Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ing area through a forest of oak, maple, fir, and cottonwood, to several waterfalls,
a hanging garden, and the picturesque Lower Emerald Pool. From here, a steeper,
rocky trail continues .25 miles to Middle Emerald Pool, and then climbs another .3
mile past cactus, yucca, and juniper to Upper Emerald Pool, with another waterfall.
As you climb the trail, there are views of soaring stone formations such as Lady
Mountain, the Spearhead, Mount Majestic, Red Arch Mountain, Deertrap Moun-
tain, and the Great White Throne. From the Middle Pool there is a long drop-off
leading to the Lower Pool; the Upper Pool is enclosed on three sides by sheer cliffs
and on the fourth by boulders. Total elevation gain is 69 feet to Lower Emerald
Pool, 150 feet to Middle Emerald Pool, and 400 feet from the trail head to Upper
Emerald Pool. Swimming or wading is not permitted in any of the pools. See “Zion
Canyon” in chapter 3.
1.2-2.5 miles RT. Easy to moderate. Access: Trail head across from Zion Lodge.
Impressions
You can't see anything from your car. You've got to get out of the damn thing and walk!
—Author Edward Abbey, 1927-89
HiddenCanyonTrail
A particularly scenic hike along a paved trail that's sometimes
cut from solid stone, Hidden Canyon Trail climbs 850 feet to the mouth of a narrow
water-carved canyon. You'll pass slickrock formations, or smooth wind-polished
rock formations, and sheer cliffs—stay back from the edges, as they may be un-
stable and slippery. Walking up the dry streambed into the canyon, you'll pass
grottos and other water-formed decorations on the canyon walls, including a small
natural arch about a half-mile upstream. This trail is not recommended for anyone
with a fear of heights. See “Zion Canyon” in chapter 3.
2.4 miles RT. Moderate to difficult. Access: Weeping Rock parking lot, along Zion Canyon Scenic Dr.
Pa'rus Trail
★★★
This easy, paved trail (suitable for wheelchairs and baby
strollers) follows the Virgin River, crossing it several times. It provides views of
the rock formations in lower Zion Canyon, including the West Temple, Watchman,
Bridge Mountain, Sentinel, and East Temple formations. The trail has a 50-foot el-
evation gain and, unlike other park trails, is also open to bicycles (see “Biking &
Mountain Biking,” later in this chapter) and leashed pets. Watch for stop signs,
where the trail crosses park roads, stay alert, and be aware of vehicles whose
drivers may not easily see you on the winding roads. This trail links the camp-
grounds and south park entrance with the beginning of Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
