Zion National Park is home to some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the American Southwest. Among them, Zion National Park waterfalls offer a refreshing reward after scenic hikes through slot canyons and desert terrain. These cascades, though seasonal, are popular highlights for visitors looking to combine hiking with the soothing presence of water. If you’re wondering where to find the best Zion National Park waterfall, this guide from the National Park Shops provides all the essential details, including difficulty, location, and optimal visiting times.
Whether you’re trekking to Emerald Pools or chasing mist along the Narrows, exploring a Zion National Park waterfall trail is both thrilling and serene. With options ranging from accessible paths to backcountry adventures, these waterfalls are must-see features for nature lovers, families, and serious hikers alike. Let’s dive into the best waterfall experiences Zion has to offer.
How many Zion National Park waterfalls are there?
While Zion isn’t typically known for towering year-round waterfalls like Yosemite, it features a remarkable array of seasonal and permanent falls. The number of Zion National Park waterfalls you’ll encounter depends greatly on the time of year and recent weather conditions. During spring snowmelt and after summer storms, waterfalls flow more dramatically and frequently across various points in the park.
On average, visitors can explore around 6 to 10 named waterfalls throughout Zion. These include the popular Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock, Archangel Falls, and several unnamed cascades in the Narrows and Kolob regions. Each Zion National Park waterfall provides a unique visual and sensory experience, shaped by the park’s diverse geology and microclimates.
Keep in mind that many waterfalls in Zion National Park are ephemeral. They may appear after heavy rainfall and vanish within hours or days, so timing your trip is key. Maps and visitor center updates can help identify active falls during your visit. Regardless of water flow, the scenic backdrop makes every Zion waterfall trail worth the effort.
Emerald Pools
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Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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Location: Zion Canyon, accessible from the Zion Lodge shuttle stop
Emerald Pools is one of the most iconic Zion National Park waterfall destinations, offering three distinct pools, Lower, Middle, and Upper, connected by scenic trails. The waterfalls that feed these pools vary in size depending on the season, but they consistently provide picturesque views framed by sandstone cliffs and lush vegetation.
The Lower Emerald Pool Trail is paved and relatively flat, making it family-friendly and wheelchair accessible. As you ascend to the Middle and Upper Pools, the hike becomes moderately more challenging but rewards you with elevated views and cascading falls. Whether you’re a casual stroller or an adventurous trekker, Emerald Pools delivers a quintessential Zion National Park waterfall experience.
During spring and early summer, the waterfalls are at their peak, making it the best time to visit. However, even in drier months, the journey offers shaded canyon walls, hanging gardens, and refreshing spray from the trickling falls. Be cautious on wet rocks, and wear sturdy hiking shoes for better traction.
Weeping Rock
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Difficulty: Easy
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Location: Zion Canyon, Weeping Rock shuttle stop
Weeping Rock is a short, steep walk that leads to one of the most unique Zion National Park waterfalls. Rather than plunging dramatically, water seeps continuously from the porous Navajo sandstone, creating a curtain-like effect over the alcove. This dripping water nourishes hanging gardens and moss-covered rock, offering a lush oasis in contrast to the arid surroundings.
Despite being a short trail, Weeping Rock delivers immense visual and geological interest. The site is especially popular in spring and after rainfall, when the flow is more pronounced. Visitors often feel cooled by the mist, a welcome break during hot desert hikes.
This Zion National Park waterfall spot is suitable for all ages and is perfect for quick scenic detours. However, the trail may be closed periodically due to rockfalls, so check with rangers before setting out. Don’t forget your camera; the filtered light and delicate greenery make Weeping Rock a favorite among photographers.
Waterfalls at Zion Narrows
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Difficulty: Strenuous
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Location: Zion Canyon, beginning at Temple of Sinawava
The Narrows is one of the most famous and adventurous hikes in Zion National Park, and home to several hidden waterfalls along the Virgin River. These waterfalls are not marked on most maps, but during wet seasons, visitors are treated to stunning cascades flowing off the narrow canyon walls. Each Zion National Park waterfall here feels like a secret, discovered only by the determined.
This trek requires hiking directly in the river, navigating slippery rocks and varying water depths. It’s crucial to check water conditions and flash flood warnings before entering the Narrows. Proper footwear, a walking stick, and dry bags are highly recommended for safety.
Most hikers explore the bottom-up route from Temple of Sinawava, spotting small waterfalls within the first few miles. The deeper you venture, the more likely you are to encounter multiple Zion National Park waterfalls gushing after rain. For a true wilderness experience, this hike delivers both solitude and the soothing sound of rushing water.
Temple of Sinawava
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Difficulty: Easy
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Location: End of Zion Canyon Scenic Drive
Temple of Sinawava marks the starting point of the Riverside Walk and is home to a lesser-known yet beautiful Zion National Park waterfall. After heavy rains or during spring runoff, water often tumbles down the cliffs near the start of the trail, creating a vibrant and dramatic scene. Though not always flowing, when active, these falls add an extra element of wonder to the trailhead.
The Riverside Walk itself is a paved, 2-mile round-trip hike that follows the Virgin River, making it accessible for families and visitors of all ability levels. Along the way, keep an eye out for dripping alcoves, lush vegetation, and trickling streams that feed into the river.
This area is ideal for casual exploration and offers a sneak peek into the beauty of the Narrows beyond. If you're lucky enough to catch a Zion National Park waterfall flowing at the Temple of Sinawava, take the time to savor the moment, it’s a perfect introduction to Zion’s watery wonders.
Archangel Falls Near the Subway
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Difficulty: Strenuous
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Location: Left Fork Trailhead (Subway route)
Archangel Falls is a stunning Zion National Park waterfall located along the Subway hike, an iconic slot canyon trek known for its tubular rock formations. This terraced cascade features crystal-clear water spilling over wide, flat rocks, creating a surreal and otherworldly scene. Archangel Falls appears about two-thirds into the Left Fork of North Creek route and serves as a visual highlight before reaching the Subway's famous tunnel section.
Due to its remote location, this hike requires a wilderness permit and strong route-finding skills. The trail involves river crossings, steep descents, and boulder scrambling. However, the effort is worth it for those seeking a challenging adventure and the chance to witness one of the most unique Zion National Park waterfalls.
The best time to see Archangel Falls is late spring through early fall when water levels are manageable but still flowing. Wear appropriate footwear and bring extra water and layers, as conditions can change quickly. Photography enthusiasts will find this waterfall especially rewarding in early morning light.
When can I see Waterfalls in Zion?
Timing is crucial when planning to see a Zion National Park waterfall, as most of the park’s cascades are seasonal. The best time to witness flowing waterfalls is during spring, typically from March through May, when snowmelt increases water volume across the canyons. This is when falls like Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock, and Archangel Falls are most active and visually striking.
Summer brings monsoon rains that can trigger short-lived but dramatic waterfalls. While this can be breathtaking, it also increases the risk of flash floods, especially in areas like the Narrows. Always check the National Park Service’s weather updates and flood risk reports before venturing into narrow canyons.
Autumn usually sees reduced water flow but milder weather, making for pleasant hiking conditions. Winter may bring frozen waterfalls and icy trails, offering a completely different Zion National Park waterfall experience, ideal for experienced hikers with proper gear.
No matter the season, there’s always the potential to see at least one Zion National Park waterfall. Consult park rangers or the visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions and water levels before heading out.
Best Waterfall Trails in Zion National Park
If you're seeking the best waterfall hikes, Zion offers a diverse range of trails suited for different experience levels. Below are top-rated options for discovering a breathtaking Zion National Park waterfall:
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Emerald Pools Trail (Easy to Moderate): A scenic loop featuring three different waterfall-fed pools.
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Weeping Rock Trail (Easy): Short and steep, ideal for quick access to a dripping cliffside oasis.
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Riverside Walk and Narrows (Moderate to Strenuous): Includes hidden waterfalls throughout the canyon walls.
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Subway via Left Fork Trail (Strenuous): Leads to Archangel Falls and the famous tubular Subway formation.
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Kolob Arch via La Verkin Creek Trail (Strenuous): Though less known for waterfalls, it includes seasonal falls near side canyons.
Each trail offers a unique way to experience a Zion National Park waterfall, from family-friendly strolls to technical slot canyon adventures. Plan your route based on trail difficulty, weather conditions, and how much time you have. No matter which path you choose, the reward is always spectacular.
Conclusion
Zion National Park waterfalls offer a magical contrast to the desert cliffs and arid terrain that define this iconic park. Whether it’s the misty curtains of Weeping Rock or the terraced cascades of Archangel Falls, each Zion National Park waterfall adds a refreshing and visually stunning element to your hiking experience.
By visiting in the right season, choosing the appropriate trail, and preparing accordingly, you can enjoy some of the most beautiful natural water features in the Southwest. From easy-access walks to epic backcountry journeys, there’s a Zion National Park waterfall for every type of adventurer. Pack your camera, stay safe, and let the beauty of flowing water guide your exploration of this incredible landscape.