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Zion Lodge, Utah, United States

Observation Point

A hike to the highest point in Zion National Park

Observation Point
Viewed 11453 times
    This guide contains photos
 (4 votes, 2 reviews)
Difficulty: Difficult
Length: 8.1 miles / 13.0 km
Duration: Half day
Family Friendly
 
Overview: This is a strenuous hike to the highest point in Zion National Park. You look down on Angels Landing and have a sweeping vista of the main canyon that makes up Zion. It is a stunning view.

Tips: Bring plenty of water—preferably a backpack with a water reservoir—and some protein bars or other snack that you can enjoy at the Point.

I did this hike at the end of September 2010. It was quite chilly in the morning and the wind was blowing very hard. I wore shorts and had layered my upper body. By the time I was at Observation Point, I was glad I wore my shorts and that I had on a short sleeve shirt under the layering. Hiking boots are good to use, but I did see people walking in sneakers. With an 8 mile hike, I think boots are almost a pre-requisite. I don't like hiking poles, but for those of you that do, I recommend you bring them along.

Cell coverage in non-existent in much of Zion. When you are at the Point and in the higher elevations, you should have service. I have put a link to my EveryTrail trip for Observation Point so you can download the GPX coordinates. They really aren't needed. The trail is well marked and is quite obvious.

Points of Interest

Restroom
map

The Trailhead
This is the area where the park's shuttle system drops you off for both the Weeping Rocks and Observation Point Trail. There are bathrooms here.
Junction
map

Weeping Rock
About a half mile from the trailhead, the trail meets a junction that goes to the Weeping Rock. This can be a side trip on the way back.
map

Switchbacks begin
Much of the way to the plateau is a series of switchbacks.
Junction
map

Hidden Canyon Trail
The Hidden Canyon Trail makes a right here while the Observation Point Trail continues to the left. You can see how well the NPS has the trail marked.
map

Echo Canyon
This is a delightful slot canyon. When water levels are high in the creek, you may have to do some creek crossing here. It was dry in September.

There is a small bridge to cross any water. Some of the trail is close to drop offs, but it should pose no problem to any hikers.
Junction
map

Halfway
This is about the halfway point where a side trail comes in from the East Entrance.
Viewpoint
map

View
The wonderful canyon you see on the back side of the switchbacks.
Landmark
map

Final switchbacks
These final switchbacks are absolutely stunning! If there is anyone who has issues with exposure, it may evidence itself in this area. The three photos are from the trail going up and then two looking back from Observation Point—one on extreme telephoto.

Don't you feel great for having conquered this hike?
Junction
map

Side trail
The park boundary trail comes in from the right. Stay to your left.
Viewpoint
map

Observation Point
This is one of the most amazing views. Look down toward Angels Landing. Enjoy the sweeping vista that is the main section Zion National Park. There are antelope ground squirrels who hang out here looking for handouts from hikers. Take some photos, have a snack, and just enjoy.

As you pass hikers coming up, some having difficulty, you'll have an inner glow for having conquered this tough hike to the Point!

Happy hiking!
Pictures in this guide taken by: LVHiker
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Reviews
drnantu
This is a very good guide for the summer hike. I did the trail in the winter (early Feb. 2012). The first part of the trail is fully covered in the snow and ice. Additional traction such as Yaktrack is a must. After the slot canyon, then the road is under sunlight. So all the snow melt. The last section (along the rim) is a little muddy because of the melting snow. A fit person can hike up in 1.5 hours and come down in another hour.
Visited on Feb 09, 2012

by drnantu on Feb 14, 2012
steve625
Observation Point is by far my most favorite maintained trail in Zion National Park. Steep switchbacks, slot canyons, and stunning views! The first 1/3 of the hike is tucked up against the East side of the Main canyon and can be hiked early in the morning before the Summer Sun makes it's way over the canyon.
Visited on Nov 19, 2010

by steve625 on Jul 25, 2011

Observation Point Trail Map


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About the Author

LVHiker
LVHiker
10 guides
view LVHiker's profile
I love hiking in the Southwestern United States.

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