08/06/2026
The Angel's Landing Adventure
One of my most exciting adventures, probably my favorite, was my hike to the top of Angel's Landing in Zion National Park last November. If you haven't done this, you MUST add it to your bucket list as it is one of the most amazing things you can do.
It was a two day adventure for me as I didn't have all the details. I started on November 11th (Veteran's Day) and since I didn't know much about the trek, I wanted to check out AL. I didn't have my lottery pass yet so I figured I could at least get close to AL in case I didn't win my ticket for the next day.
The challenge started with some path switchbacks--the path is nice, but steep, BTW. I thought these were the famous "Walter's Wiggles" but nooo. I got to the top of them only do discover a nice canyon that opened up to the "real" Wiggles. Once you've mustered enough energy to get to the top of them, you are at the base of Angel's Landing.
I got there after 5pm and since I didn't know if I'd be back the next day, I started to head up AL. The rangers had gone home for the day so nobody was checking tickets. I didn't go too far up--only enough to say I did it. I could see that it was very crowded at the top because of the holiday. I took some picks and headed back down the steep path.
Well, we got back to our campsite and I applied for the lottery and won a ticket for the 12th--wheeee! I got up earlier this time and road the bus to the AL dropoff. Since I knew my way this time, I didn't have too many surprises. Yes, doing this hike two days in a row is a challenge for a 62-YO!
I got to the base of AL and there were hardly any people this time. Word of advice--avoid the NP's on holiday!! The rangers checked me in (they had my name) and I started up the steep path.
I'm not afraid of heights but looking down 2000' on the sheer cliffs with only a chain to save you does give you an "interesting" feeling. I didn't have to pass too many people. There are places where you have to share the chains with up/down peeps. There was one spot, about 15' wide, where there were no chains with the drops on both sides. There was a tree in the middle (see my photo) and I was a bit uneasy and did some tree hugging at that point.
I got to the top and there were only about six of us who sat and enjoyed the view. It was very private and quiet as we all spread out quite a bit to find our own viewing spots. The weather was perfectly calm and the views were amazing. The November weather was MUCH nicer than being here in the summer. It can get extremely hot in Zion so if you go then, prepare accordingly.
I enjoyed my time at the top and shared it with some chipmunks who wanted to get my sandwich in my backpack. On both days, I encountered some mountain goats in the same spot. It is amazing how they can walk on the steep cliffs.
Folks, this was an adventure I will never forget. If you can do this, I think you will agree--it is a "don't miss" item for your bucket list. Yes, it is the most dangerous hike in the US and someone just died this year, but it isn't that bad and if you are careful, you will survive.
If you have done this, please share your stories with me. If you haven't done it and you have questions, I'd be more than happy to get you some answers/details.
It was so much fun that I will do this again in the future. Zion has so many things to offer. We found a nice boondocking spot for our motorhome outside of the park so it was easy to drive in and park to catch the shuttles for the park. Note that they shuttles are much needed as parking is a challenge here--even in the off-season.
Happy adventures peeps. I look forward to your comments. :) -Kyle-
