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Routes United States of America Zion National Park A trip to the Lower Emerald Pool

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A trip to the Lower Emerald Pool

Hiking Route · Zion National Park

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Outdooractive Editors

View from the lower end of the bridge leading to the beginning of the route
Photo: Tal Schindele, Outdooractive Editors

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A relatively easy and flat hiking trail that leads to the Lower Emerald Pool in Zion National Park in Utah

Distance 1.6 km

0:36 h

76 m

5 m

1,317 m

1,285 m

The trail begins at the fifth stop of the Zion National Park Lodge shuttle service and leads along a beautiful nature trail to the Lower Emerald Pool. The pool itself is not very impressive but the road leading there exposed some of the most incredible views. Cross a bridge over a flowing river, walk along red canyon walls, enjoy a panoramic view of one of the most impressive canyons in the park and pass an idyllic waterfall. This is a great hiking route for those who want to enjoy a special view within a relatively short walk.

As this is a one-way trail, the walking time is only estimated from the starting point to the Emerald Pool.

Author’s recommendation

* The route is not asphalted but is generally suitable for walking with buggies.

* It is advisable to start in the early morning/late afternoon to avoid crowded paths.

Author

Tal Schindele

Update: December 01, 2020

Highest point

1,317 m

Lowest point

1,285 m

Track types

Road

1.3 km

Unknown

0.3 km

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Rest stops

Zion Lodge
Red Rock Grill

Safety information

* Do not walk in extreme weather conditions.

* In winter, make sure the road is free from snow and ice.

* If you travel with children, be careful at the waterfall section. The path is wet and can be slippery.

Tips and hints

For a good overview and an ideal orientation on-site, we recommend downloading the Outdootactive app before leaving. The app allows you to view your position to help you stay on track.

Start

Shuttle stop #5 – Zion Lodge (1,310 m)

Coordinates:

37.251806, -112.956200

DMS

37°15'06.5"N 112°57'22.3"W

UTM

12S 326511 4124599

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Turn-by-turn directions

Get off the shuttle at the fifth stop, Zion Lodge. Follow the signs to the beginning of the route (the route does not go directly downhill from the station, but you have to cross the road and walk a few meters). Follow the path and enjoy the view. Follow the same way back. As this is a one-way trail, the walking time is only estimated from the starting point to the Emerald Pool.

Note

all notes on protected areas

Public transport

The starting point can be reached during spring, summer and fall by the park's internal shuttle service. To access this route, get off at the fifth stop of the Zion National Park Lodge.

Parking

From spring to fall, you should park your car in the parking lot at the entrance of the National Park (where the main visitor center is located) and continue from there with the park's (free) shuttle.

Coordinates

37.251806, -112.956200

DMS

37°15'06.5"N 112°57'22.3"W

UTM

12S 326511 4124599

w3w

///resize.communal.relishes

Show on Map

Arrival by train, car, foot or bike

Book recommendations for this region:

All publications

Equipment

hiking daypack (approx. 20 liters) with rain cover, comfortable and sturdy footwear, adequate and durable outdoor clothing in multiple layers, telescope sticks if necessary, sun and rain protection, snacks and drinking water, first aid kit, penknife, mobile phone, headlight if necessary, maps

The most beautiful hikes in Zion National Park