Both Angels Landing and Half Dome are iconic, challenging hikes that demand careful preparation and a head for heights. Half Dome is significantly more strenuous due to its length and elevation gain, making it suitable for experienced hikers in excellent physical condition. Angels Landing, while still challenging, is a shorter option with equally rewarding views for those comfortable with exposure.
| Attribute | Angels Landing, Zion National Park | Half Dome, Yosemite National Park |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Angels Landing, Zion National Park | Half Dome, Yosemite National Park |
| Trail Length (miles) | 5.4 (some sources state 5) | 14-17 |
| Elevation Gain (feet) | Approximately 1,488 - 1,630 | 4,800 - 5,457 |
| Difficulty Level (Easy, Moderate, Strenuous) | Strenuous (some reviews mention Moderate to Hard for experienced hikers) | Very Hard/Extremely Strenuous |
| Permit Requirements (Yes/No) | Yes | Yes |
| Average Completion Time (hours) | 2-4, 3-4, or 4-5 (some reviews mention 3-6) | 9-16 |
| Scenery/Landscape (Mountains, Forest, Desert) | Zion Canyon, featuring green riverbeds, orange-red canyons, 360-degree view from the summit, Virgin River, Refrigerator Canyon, Walter's Wiggles | Mountains, waterfalls (Vernal Fall & Nevada Fall), forest (including majestic sequoias), panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra |
| Crowd Levels (Low, Medium, High) | High (permit system aims to reduce crowding) | High |
| Accessibility (Public Transportation, Parking) | Public Transportation: Zion Canyon Shuttle (March-November), Parking: Lots fill up by 9:00 AM, park in Springdale and use town shuttle | Shuttle service available to Happy Isles (shuttle stop #16), near the trailhead. Trailhead parking lot located just beyond Curry Village. |
| Technical Challenge (Scrambling, Exposure) | Scrambling, exposure to heights, narrow pathways with steep drop-offs, chain-assisted sections | Scrambling, exposure, and a cable-assisted climb up a steep granite dome. The cable section is 400 vertical feet at a 45-degree angle. |
| Best Season to Hike (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter) | Early spring to mid-autumn (March to mid-May & mid-September to November), year-round if no ice or snow | Late May/early June through Columbus Day weekend in October |
| Wildlife Sightings (Common Animals) | Chipmunks (common), Tarantulas (reported) | Mountain lions |
| Water Availability (Natural Sources, Bring Your Own) | Bring Your Own (no water available along the trail), water available at The Grotto trailhead | Limited natural sources. Hikers should bring their own water. |
| Price | Not available | Not available |
| Ratings | Not available | Not available |