One of Zion National Park’s most popular, and heavily used, trails will undergo routine maintenance during the first week of October.
Trail crews will be working on very steep terrain along the Angels Landing Trail. In order to take all safety precautions, including preventing rocks from falling on visitors on the West Rim Trail below, the park must close both trails to all visitors while work is performed.
Angels Landing Trail will close Monday, October 2, at 7 a.m. The West Rim Trail will also close at that time between the Trailhead at the Grotto and Scout Lookout. Thru hikers on the West Rim Trail will not be allowed to pass Scout Lookout until after 1 p.m. that day. The West Rim Trail will be open to thru hikers, the rest of the week. The Kayenta Trail will remain open. Alternate suggested hikes during this closure are Observation Point, or Hidden Canyon Trails.
During the closure, the Zion trail crew will be performing recurring maintenance, which includes: replacing guide posts and worn sections of chain; removing litter and graffiti; and re-shaping some of the steps chiseled into the sandstone. The Trail will re-open Saturday morning, October 7, at 7 a.m.
Comments
I hiked to the top a few years ago with an 80 year old friend. I think it should be a one way trail past Scouts Landing as meeting those going the opposite way required letting go of the chain. I also think hikers should be warned that if both feet slip they will not have the strength to hold on to the chain. Beyond that I hope it remains open for everyone wanting to do it as it is a wondrful experience. Hope to do it agin when I am 90.
I recall a sign at the visitor center stating that something like 6 or 8 people had died on the trail in the last 10-15 years.I forget the details. I was surprised how few had perished, especially considering how poorly prepared many of the hikers are. When I hiked it, I was surprised to see kids climbing with no water, some in flip flops etc.
I think I was wrong about making it one way. It is not a loop trail at the top. Sorry for the misinformation but I do remember it being very crowded in places.