Some Utah trails are the kind we might take only once in a lifetime — others might be so close to our homes that we hike them several times a week. And other trails are so popular with tourists that we tend to only hike them when we have out-of-town guests, then forget about them all together. Zion National Park is the crown jewel of Utah. It’s our most-visited park, receiving over three million visitors annually. There’s a reason it’s so popular — it really is one of the world’s most remarkable places. In the spring and summer, most parts of the park are so crowded that Utahns tend to find other beautiful spots to hike.

In this article, we’re going to look at one hike that is both iconic and unrivaled and it’s a hike you’ve probably taken. It’s also one of Utah’s most crowded hikes. Here are several reasons that every Utahn should take the Zion Riverside Walk at least once (and many more times, if possible).

The Riverside Walk in Zion National Park is accessible to everyone.
CheWei Chang/flickr
Take your whole family on this trail. It's accessible to strollers, walkers, and wheelchairs.
The 2.2-mile hike is paved and mostly level, so people of any skill level can get out and enjoy this scenic place.
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Even though the trail is incredibly easy, it's still very much a Utah trail.
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You'll walk along between towering sandstone cliffs, hear the gurgling of the Virgin River, and see vegetation growing right out of the side of the mountain.
The views all along the Riverside Walk in Zion are just stunning. In fact, you'll want to stop and admire the beauty surrounding you — there is no place like it.
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Utah is well-known for our breathtaking, soaring cliffs. This hike is truly an iconic Utah hike.
The Virgin River is beautiful here.
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It's usually very shallow along this trail. The river emerges from the narrows (you'll see those at the end of the hike), and it meanders through the canyon, surrounded by cliffs, foliage, and wildlife.
You may even see mule deer here and you'll see tons of these little guys along the way.
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Please don't feed them! There's a park fine if you get caught, but more importantly, they become aggressive to people and can bite if you try to hand-feed them. Enjoy their adorable antics from afar.
Visit Zion National Park in the fall and winter, and you'll find much more peace and quiet on this trail. Plus, you won't have to deal with the southern Utah's cruel sun.
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The park is much, much less crowded during winter months.
This canyon is truly one of Utah's most spectacular.
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As you reach the end of the hike, you'll approach The Narrows.
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If you have the inclination (and some neoprene socks in winter months), you can continue your hike into the narrows a bit. You'll hike through the water, so you'll want good shoes and a walking stick to keep from slipping.

If you want to learn even more about this trail and get a glimpse of some of its beauty, check out this video by Within Hiking Distance.

While Zion National Park is absolutely crazy during the summer months, visitation drops dramatically during the winter. You can learn even more about Zion National Park and many of its hiking trails on the National Park Service website.

Before you visit and tackle the Zion Riverside Walk in Utah, take a look at these 18 facts about Zion National Park. If you’re up for a much more challenging hike with some killer views, check out Angel’s Landing.

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Zion Riverside Walk

Courtnie Erickson | May 03, 2023

What are some quick facts about the Zion Riverside Walk in Zion National Park?

The Riverside Walk is easily one of the best hikes at Zion National Park. This incredible trail has so much to offer but to make sure that you enjoy every step you take here, keep the following in mind:

  • This is one busy hike, particularly when this national park is full. We recommend avoiding this trail during peak times of the day.
  • This is an easy trail and if children are up for the 2.2-mile round-trip distance, this is an excellent family-friendly adventure.
  • This is one trail where you will want to take your time. You will enjoy views of both the Virgin River and incredible sandstone walls.
  • Stop at the various exhibits along the trail to learn more about the area and some of its features.
  • You will find water and restrooms at the Temple of Sinawava.

 

What are some other hikes in Zion National Park that I should visit?

Zion is a hiker’s paradise. There are hikes for all skill levels and distances. While it is almost impossible to choose the absolute best hikes at Zion National Park, some that we recommend include:

 

If you want to learn even more about Zion National Park, check out our ultimate guide to this busy park in Utah. You’ll learn more about the hikes, activities, lodging, and other features found within this popular national park.

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Zion National Park, Utah, USA