Angel Landing - is it the most Dangerous hike in the US?

It depends

Angels Landing is a one of the most awe inspiring day hikes I've been on. It's known for being one of the most dangerous and also one of the most popular hikes in the states at only 2.5 miles to the summit but with around 1500 ft of elevation gain. It's steep, beautiful and a bit sketchy in places.

This well-known hike in Zion National Park and its lofty summit was cut out of the steep, rock-solid spine in 1926 giving adventure seekers a 360 degree view of the park and canyon below. A thick heavy chain follows the spine near the top for safety, but if heights are not your thing, it will take a double-dose of courage to make it to the top landing.

Is it dangerous? it can be. But from reading reports, most people that have fallen are doing something they shouldn’t be doing. Going off season and before sunrise is generally less crowded which will make for a much more enjoyable and safer hike.

Starting April 1 of 2022 you'll need a permit to do this hike, or at least the chain section. Click here to find out how to apply.

To secure a permit you'll need to plan ahead. Along with picking dates you can also choose between three time ranges. I would still choose to go early especially If you’re staying at the lodge in the park, it's about one mile to the Grotto trail head. You can get a head start on anyone that comes in via shuttle. The shuttles generally run from February through October and the road is closed to traffic at that point. So you could have the landing to yourself if you get up early and hike a couple of extra miles.

To learn about current trail conditions Alltrails is good place to look. Hikers will generally post their trail experience.

If any one says there is snow and ice, make sure you take microspikes with you. It will make the slippery sections much less dangerous.

Safe Travels.