Rick, Definitely hike the river, if it is passable! From the end of the shuttle run, you can hike up river for the day to the springs. You can make it up and back in a day. But the best trip is the hike down from Chamberlain's Ranch (two days but can be done in a day if you push it). If you can't make the hike, there are MANY side canyons and hikes in Zion that are awesome as well.
When are you going, Rick? I just got back from a couple days in Zion. Be forewarned: there are lots of people there right now, including lots of people doing the Virgin Narrows. I did not, but the water seemed low for spring and it was doable, but you'll need gear from an outfitter to wade in the cold water. The Riverwalk at the end of the main canyon (before the Narrows) is pleasant, and has lots of photo ops, but lots of people, too. The hike to Observation Point (8 mi RT through Echo Canyon) is a great hike, and you can include the side trip (1 mile RT) to Hidden Canyon in the same hike. If you are fit and fearless, there is the hike up Angels Landing, or the 8 mi RT hike to the Subway and Archangel Falls. The later requires a permit. A shorter, pleasant hike is to start at the Grotto and hike to the Zion Lodge (or vice versa) via the Emerald Pools. This hike has nice views of the main canyon, and there were blooming cactus along the trail last week, but lots of people unless you go early. I also like the Watchman trail (2.5 mi RT) for sunrise on the Towers of the Virgin. If you want to get away from the crowds, head to the Kolob Canyons section. I did an overnight hike on the La Verkin trail, and I enjoyed that area very much. There is also the sandstone formations of the higher, east section of Zion with lots of mini canyons. Finally, if you get a nice sunset, you can join the crowd on the bridge and shoot the classic view of the Watchman. If you've never been to Zion, keep in mind that canyon photography is different - you're hoping for sunny days, and then you shoot the reflected light.
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2 repliesThanks in advance.