Travel Guide: Hiking Observation Point Trail in Zion National Park

Photo by Dirtbag Darling.

There’s a reason the beaten paths in Zion National Park and so, well, beaten. Classic hikes like Observation Point trail offer unbeatable views of one of our country’s most beautiful parks—think rusty red rock formations, crisp greenery, and purple-blue skies stretched out for miles. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming “America the Beautiful” for the majority of the 8-mile trek—we did the same thing.

What: Observation Point trail.

Where: Zion National Park, Route 9, Springdale, Utah.

The stats: 8 miles roundtrip, 2100 feet in elevation gain, strenuous. No permits required.

What to do: You can’t leave Zion National Park without trudging up the intense but satisfying Observation Point trail—it’s a Zion classic to rival Angel’s Landing but without the latter’s exposure and fear factor. There’s no beating around the bush when it comes to the trail either, and you’ll start feeling the elevation gain in your legs almost immediately while following switchbacks up the eastern walls of Zion Canyon. Rest often to soak up the views before being swallowed up by Echo Canyon, a deep-water gorge with impressive sandstone waves and pockets. You’ll come out the other side and continue your steep zigzag ascent until you find yourself at Observation Point. What’s waiting for you? A beautiful panorama view of sandstone reds against clean blue skies.

How to get there: From April 1 through October 30 Zion Canyon should be accessible by shuttle—the trailhead at Weeping Rock parking lot is stop seven (but double-check for changes before you go). Others can pick up a map at the park office to find the parking lot.

What to bring: Sturdy shoes, a camera, enough food and water to last you at least five hours, and a fleece or an insulated jacket and windproof shell in the winter—the canyons can get pretty cold.

Do: Pick up a guidebook at the park’s office if you want to explore tangential paths like the East Rim Trail, which heads to Cable Mountain, and Deertrap Mountain. You’ll probably pick up tips most hikers never notice!

Don’t: Underestimate temperature fluctuations and ice. It may be hot at the trailhead but residual spring snow requires micro spikes and wind at the top of your hike could throw you for a loop if you aren’t prepared with an extra layer. Better warm than oh so sorry!