US-05 Zion Pop
Overview
The Zion Pop combines the West Rim Traverse with the iconic Angels Landing finale — a full‑value desert‑canyon epic that moves from high mesas and ponderosa forests to sculpted sandstone corridors and knife‑edge exposure. You begin on the canyon floor, and end on the remote, elevated West Rim, ascending through some of the most cinematic terrain in the park before joining the main spine toward Angels Landing. The route delivers airy chains, thousand‑foot drop‑offs, and one of the most legendary viewpoints in the Southwest. It’s a route that blends solitude, scale, and adrenaline — a true Zion masterpiece.
Quick Stats
• Base Camp: Springdale, Utah
• Distance: 15 miles
• Elevation Gain: 6,325 ft
• Estimated Time: 6–10 hours
• Route Type: Point-to-Point
When to Hike
The best time to take on the Zion Pop is spring and fall, when temperatures are cool enough for long miles and the canyon’s colors are at their most vivid. April–June offers ideal conditions on the high West Rim, while September–October brings crisp mornings and stable weather for the Angels Landing finale. Summer heat in Zion Canyon can be extreme, and winter storms can close the high country, making the shoulder seasons the prime window for a safe, spectacular traverse.
Permits (Angels Landing)
To hike Angels Landing, the National Park Service requires all visitors to obtain a permit through the official lottery system. This applies to the chained section beyond Scout Lookout and is enforced year‑round.
PERMIT TYPES
• Seasonal Lottery — Apply months in advance for a specific date range (not currently open for 2026)
• Day‑Before Lottery — Apply the day prior to your hike for next‑day access
OFFICIAL PERMIT LINK
