Why Zion’s Angels Landing Wasn’t As Terrifying As I Thought It Would Be
If your eyes have landed on this post, you probably have one of the following questions running through your mind:
Is Angels Landing in Zion National Park as terrifying as people make it out to be?
Is the hike worth the risk?
Should I even attempt Angels Landing?
Fear not, adventurer, because I am here to answer some of these questions! Fresh off of Angels Landing, I felt inspired to write a post and answer some of the many questions that I, myself, had before hiking up to this iconic spot. First things first: I personally don’t think that Angels Landing was as terrifying as people, the internet, and social media made it out to be.
Please keep in mind this is coming from a person without a fear of heights, who is also able-bodied and used to more challenging hikes! With that being said, there are many things to consider before taking on the challenge that is Angels Landing.
What It’s Like To Hike Angels Landing
Before we begin, it’s important to note the layout to Angels Landing. It wasn’t what I expected it to be. Utah.com describes it perfectly:
“The trailhead is at the bridge across the road of the Grotto Picnic Area, in Zion Canyon. The first part of the hike follows the West Rim Trail, which is clearly identified by a sign. The trail is broad and well maintained. The first section is fairly level as it follows the river and then crosses the canyon bottom. Switchbacks allow the trail to climb the canyon wall, up to Refrigerator Canyon. That canyon is pleasantly cool, scenic, and walking is easy. The trail then climbs another series of switchbacks, called Walter’s Wiggles. These 21 switchbacks are very tight and you gain elevation rapidly, but this section is short and not oppressive. The Wiggles put you on top of the ridge, at Scout Lookout, where views are amazing. Restrooms are available here, but no drinking water. From Scout Lookout, gaze at the ridge to the south and you’ll get a good idea of the difficulty of the rest of the hike.” From here it is .5 miles up to the top of Angels Landing.
Should You Attempt Angels Landing?
If you’re afraid of heights, the final ascent to Angels Landing may not be for you. The steep climb offers an incredible perspective on the park below you, but it’s hard to avoid looking over the edge on the way up and down because of the nature of the trail. The hike is an intense one that forces you to sometimes climb on thin patches of rock where you aren’t more than inches from the edge! You must look down to make sure you’re taking the correct path forward.
In addition, the hike to the top and final point of Angels Landing requires your absolute focus and mindfulness. I, and the park, do not advise that you take children or babies, even if they’re strapped to your body, on the last bit of trail up to Angels Landing. On our way up we passed many adults coming down who weren’t paying attention and almost got themselves into rough spots.
What To Do If You’re Unsure About The Hike
A great option for those who are unsure if they want to make the full 1 miles round trip up to Angels Landing is to hike the paved trail up to Scout Lookout and decide from there. It’s a great place to rest, collect yourself, and even ask those who just completed the hike more questions.
When I reached Scout Lookout and went to the head of Angels Landing, I panicked a little bit inside. It looked so steep, impassible, and unforgiving. In some ways it was but as I climbed, breathed, and rest when I needed to, I realized that I could indeed do it, regardless of being scared!
In Conclusion
While some physical stamina is needed to climb Angels Landing, it’s more of a mental challenge. If you’re someone who is not terrified of heights, I say that Angels Landing is worth the climb! At the top you will be rewarded with an epic view and complete sense of accomplishment. For those who are afraid of heights, you do not want to be caught on this trail with anxious hikers above and below you. Skip Angels Landing and go for something with wider trails and less overlooks!
