Angel's Landing - Zion National Park, Utah - Angel's Landing is a Zion National Park hiking trail located in Southern Utah

Angel's Landing, located in Zion National Park was given its name in 1916 by a group of four hikers who were exploring the area. The four hikers, F. Fisher, V Fischer, E. Bingham, C. Hirshi came across a large monolith and one of the hikers, Frederick Fisher exclaimed, "only an angel could land on it,'' and eventually the area became known as Angel's Landing.

The hiking trail to Angel's Landing, contains twenty-one switchbacks, and is one of the most famous hiking trails in the United States. The trail runs along a thin rock fin, with drop offs on either side; at the end of the trail there is a landing that provides visitors with unsurpassed views in all directions.

As one of the most famous landmarks of the Southwestern United States, both advanced mountain climbers as well as the casual tourist frequent the Angel's Landing Trail. The well-maintained trail leading to Angel's Landing is 5 miles long and takes an average of 5 hours to hike. It is a strenuous hike and is only recommended for those who are in good physical shape and health.

The Angel's Landing Trail is paved for the first two miles, with most of the trail being in full sun throughout much of the day. The last half-mile of the trail is a narrow sandstone ridge, but there are anchored support chains attached along some sections of the sheer fin. Once visitors reach the summit, they can view several Zion Canyon landmarks including the Virgin River, Big Bend, the Organ, Observation Point Cathedral Mountain, and Cable Mountain. While hiking the trail you'll encounter areas such as Refrigerator Canyon, the Squiggle the Wiggles cutbacks, Cabin Spring, as well as Lava Point.

Visitors can access the Angel's Landing Trail all year around, with private vehicles or the shuttle provided by Zion National Park when it is in operation. The best time to visit Angel's Landing is March through October, though it is open all year. Before visiting Angel's Landing during the colder months, it is recommended that you check with the park authorities to ensure that the trail is free of ice and snow. It is also advisable that you avoid hiking this trail during a storm, or if there are high winds present. This trail is not recommended for children or those who are adversely affected by heights. Visitors should stay away from the cliff edges at all times, and be off of the trail by nightfall.

The Grotto picnic area is located at the trailhead providing visitors with an area to rest and enjoy the park. Restrooms located at Scout Lookout, the Angels Landing junction, as well as the Grotto Picnic area.

Visitors to Zion National Park can obtain maps of the area that include the hiking trail to Angel's Landing.