Hiking Emerald Pools
Zion
Overview
One of the more popular trails in Zion, Emerald Pools is one I would highly recommend as a first hike in the park. From the trailhead, the trail visits several Emerald Pools, as well as waterfalls that connect the pools. The short distance and easy walking make this a good family outing as well.
The main destination is the Lower Emerald Pool and waterfall. I would recommend most to continue to the Upper Emerald Pool. The upper pool is situated in a towering sandstone amphitheater that is dazzling.
Like all popular park trails, this one is crowded. It gets morning/afternoon sun and evening shade. If visiting in the summer, an evening or early morning visit is perfect. In the winter, morning and afternoon offer great light.
Getting There
The trailhead is the Zion Lodge Shuttle stop in the main Zion canyon. During spring, summer, and fall months, the Zion shuttle is the only way to access the trailhead. If the shutte isn't running, park at the lodge.
Route
The hike can be started at the Zion Lodge, or the Grotto Trailhead just up the road from the Lodge. If starting from the Lodge, the trail to the lower pool is shorter (0.6 miles one way). From the Grotto trailhead, it is about a mile one way. Once at the lower pool, add another 0.6 miles one way to the Upper Emerald Pool.
My recommendation is to start at the Grotto Trailhead, go left after crossing the bridge. Follow this to the Upper Emerald Pools, then return via the Lower Emerald Pools and Lodge Trailhead. This makes for a nice hike with a little bit more distance to it.
Families or those with less motivation will enjoy an out-and-back hike to the Lower Emerald Pool from from the Lodge Trailhead.
Maps
| Grotto Trailhead |
12S 326959E 4125416N 37°15'33"N 112°57'05"W |
| Lodge Trailhead |
12S 326349E 4124505N 37°15'03"N 112°57'29"W |
| Lodge Bridge Jct |
12S 326237E 4124530N 37°15'04"N 112°57'33"W |
| Grotto Bridge Jct |
12S 326942E 4125497N 37°15'36"N 112°57'06"W |
| Lower Pool |
12S 325955E 4125207N 37°15'26"N 112°57'45"W |
| Upper Junction |
12S 325943E 4125260N 37°15'28"N 112°57'46"W |
| Upper Pool |
12S 325585E 4125234N 37°15'26"N 112°58'00"W |