There’s a lot to see during a stay at Zion Wildflower Resort. At the resort, you can spend a day enjoying amenities like our beautiful pool, complimentary bikes, campfires, and more. After you leave your Zion cabin for the day, you can day trip to nearby Utah state parks and even national parks like Bryce Canyon. In the winter, you can enjoy snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.
Of course, one of the most popular activities to enjoy during a stay in one of the best hotels Zion has to offer is actually visiting Zion National Park. From taking a ride on the Zion Canyon Shuttle to learning about the history of the park at the visitor center, there’s plenty to fill your time. But the best way to take in the views is with a hike.
Zion National Park is home to some incredible hiking trails. While Angels Landing or The Narrows might be the park’s most famous and popular, they can also draw a crowd, especially on busy days. Luckily, there are tons of other trails to choose from during your stay. If you’re looking for the best overlooked, uncrowded trails to enjoy during your Zion cabin stay, keep reading to learn some of our favorites.
Pine Creek Waterfall Trail
Some of the overlooked trails on this list are as challenging as The Narrows or Angels Landing. After all, a long, difficult trail is less likely to draw a crowd than shorter, easier trails like Riverside Walk or other family-friendly hikes. But there are some shorter trails that are still perfect for a moderate afternoon hike.
Pine Creek Waterfall is one great option. Ideal for beginners, hikers young and old, or those just looking for an easier stroll, the trail is just .7 miles out and back. It is a scenic trail though, and you’ll need to climb over a few boulders and zig zag down a rough trail. However, you’ll wind up at a green, wet oasis that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
To find this somewhat hidden trailhead, enter the park at the South Entrance, then continue for 1.5 miles. There you’ll reach a U-curve. On the curve, watch for the small dirt pull-off and you’ll find the start of this trail.
Cable Mountain Trail
Angels Landing draws experienced hikers from around the world looking to experience the trail’s incredible views and harrowing ridgeline walk. Even the trail’s more challenging elements haven’t been enough to keep the crowds away. The new permit and lottery system was implemented to help with crowding. But if you don’t get a permit, or want to try a different challenging trail during your stay at Angels Landing hotels, you have a few options.
Hikers looking for an even greater challenge can head to Cable Mountain. You’ll start at the Weeping Rock Trailhead, then connect to the challenging Cable Mountain Trail. From here, the trail is 15 miles roundtrip. Alternatively, you can also begin this trail at the East Entrance to the park, which turns the hike into an 18-mile round-trip trek.
This trail isn’t for the inexperienced hiker. It’s rated Strenuous, with over 2,400 feet of elevation gain if you hike from the Weeping Rock Trailhead and 1,000 feet from the East Entrance Trailhead. But make it to the top and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the valley below, as well as a glimpse into the history of the park. The trail gets its name from the remnants of the old cable system that’s still visible. The cable system once carried lumber off of the mountain and into the canyon below. Built in 1901, it was abandoned in 1930 and has been sitting nearly untouched ever since.
Taylor Creek Trail
A more in-between trail in terms of difficulty and length than Pine Creek Waterfall or Cable Mountain, Taylor Creek Trail is 5 miles roundtrip and moderately difficult. Unlike the other two trail options, Taylor Creek offers views of one of the park’s most popular landmarks; an arch. On this trail, you’ll get a great view of the Double Arch Alcove. This is perfect for snapping some pictures without worrying about throngs of tourists getting in the way.
Taylor Creek Trail is located in Kolob Canyon, the westernmost section of Zion. The distance from the entrance gate, as well as the lack of facilities that the rest of the park has to offer, like shuttles, the Lodge, and campgrounds, make Kolob Canyon one of the least visited parts of Zion.
Choosing the Best Hikes for Your Zion Cabin Stay
If you’re looking to get away from the crowds while camping near Zion or enjoying a stay in a Zion cabin, these trails are a great choice. While some rival the difficulty of Angels Landing, others offer an easy hike anyone can enjoy.
If you’re thinking about glamping in national parks for your next vacation, Zion Wildflower Resort is a great place to start. With all of the fun of a glamping adventure, and the amenities of the best hotel Zion has to offer, our resort has something for everyone. Book your stay today to see for yourself!
