Upper Emerald Pool Trail
A steeper continuation through the Emerald Pools system to a high sandstone amphitheatre and upper pool.
Route overview
Moderate climb through the Emerald Pools system to the upper alcove.
Upper Emerald Pool Trail continues beyond the lower and middle pool area on sandier, steeper ground to a pool beneath high cliffs. It provides a stronger hiking objective than the lower-pool walk and is frequently combined with Kayenta. Conditions change with runoff, ice, rockfall and trail maintenance, so hikers must verify which approach is open. The upper pool is a protected natural feature, not a swimming destination.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Zion National Park, Utah
- Distance
- approximately 3.0 mi / 4.8 km round trip from Zion Lodge, depending on open approach
- Typical duration
- 2–3 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- approximately 350 ft / 107 m
- Best season
- Spring and autumn; avoid ice, storms and peak heat
- Trail type
- Out and back or linked circuit
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Heat, slippery surfaces, rockfall, ice and cliff edges
Highlights
Upper pool, sandstone amphitheatre, canyon views, seasonal water
Why find a buddy
Suitable for matching moderate uphill pace and deciding together whether to use the direct or Kayenta approach.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.