While I've covered many of the popular hikes in Zion below, this park has hundreds of day adventures to choose from.  In addition to the recommendations below, I'll include a few links so you can build on your options with additional research.

• NPS.gov - Zion National Park Maps

• NPS.gov - Zion Hiking Guide

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Summary - A short 2.5 mile round trip hike with a summit approach over a knife edge ridge that will undoubtedly put your stomach into knots.  Look a few feet to either side of you, and you'll see 1,400 ft. of vertical cliff exposure that falls off directly to the unforgiving valley floor below.  Safely make your way to the top and you're in for one of the most stunning 360 degree views of the Zion valley.

Avoiding the Crowds - The key to getting the most out of this popular hike is timing. On a given day, either be the first person on the summit or the last one down (lighting for photos will be better in the morning).  While its views are stunning, Angel's Landing is easily the most popular hike in the park.  The packed mess of a midday crowd will quickly ruin the thrill and the grandeur of this adventure (nothing kills a nature high more than waiting in line on a hike).

Word of Caution - The National Park Service website officially recognizes five fatalities that have occurred along the Angel's Landing hike, and many more have been reported. A reliable set of chains are set up to safely guide you through the sketchy areas, and for the most part, I felt very safe.  Unless you have an unusual fear of heights, are easily subjected to vertigo, have clumsy tendencies, like the color blue, or have ever met anybody named Mike, you should be just fine.  Just don't slip.

If the weather is wet, icy, or windy, avoid this hike like the plague.

Emerald Pools Follow-up Hike - If you go early, the adjacent Emerald Pools would a great follow-up.  Another great option is to start your day with Hidden Valley or Observation Point one bus stop down, and finish off with a quick sprint up Angel's Landing on the way back (budget about 2-2.5 hours before the last shuttle takes off).

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Summary - Off the Weeping Rock shuttle stop in Zion Canyon, this out-and-back hike gives you the feel of a small canyoneering adventure.

Because it's located in the popular Zion Canyon park area, you'll share the initial part of the hike with other hikers, but likely not enough to ruin it.  After the small arch, the further you push back into the canyon, the more you'll shake off the crowd.

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The Hard Way - Weeping Rock trail to Observation Point (Bottom-up)

An 8 mile round trip hike with 2100 ft. of elevation gain and enough switchbacks to make your legs hate you for a few days.  It's one of the most beautiful day hikes in the park.  People do it for the grandiose view of Zion Canyon from the top, but are often surprised by the beauty of Echo Canyon and a several hidden slot canyons on the ascent.  Given its length and difficulty,  will be one of the least crowded trails as well, especially if you go early.  Photos and directions in the link below:

• Joe's Guide to Zion National Park - Observation Point Trail
  

The Easy Way - A Flat 3.5 Mile Hike from the Parking Lot (Great Spot to Watch the Sunset)

A perfect sunset hangout spot to knock back a few beers with friends and listen to music with a great view and some photographs.  I have a secret hangout spot for every national park I visit.  It's an easy drive to the trailhead, followed by a flat (and quick) 3.5 mile hike to Observation Point itself.  Check out photos and directions below.  If you decide to stay until sunset, the hike back in the dark with headlamps is stress-free and very beautiful.

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No permit required for this version of the hike.

Summary - The bottom-up route is the easiest and pain-free way to complete this iconic hike if you're short on time or were unable to lock down a permit for the backcountry.  Unfortunately, it's probably going to be crowded.

Distance - 10 miles round trip from the Temple of Sinawava to Big Spring and back.

Elevation - Minimal

Seasonal Timing - Summer and Fall almost exclusively.  The Narrows are closed throughout most of the winter and spring season when water levels rise too high to navigate safely.  

Permits and Reservations

Permits -- No permits required between the Narrows entrance to Big Spring (roughly 5 mi.). 

Gear Rentals -- The gear you rent will depend on the time of year and water temperature.  At the minimum, you'll need a basic gear package, which includes a pair of neoprene (wetsuit) socks, water resistant canyoneering shoes, and a walking stick (one day of rentals cost roughly $32).  Once temperatures start cooling off (i.e. after October), you may need to rent some drysuit pants as well (another $32).  If you don't have one already, you may also want to rent a dry bag for a brief swimming section further up on the hike if you want to trek all the way to Big Spring and have any gear that you don't want to get wet.

What to Pack - Water Resistant Clothing.  It's especially important that your pants/shorts are not made of cotton.  Anything that absorbs water will weigh you down heavily.  Bring a dry bag for any valuables if you have one.

Day of the Hike - Check the weather.  Do not hike the Narrows if there is heavy rainfall in the forecast!

Take the shuttle from the Zion Visitors Center, which takes about 45 min.  To beat the crowds and capture the best photos, I'd highly recommend being on the first bus of the day.

Unexpected Challenges - The strength of the water current, uneasy surface of the riverbed and constant zig-zagging across the river will make a 10 mile hike seem like 16 miles.

Resources

• NPS.gov - The Narrows

• Joe's Guide to Zion - The Zion Narrows Day Hike (bottom-up)

• Zion Adventure Company - Gear Rentals

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