Last updated: April 17, 2025
Thing to Do
Grotto Trail

NPS
The Grotto Trail is an easy, 1.0 mi (1.6 km) round trip hike that connects the Zion Lodge to The Grotto Picnic Area. This relatively flat and shaded hike is good for a leisure walk in the park, or it can be combined with the Emerald Pools and Kayenta Trails to create a loop. Look for wildlife such as birds, turkey, and deer along this walk.
Restrooms are available at both the Lodge and the Grotto.
Restrooms are available at both the Lodge and the Grotto.
Details
Duration
15-45 Minutes
Activity
Hiking
The Grotto Trail connects shuttle stop #5 at the Zion Lodge to shuttle stop #6 at The Grotto.
Pets Allowed
No
Activity Fee
No
Park entrance fees apply.
Location
Grotto Trailhead
The Grotto Trail can be accessed from behind the shuttle stop at the Zion Lodge (shuttle stop #5) or behind the restrooms at The Grotto (shuttle stop #6).
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
Time of Day
Any Time
Accessibility Information
- Length (one way) | 0.5 mi (0.8 km)
- Elevation | Gain: 49.0 ft (14.92 m) | Loss: 45.5 ft (13.86 m)
- Grade | Typical: 3.5% | Maximum: 20.1% | 9.7% of the trail is at an 8.3% or higher grade.
- Cross Slope | Typical: 4.1% | Maximum: 17.3%
- Tread Width | Typical: 116 in (293.7 cm) | Minimum: 15 in (38.1 cm)
- Surface | 93.6% of the trail is firm soil, and 6.4% is paved.
- Obstructions | Rocks up to 21 in (53.3 cm) tall and 0 in of remaining tread | Boulder in center of trail that is 10 ft (3 m) long with 45 in (114.3 cm) of remaining tread