Zion’s big climb, without the crowds
West Rim from the Grotto is a 10-mile out-and-back in Zion National Park with about 3,000 feet of climbing. It shares its first couple of miles with the famous Angels Landing route, then leaves the crowds behind on the quieter West Rim Trail.
The trail climbs steeply from the canyon floor, runs through Refrigerator Canyon, then switchbacks up Walter’s Wiggles to Scout Lookout. Angels Landing branches off here and needs a permit; the West Rim Trail does not. Parts of the trail were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Past Scout Lookout the trail climbs onto the rim, with views our staff call unique to Southern Utah. There is a small seasonal spring on the trail where you can filter water. Turn around at mile 5 and come back the way you came.
West Rim from the Grotto trail facts
- Distance
- 10 miles (out & back)
- Vertical gain
- 3,000 ft
- Terrain
- Sand, sandstone, concrete
- Technicality
- Technical
- Navigation
- Easy
- Trailhead
- The Grotto (Shuttle Stop 6)
- Parking
- Paved, at the Visitor Center
- Fees
- National Park entrance fee
- Dog friendly
- No
- Cell coverage
- No
- Amenities
- Restrooms and water
- Best time
- Morning, before the crowds
“Extremely scenic trail with views unique to Southern Utah.”St. George Running Center staff
West Rim from the Grotto map & elevation
The climbing starts right away. By the park’s numbers, Scout Lookout is about 2.25 miles and 1,000 feet above the Grotto. Past the lookout the West Rim Trail dips briefly, then climbs again to the high point at the 5-mile turnaround. Coming back, it is almost all downhill, including the switchbacks of Walter’s Wiggles, so save something for your quads.
What you’ll see on West Rim from the Grotto
Before you run West Rim from the Grotto
- Plan the shuttle.For most of the year private cars cannot drive Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, so you take the free park shuttle from the Zion Visitor Center to the Grotto (Stop 6). In winter, when the shuttle is not running, you can drive to the trailhead.
- Know the Angels Landing rule.You do not need a permit for the West Rim Trail or Scout Lookout. A permit is required for the chains section from Scout Lookout to Angels Landing.
- Bring a filter bottle.There is water at the trailhead and a small seasonal spring on the trail. Do not count on the spring in dry months.
- Download before you go.There is no cell coverage. Put the GPX track on your watch or phone before you leave town.
- Start early.This is one of Zion’s busiest trails. Morning runs beat the crowds on Walter’s Wiggles and the heat on the climb.
- Leave the dog at home.Pets are not allowed on this trail in Zion National Park.
Getting to the Grotto Trailhead
The Grotto: Shuttle Stop 6 on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, the trailhead for Angels Landing and the West Rim Trail.
- From St. George, take I-15 north to Exit 16 and follow State Route 9 east through Hurricane and La Verkin to Springdale.
- Enter Zion National Park and park at the Zion Visitor Center.
- Take the Zion Canyon shuttle to the Grotto (Stop 6). In winter, when the shuttle is not running, you can drive the Scenic Drive to the Grotto.
- Cross the footbridge over the Virgin River and follow signs for the West Rim Trail.
Fees: Zion National Park entrance fee, $35 per private vehicle for 7 days, or a park or America the Beautiful pass. Non-US residents age 16 and older pay an extra $100 unless they have an annual pass.
Parking: paved lots at the Visitor Center fill early in busy months.
Amenities: restrooms and water at the Grotto.
Getting ready for a big Zion day?
Stop by for trail shoes, a hydration vest and a filter bottle before you head up the canyon.