Nestled deep within a canyon inside Zion National Park, the pools feature vegetation of moss and ferns that flank the side of the pool, which is fed by the trickling water sprayed from the falls. A 1.6 km (1 mi) trail initially runs along the river, taking you through forests and waterfalls to the lower pool, which is a 45.7 m (150 ft) ascent. From the lower pool, you can choose from a number of more challenging paths that ascend to the middle and upper pools via a looped-track. Be aware that climbing to the upper pool requires a 106.7 m (350 ft.) ascent. The final stretch is hotter and drier, but can take you to cliffs spanning 91 m (300 ft). Choose to start, finish, or center your holiday on a trip to Emerald Pools by using our Zion National Park itinerary tool.
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Emerald Pools reviews
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We started at the Zion Lodge and ended up doing all three, lower, upper and middle. All three took about an hour. Most of the trail is easy, with a couple of spots moderate. You will need at least... more »
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We are not very outdoorsy and definitely aren't hikers, and we only wanted to spend <1.5 hours on our last day so we hit the Lower Pool trail. It's more like a (paved) walk in the park along a quiet.... more »
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I've lived in St. George for 20 + years and it's amazing to see how this trial has changed when a landslide affected it and the park work diligently to restore this trail. Absolutely one of my favorite trails. Lots of good memories here. Leave no trace friends!
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Great hike! Not much water flowing but worth getting outside. The trail was very crowded. Please consider liking my pictures and review. Check me out at Jeff Mullins Photography Adventures. Get Your Hike On!
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