6 Best Running Trails in Zion National Park [Ultimate Guide]

Some national parks are perfect for trail running.

Zion is absolutely one of them.

With incredible canyons, towering red cliffs, and green valleys, this park is much more than just a tourist attraction. And after visiting a few times now, I’ve gathered up the best running trails in Zion National Park to save you the time (and headache). From beginner-friendly to challenging climbs, there’s a trail for everyone.

So, let’s dive in.

6 Best running trails in Zion National Park

Since most people visit Zion Canyon, these runs will focus on that area. There are other areas that I haven’t visited yet that have some great looking running trails. But since I haven’t had the opportunity to run them myself yet, I’ve left them out of this post.

I’ll continue to update this post as I run more in the future.

1. The Watchman Trail

I think this is the best trail run in the entire park.

It’s around 3.5 miles out-and-back. And it has almost 600 feet of elevation gain, most of it coming on the first half. You’ll have a steady climb uphill as it winds into a canyon and back out. There are spectacular views the entire way, but the best come at the top.

But the views at the top are what make this the best trail. With sweeping views out over Zion Canyon, red cliffs shooting up in front of and behind you, it’s hard to beat. Plus, there’s a half mile loop at the top so you get to enjoy it a bit longer and also get some different angles.

This is best for an easy run or maybe a hill workout if you’re looking for long climbs. But I recommend taking your time and enjoy this one.

Personally, this one took me around 50 minutes going at a casual pace.

So block off around an hour or so for this one.

Trail info

• Distance: 3.5 miles (out-and-back)
• Elevation gain: 570+ feet
• Time: 1+ hours

2. Zion Narrows Riverside Walk

A relatively short, but fast running route. The Riverside Walk is perfect for a nice easy run or a quick sprint depending on your mood.

It runs to the start of The Narrows hike, and you get beautiful canyon views the entire way.

I ran this in February with some of the waterfalls frozen and I hiked it during May when it was blooming. Both times were equally beautiful and I recommend running this route no matter the time of year (condition permitting of course). It’s a paved trail and is a pretty easy route to run.

It’s a two mile out-and-back route with around 100 feet of elevation gain, so it’s pretty flat.

It took me around 20-30 minutes to finish.

Trail info

• Distance: 2 miles
• Elevation gain: 125+ feet
• Time: 30+ minutes

3. Pa’rus Trail

The Pa’rus Trail is a flat and easy 3-route.

It’s an out-and-back, and mixes between a flat dirt trail and paved trail. And it doesn’t have much elevation gain, so people who hate hills will love this one.

Plus, it has beautiful views the entire way as it runs along the The Virgin River.

So, if you’re looking for a scenic easy run, this is the one for you.

Trail info

• Distance: 3 miles
• Elevation gain: 100+ feet
• Time: 40+ minutes

4. The Emerald Pools

Emerald Pools is another relatively short run. It’s also mostly uphill on the first half, and downhill on the second.

But you do get to see some cool views along the way.

You can choose to head straight to the Upper Emerald Pool or stop off at the Lower Emerald Pool first. Either way, the run will largely be the same. The Lower Emerald Pool path is about .7 of a mile into the route.

There will be a large rock and the Lower Emerald Pool trail continues to the left downhill. And the Upper Emerald Pool goes uphill to the right.

It’s not the most runnable route, especially if there are crowds. But it’s good for a quick stop-off if less crowded.

Trail info

• Distance: 2.5 miles
• Elevation gain: 500+ feet
• Time: 35+ minutes

5. Scout Lookout via West Rim

Okay, if you’re up for a challenge, then Scout Lookout via the West Rim Trail is calling your name.

About 4 miles from the trailhead and back, with over 1100 feet of elevation gain (all coming in the first half), you’ll definitely get a workout. Plus, you’ll get to run the famous Walter’s Wiggles on the way up.

This trail is primarily for hill workouts. The uphill is a nice long climb and the downhill running is a lot of fun.

But, if you want an easy run, skip this one.

Trail info

• Distance: 4 miles, out and back
• Elevation gain: 1,100+ feet
• Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

6. Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

Want to see all of Zion Canyon in one run?

Then run along the Zion National Park Scenic Drive, which cuts through the canyon and then back.

Totaling almost 13 miles and running along a crowded road, this may not be the first choice for everyone. But if you’re short on time and want to see it all, then it may be your best bet. Plus, you’ll stay on road the entire time so road runners will love this one.

Just be warned you’ll be joined by plenty of bikers and cars.

Trail info

• Distance: 12.5 miles
• Elevation gain: 950+ feet
• Time: 2+ hours

What to know before you run in Zion National Park

Before you head to Zion National Park, there are a few things to keep in mind before you lace up your trail shoes:

• Run early, late, and hydrate: The heat is no joke in Zion, so run early or late in the evening to avoid the heat, especially during the summer. Bring plenty of water and electrolytes as well.
• Etiquette and safety: Yield to uphill hikers, stick to marked trails, and be on the lookout for wildlife. Carry some basic first aid just in case. Follow the Leave No Trace principles if you’re unsure.
• Trail difficulty: Choose a route that matches your fitness level and expectations. Don’t overdo it, just have a good time.
• Shuttle system:The park’s shuttle service runs during the popular months. So factor in shuttle time into your runs to make sure you have enough time for a run.

Check out these other great national parks

Zion National Park is arguably my favorite national park.

It’s hard to beat those beautiful red cliffs and gorgeous trails. But Zion isn’t the only national park in the area. In fact, you’re not far from Las Vegas. And there are tons of parks nearby just waiting for you to explore.

So, check out my post on the best national parks near Las Vegas to plan out an entire trail running/national park road trip!