Hiking to Observation Point (Zion National Park)

Observation Point is one of the most iconic viewpoints in Zion National Park, offering a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding canyon landscape. Perched at an elevation of over 6,500 feet, the viewpoint provides sweeping vistas of Zion Canyon, including famous landmarks such as Angels Landing and the Virgin River far below. 

Fortunately, the trail to Observation Point, Zion, doesn’t get as crowded as some of the other popular hikes in Zion Canyon. You also don’t need a permit to hike this trail. However, figuring out which trail to take and how to reach Observation Point can be a bit confusing. In this guide to Observation Point, Zion, I’ll offer some helpful guidance to ensure your visit is smooth and enjoyable.

If you need a refresher, check out my guide to day hiking. For more places to explore in Utah, browse my Utah destination guides.

Related Articles:
Zion Canyon Hikes
Angels Landing and West Rim Trail
Watchman Trail
Kolob Arch Trail
Checkerboard Mesa

Which Trail to Take to Observation Point, Zion?

You used to be able to reach Observation Point via the East Rim Trail, which starts in Zion Canyon and could be accessed by the shuttle. However, a major rockfall in 2019 obstructed this trail, making it impassable. Now, to get to Observation Point you must take trails that start at the canyon’s rim. There are 3 possibilities: an out-and-back hike from Stave Spring Trail, an out-and-back route from East Mesa Trail, or a point-to-point trek combining both trails (along with a road walk or shuttle ride).

Stave Spring Trail to Observation Point, Zion

9.3 miles and 2,162 feet elevation gain
Parking lot and trail information

I found the Stave Spring Trail trail to be the most scenic route, as it hugs the canyon wall and descends into the canyon before climbing back up to Observation Point. However, the Stave Spring Trail is physically much more challenging than the East Mesa Trail.

East Mesa Trail to Observation Point, Zion

7 miles and 702 feet elevation gain
Parking lot and trail information

The East Mesa Trail is mostly flat and descends slightly to reach Observation Point. While easier than the Stave Spring Trail, the majority of this route traverses a forest, with views emerging only at the end of the trail.

East Mesa Trail combined with Stave Spring Trail

10.6 miles and 1,627 feet elevation gain
Possible to shorten to 8 miles and 1,411 feet elevation gain if eliminating the road walk (taking the shuttle to and from the trailheads) 

Trail Map for East Mesa Trail to Stave Spring Trail

For my hike to Observation Point, Zion, I combined the East Mesa Trail with the Stave Spring Trail. 

When planning which route to take, be aware that parking options at both trailheads are limited. Access roads pass through residential areas where roadside parking is prohibited. Moreover, reaching the trailheads entails navigating bumpy dirt roads, which can pose challenges during wet and muddy conditions or in winter. My visit was in mid-October, and I managed with a sedan thanks to dry road conditions.

A better option is to park at the Zion Ponderosa, from where you can walk ~2-3 miles to the trailhead or take a shuttle. East Zion Adventures offers a shuttle to either trailhead for $7. This service allows you to take a one-way route, as the shuttle can drop you off and pick you up at different trailheads. The shuttle is only offered in spring through fall.

Observation Point, Zion Hike Guide

Both the Stave Spring and East Mesa Trail to Observation Point are well-maintained and easy to follow. The terrain is not technically challenging, so aside from hiking basics such as sturdy shoes you won’t need any specialized gear. Just make sure to bring proper sun protection and start hiking early in the morning since the trails are fairly exposed. 

Keep an eye out for wildlife when hiking to Observation Point, Zion. I saw tons of chipmunks and a few deer. Another hiker mentioned he spotted a bighorn sheep on the Stave Spring trail!

Useful Tips

• Limited phone service. Expect limited to no phone service on the Observation Point Trail and on the drive to the parking lot. Download Google Maps of the area and hiking trail GPS information in advance. 
• Beat the heat. Start hiking early in the morning. If you can, visit in spring or fall over summer. The Observation Point hike can get hot since much of it is exposed.
• Leave no trace. Let’s make sure this place stays beautiful! 
• Check trail conditions. The trail is open year-round, but be mindful of snow in winter and muddy conditions after periods of rain. Also check the conditions of the roads leading to the trailhead.

Zion National Park Weather and When to Go

Aim to visit Zion National Park in spring or fall. Summers are unbearably hot and pose risks of flash floods. Arrive at the trailhead early, to start hiking before it gets too hot and also to secure a parking spot. Check the National Park Services pages for more information on weather in Zion.

Observation Point, Zion is a popular destination. Be mindful of high season when planning your overall Zion trip. Zion sees its highest influx of visitors between April and September. If possible, avoid visiting Zion National Park on weekends and holidays. Shoulder seasons (for example, March or October) are great times to visit to avoid crowds. My last visit was in mid-October, and I appreciated the cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage. 

If you’re planning a spring trip to Zion, keep in mind that higher elevation trails may still have lingering snow and ice. The Narrows hike may also close in spring due to high water levels.

Zion is open year-round, and it’s possible to visit during winter. While the experience will be much quieter, be prepared to drive in winter conditions since the shuttle doesn’t operate for most of winter. Also, expect mud, snow, and ice on some trails, requiring specialized hiking gear. While the road to Observation Point (Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway) typically stays open year-round, confirm current conditions before heading out. The road to the trailhead may require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle when muddy.

Zion National Park Information

Zion National Park entrance is $35 per car, and you’ll pay along Route 9 on the way to the trailhead. You can use your US National parks pass or purchase one there for $80.

There are no specific park hours. Dogs are not permitted on the Stave Spring or East Mesa Trail to Observation Point. Although permits are required for other trails in the park, you don’t need a permit for the Observation Point hike.

Observation Point Directions and Parking

Zion National Park is located in Southwestern Utah. The Observation Point trail starts to the east of Zion Canyon. Zion Canyon is the most famous (and crowded) part of the park, and it’s an hour drive from there to the Observation Point parking lots. The closest town to Observation Point, Zion is Springdale. 

There’s no shuttle to get to the Observation Point hike, so you’ll need a car. See above for the parking lot locations for each trailhead, as well as information on the shuttle from the parking lot at Zion Ponderosa.

What to Bring to Hike to Observation Point, Zion

For a full list of what to bring to Observation Point, refer to my complete day hiking checklist. For this hike I would stress the following:

• Trail Map. Download the map for offline navigation. 
• Day Hiking Backpack. Invest in a high-quality and durable pack that will last for years!
• Hiking Shoes. Women’s, Men’s. I do not recommend running or general athletic shoes for this hike. Their lack of traction will cause you to slip.
• Hiking Socks. Women’s, Men’s. Wool is essential to keep your feet dry and blister-free.
• Hiking Pants. Women’s, Men’s. I love these pants because they are lightweight, durable, and have pockets.
• Hiking T-Shirt. Women’s, Men’s. Quick-drying T-Shirts are ideal. Tank tops will cause your skin to rub uncomfortably against your backpack straps.
• Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt. Women’s, Men’s. This is the best way to protect yourself from the sun and mosquitos. 
• Hat. Protect yourself from the sun on this exposed hike.
• Sunscreen.
• Lip Balm with SPF.
• Mosquito spray.
• Water in a Reservoir or Bottle.  Bring a lot of water – this is a long and hot hike.
• Electrolytes. These help prevent dehydration and fatigue, especially on strenuous hikes in hot weather.
• Snacks, Packed Lunch
• Portable Charger and Cable. Be prepared if your phone battery dies.
• Headlamp and Spare Batteries. Whether or not you plan to camp, this is a safety essential.
• Garmin inReach (optional). Sends your GPS coordinates and calls for help in emergency situations. 
• First-Aid Kit

Where to Stay

The Observation Point trailhead is an hour away from Zion Canyon, which is the most popular part of the park. Below, I’ve listed accommodation options that will be convenient for visiting both Zion Canyon as well as further hikes such as Observation Point. Accommodation near Zion sells out quickly, so book as far in advance as you can!

Zion National Park Camping

Campsites within Zion include: South Campground, Watchman Campground, and Lava Point Campground. All of the Zion campsites require reservations, which can be made 6 months in advance and sell out quickly.

Accommodation in Zion National Park

The only accommodation inside the park is Zion Lodge.

Accommodation in Springdale

Splurge:
Hampton Inn & Suites
Flanigan’s Resort and Spa

Accommodation in Hurricane

Mid-range:
Hurricane Hideaway Lodging
Wingate by Wyndham
Sleep Inn & Suites
Comfort Inn & Suites

Things to Do near Observation Point, Zion

To get to the Observation Point trail, you’ll drive along the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, the stretch of Utah’s Route 9 that runs between Springdale and Mount Carmel Junction. This stunning drive offers endless sightseeing opportunities, so plan on extra time for stops!

During the drive you’ll pass through the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel, an engineering marvel carved into the sandstone cliffs. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore many hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. Among these, the most popular is the 0.9 mile Zion Canyon Overlook Trail. There are many other viewpoints along the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway such as Checkerboard Mesa, and you can explore them by stopping in the various parking pullouts.

In addition to the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway area, make sure to check out the most famous section of the park, Zion Canyon, as well as the lesser-known Kolob Canyons. Also consider extending your Utah trip to include a visit to Bryce Canyon, which is just a two-hour drive away and can be explored in a day or two.

Recommended Zion Hikes:
Zion Canyon Hikes
Angels Landing and West Rim Trail
Watchman Trail
Kolob Arch Trail
Checkerboard Mesa

Bryce Canyon Hikes

Thanks for reading, and I hope this guide to Observation Point, Zion was helpful! Questions? Let me know in the comments. Happy trails!

For more places to explore, check out my guides to other hikes in Utah.

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