Angel's Landing

Angel's Landing

Angels Landing

Angel’s Landing

Angel’s Landing is one of the most iconic hikes in the United States. Rising dramatically above Zion Canyon in Zion National Park, Utah, this narrow sandstone fin has become legendary for its views, its exposure, and the intense emotions it evokes in those who attempt it. For some, Angel’s Landing represents a once-in-a-lifetime triumph. For others, it is a place of fear, hesitation, or tragedy.

The summit stands approximately 5,790 feet above sea level, offering sweeping views of Zion Canyon, the Virgin River, and the towering cliffs that define the park. The hike itself is around five miles round trip, but the short distance belies its intensity. Steep switchbacks, sheer drop-offs, and a final ridge no wider than a sidewalk demand focus and respect.

Angel’s Landing at a Glance

  • Location: Zion National Park, Utah, United States
  • Trail Length: ~5 miles (round trip)
  • Elevation: ~5,790 feet (1,765 m)
  • Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Known Deaths: 18 confirmed (as of 2025)
  • Primary Risk Factors: Extreme exposure, narrow ridges, weather, crowding
  • Permit System Introduced: 2022

The Trail to the Summit

The hike begins on the West Rim Trail. Early sections are gentle, winding through shaded canyon corridors before ascending steep switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles. After reaching Scout Lookout, hikers must decide whether to continue to the summit or turn back.

Beyond Scout Lookout, the trail narrows dramatically. Chains anchored into the rock help hikers navigate exposed ridges. Falls from this section can be fatal. Despite the danger, the summit provides an unforgettable perspective of Zion Canyon, making the challenge worthwhile for many.

Why Angel’s Landing Is Dangerous

Angel’s Landing’s danger comes from extreme exposure, narrow footing, weather changes, and human factors. Wet or icy sandstone, gusty winds, and crowded chains increase the risk. Photography stops and hesitation can also contribute to accidents. Many hikers underestimate the trail, which can lead to fatal mistakes.

Why Death Counts Vary

The number of reported deaths on Angel’s Landing varies depending on classification. Some lists include only fatal falls from the main ridge, while others count medical emergencies or incidents near Scout Lookout. Early incidents were not always documented. The figure of 18 confirmed deaths represents the most commonly cited total as of 2025.

Angels Landing

Angel’s Landing Deaths

  1. May 1987 — Unnamed Woman: Fell approximately 250 feet near the upper section.
  2. April 1989 — Jeffrey Robert Dwyer (28): Fell roughly 150 feet from a rock formation near the peak.
  3. January 1997 — John Christensen (36): Fell while rappelling below the trail.
  4. August 2000 — Georg Sender (63): Fell near the top and suffered a fatal head injury.
  5. January 2003 — Dorothy Kaiser (66): Fell approximately 900 feet near Scout Lookout.
  6. June 2004 — Kristoffer Jones (14): Young Boy Scout fell roughly 900+ feet from an exposed ledge.
  7. August 2006 — Bernadette Vandermeer (29): Fell more than 1,000 feet near the summit while hiking with her husband.
  8. June 2007 — Barry Goldstein (53): Fell several hundred feet while descending the trail.
  9. June 2007 — Mark Ertischek (60) (Medical): Collapsed and died from a heart attack on the trail.
  10. August 2009 — Nancy Maltez (55): Fell more than 1,000 feet off the north side while hiking with family.
  11. November 2009 — Tammy Grunig (50): Fell roughly 1,000 feet during descent.
  12. April 2010 — Regine Milobedzki (63): Slipped near Scout Lookout and fell into Refrigerator Canyon.
  13. March 2017 — Tate Ryan Volino (45): Lost footing on a narrow section near the chains.
  14. February 2018 — Unnamed 13-Year-Old Girl: Fell hundreds of feet while hiking with family.
  15. April 2019 — Pradeep Beryl Solomon (35): Fell from the north side while descending.
  16. November 2019 — Savannah McTague (19): Fell from near the summit; weather may have contributed.
  17. March 2021 — Jason Hartwell (43): Fell from the summit ridge.
  18. May 2024 — Unnamed Man: Found dead below Scout Lookout; included in comprehensive death list.

Angel’s Landing Death Statistics

  • Most common cause: Falls from exposed sections
  • Season with highest risk: Spring and summer
  • Age range of victims: Teens to seniors
  • Medical incidents: Rare, but documented
  • Overall risk: Low relative to visitor numbers, but consequences severe

Angel’s Landing is often cited in discussions about hiking safety, risk perception, and national park management. Its combination of accessibility, exposure, and popularity makes it a frequent reference point in broader conversations about outdoor tourism and personal responsibility.