A moderate 3-mile hike to seasonal waterfalls and pools in Zion National Park; pets and swimming prohibited.
Zion National Park entrance fee required; Zion Canyon shuttle required during shuttle season
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Based on this listing's approximate location — see the note on coordinates below.
NPS describes the falls at the canyon-wall base as 'seasonal'
Upper Emerald Pool Falls is reached via a moderate 3-mile round-trip hike through Zion National Park’s canyon terrain. The destination features small seasonal waterfalls cascading into emerald pools, with the NPS noting that water flow depends heavily on recent precipitation and snowmelt. This makes timing crucial—spring and early summer offer the best chance of seeing active falls, while late summer and fall may show little to no waterfall flow.
The trail terrain is mixed: you will navigate stone steps, sand, and passages beneath overhanging rock. Steep sections add to the moderate difficulty rating, and the trail is not suitable for those uncomfortable with exposure or steep scrambling. Footwear with good grip is important.
Dogs are not permitted anywhere in Zion (except service animals), and swimming in the pools is prohibited because they serve as wildlife water sources. Zion National Park entrance fees apply. During shuttle season (roughly March through November), private vehicle access to Zion Canyon is restricted and the shuttle is required. Plan 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the round-trip hike, depending on pace and trail conditions.
Spring through early summer when seasonal water flow is most active; late summer and fall may see minimal or no waterfall activity.
NOT wheelchair accessible; trail includes stone steps, sand, and overhanging rock with steep terrain.
Avoid if you have a pet, want to swim, or are uncomfortable on steep terrain with exposed sections.
Zion National Park entrance fee required; Zion Canyon shuttle required during shuttle season
Via a 3-mile round-trip trail rated moderate by the managing agency.
No — the managing agency's page states dogs are not permitted here (or on the specific trail/area needed to reach the falls).
No — the managing agency's page states swimming/wading is not permitted here, often for safety reasons (current, rockfall, or cold water).
We track 3 waterfalls in Zion National Park.
There are 2 other waterfalls we track in Washington County. All Zion National Park waterfalls →
nps.gov
NPS 'Upper Emerald Pools Trail' page (nps.gov), checked Sept 2026; no closure listed on NPS current-conditions page (updated June 9, 2026). Trail includes stone steps, sand, and overhanging rock; pets not allowed.
Checked September 2026.