Kayenta Trail

Kayenta Trail is a 1.4-mile out-and-back from The Grotto to the junctions with the Lower and Upper Emerald Pools trails, about 0.7 mile each way. Allow about two hours for the climb and view stops. The mapped Kayenta corridor is 0.66 mile one way, while a current park trail page lists 0.9 mile one way, so published totals differ. This entry follows Kayenta to the pool-trail junction and does not add the separate pool walks. It is moderate, but long drop-offs beside the ledge make the exposure more serious than the mileage suggests.

From shuttle stop 6 at The Grotto, use the crosswalk, cross the Virgin River bridge, and turn left up the sandstone steps. The trail follows the river before climbing along a ledge. In the first half mile, views open south over Zion Canyon, past Zion Lodge toward Mount Moroni and the Watchman. Look back down-canyon as the river comes into view; it gives the walls scale. The Kayenta route ends where the Emerald Pools paths branch, so turn around there for the hike in this guide.

Most of the tread is firm soil, with harder rock or concrete sections and steps. Expect a steady climb with short steep pitches. Long drop-offs border parts of the route, so stay on the tread and keep children close. The short distance is no reason to push on if ledge exposure makes you uncomfortable.

Shaded rock near the pool-side connections can seep water and support maidenhair ferns. Any trickle varies with the season; the Lower and Upper Emerald Pools approaches continue on separate trails and add distance. Water and restrooms are available at The Grotto, and pets are not allowed on Kayenta.