Highlight • Trail
Kayenta Trail
Hiking
4.8
(62)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Zion National Park
Tips
February 1, 2019
Hiking
•
March 23, 2021
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Kayenta Trail
4.7
(92)
838
hikers
4.87km
01:24
110m
110m
Embark on an easy hike along the Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trail Loop, a 3.0-mile (4.9 km) route in Zion National Park. You will gain 354 feet (108 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 1 hour and 23 minutes to complete. This trail offers a delightful mix of terrain, transitioning from paved sections to rocky, sandy paths as you explore. You can expect to discover lush oases fed by year-round springs, leading to the famous Emerald Pools and their cascading falls, while the Kayenta Trail provides sweeping views of Zion Canyon and formations like The Great White Throne.
To begin your adventure, access the Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trail Loop from The Grotto, which is Shuttle Stop #6. You will start by taking the Kayenta Trail from this point. It is important to note that the bridge near Zion Lodge is currently closed, making the Kayenta Trail the main way to access and complete this scenic loop. Always check the Zion National Park website for the most current shuttle schedules and any necessary permit information before you go.
This popular loop is renowned for its unique hydrological features, where year-round springs create vibrant, verdant oases within the arid canyon landscape. The trail showcases the powerful interplay of water and rock that defines Zion, allowing you to experience the park's diverse ecosystems up close. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for a relatively short and accessible hike that still delivers iconic Zion vistas and natural wonders.
4.6
(36)
347
hikers
4.79km
01:18
70m
50m
Start your easy hike on the Sand Bench and Kayenta Trail, a 3.0-mile (4.8 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete. You'll experience a gentle elevation gain of 223 feet (68 metres) as you explore Zion National Park. The path offers a varied terrain, moving from firm ground on the Kayenta Trail to stretches of deep sand on the Sand Bench section. Look out for spectacular views of lower Zion Canyon, including the majestic Court of the Patriarchs and the Virgin River winding below. This trail provides unique vantage points, especially beautiful during sunrise.
Access the Kayenta Trail conveniently from The Grotto, which is shuttle stop #6 within Zion National Park. Here you will find essential facilities like water and restrooms before you begin your journey. Be aware that the Sand Bench Trail is also a commercial horse trail from March through October; you might encounter horses and their droppings along the way. Since this route is popular, especially for those connecting to other well-known Zion Canyon hikes, you should expect to share the path with other visitors. Consider an early start to enjoy a quieter experience.
This trail offers a pleasant and accessible way to explore some of Zion National Park's iconic scenery without a strenuous climb. It provides a different perspective of the canyon compared to higher elevation trails. You can also use this route to connect to the popular Emerald Pools trails, extending your adventure further into the park's diverse landscapes. The mix of firm paths and sandy sections adds to the unique character of this Zion experience.
4.9
(291)
3,385
hikers
8.97km
03:25
370m
370m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,330 m
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