Yesterday’s epic hike took Bill and I to Angels Landing in Zion National Park, one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes the park has to offer. The slender spine of red sandstone juts into the canyon, providing epic views in all directions. It has been on my list for several years, and reaching the top was nothing short of exhilarating. The views were simply magnificent!
Grotto Trailhead: The Beginning of an Adventure
We started our journey at the Grotto Trailhead, the launching point for the legendary Angels Landing hike. While the hike is only 5 miles round trip, it’s incredibly strenuous, with a steep 1,500-foot elevation change that tests even seasoned hikers.
Refrigerator Canyon: A Cool Respite
The first two miles of the Angels Landing hike follow the paved portion of the West Rim Trail. This section takes you through Refrigerator Canyon, where hanging gardens offer a brief respite from the sun and a chance to cool off. By the end of Refrigerator Canyon, we had already ascended 1,000 feet, and the real challenge was just beginning.
Walter’s Wiggles: A Heart-Pounding Climb
Next up were the infamous Walter’s Wiggles, a series of 21 tight switchbacks named after Zion National Park’s first superintendent, Walter Ruesch, who constructed them in 1926. As we tackled the wiggles, our hearts (and thighs and calves) were pumping. Reaching Scout’s Lookout, we were rewarded with impressive views of Zion Canyon below.
The Spine (Hogsback): Not for the Faint of Heart
After conquering Walter’s Wiggles and taking a breather at Scout Lookout, we faced the final, most exhilarating part of the hike: the last half-mile ascent along a narrow mountain ridge known as The Spine, or Hogsback. This section is definitely not for the faint of heart. With steep drop-offs of 800 to 1,000 feet on either side, the trail ascends 500 feet. Chains and carved steps provide a bit of support and security as we braved this harrowing stretch.
Angels Landing Summit: The Pinnacle of Achievement
We made it! Standing at 5,790 feet, we were greeted with sweeping 360-degree views of some of the most breathtaking canyon scenery we have ever seen. At the top, we took the time to relax, breathe, and soak in the awe-inspiring views. The sense of achievement and the beauty of the Angels Landing view made every step of the challenging hike worthwhile.
In summary, Angels Landing is a hike that combines physical endurance, mental fortitude, and the reward of stunning natural beauty. It’s an adventure that will stay with us forever, a testament to the incredible landscapes of Zion National Park and the spirit of exploration. If you ever find yourself in Zion, don’t miss the chance to experience this legendary hike.
Western Wanderlust Chronicles 
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