Hike Angels Landing at Night
Springdale, Utah
Details
Distance
4.41 miles
Elevation Gain
1512 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Derrick Lytle
Amazing night views of Zion National Park. See the park with no crowds. Five-mile roundtrip hike.
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.
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Reviews
If you're looking for unparalleled views from Angels Landing that not many have seen before, knock this one out. It takes on a completely different look in the night time.
5.0
You can get to a high section of the hike and see the beautiful stars and night sky without taking the last half mile to the tip. Wouldn't recommend going passed the point where there's warning signs if you're an inexperience hiker because this part of the hike can be very dangerous, especially at night. If you prepare properly with lights, proper gear and take your time, you should be fine.
5.0
This hike really is so busy during the day but we were pleasantly surprised to find it empty as the sun started to set. In August the walls of the canyon glowed orange as the sun went down and then the Milky Way came out!
5.0
So I did this underestimating the hike because of the sidewalk that is paved most of the way. It was icy , snow at the top and I was in beat up old tennies. I have to admit it was not nighttime but it was slick and therefore dangerous but So so beautiful.
5.0
We came and did this on a lunar eclipse, breathtaking! Unforgettable experience. I really want to go back and do this again. Make sure you take proper headlamps, and extra! Plenty of water, and jacket too! Even in summertime. Night time you miss the crowds, it's silent besides the breeze and nocturnal creatures. So amazing!
5.0
Thanks so much for the night-hike tip! I did it in early August and it was absolutely stunning. The Milky Way was visible directly down canyon and was centered between the canyon walls. A truly unforgettable night!
5.0
I really enjoy this hike, It was kind of hard for me, but I made it and I love the stunning view up there!
5.0
Beautiful hike! I would recommend NOT going on a holiday/holiday weekend because there are TONS of people and many of whom can't hike to save their lives. Besides the foot traffic, it was a great hike!
4.0
Doing this at night was one of the most nerve racking things that I've ever done. We weren't well prepared and it's already a scary enough hike. But so worth it the stars were out and it is such an incredible view
5.0
The exposure is awesome and it makes for a great adventure. I take anyone visiting the area here. It can get crowded especially on weekends and during other peak times. If you are afraid of heights you might not make it.
5.0
Leave No Trace
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Nearby
Angels Landing
Lady Mountain
Upper Emerald Pool
Lower Emerald Pool Trail
Aid Climbing Moonlight Buttress
Zion National Park Bus stop 8
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