The Epic 5-Mile Trail in Zion National Park Worth the Final View

If you’re a nature lover and live in Utah, more than likely, you’ve been to Zion National Park. Die Hard adventurers have hiked the strenuous Angels Landing Trail to soak up the jaw-dropping views of sunrises and sunsets along the dramatic ridgeline. Other less skilled hikers (like me) will trek the easy one-mile Zion Canyon Overlook Trail to see the vast canyon and the impressive red rock formations that the park is known for. 

Sure, these bucket-list-worthy Utah hiking trails are a must, but there is another hike in Zion National Park that will leave you with lasting memories. At five miles long, the Taylor Creek Trail has one of the greatest rewards. However, to complete the hike, you’ll have multiple creek crossings, unstable pathways, and a high elevation gain. Is this moderately challenging hike in Utah worth the final view? I think so, and chances are, you will too. 

Located in the quieter Kolob Canyons portion of Zion National Park, Taylor Creek Trail is not the most popular hike in the park, but it’s one that will leave you coming back for more. From the trailhead located next to a small parking lot off Kolob Canyons Road, you’ll immediately descend 100 wooden steps to get to Taylor Creek. As you make your way inside the canyon, the sandy path can be tricky to navigate, and depending on when you visit, it might be slippery and muddy, too. 

One of the things that will stand out to you as you continue your trek is the number of creek crossings along the way. There are more than 30 spots (yes, that many) where you’ll need to hop the creek bed, so be prepared to get wet, especially after heavy rain. Of course, it’s important to wear sturdy waterproof boots, and trekking poles will also come in handy. I enjoy hearing the gurgling of water while I hike, and you’ll have plenty of that as you make your way to the end of this trail.

About one mile into the trek, nestled among the juniper and pine trees, you’ll come across a historic site that might come as a surprise. The Larson homestead cabin was built in the 1930s, offering a brief glimpse into the past lives of those who attempted to settle the area. This will be a great spot to take a break and snap pics of the cabin with the towering red rock mesa in the backdrop.

As you continue to climb the narrow box canyon, you’ll have an elevation change of about 450 feet. After about three miles of hiking, the trail ends at the Double Arch Alcove, a gigantic, multicolored sandstone grotto that will literally take your breath away. You’ll want to have your camera in hand to snap photos of the formation from different vantage points. 

Not too far down the tree-lined pathway, there will be another cabin and archaeological site for you to explore. Needless to say, please don’t remove anything from these areas as they’re part of the history of Zion National Park.   

Although it’s not a traditional arch like the others at the park, this “double arch” formation that was carved from erosion is truly unique. The lower arch is a cave-like opening sheltered by a massive wall, and the upper portion is a dramatic arch in the canyon walls. The grotto becomes even more spectacular when the glow from the sun casts shadows on the Navajo sandstone cliffs. I’d suggest that you carve out extra time to explore this unique natural wonder in Utah.  

You might not have this trail to yourself, but the good news is, this hike is far less crowded than the other, more popular hikes at Zion. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by the iconic red rocks as you walk through the canyon walls. Seeing these geological features up close and personal is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. And if you ask me, the reward at the end is worth all the creek crossing and every step to get here.

Have you ever hiked to the Double Arch Alcove? What is your favorite Utah hiking trail or your top spot in Zion National Park? Sound off on our nomination page. 

And when you’re feeling inspired, check out Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to personalize your own adventure in Utah.