Angels Landing: A Must-Hike in Zion National Park
If a fear of heights doesn’t stop you from hiking the iconic Angels Landing in Zion National Park, not having a permit will.
Starting April 1, 2022, as part of a pilot program to reduce crowding on the trail, Zion National Park will require a permit to access the legendary chained section of the hike.
About Angels Landing
With a change in altitude of 1,488 feet, Angels Landing attracts hikers for its breathtaking views and its reputation as a challenging trail not suited for those who are afraid of heights. The strenuous hike’s final half-mile is narrow, measuring less than three feet wide with steep drop-offs to the side. Hikers grip chains along the path as they make their way to the summit, where they are rewarded with panoramic vistas of the park.
The Need for a Permit System
Like many of America’s national parks, Zion National Park is striving to balance the increasing number of visitors with the quality of the visitor experience. In 2011, the park welcomed approximately 2.8 million visitors. By 2019, that number surged to 4.5 million, and the park anticipates continued growth.
In 2019 and 2021, park rangers measured the foot traffic on the Angels Landing trail during peak days, resulting in long waits for visitors eager to embark on their hike. Therefore, the new permitting system aims to enhance safety and mange traffic more effectively along this iconic route.
How to Secure a Permit for Angels Landing
You can obtain a permit through the National Park Service website Recreation.gov.
The NPS holds seasonal lotteries for the permits. The next permit lottery opens on April 1, 2022, allowing hikers to secure a permit for dates between June 1 and August 31. You will need to pay a nonrefundable $6 fee to enter the lottery, which will close on April 20, 2022. If selected on April 25, an additional fee of $3 per person on the permit will apply. This fee is used to cover administrative costs and support the rangers who assist visitors on the trail.
If you do not receive a permit through the initial lottery, consider entering a second lottery the day before your planned hike. This lottery opens daily at 12:01 AM Mountain Time and closes at 3 PM. Rangers will draw permits at 4 PM Mountain Time.
Overall, understanding the new permit system is crucial for those looking to experience the stunning beauty of Angels Landing while also ensuring safety and enjoyment during their visit to Zion National Park.
