Effective now in 2022, the chains section of Angels Landing is accessible by permit only, and closed to all other hikers. Go to recreation.gov to learn more about the new system and apply for a permit.
how to survive (and enjoy!) your hike up Angels Landing at Zion National Park
Angels Landing Trail Guide
MAP: Trails Illustrated (or see below)
PERMITS: none (for now)
DESIGNATION: Zion National Park, entrance fee required
BEST SEASONS: spring and fall
HIKE LENGTH: 5.4 miles round trip
HIKE TIME: most take 3 to 5 hours
WATER: none
TRAILHEAD ELEVATION: ~4,300 feet
SUMMIT ELEVATION: 5,790 feet
ELEVATION GAIN: ~1,500 feet
ACCESS: shuttle bus only throughout most of the season (early February through late November). Parking is at Zion’s main entrance, though The Grotto parking lot is available in winter.
DIRECTIONS: When shuttle buses are running, board at the visitor center and exit at the bus stop for The Grotto. The well-signed trail begins across the street, and follows the West Rim Trail for the first leg of the hike.
Drive up the main canyon to The Grotto when buses are not in operation.
ROUTE: well maintained, crowded trail, signed junctions
GUIDEBOOK: Favorite Hikes in & around Zion
Trail Map
This is a very straightforward hike, but here’s a topo map that shows the Angels Landing Trail, marked in green.
The hike begins at The Grotto Picnic Area bus stop. From here you follow the West Rim Trail across the Virgin River and up to Scout’s Lookout, and take the infamous chains for the last half-mile to the top. (see trail description below)
The Chains Section is the Deadliest Place in Zion
The attraction of Angels Landing is its “living on the edge” factor of dangerous exposure. The last half-mile of the route, called the chains section, is dramatic and narrow.
The path is only a few feet wide here, thinner than a sidewalk, and exposed to high cliffs. Sometimes the cliffs are on both sides of the trail.
There’s a series of chain link handrails drilled into the rock. The chains add a measure of safety and intrigue to the hike, but accidents still happen.
Yes, people have fallen from here and it’s not pretty.
How many people really fell?
It’s not easy to dial in an exact death toll. There’s a number of different figures floating around from various sources, but I can say with confidence that there’s been at least 18 deaths. The great majority of those are falls from the trail.
This CNN article about a recent fall in 2019 quotes an NPS spokesperson on a figure of 9 deaths.
Several other tallies can be found around the web, unlikely to be up-to-date with the the latest falls, or clouding the number with other causes of death.
The most accurate figure is that 14 people have died as a result of falls from Angel’s Landing. You can trace the individual sources of these 14 deaths via the news articles linked in the list below.
After a couple of recent falls in early 2021, major news outlets (Fox 13 distributed via the Associated Press) began reporting a history of 13 falls since 2000, but it’s not verified if all of these incidents specifically took place at Angels Landing.
The death of George Sender for example, (from Illertissen, Germany, age 63) is attributed to Angels Landing, but online reports only state he “fell while hiking” at Zion in 2000.
The recent fall of Corbin McMillen (widely attributed to Angels Landing) likely occurred from the nearby West Rim Trail, beyond its approach to Angels Landing (see “Most Recent Deaths,” below).
The most reliable source
Dave Nally, author of Deaths and Rescues in Zion National Park, states “Angels Landing is the deadliest spot in Zion. There have been at least 15 deaths there during the last century.”
Note that this figure above cites “deaths,” rather than “falls.”
Dave shared this with me in early 2019 (a year in which there were two more ensuing deaths), so we can logically increase the figure to “at least 17,” or even bring it to a statement of “about 20” fatalities.
Timeline of 14 Falls Resulting in Death at Angels Landing
This list below may be incomplete, but it’s the most comprehensive take on the subject to be found on the internet. Here we can definitively see that at least 14 people fell since 1987, in sync with NPS statements that begin in 2004.
Since 2017 there’s an average of almost one death per year from falling!
2021 March – Jason Hartwell of Draper, Utah, age 43 Salt Lake Tribune
2019 November – 19 year-old Savannah McTague fell – she was a Zion concessions employee from Maine. Portland WGME
2019 April – Pradeep Beryl Solomon, a 35 year-old resident of Salt Lake City. KSL
2018 February – 13-year-old girl from Colorado City, Utah (name unreleased) Salt Lake Tribune
2017 March – Tate Ryan Volino, a 45 year-old man from Osprey, Florida Deseret News
2010 April – Regine Milobedzki, 63 of Upland California NPS
2009 November – 50 year-old Tammy Grunig of Pocatello Idaho Idaho State Journal
2009 August – Nancy Maltez, age 55 of Glendora California LA Times
2007 June – Barry Goldstein, age 53, of St. Louis, Missouri National Parks Traveler
2006 August – Bernadette Vandermeer, age 29, of Las Vegas, Nevada Deseret
2004 June – Kristoffer Jones, age 14, of Long Beach, California Salt Lake Tribune
1997 January – John Christensen, 36, of Provo, Utah Deseret
April 1989 – Jeffery Robert Dwyer, 28, of Sandpoint, Idaho Deseret
May 1987 – Denver woman Deseret
Most recent deaths in 2020 and 2021
There were no recorded falls in 2020.
Most news outlets are reporting 2 recent deaths at Angels Landing in early 2021 – Corbin McMillen (late February) and Jason Hartwell (early March).
Though he reported to his family he’d be hiking Angels Landing, Corbin McMillen was found at the base of a rock climbing feature called Moonlight Buttress. This suggests that he technically fell from the West Rim Trail beyond Angels Landing (rather than the infamous Chains Section), so he is not included in my tally of 14 falls.
Corbin was age 42 and lived in St. George, Utah. Salt Lake Tribune
Man pushes wife?
There’s a story in May of 1997 where a man was accused of pushing his wife (Patricia Bottarini, 36, of Medford, New Jersey) from a cliff in Zion. Sometimes the case is attributed to Angels Landing, but the incident actually took place along the Observation Point Trail.
James Bottarini was ultimately acquitted of the charges (AP News), but the notion of such an incident is not as improbable as you may think. Similar cases have occurred in other national parks:
- in 2012 a man pushed his wife in Rocky Mountain National Park (Huffington Post)
- in 2013 a woman pushed her husband in Glacier National Park (CNN)
- finally, there’s the classic story of serial killer Robert Spangler pushing his wife at Grand Canyon (Wikipedia)
If it sounds like I’m preoccupied with death and danger, it’s because I’m trying to scare you. A part of me wants you to choose another hike.
Why Must You Hike Angels Landing?
Ask yourself this.
The trail is vastly overcrowded and it’s not even the best view in Zion. The views from places like Observation Point and farther up the West Rim Trail are much better. The classic approach to Observation Point is currently CLOSED because of massive rockslide that obliterated the trail.
The thing is, people have established this as “must-do” hike.
After your visit, whenever you talk to someone who has been to Zion, their first question is likely to be “Did you do Angels Landing?”
If you say no, then you’re going to feel inferior. It’s simple peer-pressure stuff going on here, and I think it’s stupid.
This mentality leads to too many people on the trail! A majority of experienced hikers do not find Angels Landing to be especially scary. Even kids are often just fine and have fun with it. You may not even need to rely on the chains for balance. The problem is the crowds!
The chains and cliffs can be a whole lot of fun, but only if you’re surrounded by a manageable number of hikers.
Going on a hike where you share a half-mile, exposed section of the trail with hundreds of people doesn’t even feel like hiking anymore.
It feels kind of like Vegas.
But with cliffs.
WARNING: Do Not Hike Angels Landing If:
- You don’t like heights.
- You don’t like crowds of strangers.
- You can’t hike up and down 1,500ft of elevation in relative comfort.
- It’s noon in July.
- You’re not wearing shoes.
- You don’t have water.
- You don’t have a snack.
- You have to poop.
- Poop could possibly be in your future.
- You did not leave your drone in the car.
- You like for others to hear your awesome bluetooth speaker.
- You must feed alllllllll the chipmunks. They’re so cute!
4 Ways to Beat the Awful Crowds
1) Start Early
Really early.
Arrive a day before the hike and find out when the first bus leaves the visitor center. It should be at six or seven in the morning. Then arrive at least half an hour before the first scheduled departure.
There will often be a line that forms for the first bus. Remember, it’s better to wait in line here than on a cliff!
If you do manage to start the hike early, don’t linger on the summit too long… the barbaric hordes are gathering below you.
Note that the bus system is running a little differently in 2020.
2) Start Late
Try this only if you’re experienced and at ease in the outdoors at night.
Time your hike so you’ll reach the top 30 minutes prior to sunset. If this method is for you, then I shouldn’t have to tell you how to calculate this.
After sunset you’ll have about 30 minutes of good light to get back down the chains.
Then use your headlamp to walk the remaining trail down to the road.
Be sure to check the shuttle schedule, but in most cases the buses run well after sunset.
This works because people are generally fearful of being caught out in the dark.
3) Go in the Off-Season
Unfortunately there isn’t much of an off-season anymore.
February is good. January is better. Early December is best.
Just be mindful of snow and ice.
Don’t go in March (Spring Break). March is bad. Memorial Day is worse.
If you’re in Zion when the buses aren’t running, you can drive to the Grotto and start before sunrise.
You get the idea. Buy low and sell high – easier said than done.
If you manage to work out your transportation, it’s doable for confident hikers to go entirely at night, too.
4) Do something else
Look into The Narrows, Observation Point, Emerald Pools, The West Rim Trail, Watchman, etc.
You’ll have a much better experience.
Or go anyway, and just know what to expect.
So it’s August and you’ve slept in too late. You don’t like the idea of being on the trail at sunset.
Are you in good shape? Okay with heights? Can you responsibly handle yourself among a crowd of strangers, lined up on a thin trail along the edge of a cliff, and be patient? Will you refrain from judging others too much? Is your heart really set on this hike?
Then go anyway. Make friends and share jokes with your fellow hikers out there. You’ll be fine.
If, on the day of the hike, you doubt your ability to practice the qualities I’ve listed above, then please choose a different hike, or resign yourself to hanging around at the Scout Overlook while the rest of your party tags the top.
Trail Description (with more tips)
There’s a restroom where you leave the bus at The Grotto. Use it.
There are no good bathroom options along the trail, even for urinating. The Park Service maintains a couple of pit toilets at the Scout Overlook, but these are for emergency only! The NPS doesn’t have the funds to keep up with the regular toilets in the Park, let alone the extra maintenance required at backcountry locations like this.
From The Grotto Picnic Area you’ll cross the road, and cross the bridge over the Virgin River. Hang a right on the West Rim Trail.
You’ll start ascending a wide, paved trail. It’s a fairly steep grade, even from the very beginning.
At the top of the initial climb you’ll come to a narrow place called Refrigerator Canyon. This is the only place along the entirety of the hike where there’s good, reliable shade, so it’s a great place to take a break!
Take a deep breath, because at the end of Refrigerator Canyon you’ll trudge up the famous “Walter’s Wiggles.”
History of Walter’s Wiggles
Walter Ruesch was Zion’s first Park Superintendent, or “Custodian.” He’s largely responsible for planning the Angels Landing Trail, and overseeing its construction in the 1920s. Back then, Angels Landing was still called The Temple of Aeolus.
So it’s Walter that you have to thank for thinking it was a good idea for you to come up here – you and all your new best friends as you catch your breath up these 21 switchbacks.
Scout’s Lookout
At the top of Walter’s Wiggles you’ll come to Scout’s Lookout.
This is the place to stop if you don’t like heights. It’s okay, a lot of others will be hanging out here to keep you company. Think of it like a big, pretty, outdoor waiting room. This is where you’ll find the EMERGENCY ONLY toilets.
I’ll let you in on a little secret. Rather than following all those boneheads up the chains, it’s from here that you can continue up the West Rim Trail to your heart’s content. Leave the crowds behind and actually have an enjoyable time up here.
The Chains
The heart of hiking Angels Landing, of course, is beyond Scout’s Lookout. You’ll be able to see the rest of the intimidating route from here easily enough.
If you’re in good shape, sure-footed, and don’t have a problem with heights, the only thing intimidating about the last section will be the line of ants strung up and down the route (Line of people, actually… not ants).
Cross the narrow saddle and head on up. Have fun!
The Summit
The summit isn’t especially spacious, and you may find it difficult to truly enjoy the scene from here in so much company.
Enjoy the exhilaration that comes with reaching the top.
Remember that you’ll have to retrace your steps and do it all over again on the way back down.
Watch out for the aggressive chipmunks and squirrels. Their only purpose in life is to relieve you of your food. Do not underestimate their speed and cunning.
My Trip Notes and Photos
I first hiked Angels Landing on the evening of August 25, 2008. It was my first trip to Zion. Since I didn’t know if I’d ever come back again, I wanted to experience the “must-do” hikes. With limited time on a group trip from the South Rim, I made the most of it by hiking Angels Landing and The Narrows.
It’s certainly possible to experience Angels Landing and The Narrows to Wall Street in one day, but it made more sense for me to split it up.
Our group didn’t arrive in Zion until the afternoon, and I set out immediately to go do this hike. In doing so, I inadvertently accomplished my #2 recommended method of beating the crowds – start late.
more photos from August 2008:
November Photos (Fall Color)
Later in 2008 my brother Steve came to visit, and I talked him into doing Angels landing with me on November 7th.
Have you hiked Angels Landing? What did you think? Leave a comment and let me know.
Just got back from Zion’s – we did Angel’s Landing and got about a third of the way up the chains. Even with the permits they are now issuing, there are still WAY too many people to navigate this trail safely. I know my boundaries and strengths, but if someone lesser experienced panics, you are putting yourself at risk if they start grabbing at the first thing they can get too (esp when you have to let go of that chain to get around someone because of all the foot traffic). We turned around and went up to Observation Point – great view, NO ONE there (except someone literally sleeping with his legs hanging over the edge of the wall???), and thoroughly enjoyed an even longer hike.
Did the Narrows the day before as well. One of the most fun hikes I’ve ever done (especially on a hot day in July!).
I recently hiked Angels Landing, and I absolutely loved the experience. The hike was not as scary as I had anticipated. I heard others on the trail during my hike say the same thing. I would happily hike Angels Landing again if I ever return to Zion NP. The view from the summit of Angels Landing is absolutely amazing, and in my opinion is well worth the effort! The NPS has now instituted a time entry permit system via a lottery draw, which has probably lessened the crowds, and the associated danger of having too many people on a dangerous trail. Here’s my advice for Angels Landing:
1. Try to hike before noon if possible. The darker colored rocks on Angels Landing start to get quite hot around the noon hour during the summer months. There are certain places on the hike where you absolutely must plant your hands on the darker rocks during the climb up or down. Touching those hot rocks barehanded is not a pleasant experience. Climbing gloves are probably a wise idea if you have to hike Angels Landing in the afternoon on a summer day.
2. Carry more water than you think that you need. I went through about 2 liters of water on the hike up to the summit of Angels Landing, and then back down to the canyon floor. Angels Landing is definitely a strenuous hike. So don’t underestimate the amount of water that you need. Zion is in a desert environment. So you’ll probably be surprised how much water you’ll drink on that hike.
3. Carry some salty snacks with you to replenish your energy in the heat.
4. Avoid the squirrels and chipmunks. Yes, the squirrels and chipmunks at the summit of Angels Landing are very cute animals. However, they’ll quickly and very stealthily steal your food. So please do not feed those animals. They’re wild animals that should not be fed by anyone! I also learned from a park ranger that a few people on Angels Landing have suffered serious bite wounds from the squirrels that actually required stitches. So ignoring the squirrels and chipmunks is probably for the best, and carefully guarding your food is also a very wise idea.
5. Take the hike slow. There’s no rush or race in hiking up Angels Landing. If you climb slowly, then be courteous and polite in trying to let faster hikers pass you by when it is safe to do so. Angels Landing is a hike that demands your attention and concentration with every footstep. So don’t allow yourself to be rushed. Hike Angels Landing at the pace you feel most comfortable with. Most people who hike Angels Landing are very understanding of others who choose to take a slow pace.
6. My final piece of advice is have fun and enjoy the view on Angels Landing. For most people going to Zion is a vacation. Vacations should be fun and enjoyable, and not an absolutely terrifying experience. If you think that you would be terrified at a place like Angels Landing, then don’t do it! Make smart choices, and have fun up there.
Thanks for your thoughts – this is great advice!
I almost made it to the “summit” in back 1985.
Don’t remember any chains back then and the hike wasn’t crowded at all.
Been there 6 times
It’s a great hike. I recommend you do it in the cool weather. The summer is to hot and crowded. Had to pay $30.00 for parking last August. The trail was jammed and the temperature
was 101. A few of my children had a hard time with the heat. A kind man gave us frozen water bottles and saved the day. Be prepared and enjoy the day
Thank you for a great article, and thanks to everyone who left a comment, opinion or story. I read every single one!
We got our permit 6 weeks ago and we’re heading out tomorrow from Mesa, AZ.
I hope this message isn’t my legacy 🙂
My husband and I just did the trail last week. We stayed in the lodge and started before sunrise so it wasn’t crowded.
I didn’t know what Angels Landing was until I got to the chains as I decided not to look it up beforehand because I didn’t want to spoil the view. Had I looked it up I probably would have skipped it, but I was glad I did it in the end.
I don’t mind heights, but I have severely unstable ankles (45° talar tilt unstable!) so it was nerve racking to say the least. And doing it in the ice, with sections of no chains, and no crampons was slightly terrifying. We both slipped on the ice coming back down. Just had to cling to the chain and use a lot of upper body strength. A guy the day before apparently did the whole thing in sandals.
Honestly, I wasn’t impressed by the view. I could have skipped it.
How were you not impressed with the view? Absolutely gorgeous! Heaven on Earth, unless, of course, you hate the the grandeur of 2000 foot sandstone cliffs.
Just made it. December 28th. 😳. Ice was everywhere, snow…..
first time I try to do at Nov 2017. I almost rich to the Angels landing. 15-20’ left. I lay down next to the tree for 20 min. This time I made it all the way. The ice & snow made trip difficult, so it give you extra attention))))
Thanks for the suggestion, Jan. I shall look for the book. Indeed few hiking areas are void of dangers or hazards. Accidents do happen. In Over the Edge, by Ghiglieri one poor child was knocked over the edge by a mule passing by on Bright Angel trail. The 12 year old child was petting the mule and it remains unclear as to whether the child slipped or was pushed by the mule. Needless to say the child did not survive the 100ft fall.
Did it the first time in 1996 but I was 5 months pregnant then and decided not to bring a camera. Did it again in October of 2021, with photographic evidence this time. Wow, so many more people!! It made it more difficult but I loved the camaraderie. And being forced to stop and take in the scenery. Loved it both times. Your advice is spot on.
Love reading all the comments and having just returned from Zion, hiking to Angels Landing was not even a consideration for my boyfriend and me!
We did just watch a YouTube video of a guy going up and coming back down with his GoPro on his head…. Pretty amazing and frightening that Just watching had me leaning into the safe side of the trail from my couch! 😀
First summit I ever did back in 2007, and I would do it again tomorrow if I could!
Jamie Compos, excellent website indeed. I envy you your many hikes and travel acumen. I forgot to thank you in my post before submitting it.
My GF and I just did Angels Landing September 10. We found the hike exhilarating, amazing, beautiful and everyone was courteous and friendly. Not too crowded in spite of it being a weekend. We had plenty of practice. Our trip included hiking McKittrick Canyon in Texas, Carlsbad Caverns, White Sands, Petrified Forest, Bright Angel Trail, North Rim, and many smaller hikes totaling 20 miles on or about. I did not find Angels Landing particularly scary. Before going I did a little research. Most deaths are from foolishness, mostly males and I could not find a single true accident in its purest sense. The number of deaths is minuscule considering the number of visitors. All hikes present potential for injury or death. What is one to do, remain home cowering in fear? If that’s the case then a slow death has already ensued. You cannot possibly die in dramatic fashion when you are by all accounts already dead. Driving the interstate is far more dangerous than any hike. We are becoming a nation of namby pamby fear stricken wilting flowers. I say, do your research, know the risks, be prepared, bring gloves and go for it.
“ namby pamby fear stricken wilting flowers” LOL I’m glad you enjoyed your hike!
Indeed! But the opposite is quite worse. My GF gave me the excellent book by Michael Patrick Ghiglieri, “Over the Edge” Death in the Grand Canyon. As I said before most deaths are for taking unnecessary risks, foolishness, unpreparedness. The Grand Canyon is far deadlier than Angels Landing and some people call for railing along the 277 mile length of the chasm. Many deaths are from rail climbing for better pics. My point is that supposed safety measures themselves have led to deaths.
Jamie Compos, I am glad I gave you a good laugh. The hike was truly strenuous and stressful, but hugely enjoyable and awe inspiring. I will soon get your book(s) on hiking. This “non namby pamby, non fear stricken, non wilting flower” signs off to prepare for the next scary hike.
I cannot find anywhere where it tells the date that the first chains were installed on the trail – does anyone know? Mostly, I’m asking because a 51 year old friend just told me he hiked it when it didn’t have chains – he said it might have had ropes.
Check out DEATH IN ZION NATIONAL PARK.
Very inclusive book and Author (Randy Minetor)
Written in 2018.
I just finished it, and I gave a different view of the everyday dangers of Zion.
Hikers beware!
Thanks for the suggestion, Jan. I shall look for the book. Indeed few hiking areas are void of dangers or hazards. Accidents do happen. In Over the Edge, by Ghiglieri one poor child was knocked over the edge by a mule passing by on Bright Angel trail. The 12 year old child was petting the mule and it remains unclear as to whether the child slipped or was pushed by the mule. Needless to say the child did not survive the 100ft fall.
I did this hike in 2004 and it was absolutely terrifying. Is it my imagination or was there less chain back than what I see now in the youtube videos? I kid you not, there was a guy who passed me on the trail who had a baby in a backpack. No one looked twice! except me.
I am a Scottish Australian man and did Angels Landing in April 2019. I was 75 then and reasonably fit. I have to say it was the hardest climb I have ever done! More than half way up I hit a very scary bit and felt I couldn’t go up or down, suddenly a hand and arm appeared and overcoming my reluctance I grasped the hand and was pulled up through the rocks. I never saw who helped me and feel it could have been a spiritual experience? After resting I descended at a great speed often going backwards down the steep parts. In hindsight I was dangerously descending full of adrenaline I guess. I will never forget the experience and will never climb A L again.
Love your writing style. Good advice too. I’ve lived in Springdale for over 15 years – split my time between there and Park City / SLC. I have seen the intense overcrowding. It’s sad and distressing. I don’t know why people do this. So many pull up around noon and are just getting started. The Covid refugee tourists were the worst. Most had never been to a national park. They wandered around town for days and never went into the park. Would love to connect next time you are in the neighborhood. I’ll show you our local secret hikes if you keep them secret. You prob know them already :))
Great article Jamie!
I completed the hike last week on June 28, 2021 but I will never do it again! In fact I will discourage average Joe/ Jane to undertake this hike especially the chain section. You can die at 1000 different sections of the chain. But I also would say that there is one section between the chains where there is no chain to hold on to and is particularly very very precarious and very slippery due to sand on smooth rocky surface and very very slanted slope where if you sleep there is no chain to hold on to and you definitely will fall 1500 feet to your death. In this section you have a very good chance of falling to your death, both while going up and especially while coming down! I don’t know where people have died on this trail in the past but I am ready to bet few have fallen in this chain-less section. I really wonder and I am very very surprised why this section is not chained! Please do not do the chain section unless you are in peak physical condition, have an experience in doing hikes of this deadly nature and you are wearing extremely good hiking shoes with excellent grip on smooth rocky surface covered with loose sand. Thats another thing( the amount of loose slippery sand covering the smooth rocks!) surprised me at Angels landing hike. Jamie, this is an excellent article on Angels Landing hike. A must read for everybody who is thinking of this hike. I can’t tell anybody what to do but if you are an average joe and has plans to hike this hike especially if you are planning to take your young kids in this hike, for those people I will say PLEASE DO NOT DO THIS HIKE!
I hiked Angels Landing yesterday, and also found that non chained section the scariest. Strange that they have left it that way.
Now I keep thinking about it, and my heartbeat still has not come down to normal, I think…
My husband, 17 year old son and I hiked together. We are in relatively good shape, and relatively experienced hikers. We followed the advice to take the first shuttle, and made it to the top in about an hour, making us among the first ten that day.
I thought it would be even scarier going down, but actually it wasn’t.
However, the whole chained section including the in-between lacking chains, was the longest adrenaline rush I have ever experienced, so I am telling you; it is as scary as you think. Respect it, and only do it in good shoes, on a good day, and focusing in on every step.
I’m just so grateful I got to experience this before the age of Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. The crowds were much less. When I first did Angel’s Landing in 1982 there were three other people who summited whil I was there… during Spring Break. Solitude is gone and Utah is a National Sacrifice Zone to Industrial Tourism. Have fun.
My friend, you and I are one of the lucky ones. I climbed this first in 1982 at the age of about 34 in excellent shape and while I did not personally feel the trail was particularly dangerous I understand how people who don’t hike much would think this was horrifying. But the vistas DID leave me stunned; so much so that in the ensuing five years I did the hike three more times. There were never more than 6 people at the top and in 1982 there were only three. I still have a desire to do it again though I just turned 74 yesterday and my only real fear is that some jackass in a hurry trying to get a selfie will say “Out of the way Gramps, I got to take me a “pitcher of ME up here!” , nudge me with an elbow, and as I am not an angel I will not be able to fly down the 1500 ft. Aaiieeee…..
Also wanted to give you a nod for the use of “industrial tourism” which I’m pretty sure was invented by my hero, Ed Abbey.
For about 10 years between 1980 and 1990 I spent every bit of my spare time in southeast Utah, the most spectacular place in the known universe. Glad I got to do it then. We were lucky, my friend.
I hiked it today for the first time and it was the most adrenaline rush of a hike I’ve ever done. Great time! We started the trail at 3pm and it was hot but there were no crowds. Maybe 10 people spread out at the top. Don’t get me wrong this was no easy hike in the heat of the day but dam worth it!!!
I’ve hiked this trail several times (usually in May, between 2000-2009) and loved it every time. I equated the chains portion of the trail to hiking on the edge of a potato chip. Looking down both sides got me a little dizzy once, so I just went back to Scouts, rested and did not continue. Once we had thunderstorms and lightning, so we opted to avoid the metal chains. I have taken many ‘posed, yet scary’ photos of hiking friends at this location and never imagined it could get so crowded and deadly. Anytime I tackled the whole trail, I held on to the chains and watched my footing, went slow, trying not to look down. Passing someone, or vice versa is usually dangerous.
Great article and your observations are spot on. I live in St.George and have climbed Angel’s Landing several times but never again. The last time up it was dangerously over crowded which put a damper on the whole experience. I’ve always thought they made a mistake when they paved that trail all the way up. It’s a too accessible to too many people.
I hiked AL six years ago with a friend. As we descended, a gentleman got in between us, with me in front. As we squatted to maneuver down a steeper rock, he walked it and started to slide. When I heard him start yelling, I turned to see him slide into a small pine tree growing on the very edge. It’s the only thing that stopped his foot from going over. My friend, who was behind him, was sitting on the rock with her hands over her eyes; she didn’t want to watch him fall.
I have a healthy respect for heights. I did not hang my feet over the edge at the top, and I didn’t go stand and look straight down. To me, this trail is safe IF everything goes well, but there is NO room for error on several sections. I will prob never do it again, especially after watching that gentleman cheat death.
Went on a solo trip to Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Zion this past October 2020. I have a good fear of heights which i thought i could conquer at Angel’s Landing. I made it up to Scout’s Lookout, already had chicken legs, from there I saw the crowd (at 8am) forming at the chains and decided not to go. Heights are one thing but having to watch out for other people made me nervous.
Some 50+ years ago in my mid-20s I used to backpack a favorite Trail in the Gore Range in Colorado. Talk about wilderness. I once went five days without seeing another person. Now five decades later, I am told “tongue in cheek” hopefully, that you dare not stop to tie your shoes lest you be trampled to death by the line of hikers behind you. Not to mention the grinding head-on collisions between ascending and descending selfie takers.
I hiked to summit in April 2019 in motorcycle boots. Did not bring quite enough water but my friend left earlier and gave me his extra on his way down. I have been up the cable to Half Dome, Yosemite , twice and though it is further, it has Nothing Like The Strong Chance of Dying that A. Landing offers. The A L. hike itself seemed easy enough to do. I did it in 2007 in Chacos and got a couple blisters. Kind of a bucket list accomplishment that I am thrilled to have done. Arnie
I’ve been to Zion twice and have no intention of hiking Angel’s Landing. In January of 2021, I hiked to Observation Point from a back road outside of the park. The view was AMAZING! I was looking down at Angel’s Landing. If anyone asks me if I’ve hiked AL, I always tell them the view from Observation Point is so much better!
I think the park should start issuing permits for the chain section and limit the crowds there.
I never thought I’d be saying this but Amen to the permits to hike Angel’s Landing.
Looks like permits will begin in April 2022: https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/angels-landing-hiking-permits.htm
My family and I just returned from a vacation to Zion and Bryce. While on a Bryce hike, I overheard a mom trying to console her child saying, “mommy and daddy would never take you somewhere that we thought was dangerous.” The crying child responded “what about Angel’s Landing? That was dangerous”. I am so appalled with parents who take their children on risky hikes. I enjoyed your article, Jamie, and I wish I could do what you do, but I know my limits and will not attempt AL. I hope this comment is read by parents considering hiking this with kids and in the end, reconsider.
Thank you for the comment Denise 🙂
I’m in shock that my niece and husband are planning on doing this hike with their 5 year old daughter Monday!! How can I talk them into not doing this??? Hopefully on the way up they will come to their senses and just turn around!!!! Grrrrr
Thanks Jamie, this is an excellent article and really making me re-think going on this hike.
Do you think a via ferrata harness kit would be useful on the chain section? And I don’t mean some makeshift paracord/cheap carabiners you tie to your waist, but a real via ferrata and sit/climbing harness set. Using high-quality energy-absorbing via ferrata with two lanyards & carabiners so that you can always have at least one clip on the chains when you move past each post. I would only use a kit made by the top climbing manufacturers like Petzl, Black Diamond, etc.
From videos I’ve seen, the chains appear to have many breaks in between where there are no chains and areas where you would not be attached to anything until you get to the next set of chains. Of course, the kit would be of no use in those spots, but on some of those scary looking chain sections, I would love some back up other than my hands to keep from falling.
Would love your thoughts on this. Thanks again.
Hi Pat, despite the obvious benefit in the case of a mishap, overall I wouldn’t recommend a harness kit. The main problem I foresee is that the chain handrail is fastened via a series of posts drilled into the ground – the posts occur frequently, so you’d repeatedly have to disconnect and reconnect yourself at each post. This of course would slow your progress and inspire others to make hazardous moves to get around you. When I hiked it in my 20s I was guilty of letting go of the chains to get around some folks.
If you’re fairly sure-footed and okay with heights I’d wager that you’ll be fine. There’s rarely any witnesses, but it seems that most accidents occur a short distance away the designated trail, or even at the summit itself (where there is no protection). When you consider the hundreds and thousands of people that go up there every year, the overall statistics are more favorable than plenty of other activities.
I appreciate your thoughts on this – I am definitely not a ‘thrill-seeker’ and this is not something that I “must do”, but accomplishing significant hikes, being part of nature and seeing these beautiful views is thrilling in itself. Despite closed trails, it sounds like there are so many other ways to enjoy Zion. Again, thank you Jamie.
In that case I’d suggest the West Rim Trail, or Observation Point via East Mesa (dirt road approach). Climbing to an elevation where you can physically look down on Angels Landing is rewarding and provides a shift in perspective.
We just today buried my daughter’s 42 year old husband ! He fell 1200 feet while hiking in Zion National Park. He fell February 19, 2021! Today March 6 we read that a 43 year old fell to his death in Zion National Park!!! If you value your life, please stay off of those trails! I think they should be closed to the public! My daughter is now a widow!!!
I’m so sorry Elizabeth
I’m so very sorry Elizabeth. Will be praying for you and your family. I did this hike to the top 6 years ago tomorrow, but wouldn’t attempt it again.
Very sad situation for your family, sorry for your loss.
Unfortunately many things in life are not 100% safe. We cannot simply close everything.
I hiked it 2 years ago, one of the most memorable hikes ever.
We saw many people out there that shouldn’t have been. Women and kids crying and clutching into the rails.
Sorry about your son in law. May peace replace grief in your family.
I hiked Angel’s Landing back in May of 2018. As I was headed down from the summit, my left foot lost traction (as I was moving a bit too quickly downwards) and I lost my balance. By some miracle, as my left foot was sliding down a rock slanted outwards towards a cliff, I grabbed the chain and pulled myself back onto my feet.
I was younger at the time, 16 years old.
My father had stayed behind at Scout’s. I was going up angels with two of my uncles. One of them laughed and remarked, “Wow, I’m glad I don’t have to explain that to your father!”.
I was definitely a lot more careful on the rest of the way down. Didn’t realize how close I was to falling off until we got back to the bus.
Hey Carter, thanks for the comment. That’s a scary story!
When I first started hiking in Southeastern Utah( Needles District) in 1980 I didn’t know what the”slickrock” warnings meant, but I soon found out. Quartz ball bearings on a rock surface.
Thanks for your coverage of this topic. Zion is one of my favorite places to hike, run and enjoy the beautiful environment. I’ve visited at least once a year every year since 2013 and I love this hike…all the way up until the actual Angels Landing section with the chains. Which I started to do in 2014 and then changed my mind. I just wasn’t comfortable with the risk/reward ratio. I chickened out and have decided to remain a chicken regarding this section of the hike, but kudos to everyone who has successfully navigated it!
There’s no dishonor in declining, only peace of mind.
Great article! Hiked it a decade ago or so, and these pictures really brought it back. I was attempting to “conquer” my fear of heights. Completed the hike, but had shattering nightmares for a few weeks after and my fear of heights is definitely worse now. Spectacular, beautiful hike but can’t exactly say I’m glad I did it.
Hey there! Your website is probably my favorite outdoors info, reviews, and photography source there is.
I was just reading your post about the Stampede trail and magic bus where you mentioned getting a short-term job in Denali national park. I was wondering what that entailed and what the prerequisites are for such a job? I hope this question isn’t bothersome.
Hi Ashlyn thanks for the kind words. I worked for Princess Cruises at Denali. Most of these jobs in the National Parks are in the hospitality industry, so there’s little barrier to entry. Check out the listings on http://www.coolworks.com to get started.
Just found your blog! Thank you gor sharing all this info!
Great article Jamie!
We did the Angels Landing hike on November 30th, 2021.
It was a Monday and the first day that the shuttles had stopped running.
We got to the Grotto stop at 8:30am and it had just filled up. We drove a half mile back and parked on a pullout just before the lodge. While a few people that parked with us walked up the road we took the trail that follows the river, which was a nice little hike.
We came across a few people heading down the trail but most of the people were heading up at that time.
We were a little worried that the trail would be too challenging for us.
I thought that the trail might be a tough hike because I had not done any exercise for almost a month– which I blame on Covid and cold weather but it might have been because I was just feeling lazy 🙂
I live in the mountains so I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that I found the hike relatively easy for someone over 50 years old. My friend who lives at sea level found it easy as well but she works out a lot.
It wasn’t that crowded and we never had to pass anyone while using the chains.
Everybody was polite and let anybody going up pass first.
We saw the sign that said 12? people had died on the trail since 1998–we were surprised it was that few once we reached the top. There are some sketchy parts on that trail. I used any chains that were there!
We also had gloves because it was cold in the morning and we didnt want to get anyone’s Covid germs on our hands. We noticed a lot of people didn’t have gloves, which I would recommend.
It was a great hike and took us about 3 1/2 hours with a long rest at the top.
Listen to Jamie and decide if this hike is for you.
Cheers!
Thanks for the update and for sharing your experience Mitchell 🙂
I have to say Angel’s Landing was plain fun to me to hike. The bottom section was more difficult in my opinion than the chains section. I found myself thinking, “I can’t believe I get to do this” while going up the chains. We went in October when it wasn’t as crowded and the weather was perfect. The West Rim was fun and had beautiful views too, but Angel’s Landing was exhilarating! I’m not afraid of heights, but I took full advantage of the chains, as there’s no reason to be careless and they are there for good reason. I have to say though that I was appalled at the adults that seemed to be making their children do this hike against their wishes. I’m sure the kids were glad they did it once they were back down, but why would you risk your young child’s life so that you could brag that they did this hike?
yep it’s fun and relatively safe for most folks, just too crowded in recent years and too much of a disneyland vibe
Today, while waiting for a table for dinner, after exploring Zion, we saw a young couple come in with a baby on a backpack. The couple was inquiring about babysitting services. They wanted to go “do a hike that isn’t safe to bring the baby on”. I was relieved and appalled at the same time. First, you are willing to leave your baby with complete strangers in order to do a hike. Second, the reason it isn’t safe, is because you two may not come back. What happens to your baby who you left with a stranger, assuming the babysitter was legit? We did not hike AL, nor would we. We are minimally experienced, without proper equipment, with our precious 18yo daughter on spring break. I want her to experience the beauty of our world, and today she did just that…without AL.