Loop Hiking Trails & Quests

Yosemite's signature hike follows the Merced River, climbing a granite staircase alongside Vernal Fall (1.6 miles one-way) where hikers get drenched in spring and early summer from the waterfall's spray. Continuing to the top of Nevada Fall (3.4 miles one-way) rewards with even more impressive views. For a scenic loop, return via the John Muir Trail which provides different perspectives of Nevada Fall and Liberty Cap. The trail is busy during summer months, so starting early is recommended.

This family-friendly trail system in Zion National Park visits a series of pools and small waterfalls set among red sandstone cliffs. The Lower Emerald Pool Trail (1.2 miles round trip) is mostly paved and leads to a collection of small pools beneath dripping springs. The slightly steeper Middle Pool adds 0.2 miles each way, while the more strenuous Upper Emerald Pool Trail continues to a larger pool nestled beneath massive 300-foot cliffs. Combining all three pools creates a 3-mile round trip that showcases Zion's diverse scenery, from lush hanging gardens to towering canyon walls.

This popular combination in Bryce Canyon National Park creates the perfect introduction to the park's famous hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock. Beginning at Sunrise Point, the trail descends among colorful orange and pink formations, including one resembling Queen Victoria. Connecting to the Navajo Loop adds Wall Street, a dramatic slot canyon with towering walls and switchbacks climbing back to the rim at Sunset Point. The 3-mile loop features 600 feet of elevation change and offers constantly changing perspectives on Bryce's unique geology. Early morning light brings out the richest colors in the rock formations.