Court of the Patriarchs – Shortest Hike in ZNP

The Court of the Patriarchs is, in fact, a grouping of sandstone cliffs in ZNP.  The mountain is named after the biblical figures of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.  Nearby are other scripture named formations; Mount Moroni and the Sentinel. This trail does not technically qualify as a hike because of how short and simple it is. You will actually walk more just to get to the trailhead than you will on the trail itself.

The Court of the Patriarchs trailhead is found at the 4th stop from the Zion shuttle and continues to the east paved trail where you will reach a small viewpoint.  The hike takes only a minute to raise 40 feet leading into a short climb from the base of the Zion Canyon.  The elevation is just high enough to view the surrounding mountains, trees and canyon walls.

• The Court of the Patriarchs is considered the shortest trail in ZNP.
• To reach the trail, take a shuttle in the main canyon and get off at the 4th stop.   
• If you are a first-time visitor to Zion, start your journey at this trail.  This quick and simple 2 minute trial takes you to a small viewpoint overlooking the trees, as well as the beautiful view of the mountain structures across the canyon, famously known as the Court of Patriarchs.  

Before you start your hike, the Court of the Patriarchs can be a short diversion giving you an opportunity to take pictures and capture the best of the moments, especially at sunrise and sunset. This is a photograph you will want to take with your camera and your mind! This is a perfect section that can be enjoyed by the entire family.