Emerald Pools Trail
Discover waterfalls, shaded canyon paths, and beautiful desert pools on one of Zion’s most popular hiking trails.
A Must-See Zion National Park Hike
The Emerald Pools Trail is one of the most accessible and family-friendly hikes in Zion National Park. Located in the heart of Zion Canyon, this scenic trail system leads visitors to a series of natural pools and waterfalls formed by water flowing down the canyon walls.
Surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and shaded canyon paths, Emerald Pools offers a relaxing and rewarding hiking experience for visitors of all skill levels.
Because of its central location and relatively short distance, the trail is one of the most popular hikes in Zion and a favorite stop for families, photographers, and first-time visitors.
Trail Details
rail Details and Difficulty
Strenuous
5.4 miles round trip
About 1,500 feet
3 to 5 hours
The Grotto (Shuttle Stop #6)
Out and back
This structured information allows visitors to quickly understand the hike before planning their trip.
Trail Details and Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
1.2 to 3 miles round trip
Up to 230 feet
1 to 3 hours
Shuttle Stops #5 and #6
No permit required
This structured information allows visitors to quickly understand the hike before planning their trip.
Emerald Pools Trail Overview
The Emerald Pools Trail consists of three main destinations that gradually climb higher along the canyon wall.
Visitors can hike to one or all of the pools depending on how much time and energy they want to spend on the trail.
Each level offers different scenery and viewpoints, making it easy to customize the hike based on experience level.
The Lower Emerald Pool Trail is paved and accessible, making it the easiest route in the Emerald Pools system. The trail leads visitors beneath a sandstone overhang where water flows down the rock face during wetter seasons.
This area offers a shaded canyon walk and a close-up view of Zion’s natural water features.
Visitors can walk behind the small waterfall while looking out toward Zion Canyon.
The Middle Emerald Pools area features several small pools surrounded by trees and red rock cliffs. The trail climbs slightly above the canyon floor and provides scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
The pools and surrounding vegetation create a peaceful oasis in the desert environment.
The Upper Emerald Pool sits at the base of towering canyon walls and offers a quieter, more secluded environment compared to the lower sections of the trail.
This section requires a moderate climb but rewards hikers with dramatic views of Zion’s sandstone cliffs.
The pool sits beneath massive rock walls, creating one of the most beautiful natural settings in Zion Canyon.
Tips for Hiking Emerald Pools
Best Time of Year to Visit
Seasonal Conditions
Higher water levels due to snowmelt. Conditions can change quickly.
One of the most popular times to hike because the cool river provides relief from desert heat.
Comfortable temperatures and stable water levels.
Possible with proper gear but water temperatures are much colder.
Spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons for hiking Angels Landing.
Visitors often combine Emerald Pools with other nearby trails such as:
These hikes are all accessible from the Zion Canyon shuttle system.
The Narrows offers an experience unlike any other hike in the American Southwest. Walking through the Virgin River between towering canyon walls gives visitors a unique perspective on how water shaped Zion’s incredible landscape.
For travelers seeking adventure, stunning photography, and a truly memorable hike, The Narrows is one of the must-do experiences in Zion National Park.
Plan ahead, check conditions, and enjoy one of the most extraordinary hikes in the world.
