Overview

Sitting in excellent position to see nearly the entire length of Zion National Park, Observation Point is an exposed rock outcropping with a postcard view.

The outlook is at the end of an 4-mile hike, which some hikers break up into two or three days, both for comfort and the ability to spend some time exploring the rim canyon trails.

Heading up Echo Canyon, the trail starts along the Weeping Rock Trail, famous for its hanging flowers during spring and summer, then continues to gain elevation, passing slot canyons and gulches that seem to drop out from under you.

Location & Information

Accessible from the East Rim Trail, Weeping Rock is the nearest trailhead, 4 miles away and 2,148 feet lower in elevation. The hike generally takes about 5 hours in total.

This is a strenuous climb that holds snow well into summer, so caution is recommended for beginning hikers. Once there, however, the sun warms the exposed rock for a great lunch spot.

Unfortunately, there are no designated camping facilities at the location, which means camping must be done in the backcountry, requiring a permit.

For more information about Zion, Observation Point, or any of the other trails, contact the park office.

Zion National Park
Springdale, UT 84767
(435) 772-3256
http://www.nps.gov/zion/

Activities

Since there is no overnight camping at Observation Point, this Zion National Park site is a place to sit down, relax, drink some water, have lunch, and marvel at the canyon, with both rims stretched out in front of you.

The hike can be connected with the Hidden Canyon Trail, the East Mesa Trail, or the East Rim Trail, all of which are fantastic ways to see more of the park.

Fun Facts

Before the creation of the switchbacks in 1911, the trail was an incredible 18 hour slog!