Last updated: April 30, 2025
Thing to Do
Middle Emerald Pools Trail
NPS/Abi Farish
Middle Emerald Pools Trail is a moderate hike along an unpaved sandstone ledge above the Lower Emerald Pool Trail. The initial ascent is quite steep, bringing you to expansive views of main Zion Canyon below. Further along the trail, tucked into the red sandstone of the mountain, enjoy the shade and flora of pinyon-juniper woodlands. The trail then descends to emerald-colored pools of water above the small ephemeral waterfalls of Lower Emerald Pool Trail. 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
Middle Emerald Pools is 2.2 miles (3.5 km) roundtrip (out-and-back). It may be combined with other Emerald Pools trails and the Kayenta trail for a longer hike.
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 left to begin hiking Middle Emerald Pools.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
- Length (one way) | 0.9 mi (1.4 km)
- Elevation | Gain: 332.8 ft (101.4 m) | Loss: 152.2 ft (46.4 m)
- Grade | Typical: 10.3% | Maximum: 38.1% | 44.8% of the trail is at a 10% or higher grade.
- Cross Slope | Typical: 4.4% | Maximum: 20.1%
- Tread Width | Typical: 57 in (144.2 cm) | Minimum: 20 in (50.8 cm)
- Surface | 79.7% of the trail is firm soil, 18.7% is hard rock or concrete, and 1.6% is soft sand.
- Obstructions | Bridge with minimum tread width of 45 in (114.3 cm) | Staircases with steps up to 10 in (25.4 cm) tall, and 0 in of remaining tread
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.