About The Emerald Pools -------------------
The emerald pools are one of Zion’s most famous attractions, and rightfully so. The views on this trail are truly like no other, especially when the waterfalls are flowing. The pools get their name from the green algae that grows in the glistening water of the pools. This trail offers incredible views of the canyon as well as unique rock formations. It is also one of the most popular hikes in Zion, so do it early in the morning if you can!
How To Get There
To access this trail during the regular season, you must enter Zion National Park through the Springdale entrance. From March – November, you must take the shuttle bus since Zion Canyon Road is not open to cars during this time of year. Using the shuttle easy and free, and offers beautiful views along the way. The trailhead is at stop #6 (the Grotto), about a 25 minute shuttle ride from the visitor center. From December – February, the shuttles do not run, which means the road is open to cars and you can drive to the Grotto parking lot yourself. This means you can enter from Springdale or the East entrance.
Best Time To Visit
The Kayenta trail is accessible all year, unless a winter storm causes road closures. This trail is definitely most popular in the summer when everyone is on vacation, but the weather tends to be very hot. The trail has some shade, but the heat can be very draining while hiking. I think the best time to do this hike is either in the spring when the waterfalls are flowing the most, or November when the leaves of all the trees and shrubs change to beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow. As for time of day, the trail is least crowded early in the morning and the early morning sun creates a beautiful glow on the canyon. I think this is the best time to go in order to enjoy the pools to the fullest.
Fees
Entrance to the park cost $35 for a private vehicle, $30 for a motorcycle, or $20 per person on foot. You can purchase your pass at any of the Zion visitor centers (Kolob or Springdale), or at the east entrance, and the pass will be valid for 7 days. America the Beautiful pass is accepted as well, and can be purchased for $80/year at the visitor centers.
What To Pack
Sturdy hiking shoes – these are a must on most trails, but they are especially helpful on this trail. Once you arrive to the pools, the ground can be wet, and may cause slipping. The lower emerald pools area is usually the wettest.
Plenty of water – always bring more water than you think you need. Although the shade on some parts of this trail will protect you from the sun, dehydration is still a risk. There is also water available at the visitor center.
Park map or downloadable map – this trail is very well maintained and easy to follow, but it is always good to have a map for the rare occasion you get lost. There is not much reception in the park, so make sure the map is downloaded and does not require internet connection.
Snacks – while this is not a must, the upper emerald pool is a great area for having lunch or a snack. There is plenty of space and large rocks to sit on and take in the view. Remember to pick up all of your trash and leave no trace!
Overview
Length: 2.4 miles
Difficulty: moderate
Elevation gain: 629 feet
Trail Type: Out & back
Estimated time: 2 hours – 2 hours 30 mins
Dogs? No, dogs are only allowed on paved areas of national parks, and this trail is mostly sand and rocks. This rule is for the protection of your pet and the protection of local plants and animals.
Detailed Walkthrough
The trail begins at the sixth shuttle stop, the Grotto. You will cross a small bridge over the Virgin River and take a left where the trail splits. The trail to the right will take you to the challenging West Rim Trail and Angel’s Landing. Take a left and the dirt and rock trail moderately inclines along the side of the canyon. Take in the spectacular views of the entire canyon, then Virgin River, and the Cottonwood trees. This trail is one of my favorites because of the views along the entire trail.
At approximately .8 miles in, you will reach the split to go to the lower emerald pool. Follow the signs down to the pool, which in my opinion, is the most impressive of the three pools. It is a cave-like structure above you, and most of the time, there is a waterfall with flowing water from the middle pool above. Walking behind the flowing water feels unreal! Be cautious when hiking in this area since the trail gets a little bit steep going down and is almost always wet. It can be slippery, so take your time going down.
Middle Emerald Pool in September
Upper Emerald Pool in September
Lower Emerald Pool in September
After you have taken in the stunning views of the lower emerald pools, head back in the direction you came until you reach the split again. Then follow the trail and the signs up towards the middle and upper pools. The middle pool is rather small, but it is on the way to the upper pool and only about .1 mile from the trail split. To get to the upper pool, continue past the middle pool and hike up a moderate-strenuous incline for about .2 miles. You will see a huge sandstone canyon wall with a pool of clear water at the bottom. It is an amazing view, and if you are able to visit after a heavy rainstorm or snowmelt, you will see a waterfall flowing from 360 feet above.
Notes + Tips
- No swimming is allowed in the pools in order to preserve them and keep them clean.
- The pools are the most full and waterfalls flow the most in the spring after snowmelt. They will be the driest in the late summer.
- This trail is very family friendly, just be aware of the few steep, wet spots that may require some extra caution.
- This is one of Zion’s most popular hikes so I highly recommend doing it as early as possible to beat the crowds.
- The Kayenta trail continues past the lower pool all the way to the Zion Lodge (shuttle stop #5), if you would like to extend the hike and see more amazing canyon views.
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