ZION – The schedule of closures for the Angels Landing Route in Zion National Park has been extended due to weather delays the week of October 3. Closures for route repairs and improvements were originally scheduled to end Thursday, October 14. Little work was completed the week of October 3 due to heavy rain and lightning. That work, weather permitting, will be done Monday, October 18 through Thursday, October 21. If there is bad weather and the project is delayed again, the remaining work will be postponed until next spring. 
 
The Angels Landing Route will be closed from Scout Lookout to the summit of Angels Landing Monday October 18 through Thursday, October 21. All climbing routes on the cliff faces of Angels Landing will also be closed. The West Rim trail to Scout Lookout and to the West Rim will be open at all times. After October 21, the Angels Landing Route will be open every day.
 
Alternate hikes with similar views to Angels Landing are available on the Observation Point and East Rim trails. The West Rim trail to Scout Lookout and further up to the canyon rim is also very rewarding. Rangers at any of the park visitor contact stations can help with alternate trip planning or you can visit the park website at www.nps.gov/zion.
 
Visitors are reminded that their safety is their responsibility. Even with the route improvements, exposed cliffs and great heights present situations where lack of situational awareness can have life threatening consequences.Any location with vertical exposure can be dangerous and should not be underestimated.  Attention to the terrain and focus on footing are essential for a safe experience.