Angel's Landing

A notorious 5.4 mile trail (8.7 km) leads from the floor of Zion Canyon up to Angel's Landing, covering 1488 vertical ft (453m). This is a "peak" within the main canyon in the park and since it was marked as "strenuous" in the guide, we decided to give it a go.

The trail starts gradually, following the course of the river and steadily increasing in elevation. Soon though the climb starts in earnest as the switchbacks start - the American term for what are known as "s-bends" - think twisty alpine road in the mountains, but on foot!

First we climbed up the front of the canyon within view of the river. Eventually we started to go through the canyon itself, always gaining elevation. At one point you turn a corner only to be faced with another steep sequence of switchbacks, each level about 7 metres long and there were about 10 to get through.

Eventually we reached the top of the switchbacks and were pleased to see the sign saying 0.5 miles to Angel's Landing. A quick rest and we were back on our way.

Then we saw this:

The last half mile was the most difficult "official" trail either of us have either seen. Nick's inner lawyer was screaming at the potential lawsuits for the National Parks ;). The ascent was nothing less than an ascent in true mountaineering style, albeit with a few chains along the way to hold on to for dear life. The path scrambles up and down, over wide chunks of sandstone, narrow ridge lines & steep inclines. Along the way a chain keeps you on the right path, and distracts you from looking down.

Nonetheless, we made it unharmed:

The summit was worth it - fabulous views up and down the canyon floor and, of course, views over the edge that would make your head spin.

After a rest at the top we started the hike back down. It felt easier doing all those switchbacks downhill although the climbing part wasn't great since by default you were looking down at the ground very far below....

At the bottom we took a well deserved rest and had lunch on a rock while paddling our feet in the ice cold river.

- Nick and Jo

Location: Zion NP