Many Pools

Overview

Many Pools (aka East Root Canal) is an unofficial slickrock wander in Zion’s upper East Canyon where a shallow wash climbs through Navajo Sandstone peppered with natural pothole “desert tanks.” It’s a quiet alternative to the canyon’s headline trails—short, scenic, and surprisingly peaceful.

What You’ll See

• A sandy wash that turns to rolling slickrock ramps dotted with ephemeral pools.
• Cross‑bedded sandstone and broad, open views; a small slot-like section appears around a mile in.
• After rains or during spring runoff, the pools can brim with reflections and tiny aquatic life.

Route at a Glance

Plan on 1.6–2.1 miles round trip with roughly 400–600 feet of gain to the common turnaround. Walking is mostly easy, with occasional short scrambles and a dryfall bypass. Strong hikers can push farther up the drainage toward the East Rim/near Deertrap Mountain, but that extension becomes strenuous with bushwhacking and is best left to experienced parties.

Getting There & Amenities

The parking pullout sits on the south side of SR‑9 on the park’s east side, roughly a mile east of the smaller tunnel. From the lot, carefully walk a short way along the road and drop into the drainage, or take the brushier use path through a culvert under the road into the wash. Expect vault toilets at the pullout, but no potable water or services.

Best Time to Visit

Hit it after recent rain or in spring for the namesake pools; by late summer many are dry. Winter and early spring can be excellent when other trails are icy, but it’s still mostly full sun—start early or go late for cooler temps and softer light.

Wildlife

Keep an eye out for lizards around the warm rock, and you may spot frogs or even bighorn sheep in the area. The pools themselves can host tadpoles—look, don’t touch.

Safety & Trail Etiquette

This is an unmarked, unmaintained route: bring plenty of water, sun protection, and a downloaded map, and be ready for basic route‑finding. Avoid storms—open drainages can flash. Protect the fragile pothole ecosystems by staying on durable rock/sand and avoiding stepping or wading in water‑filled pools. No permit is required for the standard out‑and‑back.