Pros & cons
PROS
- Point‑to‑point via Kayenta and Lower lets you avoid backtracking and finish at the Lodge.
- After storms, a dramatic seasonal waterfall can plunge into the Upper Pool alcove.
CONS
- Late summer often brings low flow and underwhelming waterfalls.
- Sandy, rocky final spur sees frequent slips; footing can be frustrating in busy crowds.
Use the Zion Canyon Shuttle to Zion Lodge (Stop 5) or The Grotto (Stop 6). When the shuttle is not operating in winter, you may drive to the trailheads.
Do not enter the pools; fragile habitat. Expect sandy over rock, uneven stone steps, and some exposure on Kayenta. Wet alcove rock is slick; ice possible in winter. Verify day‑of for any footbridge or trail junction closures.
Overview
Upper Emerald Pools caps Zion’s classic Emerald Pools network with a quiet, sandy alcove tucked beneath sheer canyon walls. Expect a moderate outing with some steeper, sandy and rocky steps near the end. Most visitors link trails for a 2.5–3.0 mile total (loop or point‑to‑point), with roughly 400–600 feet of gain depending on your route. The final spur to the Upper Pool itself is short (about 0.3 miles one way) but feels steeper and is where footing gets trickiest.
Route Options
- From Zion Lodge (Stop 5): Cross the footbridge and take the Lower Emerald Pool path to waterfalls under a sandstone alcove, then continue up through Middle to the Upper Pool. Return the same way or complete a loop back to the Lodge.
- From The Grotto (Stop 6) via Kayenta: A more scenic traverse with airy canyon views and drop‑offs leads to the Emerald Pools junctions; many hikers go up via Kayenta to the Upper Pool, then descend via Lower to the Lodge and catch the shuttle. This avoids backtracking and pairs big views with waterfalls.
What You’ll See
The Upper Pool sits in a dramatic amphitheater beneath towering cliffs and Heaps Canyon. After storms or in spring runoff, seasonal waterfalls can pour into the alcove; during late‑summer drought, expect low water and only a trickle. Along the way, look for seeps where groundwater emerges from sandstone layers, creating alcoves and delicate riparian pockets. Views across Zion Canyon take in prominent walls like Lady Mountain and the Great White Throne.
Best Times to Hike
Year‑round, but go early morning or late afternoon in warm months for cooler temps and fewer crowds. Waterfalls impress most after rain or during spring runoff; late summer is driest. Winter can be beautiful and quieter—just watch for ice on shaded stone steps and wet alcove rock. Light is softest for photos early and late; midday can be harsh and hot with limited shade on exposed sections.
Logistics and Tips
Most of the year the Zion Canyon Shuttle is required to reach Zion Lodge or The Grotto. Restrooms and water are available at both. Bring plenty of water (natural pools/seeps are not potable). Trekking poles help on sandy, uneven steps, especially on the final climb. The pools are a fragile wildlife water source—do not swim or wade. If you prefer fewer crowds, start early, consider the Kayenta approach, and keep breaks short at busy junctions.
Safety and Closures
Footing varies from hard rock to soft sand with uneven stone steps; expect short steep pitches and some exposure on Kayenta. Hikers report frequent slips and minor injuries here—slow down, wear good footwear, and avoid slick wet rock under alcoves. In winter, carry traction if ice is possible. Trail signage can feel confusing near junctions; review the route beforehand. Access points (like the Lodge footbridge) occasionally close or detour—check current conditions the morning of your hike.
Elevation
2.6 mi · 1.5 hrWhere it starts
37.2511, -112.9593Near Upper Emerald Pools Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayLower Emerald Pool TrailEasy paved stroll to a shaded alcove and seasonal fallsEasy · 1.4 mi · 36 min
0 mi awayEmerald Pools TrailKid-friendly canyon stroll with seasonal waterfalls and ledgesModerate · 2.9 mi · 1.5 hr
0 mi awayMiddle Emerald Pools TrailShort, scenic ledge walk to slickrock pools and canyon viewsModerate · 2 mi · 1.3 hr
0 mi awayUpper Emerald PoolShady alcove pool under sheer cliffs, best after spring runoffScenic Viewpoint
0.2 mi awayZion LodgeIn-park base with trail access, views, and on-site diningLodging · Restaurant
0.2 mi awayRed Rock GrillIn-park lodge dining with canyon views and a hearty breakfast buffetRestaurant · Food
0.2 mi awayEmerald PoolsWaterfall-fed pools with easy-to-moderate canyon viewsRestroom · Parking
0.7 mi awayAngels LandingIconic, exposed ridge climb with chains and jaw-dropping canyon views.Challenging · 5.4 mi · 4.5 hr
