Sunday, November 13, 2011

Angels Landing

Angels Landing is a 5785 foot peak in Zion National Park. The climb is a popular yet challenging hike. It is 2.5 miles up, with an elevation gain of about 1200 feet. The peak from the valley floor:


The first two miles are paved. The initial climb goes up a series of switchbacks on the south side:


Then the trail levels out as it passes between two peaks:


The paved trail then continues up an amazing series of switchbacks known as Walter's Wiggles:


Scout Lookout is at the top of Walter's Wiggles. Here the paved trail comes to an end. The trail now leads to the summit from the north across a narrow ridge. In a few places the trail is only 2-3 feet wide. There are chains to grasp in many places.


We made it!



Looking down on the Organ and the Virgin River:


Looking down on the Big Bend parking lot (the Organ is just to the right outside the photo):


Looking north toward the Temple of Sinawava and the Narrows:


Looking south down Zion Valley:


We hiked from Zion Lodge, visible in the photo above if you magnify it. A super hike!