Emerald Pools in Zion region of Grand CirclePhoto by Dulcey Lima

Emerald Pools

timer icon1-2h
verified orange icon1 expert tip

“Access via shuttle (Zion Lodge or The Grotto stops). Arrive early or go later in the day to avoid peak crowds—this is one of the busiest trails in the park.”

Fyno expert photoRoman, Fyno expert
Highlights
checkmark grey iconWaterfalls
checkmark grey iconHiking
checkmark grey iconCanyons
checkmark grey iconScenic views
Curated byRomanUpdated

I’d include Emerald Pools for waterfall views.

More about this place

The Emerald Pools Trail is a popular and accessible hike that leads to a series of beautiful pools fed by waterfalls. The trail is about 3 miles roundtrip if you visit all three tiers, and offers a mix of easy walking and moderate climbing.

The lower pool is just a short walk from the trailhead, while the middle and upper pools require a bit more effort but reward you with quieter and more scenic surroundings. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of Zion’s cliffs and lush vegetation.

The trail is especially beautiful in spring and fall when water levels are higher and the waterfalls are more active. It’s a great option for a lighter hike or a scenic addition to a more active day.

Swimming is not allowed in the pools, and staying on designated trails is important to protect the fragile environment.

Explore Grand Circle itineraries

checkmarkExpert-curated
checkmarkDay-to-day
checkmarkPerfect logistics

Curated stays in Zion

checkmarkTop reviews
checkmarkGreat value
checkmarkLocation fits your route
Zion National Park Lodge preview image
In-park tag iconIn-park
Iconic tag iconIconic
Zion National Park Lodge
8.8 ⁄10
From $245
Lodge
Cabins
Epic views
Stylish
Historic
Restaurants
Mother Eve preview image
Unique tag iconUnique
Mother Eve
4.9 ⁄5
From $459
Tiny houses
Scenic views
Unique spa
Kitchen
Self check-in
Max 2 guests
Under Canvas Zion preview image
Glamping tag iconGlamping
Under Canvas Zion
9.4 ⁄10
From $339
Luxury tents
Boutique hotel
Stylish
Restaurants
Yoga
Stargazing
Horseback riding
Sustainable
24h desk
Zion Wildflower Resort preview image
Glamping tag iconGlamping
Zion Wildflower Resort
9.4 ⁄10
From $178
Luxury tents
Covered wagons
Bungalows
Stylish
Scenic views
Zion Glamping Adventures preview image
Glamping tag iconGlamping
Zion Glamping Adventures
8.8 ⁄10
From $156
Luxury tents
Caves
Scenic views
Stylish
Charming hosts
ATVs
Sustainable
Cable Mountain Lodge preview image
Cable Mountain Lodge
From $199
Lodge
3 stars
Downtown
Scenic views
24h desk
Best Western Plus Zion Canyon preview image
Best Western Plus Zion Canyon
9.6 ⁄10
From $269
3-star hotel
Downtown
Scenic views
Sustainable
24h desk
Best Western
arrow left icon
arrow right icon