Weeping Rock

Paved quarter-miler. Steep challenge. Hanging gardens reward. Confirm rockfall status first.

Trail

Trail

This is a paved hike that punches above its weight. Just 0.4 miles and 98 feet of elevation gain, but the grade is relentless—you'll feel every step. The payoff: a rock alcove with hanging gardens and dripping springs, plus trailside exhibits. Most hikers complete it in 15-45 minutes, but don't underestimate the steepness or the minor drop-offs on the stairs.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
0.4
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
98

Trail profile

Distance Miles
0.4
Route Type
Out-and-back
Difficulty Level
Easy
Elevation Gain Feet
98
Estimated Time
15-45 minutes
Trail Surface
Paved with stairs
Trail Features
  • Paved trail
  • Rock alcove
  • Hanging gardens
  • Dripping springs
  • Trailside exhibits
  • Stairs
Trail Highlights
Rock alcove with hanging gardens and dripping springs. Hanging garden ecosystem featuring desert seeps.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Weeping Rock Trailhead, Shuttle Stop 7, Zion Canyon
Shuttle Required
Yes
Shuttle Details
Zion Canyon shuttle-only roughly March through late November. Shuttle included with park entrance fee ($35 private vehicle).

Permits & conditions

Permits Required
No
Permit Details
No permits required. Park entrance fee applies.
Fees
$35 for a private vehicle (includes shuttle access during shuttle season).
Trail Status
Currently closed due to rockfall.
Seasonal Closures
No permanent seasonal closures, but rockfall debris occasionally closes the trail. Winter snow is possible but rare.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
Yes
Water Sources
None on trail. Carry water (1+ liter recommended).
Accessibility
Short but steep paved trail that gains 98ft (30m) of elevation in 0.4mi (0.6km). Minor drop-offs. Trail includes several stairs.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Minor drop-offs
  • Stairs
  • Steep gradient
  • Exposed sun
  • Rockfall risk from above
Hazard Details
Trail includes minor drop-offs along the paved section and stairs at the end. Steepness surprises unprepared hikers. Stairs are slippery when wet. Rockfall risk from the alcove above.
Crowd Level
Very busy, especially during peak season (March-October).
Peak Crowd Times
Mornings (7 AM - 10 AM) and midday (11 AM - 2 PM), especially March through October.
Best Season
Spring, Summer, Fall
Best Time To Visit
Start at dawn—before crowds and heat. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Zion runs shuttle-only March through November. Always check trail status first; rockfall closures are real.
Tips Advice
  • Hydrate hard—no water on trail. 1 liter minimum.
  • Wear boots with good grip. Stairs are slippery when wet.
  • The steepness front-loads; the descent punishes knees. Trekking poles save your joints.
  • This is a lung-buster disguised as short. Don't get caught off-guard.

More details

Park Area
Zion Canyon
Trail Markers
Well-marked paved trail. The alcove is obvious destination—difficult to get lost.
Dogs Allowed
No. Pets are not allowed on any trail other than the Pa'rus Trail.
Shade Level
Minimal. Mostly exposed, paved surface. Hat and sunscreen essential.
Emergency Contacts
Call 911 in emergencies. Zion Rangers patrol the area. Visitor assistance at Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
Map Recommended
No
Snow Dates
Possible in winter but rare at Zion elevations.
Mud Season
Possible after heavy rains, but the paved surface drains quickly.
Bug Season
Mosquitoes possible in summer near the springs, especially after rain.
Insider Tips
  • The springs above the alcove create the 'weeping' effect—look up as well as down.
  • The trail is short enough to pair with nearby hikes like Riverside Walk or Pa'rus Trail.
  • The steepness is front-loaded on the return; the descent is harder on knees than the ascent.
  • Shadows from the alcove make the spot cooler—a midday escape.
Recent Updates
Currently closed due to rockfall. Check NPS.gov for real-time trail status before planning your visit.
Family Friendly Notes
Yes, but with caution. The paved surface works early on, but stairs at the end require careful footing. Keep young children close to drop-offs. The steepness may tire younger kids; pace accordingly.
Nearby Facilities
Pit toilets at parking area. Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Zion Human History Museum nearby. No water sources on trail itself.
Review Summary
Hikers praise the compact payoff, but the steepness surprises many given the short distance. The hanging gardens and dripping springs make it memorable. Major caution: manage expectations on gradient and respect rockfall closure status.

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail doable if I'm not very fit?

Yes, but go slow. It's only 0.4 miles, but the grade is steep—allow 30-45 minutes. Take breaks if you need to. Most hikers manage it.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes, it's heavily trafficked and near the main park area. Carry water, tell someone where you're going, and watch for minor drop-offs on the stairs.

Do I need special gear?

No. Good hiking shoes with grip are sufficient. Trekking poles optional but helpful on the descent. Bring plenty of water—there's no source on the trail.

Can my kids do this?

Yes, but watch them constantly near stairs and drop-offs. Younger children (under 5) may struggle with the steepness or be intimidated by heights.

Why is the trail sometimes closed?

Rockfall from above can temporarily close the trail. Always check the NPS website or visitor center before starting.

Do I need a permit?

No. Only the park entrance fee ($35 for a vehicle) is required.

What makes the 'weeping' rock weep?

It's a natural spring seep—water filtering through the rock face and dripping down, creating the hanging gardens. A reliable water source for the desert ecosystem.

Riverside Walk

Paved river walk with canyon squeeze. Irregular paving, minor drop-offs—short but tactical footwork required.

Sand Bench

Sand, sun, and steep grades on an 8,000-year-old rockfall—this loop separates the prepared from the wrecked.

Taylor Creek Trail

Boulder scramble and creek crossings lead to Double Arch Alcove. Wilderness grit required, 800ft gain.

Pa’rus Trail

Zion's only pet-friendly trail. Fully paved, but blazing sun and exposed sections demand tactical water discipline.

Timber Creek Overlook

Easy ridge walk to panoramic canyon views. Watch for exposed drops and muddy sections—it's short but technical.

The Narrows

Wade Virgin River through a slot canyon. Strenuous water hike—flash flood and hypothermia risk. Respect it.

Some booking links below are affiliate links, which may support YourNPGuide at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure.

Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated June 2026. Report an issue.