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Many Pools Trailhead: A Hidden Oasis in Zion
Discover the serene beauty of Zion's Many Pools Trail: an unmarked, moderate hike with unique sandstone pools and stunning canyon views.
Many Pools Trailhead offers access to a unique, unmarked hiking experience on the east side of Zion National Park. This moderate 1.6-mile roundtrip trail leads you through a scenic wash dotted with natural pools, sculpted sandstone formations, and the chance for solitude away from the park's more crowded areas.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Many Pools Trailhead
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Zion national park, ZION NATIONAL PARK, UT, 84767, US
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Getting There
Driving
Many Pools Trailhead is located on the east side of Zion National Park along UT-9. From the park's south entrance near Springdale, drive east on Route 9/Zion Park Blvd towards the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel. After passing through the tunnel, continue for approximately 2.3 miles until you see a pull-out on the right-hand side of the road with restrooms. Park here. Note that during shuttle season, private vehicles are restricted from the main canyon, but you can still drive to the east side. Tunnel Fee: Vehicles 7'10" (2.4 m) in width and/or 11'4" (3.4 m) in height or larger may require a $15 escort fee.
Walking
From the parking area, there are two ways to access the trail. The easiest is to walk east (away from the tunnel) along the road for about 50 yards. Then, carefully cross the road and head down into the wash. Alternatively, you can walk straight down to your left from the parking area, navigating through some brush until you reach a drainage tunnel under the road that leads to the wash.
Local tips
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This trail is unmarked and not maintained; download a map or use a GPS-enabled app to help with navigation, especially beyond the initial pools.
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Visit during the spring runoff or after a rainstorm to see the pools filled with water and experience the trail's namesake feature.
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Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction for scrambling over slickrock and navigating uneven terrain.
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Be aware of the potential for flash floods, especially during or after heavy rains, and avoid hiking the trail if there is a risk.
Discover more about Many Pools Trailhead
Many Pools Trail, also known as The Route Canals or The Twins, is a hidden gem on the east side of Zion National Park. Unlike the park's well-known, heavily trafficked trails, Many Pools is an unmarked, unmaintained route that offers a sense of discovery and solitude. The trail follows a wash, a dry streambed, characterized by a series of natural pools carved into the sandstone. These pools are most impressive during the spring runoff or after rainstorms, when they fill with water and reflect the surrounding canyon walls.
The hike is considered moderate, involving some scrambling over slickrock and potential route-finding challenges. The landscape features twisted ponderosa pines, juniper trees, and the chance to spot wildlife like bighorn sheep. The trail culminates in a narrow canyon head, though more adventurous hikers can continue to the Deertrap Mountain Trail. Many Pools Trail provides a unique opportunity to experience Zion's beauty in a more intimate and less crowded setting.
A brief summary to Many Pools Trailhead
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