Northgate Peaks Trail

 

This trail starts at 7000 feet above sea level and follow a flat route through pines and grasslands to lava view point of the Northgate Peaks. The only access to the Northgate Peaks Trail is by the Wildcat Canyon Trail, which has a trailhead just off Kolob Terrace Road. From the start of the trail you have a good view of Pine Valley Peak on your right. The trail passes on the left into an open green and lush area. After hiking a little over one mile on the Wildcat Canyon Trail, you will reach a trail junction with the Northgate Peaks Trail. The trail is relatively flat and a very enjoyable hike.   The trail is about 1.5 miles and ends at an overlook point composed of volcanic rock.  The overlook and has great views of Northgate Peak East and West.

To extend your adventure a little more, look for a social trail that leads downhill toward Northgate Peak East.  The trail is on the left and will provide an opportunity to ascend Northgate Peak East.

The beautiful pines and cooler temperatures makes this a very good late spring or summer hike. The trail is easy and the spacing of the pines was unique and beautiful. Overall, this is a 5 mile out and back hike. The high grasslands and Ponderosa pines scattered along the trail makes this area of Zion one of my favorites.