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Zion National Park is a dream for hikers and photographers alike. While it is located in the desert, its terrain is far from inhospitable. Tour this mystical landscape of dazzling cliffs and green valleys.
Created after millions of years of erosion, its unique rock formations, wide variety of backcountry trails, and unique fauna attract those seeking tranquility and inspiration. The many canyons, animal communities, and cultural sites within the park can be explored in any season, although spring and fall have the best weather and the most spectacular blooms.
Zion National Park got its name from the ancient Hebrew word for “sanctuary.” The name suits it perfectly: This park dazzles with a landscape shaped by the weather, the peaceful Virgin River, and the 1,000 ft (305 m) high cliffs with their cream, pink, and red hues that contrast strikingly with the blue sky.
The deep Navajo limestone canyon of Zion, one of America’s most spectacular and beloved national parks, was carved by the Virgin River millions of years ago. Its majestic and rugged topography stretches almost six hundred 231 square miles (600 square km) and includes plateaus, gorges, hills, and natural arches.
These incredible sandstone rocks also impressed the Mormon settlers of the 19th century. They named the rocks Angel’s Landing, Three Patriarchs, West Temple, and Great White Throne. The trails that lead to these rocks and their viewpoints offer truly spectacular views of the park. To get a closer look at the cliff faces, take one of the less arduous trails that wind through the narrow canyons.
As you walk through this mystical landscape, you should be on the lookout for the unique creatures that live in the park such as lizards, mule deer, and bighorn sheep.
Zion is located in southern Utah near Springdale, not far from Las Vegas and Salt Lake City.
Spring and fall provide ideal weather conditions and might be the best time to visit Zion. April, May, September, and October are usually warm and sunny, with temperatures between 60ºF (15ºC) and 90ºF (32ºC) on average.
Hurricane Hill is a reasonably short out-and-back trail situated near Port Angeles, Washington. It contains a river and is considered a moderate hike trail. This trail is my pick for the best hiking experience in Olympic National Park and is best accessed between July and October.
Wonderful views certainly make this trail worth visiting. It seems a little more difficult than the ascent actually is, especially if you have vertigo. But once you have reached the top, the views are impressive.
I started the hike to Angels Landing at the Grotto Trailhead, the sixth stop in Zion’s main canyon. I crossed the hiker’s bridge through the Virgin River and followed the paved trail north and up the west side of the canyon. Then, I was officially on the West Rim Trail. It was quite a strenuous and steep uphill slog to get up into Refrigerator Canyon, a wonderful deep-hanging side canyon where temperatures always remain cool. After a few minutes, I arrived at Scout Lookout—a nice little viewpoint where I had scenic views of Angels Landing and the main canyon below. I left the West Rim Trail afterwards to do the final hike to the Angels Landing.
For the final parts on this trail, I walked on the mountain’s narrow spine and climbed almost 500 feet (152 m) up. There are many exposed parts of the trail where you can see both sides of the canyon below. The chains, guard rails, and carved steps helped me ease my mind from my fear of heights. There are spots for resting along the trail if you decide to pull over and catch your breath. If you feel you can’t overcome the panic from the first section of chains during the climb, do not go further, as it gets more strenuous as you move along. For those who love challenges, this is worth a try!
It is a half-day excursion; the initial climb is a bit hard, but you can surely get to the top without a problem. It is advisable to bring enough water and something to eat to recharge your batteries. The views from the top are absolutely incredible! It is best to hike this trail from February to October.
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