As with all routes originating along the shuttle route, this trek begins on a wide, paved path. That make the initial ascent feel much easier and allows for easy gawking at the beauty of the surroundings. This portion shares the trail heading for Observation Point.

At about half a mile, there is a signed intersection where the Hidden Canyon Trail goes right. This unpaved trail heads upward immediately.

The switchbacks take hikers to areas that traverse cliffs with extremely narrow footing. There are sections with bolted-in chains to hold onto as you navigate the carved-in skinny rock ledge. If you relish a bit of excitement, this is the perfect route; if your palms sweat when you climb a ladder... perhaps this one is not for you.

The next part will situate hikers above a 1,000-foot abyss, so best pay attention! Following the high, ledgy stretch, the route continues into a lovely, shaded sandy canyon floor. This narrow canyon is one to avoid in rainy weather due to the danger of flash floods. In such a location, there is nowhere to escape the torrents of water!

Once the actual trail peters out, hikers can keep meandering until the canyon is blocked by a vertical wall. This is a logical (and necessary) turn-around point. On the return trip, look for a pretty little free-standing arch shortly after the turn-around. Many hikers stride right past it without even noticing its existence. Zion calls for a slower pace and a heightened observational sense in order to fully appreciate its wonders.

The Hidden Canyon hike is short in mileage at 2.8 miles roundtrip, but it is long in adventure and scenery.

Sources: https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/shuttle-system.htm