyland Loop Trail

Another intermediate hike is the Fairyland Loop Trail. It is a little over 8 miles long and should take about half a day to complete. This trail is a less popular and therefore has fewer crowds. On this hike, you will see a wide array of Hoodoos, some of the best in the park.

This hike also gives you a chance to see some of the wildlife that is native to Bryce Canyon. Therefore, this is a great hike for those who are looking for birds in the park. This hike is best taken from April to October.

Cassidy Trail

Cassidy Trail is a difficult hike that will provide unforgettable views. You will hike along a ridge that is exposed while you make your way towards the Mexican Hat Peak. It is a longer hike, almost 18 miles long.

When you see Mexican Hat Peak, you will be in awe over this sharp rock formation. While, you will need to plan almost a whole day for the hike, it is definitely worth the effort.

This list just scratches the surface on the best hikes in Bryce Canyon. There are literally hundreds of other trails that are just as fantastic.Bryce Canyon National Park photo