Our last destination will be Zion National Park in Utah. I will be traveling here with my family this summer. The western part of the United States has always piqued my interest because of its majestic natural formations. The landscape is incomparable to the forests and greenery that occupy the East Coast. I had my first experience out west in my junior year of high school when I played in a soccer tournament in Arizona. I was left in awe and knew I would find my way back when I had more time to explore the many parks and trails that are located in Arizona, Utah, and Colorado.
We will be flying into Las Vegas, which is an experience in itself. The Los Vegas Strip is home to world-class casinos, restaurants, and amazing architecture. We will only have a few hours in Vegas, but I am excited to see the vibrant nightlife. One of my family’s favorite activities, when we visit a new place, is to people-watch. It sparks hilarious conversation and has turned into some of our best memories. I am also very excited to try Saint Honore Doughnuts. They are couture, brioche-style doughnuts that went viral on TikTok.
After leaving Las Vegas, we will embark on the scenic 2.5-hour drive to Zion. The first, and most terrifying hike we will be doing is Angels Landing. To complete this hike you have to apply for a permit, because of the limited amount of people allowed on the trail each day.
The narrow width of the trail is a major safety concern, so the park regulates the number of hikers on the trail at a designated time. It is a 5.4-mile hike that has an elevation gain of 1,488 feet. Many sections of the hike have no barriers between the trail and the immediate drop-off. I would not recommend this trail to anyone who is scared of heights. If you can overcome the steep drop-offs, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the canyon below.
The next famous hike we will be completing is the narrows. As the name suggests, this hike features the narrowest sections of the Zion Canyon. As you walk through the hollowed-out sections, the walls of the canyon tower hundreds of feet above. There are sections of the hike where the gorge is only 20-30 feet wide. The trail we will be following is also the Virgin River, so it is important to wear shoes and apparel that are suitable for hiking through water.
Most hikers begin at the Temple of Sinawava, which is a natural amphitheater that was formed by the Virgin River. This hike can be tailored to whatever length is desired, as there are many places to exit along the river. It is possible to hike 10 miles from the Temple of Sinawava to Big Spring without a permit. The best time to embark on this hike is summer and early fall, due to the low water levels. Happy traveling!
Ali, I actually went to Zion National Park and Las Vegas last summer with my family, and it was absolutely amazing! In Las Vegas, make sure you go and see the Bellagio Water Show. It was one of my favorite parts about visiting Las Vegas, and it is definitely an experience you will never forget. I have always loved Celine Dion, and the fountains always perform to one of her songs. It was fantastic. When my family and I went to Zion National Park last summer, we actually did a hike at Angels Landing. I thought it was terrifying, but it was a once in a lifetime experience. I would definitely do it again. The rest of your trip sounds amazing! I hope that you have a great time!
Wow, this looks like it will be so much fun! First, I hope you have a great time. Secondly, I agree with you that the landscapes on the West Coast are incomparable to the East Coast. Even just going to California, it was so beautiful, and truly makes you feel like you are in a completely new environment (if that makes any sense). Your trip sounds amazing, and I’d love to be able to experience this once too.