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TippyTipster

TippyTipster

July 07, 2015
Rated 5.0

Lots of folks will debate between this and Angel's landing. I see no reason to, as both offer beautiful unique views of the canyon. Observation Point takes you much higher above the canyon than Angel's Landing does, though it does not offer the unique hiking experience of Angel's Landing.
Essentially, look at it this way: Observation point is a great hike to take if your fear of heights keeps you away from Angel's landing.

It's a longer hike, but there are some beautiful views along the way, particularly Echo Canyon, which you can explore quite easily without having to wander to far from the trail.

2 people found this review helpful
July 07, 2015
Rated 4.0

Quite the geological wonder. You can see it from the car, but I highly recommend parking and getting up close to this incredible formation. You may even see some wildlife in the nearby washes (Big Horn sheep).

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July 07, 2015
Rated 3.0

This trail is really only worth it if it is raining, or has just rained. Otherwise the pools will be empty, or stagnant. Be careful around the edges, they are covered in slick algae, and many people have fallen and died from Upper Emerald Pools.

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July 07, 2015
Rated 4.0

Extremely short trail (not even a quarter mile round-trip) to a viewpoint of these three beautiful peaks. Great spot for taking some pictures. If you go across the road you can also play around in the Virgin River!

3 people found this review helpful
July 07, 2015
Rated 5.0

Easily my favorite place in the world. Take the beautiful views of the Grand Canyon, the accessibility of Bryce Canyon, and slap them together. You have Zion, the most unique and wonderful place I have ever been.

Camping here is great, but hot, so keep that in mind when you come down. Full hook-ups are available, but you will need to book in advance.

Use caution when hiking in the slot canyons, and flash floods can come at any time (even when there are clear skies, as storms up river can cause them).

Things may seem crowded at first, but the farther along trails you hike, the more alone you will be. Walk through the towering sandstone cliffs and listen to the beautiful calls of the Canyon Wren as you enjoy this incredible marvel of a place.

Some of the trails you don't want to miss, and a short description:

The Narrows: There are two ways to hike the narrows, either top down (which requires either two cars, or a shuttle to take you up early in the morning) or bottom-up. Most folks opt to take River Walk (bottom-up), which begins paved, but will eventually lead you into the river, at which point you hike in/along the river for as far as you like. If you want to go top-down, you will need to obtain a back-country permit. Widely considered one of the best hikes in the world.

Angel's Landing: One of the most Iconic images of Zion, Angel's landing is not a hike for those who are afraid of heights. With narrow ledges and sheer cliffs, you are given only a chain to use as you travel along the trail to the peak of Angel's Landing. But the reward when you get there is one of the best views of the canyon that you will see.

Hidden Canyon: One of the most beautiful hikes in Zion, in my opinion. Similar to Angle's landing, you will be using chains next to a steep cliff, though the distance you are doing this is much shorter. Hidden Canyon offers solitude like no other trail in Zion (if you travel far enough in). If you want to go beyond the normal trail and continue following the wash, you will be doing some small amounts of rock scrambling.

The Subway: Absolutely stunning hike in western Zion, which requires a back country permit. Formations unlike any you will see anyone else. Requires some rappelling to complete the whole trail.

These are only some of the many incredible hikes in Zion, and none of them will disappoint. Please be safe and bring LOTS of water. In the summer time, temperatures in Zion easily break 100 degrees. Luckily, the shade of the canyons offers some respite from the heat. A must-visit park for anyone.

22 people found this review helpful
July 07, 2015
Rated 4.0

A beautiful, unique park with lots of places to go. Keep in mind that if you want to see them all you will be driving a LOT. This is not a small park by any means, and you can usually (in the summer) expect lots of traffic and tourists. Check out Hot springs, geysers, waterfalls, a canyon, and much more. Some must see destinations are Grand Prismatic Springs, Mammoth Hot Springs, Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone (particularly Artist Point and Uncle Tom's Trail), and Lamar Valley (lamar valley contains lots of wild life).
While you are here, PLEASE be smart around Wildlife. It is WILD, not tame. You will see tons of people getting close to bison, bears, elk, etc. Do NOT do this, as you will be hurt.

Yellowstone is definitely worth a visit if you have never been here. If you have, it's nice to drop in every 5 or so years.

There is also lots of back-country hiking, but if you are going to do this bring bear-spray.

4 people found this review helpful
June 06, 2015
Rated 5.0

Easily my favorite national park. Accessible, yet remote. Plenty of freedom and breathtaking scenery here.

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