Angels Landing is not just a hike—it's a pilgrimage. Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors make the trek up Zion's most famous trail, drawn by the promise of jaw-dropping views and that iconic chain-assisted scramble to the summit. But here's what the Instagram photos don't show: timing your visit can make or break the experience.

After hiking Angels Landing in multiple seasons (and watching countless hikers turn back halfway), I've learned that spring—specifically March through May—is the Goldilocks window. Not too cold, not too crowded, and the canyon is alive with color. But there's one critical thing most guides won't tell you, and it's the reason so many spring hikers never make it to the top.

Why Spring Is the Sweet Spot

The Weather Is Actually Predictable Contrary to popular belief, spring in Zion is remarkably stable. March brings highs in the 60s, April pushes into the 70s, and May flirts with 80°F. Unlike summer (where you're hiking in 100°F+ heat) or winter (where ice makes the chains treacherous), spring offers that perfect "cool start, warm finish" combo.

Start your hike at sunrise (around 6:30 AM in April) and you'll climb through the crisp morning air, reaching the summit just as the canyon walls light up in golden hour. By the time you descend, it's warm but not punishing.

The Crowds Are Manageable (If You Know When to Go) Here's the insider tip: avoid weekends and holidays. Spring break (late March) and Easter weekend turn Angels Landing into a conga line. But show up on a Tuesday in April? You'll have stretches of the trail almost to yourself.

The new permit system (launched in 2022) has helped, but spring still sees fewer permit requests than summer. Your odds of snagging a day-before permit are significantly higher in April than in July.

The Canyon Is Alive Spring runoff turns the Virgin River into a roaring torrent. Waterfalls appear on canyon walls that are bone-dry by June. Wildflowers bloom in the hanging gardens. And the cottonwoods along the river glow with fresh green leaves. It's a completely different park than the dusty, sun-baked Zion of summer.

The One Thing Nobody Warns You About

Here it is: wet chains.

Every spring hiking guide will tell you about the weather, the crowds, and the views. But almost none mention that spring mornings in Zion mean dew. And dew on metal chains = ice rink-level slipperiness.

I've watched confident hikers grab the chains on Scout Lookout, feel them slip in their hands, and immediately turn around. It's not about fear of heights—it's about physics. Wet metal + smooth-soled shoes = zero traction.

The Fix:

Bring gloves (lightweight hiking gloves or even gardening gloves work)
Wear shoes with aggressive tread (trail runners with Vibram soles, not fashion sneakers)
Start your hike after 8 AM if it's been dewy (give the sun time to dry the chains)

This single tip will put you ahead of 80% of spring hikers.

What to Pack (Spring-Specific)

Layers, Layers, Layers

Start temp: 40-50°F
Summit temp: 50-60°F
Descent temp: 65-75°F

I hike in a long-sleeve base layer, a light fleece, and a windbreaker. By the time I'm descending Walter's Wiggles, the fleece is in my pack.

Sun Protection (Yes, Even in Spring) The UV index in Zion is no joke. Even on a 65°F day, you're hiking at 4,000-5,500 feet elevation with minimal shade. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable.

Water: 2-3 Liters The hike is 5.4 miles round trip with 1,500 feet of elevation gain. You'll sweat more than you think, especially on the exposed switchbacks. Bring more water than feels reasonable.

The Permit Lottery: Spring Strategies

Angels Landing requires a permit (via recreation.gov). There are two lotteries:

Seasonal lottery (enter 1-3 months in advance)
Day-before lottery (enter the day before your hike)

Spring Hack: Apply for weekday permits in early April or late May. These are the "shoulder" periods with the highest success rates. Mid-April (spring break) is the hardest time to get a permit.

If you don't get a permit, don't skip Zion. The hike to Scout Lookout (the point before the chains) is still spectacular and doesn't require a permit. You'll get 90% of the views with zero lottery stress.

When NOT to Hike Angels Landing in Spring

After Heavy Rain Spring storms are rare but intense. If it rained overnight, skip Angels Landing. The sandstone becomes slick, and the chains are genuinely dangerous. Hit the Narrows or Emerald Pools instead.

On Your First Day in Zion If you're coming from sea level, give yourself a day to acclimate. The elevation + exertion combo can leave you gasping. Do an easier trail (Watchman, Pa'rus) on Day 1, then tackle Angels Landing on Day 2.

The Bottom Line

Angels Landing in spring is Zion at its best: comfortable temps, manageable crowds, and a canyon bursting with life. Just remember the gloves, start early (but not too early if it's dewy), and don't underestimate the exposure on those final chains.

And if you don't get a permit? There are 100+ miles of trails in Zion. Angels Landing is iconic, but it's not the only way to fall in love with this place.

Pro Tip: After your hike, grab a burger at Oscar's Cafe in Springdale. You've earned it.

Angels Landing in Spring: Why March-May Is the Perfect Window (And What Nobody Warns You About)