Hiking the Grapevine Trail - Zion National Park
The Grapevine trail in Zion National Park is not a bucket list trail. It doesn't have a breathtaking waterfall or jaw-dropping views. To be honest, I thought twice about posting this hike because I didn't think it had enough wow factor, but I'm posting it anyway because I actually really loved this hike. It's not for everyone though. It's not family friendly even though is a short 1-mile round trip and isn't for those who are looking for a classic Zion hike. It is for those who don't mind a slippery and steep lava rock trail and it is definitely for those who want some solitude amidst a beautiful little stream. I hiked this trail in the winter (January) with my husband and I imagine that in the summer this hike is even better when the trees are green and the stream is a refreshing respite from the heat.
LENGTH
It is .5 miles one way to reach the Left Fork stream. From here you can head north or south and explore a little way along the stream.
DIFFICULTY
Because of the 350 ft steep and rocky descent, I don't consider this a family friendly trail. The trail is gravely and it's easy to slip and slide. Older kids that are good hikers will probably be fine but young kids should not do this trail. I also do not recommend for elderly hikers.
LOCATION
This trail is located along the Kolob Terrace Road which is the west section of Zion National Park, about a 35-minute drive from the Zion Visitor Center. Click here for map & directions.
Always practice Leave No Trace principals and leave the places you visit the way you found them. Better yet, bring a clean-up bag with you and leave it BETTER than you found it!
TRAIL DETAILS
For the first 100 yards or so the trail is flat and clearly defined. You will come to a deep canyon and from there you will start the steep and rocky descent. The trail is pretty well defined but there is plenty of cacti that you will need to keep an eye out for. Go slow and choose your footing wisely. The trail is slippery with loose gravel. Before long you will reach the stream. From here you can explore to the north or to the south. Make sure to look for a marker before you leave the path so that you will know where to head back upon your return. The trail along the Left Fork Creek isn't well marked so you will have to make your own way without much of a trail. Your hike back up will take a little longer.......unless you are in pretty good shape. It's a good leg workout that's for sure! Scroll through for tips and additional info.
This was the marker we chose to help us know where to head back up. Cool tree right!
We took a few brakes on the way back up
GOOD TO KNOW
No bathrooms or water fill stations at the trailhead.
TIPS & ADDITIONAL INFO
Good hiking boots are a must. Hiking poles would also be a good idea to save your knees.
This trail has no shade until you come to the stream. During the summer months, I suggest going earlier or later in the day to avoid the intense sun beating down on you during the steep hike up.
This would be a great quick hike to do if you are staying at Zion Under Canvas. It is just 1.6 miles up the road.
Please be respectful and DO NOT add to the carvings in the sandstone walls. Always practice Leave No Trace principals and leave the places you visit the way you found them. Better yet, bring a clean-up bag with you and leave it BETTER than you found it!
