The Grotto trail is an overlooked path in Zion National Park. But it is quite short and a good family hike, especially for those with young children. It is a very easy hike with little elevation gain and it begins and ends at shuttle bus stops.
How to Get to the Grotto Trail at Zion National Park:
You will first park at Zion National Park. If you get there early enough you can park at the Visitor’s Center. After you park, you will walk to the shuttle bus line that is next to the Visitor’s Center. From there you will board shuttle buses. You will want to get off on the #5 Zion Lodge stop.
What You Will Do on the Grotto Trail:
After you leave the bus stop, you will see a sign that says Grotto Trail. You will start hiking on that trail. It is a relatively easy trail that is very wide and flat with only one small hill at the end. You can take in some beautiful views of the canyon while you hike. It is also not very crowded so there are plenty of good opportunities for pictures with great backgrounds.
The hike ends at the next shuttle bus stop and a nice little picnic area. This is a great place to stop and have a snack or eat a lunch that you packed in. There are also restrooms at the end of the trail.
Sum Up:
The Grotto Trail is a great family friendly hike that is shady, not crowded and very flat. There are beautiful views and great opportunities for photos. It only takes about 20-30 minutes to hike it.