Hike Angels Landing at Night

Angel's Landing is one of the most popular hikes in all of Zion National Park and for good reason. It offers great views of the main canyon and at 5 miles roundtrip it is the perfect length for a great day hike, or a great night hike. Hiking Angel's Landing during the day is breathtaking and even more so after the sun goes down.

To get to the Angel's Landing trailhead from the main entrance, follow the road until you get to the junction, turn in to the main canyon, and go until you reach the Grotto. Park in any of the lots in the area. From there, cross the river, turn right, and follow the paved path up the massive monolith. You'll be hiking up hill most of the way and will pass through Refrigerator Canyon and up Walter's Wiggles before reaching the saddle which is two miles in. Once at the saddle turn right and follow the signs another half mile to the landing.

During the day, almost year round, Angel's Landing is packed with hikers. At night though, the trail is basically empty even though it's in a central area of the park. Plan your night hike around the moon and weather. You'll want the trail to be dry and the moon to be full and bright so you can get the best views of the park. From the top you'll be able to look up and down both sides of the canyon and out over the lodge. The best part is that you'll likely see no one so enjoy the solitude.

During peak months only the park's shuttle's are allowed in the canyon unless you get a special permit or are staying at the lodge. On non peak months, when the park is a little more empty, you can drive up the canyon and park at the Grotto trailhead, which is where the Angel's Landing trail starts. Call ahead to check the shuttle schedule. Find a time when you can drive in the canyon and park at the Grotto.

Hiking at night is a little different than during the day. Things look different and there's a different feel to being out in nature when you should be sleeping. Although most of this trail is paved and smooth it can still be dangerous, especially the last half mile to the landing—it seems like every year there is a death on this hike and really it comes down to not being prepared. Bring a good headlamp with extra batteries, proper clothing, good shoes, and enough water. If you slip or take a wrong step because you can't see, there is a real chance you could die. Honestly, you should probably do this hike in the day time before heading up in the dark.

At the trailhead there will be plenty of parking. There's a bathroom that is open all night and also a few water spigots to fill bottles up before you start your hike.