Emerald Pools Trail
Hurricane, Utah
| Address: | Hurricane, UT 84737, USA |
| GPS: |
37°15'3.8"N 112°57'31.6"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Utah |
Picnic Tables National Park
Hike
The Emerald Pools were named for their unusual color. At some times of the year, algae gives the water in these pools a distinctive hue. A series of basins have been carved into a rock ledge in the canyon wall by flowing, falling water. This is one spot in the park where you'll almost always find at least a small waterfall.
You can choose to visit one, two, or all three of the Emerald Pools. The shortest option is to the Lower Pool (first pool) and back: about 1 hour. Visiting all three pools takes about 2 hours.
This popular trail has a little bit of everything—a waterfall, hanging gardens, tall cliffs, and great views of the Virgin River. Three small pools create a stark contrast in this desert landscape, attracting a variety of wildlife. Water is vital for their survival, so swimming is not allowed. This classic Zion hike is great for all your senses.
The Lower Emerald Pool Trail is a short, easy hike on a paved trail. Listen for animals and see a year-round waterfall provide life for hanging gardens. The Upper Emerald Pool Trail climbs an additional 240 feet providing bigger canyon views and a springtime waterfall.
Taking the trail between the Emerald Pools and The Grotto shuttle stops will take you from wet riverbanks to dry hillsides. This popular destination is often crowded. Try hiking early or late in the day. Swimming, bathing, and wading are strictly prohibited in the Emerald Pools and associated creeks.
The Lower Pool trail is paved and accessible to strollers. It may be too steep for wheelchairs even with assistance.
The Middle and Upper Pool trail is steeper and more strenuous. Trails are well marked, but cliff edges may be unstable and slippery. Please stay on marked trails and keep well back from the cliff's edge.
There are two main trailheads for the Emerald Pools, the Northern Kayenta trail and the Southern Emerald Pools Trail.
Emerald Pools Trail
The South trail starts at the Zion Lodge and takes you through a dryer climate with more shade.
Roundtrip: 1 hour / 1.2 miles (Lower pool only), 2.5 hours / 3 miles (Middle and Upper Pools)
Elevation Gain: 200 feet (Lower pool only), 440 feet (Middle and Upper Pools)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Kayenta Trail
The Kayenta Trail starts at The Grotto shuttle stop and follows a high ledge to the Emerald Pools. This trail gets the heat of the sun and is a dryer climate but has a beautiful view of the Virgin River and canyon.
More Information
Zion National Park Itinerary
This Zion National Park Itinerary will help you get started as you plan your vacation to Zion National Park.
https://www.justgotravelstudios.com/collections/national-park-itineraries/products/zion-national-park-itinerary?ref=9zpxis0diinEmerald Pools Hiking Trails | Utah.com
All Emerald Pool hikes lead to sparkling waterfalls and glistening pools. Majestic sights can be seen all along the trails, including views of Lady Mountain, the Great White Throne, Red Arch Mountain and cliffs in all directions. Emerald Pool hiking trail options range from short and easy to strenuous and steep.
https://www.utah.com/destinations/national-parks/zion-national-park/things-to-do/hiking/emerald-pools/Emerald Pools Trail - Joe’s Guide to Zion National Park
Starting at the Zion Lodge, Emerald Pools Trail is a classic little hike into the sandstone cliffs to see several famous seasonal waterfalls and lush pools.
https://www.citrusmilo.com/zionguide/emeraldpools.phpZion Emerald Pools Trail | Outdoor Experiences | Easy
Often called The Narrow’s little sister, Orderville Canyon is just as (if not more) beautiful, but with an additional technical - Zion Emerald Pools Trail Easy
https://www.visitutah.com/places-to-go/parks-outdoors/zion/outdoor-experiences/emerald-poolsZion's Emerald Pools Trail
Zion Trail: Emerald Pools. This is one of Zion
https://zion-national-park.org/zion-emerald-pools-trail.htmBe courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read More
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Hurricane, Utah
- Head north on S 100 W toward State St (456 ft)
- Turn right at the 1st cross street onto UT-9 E/
W State St Pass by Wells Fargo Bank (on the left)(2.8 mi) - Turn right onto UT-9 E/
W 500 N Continue to follow UT-9 EToll road(21.8 mi) - Turn left onto Floor of the Valley Rd/
Zion Canyon Scenic Dr/ Zion Cyn Rd (2.6 mi) - Turn left at Zion Lodge Visitor Rd SDestination will be on the left(276 ft)
Park at the visitors center and take the shuttle to The Grotto or the Emerald Pools shuttle stop.
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