Full Hike [CC]: Angels Bound in Zion National Park, Utah

It is apparent that the desire for religion or spirituality is universal-persisting in human groups ranging from early African tribes to industrialized societies. And, for too long, mortal eyes have gazed at high perches of Zion Canyon in Southern Utah. The red rock thrones and alters are envisioned as where divinity touches earthly affairs.
At present day, most of the Canyon is situated inside Zion National Park (one of the country's most popular). Visitors are spoiled with myriad choices: short trails leading to glistening pools and elevated viewpoints, exciting river forging through the Narrows, or backpacking West Rim Trail to far off solitude. However, a great number of adventurers will aim for shuttle stop number 6.
At the very least, Angels Landing is a riveting endeavor: short (only 2.7 miles one way) but fast-tracking hikers to a commanding viewpoint. The spine section is a semi-technical approach, equipped with precipitous ledges and narrow walkways that test one's focus (there are guardrails to assist newbies). Appropriate or not, labels such as "most dangerous" and "deadliest" have been used. This is a hike that truly rewards devotion: whether to personal blossoming, or holy revelation.
Photos: photos.app.goo.gl/TeRkiHo22cv...
Route: West Rim Trail-Angels Landing Trail
Type: Out-And-Back
Distance: 5.4 mi.
Elevation Gain: 1,488 ft.
Location: Zion National Park, Utah, USA
Date/Time: 2020-11-13 0912
My Thoughts:
Because Angels Landing is so well-known and on many people's "bucket lists," I believe it is good public service to disseminate accurate information concerning the matter. Here we go.
First, I have noticed numerous sources implying Angels Landing as the most dangerous/scariest hike in the United States. I will declare that it is not-not even the top five, or ten. I think whoever makes such claim subjectively has not experienced a trail more precarious, has not done a lot of hiking across the entire country, or is trying to draw attention (likely, all three). Yes, for novices and people with a severe fear of heights the route could be terrifying, but it would be thrilling for trail runners and experienced hikers.
What is not exaggerated are the crowds. A disclosure: I had previously filmed once, in the prime summer season. Even when starting way earlier than many, that video was still full of stopping scenes per unavoidable traffic jams. Instead, the footage presented here is late autumn-still somewhat early in the morning and with temperatures in the 40s-yet the many video cuts to wait on hikers is evidence of how busy and sought-after Angels Landing is. There are whispers of the park implementing a permit system (à la "Half Dome"). That would definitely have my support as long as it ensured the hike was still accessible to all, instead of only those with the means to acquire permits (or repeatedly pay for lottery entries).
Viewers will observe that starting from the narrow ledge to the summit there are chains and guardrails throughout. I find those to be a hindrance and giving a false sense of safety-in the video, I never use them. It is a much better hiking experience to possess good balance and control, to be sure of one's steps and ability, than to rely on crutches (apologies, I mean "guardrails").
Frankly, Angels Landing is a fulfilling and rewarding hike, but neither the deadliest nor menacing presence that blockades one's development. Why not accept it as a challenge: to become a better hiker, to be more self-reliant? Study up, train well, stay committed-and it will not be the last.
#Hiking #LeaveNoTrace

[@TheOutboundMind]

The subtitles weren't published (I didn't notice). They are now.

[@anusuya8983]

The much awaited video. Thank you for posting this.

[@TheOutboundMind]

You're welcome.

[@marisaleong6256]

I really enjoy the closed captioned commentary on your hike. Thank you very much.

[@TheOutboundMind]

Thank you for the feedback.

[@ostihpem]

At 54:58 TheOutboundMind basically stops and goes back. But as one can see you can go even further probably 50 yards behind where you see a hiker sitting behind a bush. It is there where you wanna stand and photo shoot because it is the infamous perspective, it is literally the "Angel's Landing" spot.

[@VirtualExerciseChannel]

Crazy hike!😎😎

[@ostihpem]

So what is more dangerous from your perspective (in terms of bravery needed): Angel's Landing or Half Dome? Also I did Grand Canyon rim to rim. Is there any "infamous" trial left in North America, i.e. a hike where you test your limts but you do not need special gear or any special training? Because I like those challenging trials where you can say at the end: I did it and I am proud of me. Do you also plan to hike outside of US/Canada?

[@TheOutboundMind]

In terms of technicality and risk, Half Dome (HD) > Angel's Landing (AL). With HD, the hiker is basically grabbing onto those cables for dear life and a mistake may be catastrophic. Meanwhile, AL, one is on solid ground entirely. There are very narrow spots, yes, but they all can be stood on without additional support. Further, consider that HD is much longer distance and more elevation gain, AND the most perilous task (i.e., the cables) comes at the end (of an already exhausting ascent).
There are countless hiking trails-in the U.S. alone-where you can "test your limits." Do an online search based on your preferences. But a few examples I can readily think of are Mount Katahdin via the "knife edge" and Precipice Trail (both in Maine), Cactus to Clouds (in Southern California), Longs Peak "Keyhole Route" (Colorado) and Borah Peak "Chicken Out Ridge" (Idaho).
Yes, once I'm done with U.S. and Canada mountaineering objectives, I have plans to visit other notable sites worldwide.

[@ostihpem]

@@TheOutboundMind Thx a lot. Looking forward to more hiking experiences from you.

[@stevencottam93]

It always surprises me to see people be so selfish and disrespectful to others on dangerous trails. This video would have been super cool without that.

[@nirv]

Time stamp?

[@desertbreeze69]

I lost respect for you in this hike. You going so fast in some of those dangerous sections not only put you at risk, but anyone else you could have tripped and fell into while passing them. Just wanted to let you know why you lost a subscriber.

[@TheOutboundMind]

It was good while it lasted. Farewell.