Emerald Pools

Emerald Pools is a chain of Lower, Middle, and Upper pools tucked beneath Zion Canyon's sandstone cliffs, with seasonal waterfalls and footpaths joining the three. Lower's alcove and falling water are the signature stop; the higher pools add a steeper walk and open canyon views. If you're short on time or don't want much climbing, go to Lower and turn back. Keep going if you want a fuller hike through the whole set.

The Lodge-side route to Lower follows a rough paved trail; the National Park Service estimates one to two hours. Middle is a moderate 2.2-mile round trip that starts with a steep climb up an unpaved sandstone ledge. Upper continues from the junction on stone steps and sandy trail to the pool's shore. The upper routes are moderate, and each adds more climbing and rougher footing, so don't treat this as one easy stroll.

These are seasonal falls, not a guaranteed waterfall show. Visitors often report more flow in spring or after rain, while the pools can be low and the cascades thin in drier weather. Lower is also the most crowded stretch of the complex. If the water is quiet, the alcove and striped cliff are still the main reason to keep walking.

Zion's Navajo Sandstone began as desert dunes; streams later cut the canyon through those thick layers. Water moves through the sandstone and along the less-permeable Kayenta layer, then seeps out at canyon walls. That's the broader geology behind Zion's springs and cliffside water, though no single source was identified for each pool. Flow here changes with rain and snowmelt.

The pools are fragile and an important water source for wildlife. Swimming and entering the pools are prohibited. Stay on the path and back from the cliff edges.

The steep opening climb toward Middle gives you an expansive view down Zion Canyon. Farther up, the route passes beneath tall walls with Lady Mountain and the Great White Throne among the landmarks in view. Upper Pool ends at a sandy shore under the cliffs. For a Lower Falls photo, step back enough to fit both the cascade and its overhanging alcove in the frame; the white water is easy to lose against the red wall.

The usual starting point is across from Zion Lodge at shuttle stop 5, over the pedestrian bridge to the trails. The bridge reopened in 2025 after it was moved upstream and rebuilt. From The Grotto at stop 6, the moderate Kayenta Trail connects to the Emerald Pools junction. During shuttle season, private cars can't drive Zion Canyon Scenic Drive; the park shuttle is free and doesn't require a ticket or reservation. Public restrooms and water refills are at the Lodge and The Grotto, not at the pools, so fill up before you set off. Pets aren't allowed on the trails.