The Angels Landing Hike is a strenuous 5.4-mile (8.7 km) round-trip trail in Zion National Park with about 1,488 feet (454 m) of elevation gain. Most hikers take around four hours, and a permit is required to continue from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing.
The Angels Landing Hike is one of the most famous trails in Zion National Park, Utah and for good reason. The route climbs from Zion Canyon to a spectacular viewpoint above the Virgin River, finishing with a narrow, exposed ridge assisted by fixed chains.
The hike is only about 5.4 miles round trip, but the combination of steep climbing, exposure, and the famous chain section makes it a serious adventure. NPS lists approximately 1,488 feet of elevation gain, with most hikers taking around four hours to complete the route.
Angels Landing Hike Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | 5.4 miles (8.7 km) round trip |
| Elevation Gain | 1,488 ft (454 m) |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Time | Around 4 hours for many hikers |
| Trailhead | The Grotto, Shuttle Stop #6 |
| Best For | Experienced hikers comfortable with exposure |
| Permit | Required for Angels Landing |
| Must Visit | Walter’s Wiggles, Scout Lookout & Chains |
| Location | Zion National Park, Utah |
What Makes Angels Landing So Special?
Angels Landing rises dramatically above Zion Canyon, creating one of the park’s most recognizable viewpoints.
The route isn’t exceptionally long compared with many major mountain hikes. Instead, its challenge comes from the steep ascent and exposed final half-mile.
The final section from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing contains narrow sections, long drop-offs, and fixed chains that hikers use as handholds. NPS notes that portions of this section are less than three feet wide.
That combination makes Angels Landing very different from an ordinary canyon hike.
Angels Landing Hike Route
The hike begins at The Grotto, Shuttle Stop #6, in Zion Canyon.
The basic route is:
The Grotto → West Rim Trail → Refrigerator Canyon → Walter’s Wiggles → Scout Lookout → Angels Landing Trail → Summit
The first part of the hike is already steep, but the terrain becomes considerably more exposed after Scout Lookout.
1. The Grotto to West Rim Trail
From The Grotto, cross the road and bridge and begin following the West Rim Trail.
The trail immediately starts climbing away from the Virgin River. This is where you’ll begin building most of the elevation needed for the summit.
The route is well established, but the steady uphill grade makes pacing important.
2. Refrigerator Canyon
The trail then enters Refrigerator Canyon, a relatively enclosed section surrounded by towering sandstone walls.
It can provide some welcome shade before the route climbs again toward Walter’s Wiggles.
3. Walter’s Wiggles
Walter’s Wiggles are one of the most recognizable sections of the Angels Landing approach.
The trail climbs through 21 tight switchbacks, gaining elevation quickly before reaching Scout Lookout.
Although each switchback is short, the repeated steep turns can make this section feel challenging.
4. Scout Lookout
Scout Lookout is an important point on the hike.
From here, you can enjoy impressive views of Zion Canyon without continuing onto the exposed chain section.
You also do not need an Angels Landing permit to hike to Scout Lookout. The permit is required for the final section from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing.
Angels Landing Chains: The Famous Final Section
The final 0.5-mile section is what transforms the hike from a steep canyon trail into an exposed mountain adventure.
Fixed chains are installed along several portions of the route, allowing hikers to use their hands while climbing the steep sandstone.
This section is narrow, exposed, and used by hikers traveling in both directions. NPS describes portions as less than three feet wide, with long drop-offs.
How to Handle the Chains
- Keep a secure grip.
- Move at a controlled pace.
- Give other hikers space.
- Watch your footing.
- Don’t rush for photographs.
- Be prepared to turn around.
Wet or icy rock can make the route substantially more hazardous, so checking conditions before starting is essential.
Angels Landing Permit: Do You Need One?
Yes. Everyone hiking to Angels Landing needs a permit.
Zion National Park currently distributes permits through two systems:
Seasonal Lottery
The seasonal lottery allows visitors to apply ahead of time and select multiple preferred dates and times.
For the 2026 hiking season, NPS lists four seasonal application periods:
| Hiking Dates | Lottery Opens | Lottery Closes |
|---|---|---|
| March 1–May 31 | February 13 | February 25 |
| June 1–August 31 | April 1 | April 20 |
| September 1–November 30 | July 1 | July 20 |
| December 1–February 28, 2027 | October 1 | October 20 |
The seasonal application fee is $6 per application, covering up to six people. If selected, the permit fee is $3 per person.
Day-Before Lottery
Didn’t get a seasonal permit?
You can apply through the day-before lottery.
Applications open at 12:01 a.m. Mountain Time and close at 3 p.m. MT the day before your intended hike. Results are issued after 4 p.m.
Important Permit Tip
Download, print, or screenshot your permit confirmation before arriving at the trailhead.
Cell service can be unreliable in Zion Canyon, and rangers may ask to see your permit along the trail.
Best Time to Hike Angels Landing
Angels Landing is a year-round trail, but weather and trail conditions can dramatically change the experience.
Spring
Spring brings cooler conditions and flowing water, but weather can be unpredictable.
Summer
Summer can be hot in Zion Canyon. An early start can help you avoid some of the strongest midday heat.
Fall
Fall offers cooler temperatures and changing scenery, although conditions can become colder later in the season.
Winter
Winter hiking can involve snow and ice. The exposed chain section requires particular caution in these conditions.
Whatever season you choose, check the current Zion weather and trail conditions before starting.
How Long Does Angels Landing Take?
NPS says most hikers take approximately four hours for the full 5.4-mile hike, although individual times vary.
Your total time can increase because of:
- Crowded trail conditions
- Waiting on the chains
- Photography stops
- Weather
- Fitness level
- Time spent at the summit
Don’t plan your hike around the fastest possible completion time. Allow enough daylight and flexibility for a slower return.
What to Bring for Angels Landing
The Angels Landing Hike doesn’t require technical climbing equipment, but proper preparation is important.
Essential Gear
- Hiking shoes with good traction
- Plenty of water
- High-energy snacks
- Electrolytes
- Sun protection
- Lightweight layers
- Headlamp or flashlight
- First-aid supplies
- Zion trail map
- Fully charged phone
- Downloaded or printed permit
NPS recommends carrying plenty of water, food, layers, a map, and a flashlight or headlamp with fresh batteries. The park also warns that mobile service is unreliable in much of Zion Canyon.
Angels Landing Hike Difficulty
Difficulty: Strenuous
The hike’s difficulty comes from more than its 1,488 feet of elevation gain.
You also need to deal with:
- Steep uphill sections
- 21 switchbacks at Walter’s Wiggles
- Uneven sandstone
- Narrow trail sections
- Significant exposure
- Two-way traffic on the chains
- Heat and dehydration
The final chain section is the biggest consideration for hikers who are uncomfortable with heights.
If you reach Scout Lookout and decide the exposure isn’t for you, turning around is completely reasonable.
Angels Landing vs. Scout Lookout
| Feature | Angels Landing | Scout Lookout |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | ~5.4 mi RT | ~4.5 mi RT |
| Elevation Gain | ~1,488 ft | ~1,000 ft |
| Difficulty | Strenuous | Strenuous |
| Chains | Yes | No |
| Permit | Required | Not required |
| Exposure | High | Lower |
| Best For | Experienced hikers | Hikers avoiding exposed terrain |
NPS says Scout Lookout is about 2.25 miles one way from The Grotto and requires roughly 1,000 feet of climbing.
Angels Landing Safety Tips
Safety should be a major part of your Angels Landing plan.
1. Check the Weather
Storms can create dangerous conditions on exposed sandstone.
2. Don’t Rush the Chains
The final section is narrow. Move deliberately and give other hikers room.
3. Watch Your Footing
Don’t let photographs distract you from where you’re stepping.
4. Carry Enough Water
Zion can become extremely hot, particularly during summer.
5. Start With Enough Time
Remember that the hike is round trip. You need enough daylight for the return.
6. Know When to Turn Around
A permit gives you permission to hike the trail it doesn’t mean conditions are automatically safe.
NPS advises hikers to check the forecast and park conditions, carry appropriate supplies, and understand the risks of the narrow, exposed trail.
Is Angels Landing Worth Hiking?
For hikers who are prepared for steep terrain and exposure, Angels Landing offers a memorable way to experience Zion Canyon.
But reaching the final summit isn’t the only successful outcome.
Scout Lookout is a legitimate alternative for hikers who don’t want to tackle the chains. It provides impressive canyon views and doesn’t require an Angels Landing permit.
The best approach is to treat the chain section as a serious exposed trail rather than simply a photo opportunity.
FAQs
How long is the Angels Landing Hike?
The complete route is approximately 5.4 miles (8.7 km) round trip.
How much elevation gain does Angels Landing have?
The hike gains approximately 1,488 feet (454 m).
How long does Angels Landing take?
Most hikers take around four hours, although the actual time varies by person and trail conditions.
Do you need a permit for Angels Landing?
Yes. Everyone who hikes to Angels Landing needs a permit.
Can you hike to Scout Lookout without a permit?
Yes. You can hike from The Grotto to Scout Lookout without an Angels Landing permit.
Are the Angels Landing chains difficult?
The chains are on a steep, narrow, exposed section with significant drop-offs. Physical fitness is important, but comfort with exposure and careful movement are equally important.
Is Angels Landing good for beginners?
The trail is strenuous, and the final chain section is highly exposed. Beginners should consider their hiking experience, fitness, comfort with heights, and current trail conditions before attempting the full route.
What happens if I don’t get an Angels Landing permit?
You can still hike to Scout Lookout without a permit and enjoy views of Zion Canyon.
Final Thoughts
The Angels Landing Hike combines steep switchbacks, towering sandstone walls, dramatic canyon scenery, and a famous chain-assisted summit into one unforgettable Zion experience.
At approximately 5.4 miles with 1,488 feet of elevation gain, the hike isn’t exceptionally long, but the exposed final section makes it a serious challenge.
Plan your permit in advance, check the weather, carry enough water, wear reliable footwear, and take the chains slowly.
And remember: if the final section doesn’t feel right, Scout Lookout is still a rewarding destination.
