Difficulty
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Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
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Directions to Trailhead
Shelf Canyon Trail
Table of contents
The Shelf Canyon hike is a low-traffic, out-and-back route that can be a fun challenge for kids and parents alike. This path does require a bit of scrambling over loose boulders so make sure you wear proper footwear. This Shelf Canyon trail leads down a beautiful slot canyon that ends in unique shelf-like formations that give this hike its name.
Route Description for Shelf Canyon Trail
A short and sweet little hike in a popular area of Zion, the Shelf Canyon hike is a great way to explore a piece of Zion, just off of the highway. Fair warning: the trail down to slot canyon is not obviously marked and can be a bit tricky to find. The path itself also requires some light scrambling over boulders so it may not be the best hike for folks with mobility issues or families with very young children. Good footwear is also required. There are so many interesting hikes to be done in this area of Zion, and the Shelf Canyon is a short and easy trail to add to your list. The Shelf Canyon is the first prominent canyon east of the Canyon Overlook Trail on the north side of route 9. The Trailhead for this hike can be tricky to find. Head over to the restrooms right by the sign that reads “Canyon Overlook Trailhead”. The path down to Shelf Canyon is a small trail just behind the restrooms that looks like it leads into the brush. Follow this path and soon it will become a more obvious trail. The first section is rocky and a bit steep but it gets easier as you enter the canyon. After a short distance, the canyon ends in an alcove with interesting shelf-like rock formations. Once you hit this point, it is time to turn back and follow the trail back out to the parking lot.Getting to the Shelf Canyon Trail Trailhead
Park at the Canyon Overlook parking lot just east of the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel on route 9, east of Springdale, UT.Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
April to November
Pets allowed:
No
Family friendly:
Older Children only
Route Signage:
None
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Out and back
Shelf Canyon Trail Elevation Graph
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