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Observation Point

Hiking Trail

Hard
7.33 mi
2,563 ft
This hike climbs four steep miles to a stunning overlook.

The spectacular 8-mile roundtrip Observation Point hike begins at the Weeping Rock trailhead (TH). In Zion National Park, hikers use the free shuttle to get to many trailheads. The shuttles run most of the year, excepting January 1st – February 15th. Check online before planning your trip to Zion, as there are periodic changes to the schedule. The shuttle stop for this TH is #6: The Grotto.

As with most hikes in any National Park, it is best to start longer distance outings early enough each day to avoid the throngs on the way out. Save the short, easy hikes for later in the day, when the majority of folks have already left. One of the major advantages of selecting a longer route is that there will be fewer people and they will be more dispersed.

The trails that originate from the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive shuttle stops all begin as wide, cement paths. That makes even edgy stuff much less intimidating for those who have little experience with exposure. Even so, many hikers will notice their heart rates spike when they peer down the sheer canyon walls.

Zion was designated a National Park in 1918 at a time when park visitors expected a luxurious experience, so in 1933, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) began nearly a decade of building wide, cement trails in Zion. Do not expect a backcountry experience when hiking the main Zion trails, but do expect jaw-dropping beauty at every turn.

The trail ascends immediately and dramatically via numerous switchbacks through Echo Canyon. After the switchbacks, the canyon tightens significantly, allowing a glimpse of a lovely slot canyon. This narrow segment points out the importance of paying close attention to weather before hiking in Zion. Flash floods are life-threatening, so it is wise to avoid canyons when rains are predicted.

As the canyon opens up again, the route heads left at the signed intersection before starting up another set of seemingly-endless switchbacks. The trail is far less “civilized” by this point, becoming a typical narrow dirt tread instead of a wide cement sidewalk.

When the switchbacks ultimately end, the trail heads left as it merges with the East Mesa Trail, and continues to the end at Observation Point.

The views from Observation Point are truly breathtaking and warrant some significant time to appreciate.

As with most other destinations in Zion, do not put your backpack down while hanging out. Unfortunately, chipmunks have been habituated to humans and are relentless in their pursuit of food. Feeding wildlife is never acceptable!

Before heading back down, be sure to locate the iconic Angels Landing and enjoy viewing it from a less crowded vantage point.

Sources:

Written by Scott Anderson
Created By
Strava Routes

Route and Elevation

Segments

NameDistanceElev. Diff.Avg. Grade
Weeping Rock Trailhead to Cable Mountain/Observation Point Junction1.96 mi1,247 ft11.8%
Floor Of The Valley Rd Climb0.20 mi210 ft19.9%
Weeping Rock to Observation Pt.4.07 mi2,182 ft10.0%
Observation Point - Bottom to Top3.99 mi2,083 ft9.8%
Floor Of The Valley Rd Climb0.47 mi377 ft15.1%
Segment0.20 mi184 ft17.3%
Floor Of The Valley Rd Climb0.81 mi1,243 ft28.7%
The climb!1.00 mi820 ft15.4%
East Mesa Trail Climb0.36 mi325 ft16.7%
Observation Point Trail Climb0.21 mi177 ft15.6%