Climbing Angels Landing: What It’s Like to Hike Walter’s Wiggles

There are hikes, and then there are HIKES—the kind that push you to your limits, test your nerve, and leave you with an unforgettable story to tell. Angels Landing in Zion National Park is one of those hikes. It’s got heart-pounding switchbacks, stunning panoramic views, and a final half-mile that feels more like a rock-climbing adventure than a trail. And right in the middle of it all is a section so infamous that it has its own name: Walter’s Wiggles.

If you’re thinking about tackling Angels Landing, or if you’re just curious about what makes this hike so legendary, here’s a deep dive into what you can expect—especially when you hit those notorious Wiggles.

The Start

Angels Landing is not for the faint of heart. It’s a 5.4-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of over 1,500 feet. That might not sound extreme, but trust me, you’ll feel every single step.

The trail begins at The Grotto, one of Zion’s shuttle stops. It starts out deceptively easy, following the scenic West Rim Trail along the Virgin River. But don’t let the gentle incline fool you—this hike doesn’t stay easy for long. After about a mile, the switchbacks begin. And that’s when you know you’re really in for it.

The Walter’s Wiggles

Named after Walter Ruesch, Zion National Park’s first superintendent, Walter’s Wiggles is a series of 21 tight switchbacks that zigzag up the canyon wall. From a distance, it looks like a set of stairs carved into the rock—and honestly, that’s pretty much what it is.

The switchbacks are steep, narrow, and relentless. The good news? Each turn gives you a tiny break before the next leg. The bad news? The higher you go, the thinner the air gets, and the more your legs start screaming at you.

Many hikers consider Walter’s Wiggles the most physically demanding part of the hike. The key is to pace yourself. This isn’t the time to sprint ahead—slow and steady is the way to go. If you need to take a break, do it in the corners where the trail is flatter. And don’t forget to turn around and admire the view. The higher you climb, the more Zion’s breathtaking canyon stretches out behind you.

The Final Push

Once you conquer Walter’s Wiggles, you’ll reach Scout Lookout, a wide plateau where many hikers decide to call it a day. If you’re not up for the final, more technical section of Angels Landing, this is still an incredible place to stop, rest, and take in the scenery. But if you’re ready for the real adventure? The next half-mile is where things get serious.

From Scout Lookout, the final ascent to Angels Landing is steep, exposed, and not for the faint of heart. The trail narrows to just a few feet wide in some sections, with sheer drop-offs of over 1,000 feet on either side. This is where you’ll find the famous chains—a series of anchored metal handrails designed to help hikers keep their balance.

After what feels like an eternity, you’ll step onto the summit of Angels Landing. The view is unreal. Zion Canyon stretches out beneath you in every direction, with towering red rock cliffs, winding rivers, and miles of untouched wilderness. Whether you stay for five minutes or an hour, soak it in. This is one of the most iconic views in all of the National Park System, and you’ve earned it.