Angel’s Landing Hike - Zion NP

Regarded as the “scariest hike in America”, I recently had the opportunity to hike Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park after securing a permit via a lottery. Full disclosure there was a part of me that hoped I wouldn’t get picked…but I received an email from the National Park Service congratulating me on my selection. What makes it unique is that the last ½ mile is a narrow, exposed ridge with steep drop-offs to the canyon floor  below. For stability and (saving your life!), chains are anchored into the rock allowing you to grasp on tightly.

As I approached the ranger checking permits, I had a decision to make…stay here at Scout’s Landing for what is still an incredible view or overcome my fear and show my permit and take the first step on the side of the steep slope. I started to recall all the YouTube videos highlighting the dangers, stats of the 14 deaths from falls, other hikers saying they’d never do this part of the trail. It’s just too dangerous!

2 Timothy 1:7 NLT says – “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” One of the enemy’s most effective tactics is placing fear in our hearts and minds. “You’re not capable of this.”, If you fail, you’ll lose everything.”. “You’ll embarrass yourself and your family.”. On and on it will go, until we rely on God and remember how He’s never let us down. With the Holy Spirit in us, fear knocks on the door, but we answer with boldness, courage, and dependence on God.

So, I walked up to the ranger, handed him my pass and ID; he looked at the paperwork, looked at me, and said “Have a great rest of the hike, it’s incredible up there.” With that I took the first step, grabbed hold of that chain, and didn’t settle for good, but ended up at great.