Zion National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering memorable trails and natural wonders. Among its many gems, the Emerald Pools Trail is a must-do hike, leading visitors to a desert oasis with sparkling pools, cascading waterfalls, and stunning canyon views. The journey starts by crossing the Virgin River via a footbridge and winds into a sandstone amphitheater with a series of three pools: Lower, Middle, and Upper. This guide covers everything you need to know to explore the Emerald Pools.
About the Emerald Pools Hiking Trails
Distance: 1.2 miles round trip to the Lower Pool, 2 miles round trip to the Middle and Lower Pools); and a 3-mile loop to hike to all three pools
Hiking Time: About 1.5 hours for the entire loop
Difficulty: Easy (Lower Pool); Moderate (Middle and Upper Pools)
Trailhead: Zion Canyon Shuttle, Zion Lodge (Stop #5)
You can tailor your adventure to suit your experience and time. Choose a 1.2-mile round trip to the Lower Pool, a 2-mile loop to the Middle and Lower Pools, or a 3-mile trek to see all three. The path to the Lower Pool is wide and accessible, perfect for young children, strollers, and wheelchairs (with some assistance). If you’re up for a more adventurous hike, the trail from the Middle to Upper Pool offers a moderate climb over sand and rock, rewarding you with stunning views of Lady Mountain, the Great White Throne, Red Arch Mountain, and towering cliffs. Let’s take a closer look at each segment of the trail.
Lower Emerald Pool Trail
Distance: 1.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Route: Paved and accessible with railings
The Lower Emerald Pool Trail is perfect for those seeking a gentle, family-friendly hike in Zion. This 1.2-mile round trip hike allows visitors to experience the magic of Zion’s landscapes with ease. Along the way, you’ll encounter a seasonal waterfall cascading over the cliff, trickling into the pool below, and even passing behind the misting falls. The reflective water and surrounding lush greenery are stunning, especially in the early morning light, making this an ideal way to start your day in the park.
Middle Emerald Pool Trail
Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Route: Unpaved sandstone
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Middle Emerald Pools Trail is accessible from the Lower Emerald Pool Trail. After crossing behind the waterfall, follow the signs and stairs leading to expansive views of Zion Canyon. As you wind up the path, you’ll reach a vantage point overlooking the lower pool and the canyon. Seasonal waterfalls create a striking contrast against the sandstone cliffs, while the calm waters of the middle pool reflect the surrounding rock formations. This section of the trail is less crowded, providing a more peaceful experience with elevated views.
Upper Emerald Pool Trail
Distance: 0.6 miles round trip (from the Middle Pool)
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Route: Steep, rugged terrain surrounded by towering cliffs
The Upper Emerald Pool Trail is the most rugged and adventurous of the three, offering stunning views for those ready for the challenge. Starting from the Middle Emerald Pool Trail, this 0.6-mile round trip leads to the largest pool at the base of towering sandstone cliffs. Though steep, sandy, and eroded in spots, the well-marked trail makes the trek worthwhile. At the Upper Pool, you’ll find steep canyon walls and a powerful seasonal waterfall, creating an ideal spot to picnic and relax. Completing the loop through the lower, middle, and upper pools offers an immersive journey through Zion’s beauty.
How to Get to Emerald Pools in Zion?
Getting to Zion’s Emerald Pools trails is easy and visitor-friendly. Hop on the free Zion Canyon Shuttle from the Visitor Center or any other shuttle stop within the park and head to Zion Lodge at stop #5 to begin your hike. You can choose between the Lower and Middle Pools trails from the trailhead, allowing you to either hike the easier Lower Pool or jump ahead to the Middle Pool section for more challenge and fewer people.
How Long is the Emerald Pools Hike at Zion?
The length of the Emerald Pools hike varies based on the sections you choose to explore. The shortest route is 1.2 miles round trip to Lower Emerald, while adding the Middle Pool extends it to 2.2 miles. For the full adventure, the entire loop covering all three pools spans up to 3 miles. The varied terrain and optional routes make this trail system suitable for all levels, allowing you to customize your experience based on your preferences and energy level.
Tips for Hiking the Emerald Pools
1. Start Early: This trail is popular, especially during summer. Begin your hike in the early morning or after 3 p.m. for a quieter experience and to beat the heat.
2. Bring Plenty of Water: No matter which trail segment you choose, the desert’s dry, hot conditions make staying hydrated essential for a safe and comfortable hike.
3. Respect the Trails: Swimming is prohibited in the pools to preserve their natural state. Stay on marked paths, and remember to leave no trace.
4. Wear Appropriate Footwear: Some sections, especially on the Upper Emerald Pools Trail, involve uneven, rocky terrain. Wear proper hiking shoes for your comfort and safety.
Where to Stay Near Zion National Park
After a day of exploring the Emerald Pools, unwind at a unique glamping retreat just minutes away from Zion National Park. Under Canvas Zion offers an upscale outdoor lodging experience that blends comfort with the beauty of the desert Southwest. Here, you’ll stay in safari-inspired tents with plush beds and ensuite bathrooms, and enjoy complimentary activities daily. Surround yourself with towering sandstone cliffs and relax under the starry sky at this DarkSky resort after a rewarding day on the trails.