Middle Emerald Pools Trail
Zion National Park
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.
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.
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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.
Park entrance fees apply.
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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.
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Emerald Pools Trailhead
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