For many families, summer vacation is coming to an end. But that doesn’t mean that the busy season in Southern Utah is over just yet. While the summer vacation crowd will begin to fade, this marks the beginning of an equally popular season in the region; fall. Many first-time visitors to Southern Utah and our Zion vacation rentals are surprised to learn that the red rock desert landscapes experience changing leaves each fall. If you’ve never had the chance to experience Zion in the fall, you’re missing out on one of the most beautiful seasons in the park.

Cooler temperatures and changing colors bring new crowds of visitors to Zion National Park. This means that it can be tough to get a permit for Angels Landing and other popular trails, like Riverside Walk or Emerald Pools. But don’t worry; there are plenty of other trails to enjoy.

Whether you’re planning a fall visit, a future summer visit, or simply want to enjoy a trail that’s off the beaten path, keep reading. We’re breaking down some lesser-known trails to enjoy during your Gooseberry Lodges stay.

Hidden Canyon

This trail isn’t quite as hidden as it once was. But while it has been growing in popularity in recent years, it still offers some relief from the crowds on busy weekends and is likely to be near-empty on less busy days during your stay in our Zion vacation rentals.

Hidden Canyon is a 2.2-mile round-trip hike that starts at the Weeping Rock trailhead. So if you arrive with hopes of hiking Weeping Rock and find it a little crowded, consider hiking this trail instead. Or, hike both easy trails for two very different experiences.

While this trail is short, one of the reasons that it’s less popular than Weeping Rock is that it is more challenging. You’ll climb 1,000 feet in elevation on this two-mile trail. But if you don’t mind the climb, you’ll pass canyon pools, arches, towering boulders, and more. Reach the top and you’ll see views of Angels Landing, Cable Mountain, and The Great White Throne.

Watchman Trail

Another short but steep climb, Watchman Trail rarely sees crowds. In fact, hike it early or late in the day, and you may not pass another hiker on your walk—or climb.

This trail is a little longer than Hidden Canyon, but also less steep. While the trail is only three miles round trip, you’ll be climbing more than 300 feet in those 3-miles. At the very top, you’ll be able to see the Zion Canyon Visitors Center far below, as well as a panoramic view of Watchman Mountain. The landmark might be well-known, but its namesake trail certainly isn’t. If you don’t mind the climb, this is a good choice for busy days during your stay in our Utah cabin rentals.

Cable Mountain

If you’re looking for a challenging hike without having to get a permit for Angels Landing, Cable Mountain is a great alternative. At 7.6 miles round trip and with a steep climb from the canyon floor to the rim, this trail isn’t for beginners. Even experienced hikers will want to make sure to pack plenty of water, start early in the day, and watch their steps.

But if you’re willing to take on the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views, as well as a dose of history. The trail’s name comes from the remnants of an old cable system that’s been there for nearly 120 years. The cables were once used to transport lumber from the bottom of the canyon to the top. The system was built in 1901 and ceased operations in 1930. 

History buffs or those looking for a challenging hike should definitely add this trail to their list for their stay in our Gooseberry cabins.

Taylor Creek

Many first-time visitors to our Zion National Park cabin rentals don’t realize that Zion is actually divided into two parts. The first section is Zion Canyon, which is the more popular section located adjacent to Springdale, Utah. This is where you’ll find the Zion Canyon Shuttle, the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and Human History Museum, and popular trailheads like Angels Landing. The other section of the park is called Kolob Canyon.

Kolob Canyon itself is one of the least-visited sections of Zion National Park. Located to the west of the main canyon, many new visitors to the park don’t even know that these beautiful, deep red canyons even exist. But Kolob is home to some of the park’s best trails. No matter when you visit, you can rest assured you won’t see the traffic or lines that the main canyon has. Kolob Canyon is around an hour from Springdale, when you stay in our Zion vacation rentals, you’ll be in between the two, shortening your drive to this lesser-known section of the park.

Taylor Creek is one of the best hikes in Kolob Canyon. At 4.5-miles round trip, it isn’t too difficult or lengthy, but you’ll get to see the Double Arch Alcove, one of the most stunning landmarks in this section of the park.

Planning a Stay in Our Zion Vacation Rentals

Whether you’re visiting during a busy time of year or simply want to enjoy a lesser-known trail, any of the hikes on this list is a great choice.

If you’re thinking about planning a visit to Zion National Park and Gooseberry Lodges, now is a great time. Right now, when you book a stay of three or more nights in our Zion vacation rentals before October 31st, you’ll receive a 15 percent discount on your stay. Book today to take advantage of these savings.