West Zion: West Peak at Sunrise

Rating: 4.5 miles, 800 feet of climbing. Mostly very easy, with one steep, strenuous 600 foot climb up onto an exposed sandstone dome.
About 5 hours total.

Sorry about the very early start, but it's hot. And just think about the amazing Zion sunrise scenery! :)

Be aware that this hike has climbing that, while fairly safe, is still kinda scary in a visual way, so those with a strong fear of heights could be pucker-challenged. That said, the climb is fairly short and once on top, all fear will evaporate in the face of the joyous view.

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Zion backcountry limit: 12 hikers. This hike is in conjunction with Mindful Scramblers. We're splitting the allowed 12 into 6 spots for each group, so if RRH is filled up, try Mindful Scramblers.

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This Zion hike goes along the well-beaten Wildcat Trail and onto the similar Northgate Peaks trail, arriving at the peaks after 2.2 almost flat miles.

Once at the peaks we head over to the one dubbed "West Peak" and commence climbing its north slope. Feels more like a magic ramp up to the sky, really. The entire climb is pretty secure, but visually it can be quite intimidating, with naught but pure white rock and air all around. As you might imagine, the view is most impressive and rapidly expands.

Be aware that this climb is NOT for those who have difficulty with heights. There is significant falling risk, but the route is all solid rock, and confident, experienced slickrockers will boogie right up it.

Once on top we should be more or less on time for the West Zion Sunrise Show. The top of West Peak is pretty large, so we can spread out a bit and really commune with all the glowing scenery.

Know that this particular hill is almost ideally situated to catch the West Zion scene in its full glory.

Prep: Shoes with good grip are needed, two bottles of water (for the rapidly warming 2 mile return walk), and sturdy gloves for handling the rock on the climb.

Meet: 5:30am on Thursday at the La Verkin Davis Grocery (Southeast corner of the parking lot). It's 25 paved miles to the Wildcat Trailhead.

See you there! :-)

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Notice: Meetup organizers are not touring guides and are not park rangers. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would if you were hiking alone. You are solely responsible for your own safety and well-being. By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking and other outdoor activities can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. The organizers of this group and current and former members cannot be held responsible or liable in any way for the actions of any participant - including you - at any event. All attendees participate at an event at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or injury to themselves or their guests. By signing up for and/or attending this Meetup event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event against the organizers of this Meetup group.