Top Hiking Trails Under 10 Miles in Zion and Bryce National Parks

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Question:

List the best and most popular hiking trails in the Zion national park and Bryce national park, Utah that are under 10 miles long round trip

Answer:

Certainly! Both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park offer a variety of stunning hiking trails that are under 10 miles round trip. Here are some of the best and most popular ones:

Zion National Park

  1. Angels Landing

    • Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
    • Difficulty: Strenuous
    • Highlights: This iconic trail offers breathtaking views of Zion Canyon. The final section involves a steep, narrow ridge with chains for support.
  2. The Narrows (Bottom-Up Hike)

    • Distance: Up to 9.4 miles round trip (most people hike a shorter distance)
    • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
    • Highlights: Hike through the Virgin River, surrounded by towering canyon walls. The hike can be as long or short as you prefer.
  3. Emerald Pools Trail

    • Distance: 1.2 to 3 miles round trip (depending on whether you visit the Lower, Middle, or Upper Pools)
    • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
    • Highlights: A series of beautiful pools and waterfalls, with lush vegetation and scenic views.
  4. Canyon Overlook Trail

    • Distance: 1 mile round trip
    • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
    • Highlights: Short but rewarding hike with panoramic views of Zion Canyon and the Pine Creek slot canyon.
  5. Riverside Walk

    • Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Highlights: A paved trail that follows the Virgin River, offering beautiful views and access to the start of The Narrows.

Bryce Canyon National Park

  1. Navajo Loop Trail

    • Distance: 1.3 miles round trip
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Highlights: Descend into the Bryce Amphitheater, passing through iconic formations like Wall Street and Thor's Hammer.
  2. Queen's Garden Trail

    • Distance: 1.8 miles round trip
    • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
    • Highlights: One of the easiest ways to hike down into the Bryce Amphitheater, with stunning hoodoo formations and views.
  3. Peekaboo Loop Trail

    • Distance: 5.5 miles round trip
    • Difficulty: Strenuous
    • Highlights: A more challenging trail that offers close-up views of hoodoos, arches, and the Bryce Amphitheater.
  4. Bryce Point to Inspiration Point

    • Distance: 2.9 miles round trip
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Highlights: This trail offers some of the best panoramic views of the Bryce Amphitheater.
  5. Mossy Cave Trail

    • Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Highlights: A short hike to a mossy grotto and a small waterfall, located outside the main amphitheater area.

These trails offer a range of experiences, from easy walks to more strenuous hikes, all showcasing the unique and breathtaking landscapes of Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Always remember to check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, and carry plenty of water and snacks.