Observation Point Hike

The Observation Point hike in Zion NP is a rather rigorous venture from the valley floor to the top of the mesa, and we have made it several times over the past two decades. It is best to start the hike when the park opens because much of the walk is in the hot sun as the day progresses. We have seen many unprepared people heading up while we were on the way down. During this event we were in shorts and light shirts going down when we encountered a poor guy in his 20s that was dressed in long sleeves, long pants – all black. He looked miserable and had not even made it to the steep parts yet.

The NPS considers the hike “Strenuous” and we concur – each time we have said we need not repeat the hike, yet somehow we manage to forget the pain and do it all over again. One reason is the magnificent beauty one sees along the way hiking through sandstone formations on trails chiseled out of the stone overhangs. Our photo album gives one the idea, but it should be experienced at least once to see for yourself.

In addition to the NPS advice below, we suggest:

• Good hiking boots
• Dress for hot weather if it is sunny.
• Wear a light jacket or sweatshirt you can remove when it becomes hot.
• Bring plenty of water – the hike is 8 miles round trip
• Bring some kind of camera or you’ll wish you had

Hint: If you are not physically capable of a strenuous hike, the most beautiful parts of the trail occur below the steepest challenging parts

Quote NPS trail guidelines (link below)

Observation Point via East Rim Trail (Closed until further notice due to major rockfall)

Shuttle Stop to Start from: #7 Weeping Rock
Pets: No
Trailhead Location: Access the East Rim Trail from across the footbridge adjacent to the parking lot. The Observation Point Trail branches off of the East Rim Trail after approximately 2.5 miles.
Distance (roundtrip): 8.0 mi / 12.9 km
Elevation Change: 2,148 ft / 655 m
Estimated Hiking Time: 6 hours
Description: Long drop-offs. Climbs through Echo Canyon to viewpoint on the rim of Zion Canyon. Access to Cable Mountain, Deertrap Mountain, and East Mesa Trails. Pit toilets are available at the parking area.

NPS Zion trail guide including Observation Point hike recommendations