Emerald Pools, Zion National Park

4.0

#5 of 15 in Nature in Zion National Park

Geologic Formation · Hidden Gem · Waterfall

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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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TripAdvisor traveler rating

1,614 reviews

Google

4.6

By Heather H

Depending on when you go, there may be more or less water, but it is still awesome - especially views from middle and upper falls. If doing the loop, do the lower pool first and come down the middle..... more

Depending on when you go, there may be more or less water, but it is still awesome - especially views from middle and upper falls. If doing the loop, do the lower pool first and come down the middle..... more »
By dvkremk

We enjoyed the walk to the lower falls. We are in our 70s - going it is mostly uphill - so we took breaks along the way. We were rewarded at the end with a waterfall. Nice views along the way.

We enjoyed the walk to the lower falls. We are in our 70s - going it is mostly uphill - so we took breaks along the way. We were rewarded at the end with a waterfall. Nice views along the way. more »

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Google

By Scott Stoecker

Very nice hike up to the pool. It is a moderate climb, though the pool at the end is worth it. Great views on the way up and down. Even relatively early in the morning you will be surrounded by people and it can be a slow slog as you wait for all manner of people to pass.

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By Juan Pourtau

Nice hike, just know that the pools don’t deliver on their name. Beautiful scenery and nature, and impressive cliffs!

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