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An extreme outing that's likely to tie your stomach in knots.


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Map Key

3.2

Miles

5.2

KM

Out and Back

5,244' 1,598 m

High

4,384' 1,336 m

Low

859' 262 m

Up

859' 262 m

Down

10%

Avg Grade (6°)

59%

Max Grade (31°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

Currently closed due to rockfall damage: nps.gov/zion/index.htm

Overview

This is a hike for the adventure-seeker who isn't too terribly afraid of heights. Although this is a fairly short route, it is fairly strenuous (nearly 1,000' of elevation gain) and has a high associated risk factor, hence the difficulty rating.

Description

From the East Rim Trailhead, follow the East Rim Trail through seven switchbacks to a junction with Hidden Canyon Trail. Turn onto Hidden Canyon Trail which follows along a cliff face to the mouth of a narrow canyon.

This section of trail is moderately strenuous due to the steep grades and tight switchbacks. As you ascend, the technicality of the trail decreases (grades flatten), but the difficulty remains high due to the extreme exposure. Utilize the chains that have been bolted to the cliff in order to stabilize your body and, inevitably, your mind.

Keep following the trail to the mouth of the canyon and its terminus. From here, one can hike and scramble further into the hanging canyon but the official trail ends.

Contacts

Shared By:

Brian Smith with improvements by Jack M and 1 other

Trail Ratings

  4.6 from 76 votes

#3

in East Zion

#94

Overall
  4.6 from 76 votes
5 Star
66%
4 Star
28%
3 Star
5%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
1%
Recommended Route Rankings

#3

in East Zion

#14

in Utah

#94

Overall
23 Views Last Month
6,086 Since Feb 5, 2015
Difficult Difficult

0%
0%
21%
1%
73%
4%

Photos

The first mile of the East Rim Trail is utterly stunning.
Apr 18, 2017 near Springdale, UT
View of Angel's Landing
Feb 5, 2015 near Springdale, UT
Stairs aid your passage on this part of the Hidden Canyon Trail.
Apr 18, 2017 near Springdale, UT
A browsing Bighorn stretches its legs along the Hidden Canyon Trail.
Dec 5, 2016 near Springdale, UT
The trail up Hidden Canyon can be seen below from the East Rim Trail.
Mar 23, 2017 near Springdale, UT
Hiking back to the trailhead, you'll have plenty of time to absorb your amazing surroundings.
Apr 18, 2017 near Springdale, UT
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