Hike the Hidden Canyon Trail in Zion

This trail starts at Weeping Rock Trailhead, it's the same trailhead for Observation Point and the East Rim Trail. You will start this hike up a paved section with several switchbacks up the east side of the main canyon. Shortly after the paved trail ends you will reach a sign that directs you towards the Hidden Canyon Trail.

The official Hidden Canyon trail begins with uphill switchbacks that will lead you to top of a minor saddle that gives you an incredible view of Angels Landing, Big Bend, The Organ, and The Virgin River. There is a short trail that will lead you to the tip of the saddle if you want an unobstructed view of the canyon, this cutoff is unmarked and there are several exposed sections. The official trail will then lead you up the canyon wall where you will have several chains bolted to the mountainside to help you traverse up the steep ledge tucked against the mountain wall. Several portions of the trail are very narrow so be cautious of the condition of the trail. You will eventually descend to a shaded valley by using small steps carved out of the mountainside. After moving through the valley you will reach another series of stone steps that will lead you up to a short exposed section on the trail. Be cautious going up and down the stone steps, some of the areas don't have chains to help you and several of the steps are very small. Most of the trail is very narrow, if you are hiking this trail anytime in the winter crampons or ice cleats are a must!

You will now enter the entrance to Hidden Canyon, this is the end of the official trail, but you can hike several miles into the canyon. During your trek you will soon reach a small free standing arch, several obstacles with boulders and rocks to climb over, sandy open sections, and small pools of water to navigate over. My favorite obstacle included a large log to traverse across a small pool of water and two smaller logs to climb up the steep canyon wall. Be cautious on the obstacles you tackle, the hike back is always more difficult than the initial hike into the canyon. You will eventually come to an almost impassible tall overhanging wall, I would recommend turning around at this point.