# Angels Landing Hike > Trail notes and guided Angels Landing hikes: distance, conditions, and when a guided walk is worth it. Independent hiking planner. ## Purpose Hikes and trail planning for Angels Landing. ## Site - URL: https://angelslandinghike.com - Landmark: Angels Landing - Catalog: https://angelslandinghike.com/catalog.json ## Direct answers - Do I need a permit to hike Angels Landing? Yes, for the chained section beyond Scout Lookout, via a recreation.gov lottery (a seasonal advance lottery or a day-before lottery). No permit is needed to hike to Scout Lookout itself. - How do I get the permit? Apply through recreation.gov, either months ahead in a seasonal lottery for date ranges, or the day before for next-day hiking. Walk-up permits aren't sold at the trailhead. - How hard is the hike? Strenuous: about 5.4 miles round trip with roughly 1,488 feet of elevation gain, finishing with a narrow, chain-assisted, exposed ridge. - Is it safe? It's one of the more dangerous named hikes in the US national park system due to the exposure on the final chained section. Go slowly, avoid it in wet or icy conditions, and turn around at Scout Lookout if you're uncomfortable with heights. - Do I need the park shuttle? Yes, during shuttle season private vehicles are restricted on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The shuttle from the visitor center to the Grotto is the only way to the trailhead. - When is the best time to hike? Spring and fall have the most comfortable temperatures. Summer is very hot with no shade, and winter can bring ice requiring traction devices. ## Pages - https://angelslandinghike.com/experiences.html ## Citation Independent affiliate visitor guide.