Family/Kid Friendly Hikes

For specific details, directions, and route descriptions, please see the Hiking Guides we have created for our guests’ convenience; available by request and onsite in the cabin.

The Narrows

Out and back; variable distance according to athletic ability and time available. Easy to moderate difficulty.

This is an incredible off-trail hiking experience that immerses you in the depths of the canyon; with stunning views all around and the opportunity to experience the slot canyon environment. High summer is the best time for this hike, as the majority of the route is in the river itself, and water volume is at its lowest during summer months. However, summer is also thunderstorm season, which can cause flooding—check the weather forecast before you go, and plan to start early as thunderstorms most often occur mid to late afternoon.

Sturdy, water-friendly footwear is necessary; we highly recommend renting canyon shoes, which are specifically designed for this environment and will provide the best grip and protection for your feet. It may also be helpful to rent or bring trekking/hiking poles for extra stability, as well as a dry bag for your belongings. Plan to wear clothing that dries quickly, with layers that will keep you warm even when wet. Many sections of the canyon are out of direct sunlight, and may be chilly even in summer.

Zion Adventure Company, Zion Outfitter, and Zion Guru offer excellent gear rental services and are located just outside the park in Springdale.

It is necessary to ride the shuttle from the Visitor Center to the trailhead in order to access this hike.

Emerald Pools

Relatively short trail; this may be done as either a loop or out and back, so distance varies from 2.1 to 3 miles. 400’ elevation gain, moderate difficulty.

This trail provides views of a couple beautiful waterfalls, as well as the cirque where Heaps and Behunin Canyons drop into the main canyon. Especially spectacular after a rainstorm when extra water is flowing.

It is necessary to ride the shuttle from the Visitor Center to the trailhead in order to access this hike.

Canyon Overlook Trail

Out and back; 1 mile roundtrip. Moderate difficulty with a steep beginning. This route begins at the Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel, coming out on top of the Grand Arch to overlook the twisting highway below as it winds its way down to the main canyon area. Absolutely breathtaking, and a great payoff for relatively short distance!

The trail itself has lots of personality; following the narrow slot of Pine Creek Canyon, which offers fascinating glimpses into the depths of an awesome technical canyoneering route.

Parking is available at the east end of the tunnel and is very limited; plan to arrive early.

Lower Pine Creek

Out and back; a short jaunt up the creek bed brings you to a beautiful waterfall, passing many interesting shallow pools along the way. Rather than a designated route, this walk is a flat social trail that includes quite a bit of boulder hopping and opportunities to play in the water.

Clear Creek Wash

Variable distance depending on available time; easy to moderate difficulty. Clear Creek Wash runs along Highway 9 from the east entrance of the park all the way to the Zion Mt. Carmel Tunnel. While this is not a designated trail, the wash provides many options for exploring “mini” slot canyon environments as well as the surrounding slickrock; there is often wildlife visible in this area as well. Multiple pull-outs along the roadside are suitable spots for parking.

Pa’Rus Trail

Out and back; 1.7 miles each way (3.4 miles roundtrip). Accessible from the Visitor Center, Human History Museum, and Virgin River Bridge; this trail is paved and offers a flat, easy stroll with beautiful views of the south end of the canyon. Bikes and pets allowed.  

Middle Fork Taylor Creek

Out and back; 3.2 miles each way. Easy/moderate difficulty; 1050’ elevation gain. This trail follows the course of the stream, crossing numerous times, and passes 2 of the original settler cabins which are fascinating to see. Offers many opportunities for playing in the creek, and ends in the Double Arch Alcove, a gorgeous hanging garden which tends to be cool even on the hottest days.

NOTE that this trail is in the Kolob Canyons district of Zion NP; located at Exit 40 on I15, 40 miles north of the Zion Canyon main area.