Last updated: April 30, 2025
Thing to Do
Lower Emerald Pool Trail
NPS
Lower Emerald Pool trail is a rough, paved trail that leads through pinyon-juniper woodland to the Lower Emerald Pool and ephemeral waterfalls.The pools are fragile and an essential water source for wildlife. Do not go into the water.
Connects to the other Emerald Pools trails and the Kayenta Trail.
Avoid cliff edges. Swimming is not permitted. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Zion Lodge.
Connects to the other Emerald Pools trails and the Kayenta Trail.
Avoid cliff edges. Swimming is not permitted. Restrooms and water filling stations are available at the Zion Lodge.
Details
Duration
1-2 Hours
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Park entrance fees apply.
Location
Emerald Pools Trailhead
Emerald Pools Trailhead is across from the Zion Lodge (shuttle stop #5). From the shuttle stop, follow the sidewalk across the Lodge Lawn to the crosswalk. Cross the street and continue across the bridge. Follow the trail on the right to begin hiking Lower Emerald Pool Trail.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Trail may be icy in winter.
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
- Length (one way) | 0.6 mi (1.0 km)
- Elevation | Gain: 131.1 ft (40.0 m) | Loss: 96.4 ft (29.38 m)
- Grade | Typical: 7.1% | Maximum: 25.3% | 34.4% of the trail is at a 8.3% or higher grade.
- Cross Slope | Typical: 3.6% | Maximum: 17.1% | 18.9% of trail has a cross slope of 6% or higher.
- Tread Width | Typical: 62 in (157.8 cm) | Minimum: 30 in (76.2 cm). 25 ft (7.6 m) of the trail is this width.
- Surface | 96.2% of the trail is hard concrete, and 3.8% is firm soil.
- Obstructions | Bridge with minimum tread width of 45 in (114.3 cm). | Gaps in concrete up to 2 in (5.1 cm) long.
Last assessed on March 20, 2025. Obstructions less than 12 in (30.5 cm) tall, or outside the tread area of 12 in (30.5 cm) wide by 96 in (243.8 cm) high, were not reported.