Kayenta Trail

Sandstone steps of the Kayenta Trail lead you up to the Emerald Pools

NPS/Lizz Eberhardt

Trail is currently closed through September 2025 for maintenance

The moderate Kayenta Trail follows the Virgin River before ascending to the Lower and Upper Emerald Pool Trails. Provides panoramic views of Zion Canyon along the way. Long drop-offs are present along this trail. You can either return on the same trail, or make a loop using one of the Emerald Pools trails. 

Water and restrooms are available at The Grotto.

Details

Duration

2-3 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Activity Fee

No

Park entrance fees apply.

Location

Kayenta & West Rim Trailhead

The Kayenta Trailhead is located at The Grotto (shuttle stop #6). Use the crosswalk to reach the bridge over the Virgin River, then take a left up the sandstone steps to begin the hike.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

• Length (one way)  |  0.9 mi (1.4 km)
• Elevation  |  Gain: 204.1ft (62.2 m) | Loss: 101.9 ft (31.0 m)
• Grade  |  Typical: 6.7%  |  Maximum: 35.3%  |  21.5% of the trail is at an 8.3% or higher grade.
• Cross Slope  |  Typical: 4.5%  |  Maximum: 20.2%
• Tread Width  |  Typical: 50 in (126.1 cm) |  Minimum: 15 in (38.1 cm)
• Surface  |  65% of the trail is firm soil, and 35% is hard concrete or rock.
• Obstructions  |  Overhanging rocks with a minimum vertical clearance of 5.3 ft (1.6 m), with 15 in (38.1 cm) of remaining tread  |  Staircases with steps up to 21 in (53.3 cm) tall, and 0 in of remaining tread

Last assessed on March 3, 2025. Obstructions less than 12 in (30.5 cm), or outside the tread area of 12 in (30.5 cm) wide by 96 in (243.8 cm) high, were not reported.