We’re new to full-time RV living, and the first big location we wanted to hit was Zion National Park. We’re originally from New Hampshire, so it took us a while to drive across the country to Utah (while also both working 40/week jobs). After three weeks of traveling and working, we made it to our campsite in Hurricane Utah at WillowWind RV Park. Although nighttime temperatures are chilly here in November, we were excited for the perfect 50 – 60 F hiking weather during the daytime.
We had a laundry list of hikes we wanted to try once we arrived in Hurricane (all mostly in Zion National Park). Since we were staying only 30 minutes from the park, we spent every weekend day, and some weekdays, exploring what there was to offer.
Here are all our favorites!
Angel’s Landing – 5 miles & 1,500 feet of elevation gain (Permit Required)
Angel’s Landing is probably the most well-known Zion hike of them all. It became so popular that they’re doing a pilot permit program to thin the crowds and limit the number of hikers. Personally, we loved this because it was so much less crowded and enjoyable (without feeling rushed). If you have a fear of heights, this hike may not be for you. But if you’re up for some adventure and love unique, challenging climbs – it’s a must! There are two ways of receiving a permit, day-before applications, or through the seasonal lottery – both of which you can learn more about on Recreation.gov.
The Watchman Trial – 3 miles & 650 feet of elevation gain
We read that this one was a pretty popular trail, so we decided to do it first thing on a Sunday. Surprisingly, we only came across a few other groups of people! It was chilly but SO beautiful with the frost-covered leaves and fall colors. This one is in the shade all morning, so if it’s really cold, you may want to do it later in the day. This gradual trail leads to a 180-degree view of Zion Canyon, overlooking the visitor center/entrance!
Canyon Overlook Trail – 1 mile & 150 feet of elevation gain
Little effort – huge reward, but it comes at a price… This trail was awesome, featuring heights, a huge cave, and incredible ending views, but the crowds were a little crazy. There is very limited parking at this trailhead, so get there early, or if you can, plan to hit this one during the week. We got lucky mid-day on a Sunday and scored a spot, but it came with its challenges navigating through crowds of people along the trail. If you have the time for this short one, it’s a pretty rewarding!
Many Pools Trail – 2.3 miles & 550 feet of gain
This trail is a bit harder to find, but if you use AllTrails (download it ahead of time because there is no service at the trailhead), you should be able to find it alright. There’s a small pull-off parking lot before the trail, and you’ll have to walk along the road a little way before taking a left down a small embankment. The bright side to this hidden trail is it’s way less crowded, even on weekends. There are also often big horn sheep in this area – we saw a small herd right next to the trail! The “trail” is mostly just following the dry river bed/wash, but keep checking your map. It’s a unique and different environment from many of the other trails in Zion – and peaceful at that.
The Subway (Bottom-Up Route) – 9 miles & 1,400 feet of gain (Permit Required)
Talk about otherworldly…
The Subway was by far our favorite and most unique hike. It takes 6-10 hours and requires a permit and comfortability with a map/route finding as it is not a marked trail. You crisscross the river up to 50 times to get to this magical spot where the walls close in. This was so special this time of year because so few people had applied for permits, and we had this ending reveal all to ourselves. You WILL get wet feet on this adventure, so we recommend renting gear such as neoprene socks and boots (we got ours from Zion Outfitters and picked them up the night before so we could get an early start). This is a difficult one with slippery rocks, some scrambling, and a steep ascent out, but it’s SO worth it if you’re able.
The Narrows – Up to 16 miles (But you choose how far!)
We hiked a total of 12 miles up and down The Narrows and let me tell you, every mile was worth it! There is so much to marvel at – the looming walls, colorful water, dancing ferns, and even little birds diving into the rapids. We met a few people before this hike who had mentioned they were underwhelmed with the experience. But after doing it ourselves, we determined…if you didn’t love The Narrows, you didn’t walk far enough! 2-3 miles in is where the real magic starts and it’ll be hard to turn around once you’re there. We rented waders and boots from Zion Guru and they were AWESOME! They kept us 100% dry (except for our own perspiration) and were so comfortable to walk the distance in. Going this time of year meant we got hundreds of photos with no one in them. We were among the first hikers in and kept a good pace to stay ahead of everyone the whole time, but really only ran into sparsely dispersed groups on the way back. We started this adventure around 8:30 am – and although it was chilly, it was so much fun.
We hope reading about these hikes has left you inspired and ready to explore! Have any questions? Reach out to us on Instagram or email us at info@wildandoutdoors.com
Happy hiking!
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