Hiking To The Emerald Pools In Zion National Park
The Emerald Pools Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Zion National Park in Utah.
The trail consists of three segments: the lower, middle, and upper pools, each of which offers a unique view of the surrounding landscape and geological formations.
The entire loop is around 3 miles long. It has between 500-600 feet of elevation change so it is considered a moderate hike.
I suggest starting counterclockwise because it requires a lot less climbing at the beginning of the trail.
The lower pool is the easiest segment and is accessible to hikers of all skill levels.
It is a 1.2-mile round-trip hike and the trail is relatively flat. It follows the Virgin River for a short distance before turning up into the canyon.
The lower pool is a small, tranquil pond surrounded by lush vegetation and is a popular spot for photography. There were two beautiful small waterfalls during our visit.
After snapping some pics walk beneath the waterfall (you may get damp) and continue on to the middle pool.
The middle pool offers dramatic views of the canyon and surrounding cliffs.
The middle pool is slightly more challenging to hike, with a steeper incline and more uneven terrain. The middle pool is usually a larger, deeper pool fed by a waterfall (it was barely flowing during our visit though).
The upper pool is the most challenging segment of the trail, with steep switchbacks and rocky terrain. You may get your heartbeat racing during the climb but the payoff is completely worth it.
The upper pool is a secluded oasis surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs.
A waterfall cascades down into the pool from the canyon far above. The whole area is beautiful and views on the climb up are pretty incredible too.
The Emerald Pools Loop Trail was our favorite hike in the park.
The waterfalls and pools were great and the views during the whole hike were amazing.
Note that these waterfalls are mostly seasonal and while they may have strong flow during spring during the drier summer months, they may be down to a trickle.
You must use the shuttle system provided by the park to access the trailhead for the hike.
You can reach the trailhead at Zion Lodge which is stop #5.
Exit the shuttle and follow the sidewalk across the road and you will find the trailhead near the horse corral.
